The Voice of A New Generation | Posted January-15-2015
The widely successful Hillsong Church in Australia has branched out in many ways following their launch-- one of the best recent offshoots being their youth music ministry, Young & Free. Y&F came on the scene in 2013 with the release of their debut album, We Are Young & Free, and has since become one of the most influential voices in the Christian youth culture. Singles "Wake" and "Alive" found almost instant positive feedback from listeners around the world, and the group soon became a top-selling worship movement, gaining a steady fanbase from listeners of all ages.
Kicking off the new year with new music, the EP This Is Living features 5 songs, 3 of them being brand new, infused with the energy and EDM vibe that has become synonymous with Young & Free's ministry.
Title track "This Is Living" is an anthemic collaboration with Grammy-winning rapper Lecrae. "For us it was a dream come true to collaborate with Lecrae who we not only love and respect as an artist, but as someone who is a strong voice for freedom to this generation. If anyone's message echoes the message of 'This Is Living,' it's Lecrae," said the team about working with the popular artist.
Appropriately named "Energy" visits the more electronic side of the EP and serves as the dance tune, while "Pursue" follows more along the lines of worship.
An acoustic version of "This Is Living" is up next, sticking out as an immediate favorite. Beginning with a beautiful guitar intro, the male and female vocals work together in graceful harmony to lead us in an intimate moment of worship. Bringing the EP to a close, a reprise of "Sinking Deep" from their first album draws us into yet another powerful meeting with the presence of God.
Closing Thoughts:
Hillsong Young & Free has big things ahead, that much is sure. After only minutes of listening to the music they've poured their heart into, it's clear that they're passionate about Christ and making His name known through worship. This Is Living is a perfect representation of that passion, exuding praise and joy from every single lyric. I'm sure I'm with the majority when I say I honestly can't wait to see what's in the works from Y&F, and I will be a glad listener to whatever they send us next.
Song To Download Now:
"This Is Living (Acoustic)" (Get it on iTunes here.)
Good Movie, Better Music | Posted January-14-2015 The Identical tells the story of identical twins, Drexel and Ryan, separated at birth during the Great Depression. Drexel becomes a popular rock star while Ryan struggles to balance his love of music with his desire to please his parents, who want him to be a preacher. Ryan finally rebels against his parents and begins his own music career, singing the songs of Drexel, unknowing for a long time that it was his own brother.
Through two separate discs, the movie soundtrack chronicles the songs featured here, a collection of 50's rock hits and Elvis impersonations.
Blake Rayne, an Elvis impersonator for years before getting this role, sings most of the songs on the album and is a near-perfect imitation of the gospel legend's voice. "Bee Boppin' Baby," "Great Big Love," "Nashville Tonight," and "City Lights" are some of his best work here. "Burnin' Rubber" from the Ricky Reece Band is a highlight on this album, a mainly instrumental bluegrass piece.
The Morph Kings also contribute a few enjoyable listens to this collection such as "Born For A Reason" and "Everybody Knows It." To close things out, Darcey & Mo bring a special sound with "You Gotta Get Up" and "It Don't Come Easy."
Closing Thoughts:
If southern rock, Elvis and bluegrass is your kind of thing, then this is the movie for you. The soundtrack is overflowing with tunes that'll make you stomp your feet and get in a country mood. The Identical comes through as a solid film, but the music is even better.
Following The Path Ahead | Posted January-12-2015
Author of a heartbreaking yet hope-filled memoir, ordained minister, father to three adorable kids, husband to a beautiful wife, worship leader to millions: Jeremy Camp wears many hats. Not to mention the gold-certified albums, live recordings, number one songs, numerous major awards (including five Doves) and Grammy nomination he has under his belt. There are few things to be done in Christian music that he hasn't already done, and he has done it all well.
But Jeremy's life has seen its share of darkness too. After losing his first wife to cancer, he battled through a season of grief and sorrow unlike any he'd ever known. Although by far the most difficult thing he'd ever faced, God used Jeremy's pain to birth songs of hope and a testimony of redemption. Since then, much of his music has centered on the faith and trust that carried him out of that darkness, and I Will Follow is no different.
"Living Word" opens with the energetic sound we've come to love from Jeremy's previous projects, smoothly transitioning into the title track, on which Jeremy revisits the rock roots his earlier music displayed. Lead single "He Knows" has had major radio success and overwhelming positive listener feedback already since it was released in September, continuing to impact hearts with its comforting message of truth.
"Finally Home," definitely a stand-out track, brings a new sound into the mix and shows off the incredible talent of the band backing Camp. One of Jeremy's richest elements in this album are the power-packed, encouraging lyrics found in songs like "Christ In Me," "'Til The End" and "Here I Am."
Bringing the standard version of the album to a close, "Only In You" and "Same Power" focus on finding our strength in Christ, while southern flavored "Can't Be Moved" and rock-styled "We Are The Dreamers" shine as highlights of the musical journey that is I Will Follow.
As for the deluxe edition, Jeremy seems to revert back to his deepest passion: worship. "Spirit Now" is a heart cry for more of the presence of God, leading into "Be Still," a powerful yet emotional ballad sure to leave you in an attitude of praise. Climbing back to up-tempo, "Perfect Love" takes Biblical truths and presents them in a way both sonically and lyrically strong enough to have been a leading track in the standard cut. The deluxe edition ends with acoustic versions of "Here I Am" and "He Knows."
Closing Thoughts:
Being the eighth studio album, one might think that Jeremy would be running out of things to say on I Will Follow, but that seems to be exactly the opposite in this case. Each collection of songs seems to come from a different season than the last with a new message for listeners. The overarching theme of I Will Follow is to continue walking the path God has laid out for us, no matter how unexpected or uncomfortable. The album is full of rock vibes, upbeat energy and new sounds that make every song an enjoyable listen, leaving us ready to hear more.
Jeremy's band played a huge part in the making of these songs, and as much as the vocals and lyrics will be part of its success, the incredible instrumentation and background vocals stand out as a major part of why I Will Follow is such a well-rounded effort. I'd dare to say this is Jeremy's best work to date, a pleasant evolution of sorts from his past albums. It's clear that the Camp crew shows no sign of stopping anytime soon, and that is a reason for Christian music fans to rejoice.
Some Live Love | Posted January-12-2015
Canadian husband-wife duo Chris and Jodi, better known as Love & The Outcome, have certainly made a mark on Christian music since their debut in 2013. After meeting, falling in love and getting married, the two decided to sell everything they owned and dedicate their lives to traveling the world and sharing the message of the gospel. Shortly thereafter, the couple signed with Word Records and gained a coveted spot on the 2014 Winterjam Tour Spectacular. It's been a fast-paced, crazy ride for the duo, and reflectively, their self-titled album is full of appealing pop melodies and songs born from the journey they've been on.
Ocean Way Sessions takes a few of the musical gems found on Love & The Outcome and displays them in a live setting, several of which can be found as videos on their official YouTube channel.
Recently single "King Of My Heart" is presented here in a beautiful stripped-down arrangement. The song seems to have struck a chord with listeners, boasting the anthemic lyrics: "You are bigger than any battle I'm facing / You are better than anything I've been chasing."
Worshipful "Heart Like You" is a prayer of surrendering everything to look more like Christ. Jodi's vocals soar to belt difficult high notes almost flawlessly, adding emotion as the song crescendos to a powerful ending.
Standout piano ballad "The Story You're Building In Me" is an autobiographical song of sorts for Chris and Jodi, telling the story of their lives (triumphs and sorrows alike) in a way that creates a breathtaking moment on this album. "What A Promise," one of my favorite cuts from the first album, keeps the same energy acoustically as it had in the original, transitioning well into the lead hit single "He Is With Us," a catchy, bold anthem of trust that you can't help but sing along with.
Closing out the EP, "Home" is the only song featured that wasn't previously released on their debut album. The new track, an elegant ballad, sings out the words, "Your love is calling me home" and makes for a perfect ending to the batch of songs collected here.
Closing Thoughts:
With the exception of "Home" being added, what you'll find on Ocean Way Sessions isn't really anything new, but the live aspect of it is enough to intrigue listeners with a fresh sound. The majority of the EP is made up of songs fans already know well, which may disappoint some that were hoping for new material. But others will say that if a song is enjoyable enough— as these have proven themselves to be— they'll be glad to listen to it as many different ways as they can. As someone who often prefers the live version to a recorded track, I was pleased with the work in Ocean Way and appreciate that it leaves L&TO fans ready for what's next in their journey.
Reinventing Worship Music | Posted December-02-2014
Indie-styled Seattle band Citizens & Saints is known for their dynamic, high energy vibe. With a touch of rock and a bit of techno, the group has created a unique sound rivaled by few. Zach Bolen, responsible for the intense lead vocals you'll hear on a Citizens album, sings with passion and authority-- a well-paired combo for a worship leader.
I'd be quick to say their style falls under the category of a reinvention for worship music around the world, and after one listen of their latest project Join The Triumph, I think you'll understand why.
Zach's powerhouse vocals come to life above a high-intensity beat background with "The Strife Is Over," making for an intriguing first impression. The band proceeds to tackle such classic hymns as "There Is A Fountain" and "Be Thou My Vision," putting a special spin on each and bringing a new sound to something already well loved. The pop/electronic beat often present in the guys' songs is alive and well in "You Brought Me Back To Life," a song of redemption and praise.
"The Mighty Hand Of God" continues on the theme of redemption with the powerful lyrics "even though our hearts are prone to wander / we could never run beyond His reach", while "You Have Searched Me" is pulled straight from scripture, referencing well-known passages such as Romans 2 and Psalm 139. "The Gospel" certainly lives up to its name, telling the story of Christ with verses like "Jesus's death has conquered death and killed our sin / Jesus's life has brought us life / we live in Him." The well-rounded album comes to a close with a few slower tracks, "Father You Are All We Need" and "Before The Throne," ending on a note of thankfulness and reverence.
Closing Thoughts:
Join The Triumph seems to be a perfect name for this collection of songs, containing themes of grace, redemption and the greatness of our God running through every track. Zach's unique voice is like the icing on the cake of this well produced, energetic and Truth-infused album. An incredible time of worship, I think one listener summed it up best when saying, "this isn't merely good music; it's Gospel music!" It absolutely is, and I for one can't wait to see what's next for the guys of Citizens & Saints.
Getting In The Christmas Spirit | Posted December-01-2014
The three brothers in OBB have always been family guys. Landing third place in a televised family singing competition seemed to be the big break Zach, Nich and Jacob Oswald needed to get their start in music. A deal with Curb Records, a spot on the 2013 WinterJam tour and recently released new album Bright Side are just a few ways the guys have made their mark on the Christian Music industry since their debut EP a few years ago. Now the guys, big lovers of the holiday season, have set out to tackle their first Christmas centered project Feelin Like Christmas.
"Feelin Like Christmas" opens the EP with an upbeat/techno vibe, much like fans are used to from them. The song talks of the approaching season and shows off the strong vocals of the brothers. Next, the guys put a new spin on the Christmas classic "Go Tell It On The Mountain" that can quickly make you fall in love with the song all over again.
A short but sweet three tracks long, the EP comes to a close with "Christmas Card To You," a message to friends to enjoy the holiday traditions: "take the time to remember Christ is calling you to get up, get out, and spread the truth / this is my Christmas card to you."
Closing Thoughts:
Although I wish it was longer, Feelin Like Christmas bring a fun energy to Christmas songs new and old. The guys seemed to have worked hard on what they've presented to us with this EP, and their efforts paid off, radiating holiday cheer from the very first to the last notes.
Song to Download Now:
"Go Tell It On The Mountain" (Get it on iTunes here.)
Something Old, Something New | Posted November-17-2014
What things come to mind when I say the name Chris August? For me, a hilarious sense of humor, humble spirit, sweet personality and ridiculously smooth vocals are just a few things I associate with the artist.
What you may not know is that the genius behind "The Candy Wrap" is also a big Christmas fan. Chris has released Christmas songs before, but never as a complete album/EP. This year he's changing that. Simply titled The Christmas EP, Chris's latest musical offering puts a unique spin on some timeless Christmas classics and also introduces some new tunes for your holiday collection.
Opening with previously released "Come Now Our King," one of three originals included here, Chris paints a beautiful picture of Jesus's birth and why He came to earth. "Jesus, Savior" is a simple telling of the Christmas story sung in a way that captivates you all over again, even if you've heard it hundreds of times: "our salvation has a name / Jesus, Savior, precious Lord of everything / our whole world's about to change."
Chris brings a bit of his personality into every song he covers, and it always works as a bonus. This is certainly true of his remake of "I'll Be Home For Christmas," where he adds a new energy to the already beautiful classic. My personal favorite, "O Holy Night," is flawlessly arranged with a simple yet powerful piano backing. It's a difficult song, but Chris manages to pull it off seemingly effortlessly, tackling the high notes with ease.
Coming to an end, the EP finishes with "Tell Me What You Want For Christmas," a new song that shows off Chris's usual humor as he sings from the perspective of a volunteer Santa Clause.
Closing Thoughts:
The Christmas EP is mixed with serious and funny moments alike in true Chris August fashion. As always, his vocals are smooth and perfectly pitched. There's not much to find fault with here, and I'm sure we all got just enough to make us hope for a full length Christmas album next year.
Song to Download Now:
"I'll Be Home For Christmas" (Get it on iTunes here.)
Worship For The World | Posted October-27-2014
Since their launch in 2006, London-based church Worship Central has made a significant impact on the world of worship leaders and congregations alike. It started as a movement to empower the local church and has since grown to be a place of resource and training for worship leaders around the world. Their loyal team (Tim Hughes, Luke Hellebronth, Nikki Fletcher and Ben Cantelon) host annual conferences with leadership workshops, speakers and guest worship leaders to help equip the next generation of worshipers. On top of all that, they've recorded several live albums and been the voice behind many great worship songs.
Passionate worship, in and for the church, is just one of the things that Worship Central does well. With their latest musical offering Set Apart, they bring us a new collection of powerful songs for the church.
"The Way" begins the album with an upbeat yet worshipful vibe, declaring "You're the light shining bright in the darkness / Jesus You are the way." "Stand Up," the remake of Meredith Andrew's beautiful "Worth It All," and title track "Set Apart" center around giving all we are for Christ's glory, while "Can't Stop Your Love," "Pursue Me" and "Singing Over Us" are songs that tell of God's unending love for us.
A few moments of spontaneous worship like "All That I Am" and "Wide Open Space" allow us into the more intimate times of their live services and invite us to worship with them. "Your Cross Is Enough," another powerful moment on the album, is praise to God for all He has done to save our souls. Coming to a close, "Dead Things To Life" proclaims the redemption of our Father: "out of the ruins You're making me whole / the Giver of life awakening hope."
Closing Thoughts:
From the opening sounds of Set Apart, it's evident that there was a sweet presence of God in the room, making the atmosphere worshipful and holy. Live recordings are always a bonus on worship albums, adding power and extra voices to something already beautiful. The moving lyrics mixed with Biblical truth are definitely the strong point of this album, including co-writes with Benji Cowart and Jason Ingram. Over all, Set Apart seems to have served its purpose: empowering believers and giving new songs for the church to lift up to the King.
For Such A Time As This | Posted September-29-2014
What started as a simple youth movement in Melbourne, Australia is now a popular worship band changing the world with a mission focused on empowering a generation.
You might fear that after 20-something live recordings, PlanetShakers would run out of things to say. However, this is far from their reality. Well into their second decade of ministry, the Australian worshippers are just as hungry and desperate for God's presence as ever before.
This Is Our Time, recorded at the annual PlanetShakers conference, was birthed from a desire in the band to reach the lost, and comes through as a collection of songs for the church.
The title track begins the album as an upbeat declaration of sorts and leads into "Joy," another high-energy tune that praises the true Joy that will never leave us. "My Heart Is Alive" brings a bit of a techno vibe into the record that contrasts well with the intimate moments of worship also found here. "Leave Me Astounded" acts as a welcoming prayer of surrender, while "Covered" proves to be one of the strongest tracks lyrically: "at the cross all of my past is covered by Your grace."
"It's Your Love" brings the energy level back up for a while before taking it back down for more intense settings of worship. "You," "Holy" and "Abba Father" serve as emotional meetings with the Father's presence, reminding us what PlanetShakers are all about. Possibly the most breathtaking moment included on the record is found in "Your Presence," a song of sweet welcoming of God's spirit: "I love Your presence / Father where You are is where I want to be / hidden in Your courts is everything I need."
Closing Thoughts:
As far as melodies go, Our Time Is Now is what you'd expect from PlanetShakers. Lyrically, the album is a strong project from start to finish. Anthemic songs, powerful declarations of faith and congregation-friendly worship are just a few things the band does well, and they all shine through in a great way on this album. It's clear that PlanetShakers have much to praise God for, and as long as they'll allow us into their live meetings, I'm sure we'll gladly listen.
An Offering Of Praise | Posted September-22-2014
Compilation albums are always a special treat to music fans because they take the best of various artists and combine them in one place. However, Reverence: An Offering seems to be even better than that. Of the whopping 19 tracks included, 17 of them are appearing on this album as tracks that have never before been released. With so many artists debuting songs here, it's almost a guarantee to find a few musical gems.
Fuel Music says the motivation behind this project was to discover new songs and artists, and it sounds like they definitely have.
Christian music giants Jesus Culture lent a few of their voices to help the album come together, most notably Bryan and Katie Torwalt's moving song "Shores." Worship leader Kathryn Scott contributed her breathtaking "Sing On The Battlefield" from her upcoming album, as did Patrick Mayberry with "Brought To Life" and Jimmy Thorpe with "Anchor." It should come as no surprise that there are some incredible moments of worship gathered here. "Yahweh" from One Sonic Society, "Running After You" from Chris Mcclarney and "Song Of Solomon" from Martin Smith are just a few.
Not only are there beautiful songs found here, but the voices behind them are beautiful as well. Anthony Skinner shows off his range with "All The Praise" and Lara Landon gives the world a taste of her smooth vocals in "There Is Grace." With "Time To Be Well," former frontwoman for Addison Road, Jenny Simmons, gives us a peek into her upcoming EP funded by Kickstarter. Also featured on this album are tracks from respected rock groups Abandon and Remedy Drive.
Closing Thoughts:
Most of the artists included on this album aren't that familiar, but that turns out to work in their favor, making it a pleasant surprise to the listener. With almost all of the songs being debuts, it adds an element of newness that usually isn't there in compilation albums. A strong worship album, Reverence proves to serve it's purpose to making new musical discoveries. Whether the artist is one you've known for 5 years or 5 seconds, the excellence found here leaves you wanting to hear more from each one and eagerly awaiting each upcoming solo project.
Song To Download Now:
"Time To Be Well" by Jenny Simmons (Get it on iTunes here.)
CaitlinLassiter_NRT's Music and Book Reviews 
