Unexpected
by
Jason What You Need to Know:
Jason Crabb is one of the most versatile voices in Christian music today, spanning southern gospel, adult contemporary...
Chè Sarai is on a mission to present truth to this generation, and she's...
Alpenglow
by
Cameron Worship leader Cameron Moore's sophomore release Alpenglow is a passionate worship album. Hope and love are consistent themes that bind the project together. Cameron Moore expands his worship...
Worship with a Pop Flair | Posted March-22-2017
It's been five years since the world was presented with an album from Christian pop icon Jaci Velasquez. In that time, she's been busy being a wife, mom and radio host, just to name a few of her many hats. Jaci is a woman of many talents, and her new album Trust is just more proof of that. Trust is not only her first solely worship album, it's also her first album to be released in English and Spanish at the same time (its counterpart is Confío).
We all go through struggles and trials in life, and Jaci has let the world know with her newest release exactly who has sustained her during some of the dark days of her own life. Jaci has shared from her own experience just how important it is to know that God is the one in control. When her oldest son was diagnosed on the Autism spectrum, it was a time when her own faith and trust were tested. It is out of those days of learning that Trust was formed.
"Trust You" kicks off the album by lifting up praise to God for always being there with us no matter what, an anthem for those going through trials. He is the "God Who Moves the Mountains" in our lives. When we're broken and call on Him, all He asks of us is to trust Him, because He's capable of changing those things we can't.
In those hard moments, sometimes we come to realize that one of our mountains is just being too busy. Jaci sings "Rest" from a place of vulnerability. As any parent knows, sometimes there are days where you're just on the go constantly. Unfortunately, those can be the days where we don't take the time to pray or spend time with God. "Rest" is not only a reminder for us, but a prayer to God to help us remember to take the time to just stop and rest in Him.
The Bottom Line: Jaci has done a spectacular job sharing her heart with the world through her album Trust. Her honesty shines through her music, and her willingness to listen when God prompted her to go in a new direction are what make for a stunning work to add to her collection. God will do big things through Jaci's newest work.
Song to Download Now:
"God Who Moves Mountains" (Get it on iTunes here.)
The New Face of Worship | Posted February-28-2017
Fearless BND is the face of worship at Fearless L.A. Grown out of a desire to provide quality material for pastors and worship leaders nationwide, Fearless BND has released a number of singles leading up to the much-anticipated full-length album release We Are Fearless. If you are expecting the mellow, hymn-like praise and worship that is common in many churches, you will be surprised to hear something totally different from Fearless.
The name of Fearless L.A. church is based on an A.W. Tozer quote that talks about the world needing a fearless church. It is no surprise, then, that there is a track titled "We Are Fearless." It talks about Jesus dying in our place so that as we follow Him, we can live fearless lives. God will guide us, and because of that we can walk in confidence and victory-- and dance a little bit along the way.
"Revival" is a prayer for renewal of the flame for God in our lives. We have so much stuff in our lives that stifles the flame. Our prayer should be something like the one presented in "Revival," that God would give us the strength to move beyond our idols and fill us with holy fire in their place.
As a whole, We Are Fearless is something one would expect to hear in a dance club, which is actually rather appropriate since Fearless L.A. meets in a popular nightclub. Despite being less hymn-like and more club, the message remains the same: God loves you and wants you to come to Him, Jesus is victorious, and when we come to Him, we can be fearless.
The Bottom Line: Catchy, with the age-old Gospel message embedded firmly within: without a doubt, We Are Fearless will reach those who wouldn't think to step foot in a "traditional" church.
Quiet Power | Posted February-08-2017
Often times, the most powerful praise and worship is in the most simple songs. The album may not be a huge production, and all the lyrics may not talk specifically about God, but the message behind it all is what makes it praise and worship. Joe Deegan has nailed this concept. Basic instrumentation, solid vocals and someone willing to give him a chance are all he needs to make an impact with his new release Cover & Title Page.
"Hosea" is a spectacular summary of the Biblical account, but underneath that there is the message that God loves people. Even if they walk away, they are still deeply loved by Him who would send His own Son as a sacrifice for them. "The Monotony of Love" and "Land of Memory" are touching songs about family that remind listeners just how precious their loved ones really are. "Further Up and Further In" brings to mind C.S. Lewis as it references a chapter title in The Last Battle. The song really parallels not only the Narnia novel, but the Bible as a whole. Our stories here on earth are incomplete; our lives here are just a chapter of the whole. Even after we have gone "Further Up and Further In" to eternity, the grand story of our lives is not over.
The Bottom Line: If you like Jars of Clay, do not miss Joe Deegan. His music is simple but powerful in a way that not even the most expensive polishing and producing can buy.
Contemplative Worship | Posted November-30-2016
Jean Watson is no stranger to the trials and triumphs of life. What sets her apart is her humble attitude towards it all. Her goal is to live a life of worship as a witness to others, no matter where she is. Her new album Wonder not only showcases her unique style, but also does a spectacular job ushering listeners into worship.
The title track "Wonder" is a striking reminder that God is deserving of all the awe and wonder we can possibly have. He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He does things that are incomprehensible to human minds, and He makes us stand in awe at what He has done. The lyrics are beautifully simple and set the stage for worship.
A number of tracks on the album are solely instrumental. Jean Watson is an amazingly talented violinist, and these tracks let her playing shine. "St. Peter's Warmsworth in D Minor" is beautiful, one of those songs you could have playing quietly during daily prayer or Bible reading. "Cooley's Reel" is very Celtic/Irish in sound and another brilliant take on her violin ability. "Czardas" clearly demonstrates the amazing skill required to play the violin like Jean Watson does.
"It Is Well" is a dazzlingly written and performed piece that incorporates pieces of the old hymn. The message is the same: no matter what is happening in life, when we look to God through it, we can say "it is well." The lyrics, once again, are simple but perfect.
As a whole, this worship album is less about being big and showy and more about taking the time to be quiet and let God really be able to speak in the stillness. If you're into Celtic music, violin or just plain great quiet time music, this is it.
The Bottom Line: Jean Watson's Wonder is calm and soothing music to usher you into worship. She is a big talent being used for God's glory.
Song to Download Now:
"St. Peter's Warmsworth in D Minor" (Get it on iTunes here.)
Truth of Christmas | Posted October-31-2016
Worship leader Christy Nockels is no stranger to sharing the truth about who God is through her involvement with the Passion movement. The Christmas season is an especially wonderful time to do that, and how better than her first solo Christmas album? With a little help from fans through pre-orders and other purchases on her website, Christy Nockels was able to bring a dream to life. The Thrill of Hope is a beautiful Christmas album with a mix of old classics and touching originals.
Christmas albums usually come with a fairly obvious track list, drawing on beloved classics that no album is complete without. What makes a Christmas album really standout is not only how the artist transforms the classics, but what original pieces they bring to the mix. Christy Nockels did a tremendous job mixing the old with the new and coming up with a cohesive blend to usher in the holiday season.
Opening the album is "The King is Coming Prelude." There is no better way to usher people into the Christmas spirit than by reminding them why Christmas is special. Jesus's coming as a baby to accomplish mind-blowing things is worth rejoicing over, and the wonderfully Celtic sounds of "Dance at Migdal Eder" capture that sentiment. Migdal Eder is mentioned in the Bible as being near present-day Bethlehem. If you're wondering why would there be a dance at Migdal Eder, Micah 4:8 is thought to be a prophetic revelation that Jesus's birth would be revealed from that very place. We know the angels sang when they announced the birth to the shepherds. The shepherds may well have danced when they heard the news!
Those same shepherds were in charge of setting apart the sacrificial lambs, and "Wrap This One Up" celebrates that Jesus was the final, spotless sacrificial Lamb. From His birth in a lowly manger to His final breath on the cross, He is the King who defeated death and will reign forever. His mother may not have fully realized just how special He was when she wrapped Him up, but looking back we can see the significance.
The Bottom Line: Without Jesus coming to earth, we would have no reason to dance and rejoice. The classics and Christy's original songs blend together on The Thrill of Hope to remind listeners in a powerful way just how important Christ is.
Old Hymns, New Renditions | Posted September-19-2016
Once again, Selah brings their own touches to 18 popular church hymns. As it goes in most churches on Sunday mornings, they didn't sing every verse to every song, but they did the selected verses amazingly well. They also changed up a few hymns to make them flow better, without changing them so much that people who know them can't sing along with them.
Most of the hymns I was able to find in at least one of my hymnals. The only ones I couldn't find were "God Be With You," "Wayfaring Stranger" and "O The Blood," but they're easy enough to look up online if you want to sing along and don't know the words.
Going back to the missionary kid roots of member Todd Smith, Selah sings part of "'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus" in Kituba, one of the languages of Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo). It's always fun when they bring a new dimension to a song, and it shows that hymns can even cross language barriers. Another great rendition is "Revive Us Again," with the jazzed up organ playing and the verse combinations before going to the chorus. It starts out with some tame piano and then breaks into a jazzy Southern Gospel sing.
Greatest Hymns, Vol. 2 is a great collection of amazing hymns that stand the test of time. It's a volume that young and old alike can appreciate and sing along with.
The Bottom Line: Selah brings to life some of the most beloved hymns in church history with their signature flair, Kituba and seamless vocals.
Restoration, Grace, and Love | Posted August-24-2016
As part of The Crabb Family, Aaron is no stranger to Southern Gospel. After the family band went their own ways, Aaron joined his wife Amanda to form the duo Aaron & Amanda Crabb. Not only does the duo make beautiful music together, they also pastor Restoring Hope Church in Hendersonville, TN. With pastoring and parenting on their plate, it's amazing that they had time to make new music! Despite being busy, their new album Restore is a well-polished, Southern Gospel-meets-Country art piece.
Opening the album is "Time Flies." While it may go without saying, this is a song for every person. As the saying goes, "Time flies when you're having fun." It also flies when you're too busy to make time to take in the special moments. "Time Flies" is a point-blank, hit-you-in-the-eyes reminder that you can't go back and relive your life. Make the most of it while you have it.
"Restore Me" is a prayer to God for restoration. Amanda Crabb passionately sings the prayer that is often so hard for us to sing ourselves when we need grace, again, because we've messed up in some way. Aaron, singing the part of God, replies with the gentle reminder that He's always been there and He knows the plans He has for us. When we cry out, He answers us back "I am your grace. I am your mercy. I am the love."
Continuing on with the themes of grace and restoration, "He Looked Beyond My Fault" lets listeners know just what Jesus did for us when we didn't deserve it. He knew exactly what we needed and provided it for us despite our mistakes. "He Looked Beyond My Fault" and went to Calvary so that I, and you, could have everything we really need.
The Bottom Line:Restore is a powerful message of grace and restoration. Aaron & Amanda Crabb deliver a wonderful sermon from the recording studio.
Songs for Dancing in the Rain | Posted August-18-2016
Ivan Parker is no stranger to the Gospel music scene. Not only does he have his own solo career, he is also a part of the Gaither Homecoming series. If you love Gaither music, you've probably heard Ivan Parker's smooth, powerful vocals belting out Gospel truths. Dancing in the Rain is another great album from Ivan Parker that presents Gospel truths through amazing music.
"That's What Love Does" is a touching reminder that love isn't selfish. From a mother's love to Jesus' love when He went to the cross for us, love does whatever it has to in order to serve and save someone. Not only did Jesus do it the one time, "He'll Do It Again." He's unchanging, which means His love for us never changes.
Who knew that the gospel had math in it? "Jesus Plus Nothing" brings a little simple math to an already amazing yet sometimes unbelievable story of salvation. Without Jesus, even if it seems like we have everything, in reality we have nothing. In a twist of events, Jesus + nothing = everything. Ivan Parker reminds us that we really don't need anything else because Jesus gives us everything we need.
"Mama's Rocking Chair" may bring back some nostalgia for audiences who have grown up listening to the stories from the Bible. Ivan Parker sings about how the Bible came alive when his Mama read to him from the Bible while sitting in her rocking chair. While it may not be the point of the song, it powerfully gets the message across that sometimes the most powerful Bible reading a child will ever hear comes from their parents. It's something that sticks with them for a lifetime, and that's not something to be missed.
The Bottom Line: A little blues, a little country and a whole lot of gospel from Ivan Parker will leave you Dancing in the Rain.
Musical Memorization | Posted July-27-2016
SwordSmith Records has one main goal: help kids memorize Scripture. How? By putting memory verses to music. Lyrics sung to upbeat, catchy music get stuck in your head a lot easier than just reading the words on paper. Knowing this, Paul MacIntyre (the founder of SwordSmith Records) set out to make learning the Bible fun and memorable.
One Way is a five song album aimed at children. Only one song on the album isn't a Bible verse, but it still points children to the "One Way!", Jesus. Admittedly, my own toes were tapping to the music (maybe sermons should be presented in song fashion?). Later on the album, that core belief is reinforced when John 14:6 is sung on "I Am the Way."
Overall, despite its short runtime, One Way is a great way to help kids memorize their Bible verses. The verse selections are the perfect combination for the album.
The Bottom Line:One Way takes you back to VBS days when you sang fun songs that taught Bible truths. This is a great asset for Scripture memorization for kids!
A Powerful Statement of Faith | Posted July-20-2016
In early 2016, Hillary Scott (one third of Lady Antebellum) announced on social media that she was working on a super special project. This project was a collection of the songs of faith that have inspired her along her journey, as well original songs inspired by her own life. To make Love Remains even more special, Hillary Scott's parents (Linda Davis and Lang Scott) and sister (Rylee) joined her, making this album a stunning, passionate debut for Hillary Scott & The Scott Family.
People often look up to celebrities because they seem to have it all together: they have money, they have fame and their lives look perfect. We often think that we're so different from them because our lives are a mess. "Beautiful Messes" kicks off the album as a reminder that no one is perfect. Throughout history God has used "...misfits like us..." to further His kingdom. Why? Hillary Scott & The Scott Family remind listeners that it's because "even at our worst, to Him we ain't lost causes. Just beautiful messes."
Quite possibly the most powerful worship track on Love Remains is "Still." Without a doubt this will become a song added to the worship music rotation. Psalm 46:10a (KJV) says "Be still, and know that I am God," and that is exactly the message presented in "Still." We may not see all that God is doing in our lives, and we might try to be the ones in control, but "all You need for me to be is still."
In an interview with Good Morning America, Hillary Scott shared what inspired her (along with Emily Weisband and Bernie Herms) to write "Thy Will," a powerful anthem for those going through life's various struggles. The personal heartache that prompted Hillary to write the song was a miscarriage in the fall of 2015. This really hit home for me as I have been there myself. The emotion conveyed through the lyrics is raw, and I commend Hillary Scott for being honest about something that is often a taboo subject. "Thy Will" is something anyone in a struggle can relate to though, and that's what makes it so impactful.
Also included on Love Remains are covers of a few older songs like "Come to Jesus" by Chris Rice and classic hymn "Come Thou Fount." Making a cameo appearance in "The River" (featuring Sharon and Cheryl White) is the old spiritual "Down to the River to Pray." "The River" has the same central message as its predecessor, that when you go to God and He washes you in the blood of Jesus, you are a new creation.
The Bottom Line: As a whole, Love Remains is a powerful cross-over album for Hillary Scott that showcases her faith beautifully and leaves no doubt where she stands. This is definitely a powerful, inspiring work of musical art that you won't want to miss!
PhronsieHowell_NRT's Music and Book Reviews 
