VIP
by
Manic Drive Canadian pop-rock group Manic Drive (brothers Shawn and Michael Cavallo and friend Anthony Moreino) have released their fifth album, VIP. When the record begins, pulsing opening track “Electric”...
Everyone loves an underdog. We welcome the topsy-turvy triumph of the "David" over the "Goliath." But when it comes to the prodigal, we are often too quick to judge and too slow to forgive. We cry foul at God's upside-down grace.
Enter Gary Chapman, a Texas-raised preacher's son with a rebellious streak seemingly a country mile wide. He's been judged by many according to a bad boy reputation, partly earned but never wholly deserved. He's widely recognized as a funny man, but seldom is seen for who he is behind the joke – a candid, whip-smart, worldly-wise, big-hearted, fiercely loyal friend, family man, and follower of Christ.
There is no better place to discover and understand Gary Chapman than on The Truth, his first recording of new music since 2002. To date, the sixteen tracks on this album are the most personal and honest reflections of his life, philosophy, and values.
Life can be messy, and Chapman's never pretended to be perfect. His mistakes and missteps are well-documented. "This road that I am traveling is steep and it is rough / and I wonder every morning if I'll have strength enough," confesses Chapman on "Freedom." So begins the album, with Chapman "choos[ing] to lean into [God], forsaking all the rest," and finding freedom.
"Where You're Going" gives voice to Chapman's gratitude for the purposeful direction that this God-found freedom provides, while encouraging the listener to do the same: "Stop and thank God for the day / for every step along the way / ‘cause not one goes to waste."
On The Truth, God is not a theological construct represented by clichés. Rather, He is a living presence that can be understood in everyday terms. Chapman enlists Alison Krauss on "If God Had a Front Porch," a standout song that demonstrates God's nature through tangible, realistic hypotheticals: "If God had a telephone / it'd be a number everybody knows / You'd never fail to get Him on the line / You could call in the middle of the night / Just to laugh or just to cry / And He'd never be the first to say goodbye."
"Ain't Got a Prayer" relates that in hard times, community is stronger than government. However, while we all "do our best to do our part...we ain't got a prayer without Jesus."
"How Great a God" is quintessential Gary Chapman. The clearly autobiographical song is an unashamedly honest account of an imperfect man, as well as a testament to an infallible, but merciful God. And since, invariably, we've all failed God, we can relate to Chapman as he sings, "I can't help but sing / How great a God do we serve / that we don't get what we deserve."
Experience informs faith on verses that more than hold their own alongside a magnificent chorus on another classic Chapman tune, "Safe From The Wind": "Life is mostly so uncertain / I'm most certain that's the case / And I know that most of what I'm seeing will soon be replaced / But I still believe that true love never fails / and that you and I could weather any gale."
Between the atmospheric tale of an antebellum spirit, "Widow of the South," and the Christmas-focused duet between Gary and wife Cassie, "All About a Baby," lies "Put It in His Hands," a song inspired by Gary's father's frequent response to his boy's vocalized concerns: "Son, put that in God's hands." Daughter Sarah's voice beautifully supports Gary's on this emotional song about surrender. Gary succinctly captures how God cares for his children: "Little boy with a toy, broke it like little boys do / Daddy can't fix it ‘til the little boy's willing to / Put it in His hands."
"The Wisdom of Age" is an homage to Jesus that embraces the knowledge gained through experience: "He's in every breath / He's in every touch / When we receive the Lord's saving grace / We walk the road to glory in the wisdom of age." The song is peppered with life lessons, as is the stunner "Everything I Know," in which Chapman avows, "every stupid thing I've done so far has taught me nearly everything I know." While space limitations prevent me from sharing too many lyrics—I could quote nearly the whole song!—suffice it to say Gary's words of wisdom, earned through struggle, failure, and heartache, are immeasurably valuable and comforting.
Rebecca Lynn Howard guests on "When I Say," Chapman's exploration of what he means when he professes to be a Christian. It's an unpretentious, humble acceptance and declaration of his own need: "When I say I am a Christian / I'm not shouting, ‘I am Saved' / I am whispering, ‘I get lost sometimes' / That why I chose this way." It feels at once like an apologetic to his detractors, as well a song that lets a jaded soul who views Christians as judgmental hypocrites see the truth: We are all broken people in need of a Savior.
The remainder of the album's songs remain grounded in real life and venture beyond the walls of the traditional church. "I Didn't Find Jesus" is a story song that teaches us that God sometimes shows Himself in unusual ways or through unexpected people. "That's God" finds God in the every day, using numerous ways to show He cares: "There's nothing He won't do to say, 'I love you.'" "Twenty Bucks Away" urges us to live more simply, reminding that security is found in God, not money.
Chapman calls upon his friends one last time for the final track, "The Rough Crowd." Tanya Tucker and John Rich effectively lend their weather-beaten, world-weary voices to this number that ends with the words, "I thank God Jesus runs with the rough crowd," significantly recalling, lest we forget, that Jesus came for the lost and the broken, not the righteous.
Closing Thoughts:
Few sing with as much sincerity and conviction as Gary Chapman. And vocally, the seven-time Dove Award winner is still at the top of his game. He's always had a special kind of voice with an inviting warmth that pulls you in, reminding you that you're not alone. Over the last few years, with his A Hymn a Week project, Chapman has used his voice to encourage many by singing hymns. Forty of those hymns are available for download on four volumes titled Simple Truth.
Though it's been over a decade since his last studio offering, Gary Chapman's songwriting pen is as sharp as ever. Perhaps inspired by the hymn writers in whose work he has been immersed, on The Truth he reaches out specifically to the searching and the hurting, sharing the truth in everyday language. Christian music needs more albums like this, songs that look beyond the church pews to offer shelter to people on the margins. So, Gary Winther Chapman, I entreat you, "Don't be a stranger."
Song to Download Now:
"If God Had a Front Porch" (Get it on iTunes here.)
Reverend Billy Graham is one of the world's most revered and beloved men. According to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, he has shared the Good News with "more people in live audiences than anyone else in history—nearly 215 million people in more than 185 countries and territories." Though Dr. Graham preaches before large groups, his message has always been delivered in a such a simple, direct, and personal manner that you feel you are having a heart-to-heart.
On November 7, Reverend Graham will celebrate his 95th birthday. Because he feels he has one last message to deliver to America, Dr. Graham and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association have coordinated an event to take place this November called My Hope America With Billy Graham. More than 25,000 churches are participating in the national outreach, in which individuals pray for their non-believing friends and neighbors and open their doors to them, sharing the Gospel and their personal testimonies.
Two special media releases help to kick off this event, a book from Dr. Graham entitled The Reason for My Hope: Salvation and a musical celebration and tribute to Reverend Graham, My Hope: Songs Inspired by the Message and Mission of Billy Graham. Let's talk about the CD release!
Newsboys take the lead with "We Believe," a song that is also included on their newest release, Restart. Since the track plays much like a modern-day Apostles' Creed set to music, it's a great place to begin a record centered on imparting the message of the gospel and the hope that resides therein.
"So Loved" starts with Reverend Graham reciting John 3:16. Here Matthew West vocalizes the hopeful message of this verse while sharing his personal story of coming to Christ. Though West is the son of a minister, it was Billy Graham's message that finally reached his heart.
Ladies and gentlemen, meet Lacey Sturm. Formerly the lead singer of Flyleaf, Lacey has been an integral part of Franklin Graham events in recent years, sharing her powerful testimony. Though she was an atheist, her grandmother took her to church where Jesus' love would eventually speak to her heart and keep her from taking her own life. Her story (as well as Lecrae's) will be part of Reverend Graham's upcoming television broadcast, The Cross.
Lacey contributes two songs to this project. The first, "The Reason," is an unflinchingly honest account of her own pursuit for meaning outside Jesus, and the pervasive emptiness that accompanied that search until she found the reason: She was looking in the wrong places; only Jesus could provide what she sought.
Kari Jobe leads worship and celebrates our redemption in "The Cross Is My Confession," proclaiming, "For I believe in God the Father / And in His Son, there is no other / His daily life living inside / This I confess, my righteousness."
Michael W. Smith's offering is inspired by conversations with Dr. Graham in recent years in which Graham expressed a deep longing for Heaven. "Take Me Home" is Smitty's imagining of Reverend Graham's talk with Jesus on the topic. A reminder to all that this earth is not our home, the song is also a fitting tribute to a great man of God. Though, selfishly, I hope not to hear Smitty perform it any time soon as a remembrance.
Though it's been years since Nichole Nordeman has released a full recording of her own, she has remained active as a writer. "Be My Rescue" is a welcome visitation from the songstress, who remains in fine form.
Israel Houghton continues with the soulful "Broken Pieces." This upbeat number is a fantastic distillation of Jesus' invitation to us all to receive His grace: "You're never too far / Come as You are."
Amy Grant follows with the gorgeous, hymn-like "Jesus Take All of Me (Just As I Am)." Perfectly sequenced here, Amy's song is our personal response to Jesus' call: "O Lamb of God, I come / I come."
Seizing the contemplative mood Grant established, Darlene Zschech and Tommy Coomes Band offer worship with "The Cross of Christ" and "My Hope," respectively. Though you may be unfamiliar with the latter, Tommy Coomes Band, led by the founder of Marantha Music, has played at Franklin Graham Festivals and other BGEA events for many years.
Don't miss "Mercy Tree," Sturm's second appearance. With this awesome song about the Cross, Lacey will bring you to your knees in awe of what Christ has done!
TobyMac concludes the album with what he has dubbed "a Reverend Billy Graham remix" of "City on Our Knees." Toby has expertly inserted Billy Graham's words into the hit song, creating a combination of music and spoken word focused on choice and the imminent need for personal decision. In effect, Toby and Reverend Graham wrap up this musical Crusade, together making the altar call: Come and receive Christ!
Closing Thoughts:
While it's difficult to imagine that a music CD could ever pay sufficient tribute to the life and work of an evangelistic giant like Reverend Graham, My Hope: Songs Inspired by the Message and Mission of Billy Graham handily delivers an engaging collection that communicates the crux of his message. From start to finish, the artists understand what Graham's work is about and ably translate the message of the gospel into music.
Highlights include Nichole Nordeman's "Be My Rescue", Israel Houghton's "Broken Pieces", and Amy Grant's lovely "Jesus Take All of Me (Just As I Am)". But if there is a featured artist here, it is without a doubt Lacey Sturm. This young lady has a captivating presence that is sure to affect many lives.
Though I'd like to hear more of Dr. Graham on the record, he would be the first to emphasize that this is not, nor has it ever been, about him. It's about Jesus. Still, while tobyMac's remix of "City on Our Knees" adds nothing new musically, its inclusion of Reverend Graham's preaching is an important and necessary addition to this record. Even those who may never have witnessed a Billy Graham Crusade will get a glimpse at how charismatic a speaker Dr. Graham was, and how life changing his message could be. For Reverend Graham, like few others, can really bring you to the feet of Jesus. His lifelong mission has been to share with the world the love of Jesus and the hope of the Gospel. And through the efforts of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, as well as the work of his children and grandchildren, Reverend Graham's legacy and mission will live on.
Song to Download Now:
"The Reason" by Lacey Sturm (Get it on iTunes here.)
Reverent & Jolly | Posted October-15-2013 Ring in the holiday season with Phillips, Craig & Dean’s latest offering, Hope for All the World, their second full-length Christmas release. If the title sounds familiar to fans, that’s because the guys released an EP of the same name in 2010. All six songs from said EP are found here, with four additional songs to make up a full album.
The trio, with the assistance of producer Nathan Nockels, offers up an even mix of originals and Christmas classics that collectively conjure the spirit of the season. Of the classics, some like “Do You Hear What I Hear?” are done straight. Some songs are best left to tradition, and thankfully, the guys do a beautiful, faithful rendering on this one. “The First Noel” is similarly presented in familiar fashion, with just a slight pop infusion to lend a little glitter.
The group experiments a bit with “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen / We Three Kings.” The former is given a slight jazz makeover, particularly in the opening, during the fills between verses, and at the end. Somewhere in the middle, however, the song swells into an orchestral piece. While the unusual musical trappings don’t quite fit, the vocals are top notch. The creative approach does bear fruit, though, with the latter song. With upright bass, accordion, bouzouki, a swinging delivery, and tight harmonies, “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen / We Three Kings” is a toe-tapping joy!
Though Christmas is a sacred season, it’s also an occasion to make merry. On their first Christmas project, PCD exercised their funny bones with “The Chipmunk Song.” This time, they close the project in silly Duck Tales fashion with “Jingle Bells (Duck Mix).” Their three part duck harmony is a real giggle, and the early returns show it’s a welcome gag with their fans.
Of the five originals, the trio had a hand in writing two, “Suddenly” and “A Night of Hope.” “Suddenly” tells the tale of Mary and Joseph, recounting how once the angel came, their story radically changed and, before you knew it, the world was singing: “Glory to God in the highest!” Backed by a choir, the guys let their hair down for “A Night of Hope” which uproariously celebrates the glorious surprise gift of Jesus’ birth.
Christmas wouldn’t be complete without sentimentality which “God Bless Us” heartily provides. Speaking of grace and the Christmas spirit’s ability to soften the hardest heart, the tune gives a Dickensian nod with the lyric “God bless us, every one!”
The two standout originals are “For All The World” and “Born Is The King (It’s Christmas).” Each upbeat number rejoices in the Savior’s arrival. The chorus of the first boasts a melody reminiscent of the PCD hit “You are God Alone.” While the album single, “Born Is The King (It’s Christmas), is a stirring anthem worthy of a King. When you hear it, you’ll be obeying the song’s command: “All of the earth rejoice! It’s Christmas!”
Closing Thoughts:
Phillips, Craig & Dean’s vocals and harmonies are as strong as ever. With equal measures of original songs and Christmas favorites, the group toes the line of tradition and modernity. While not earth-shatteringly different, one listen will most definitely invite the Christmas spirit into your heart. Hope for All the World succeeds in sounding just as a Christmas record should: warm and bright, joyous and hopeful, reverent and jolly.
Song to Download Now:
“Born Is The King (It’s Christmas)” (Get it on iTunes here.)
Promising, Poised Debut | Posted September-30-2013 Marthe De La Torre hails from Auli, a village in Norway of about 3,000 people. A gifted pianist and composer, Marthe first came to America in 2002, where she spent ten months in Los Angeles training in performing arts ministry. A few years later, love would bring her back, for during her first visit she had fallen in love with her future husband. Today, Marthe leads worship at The House Los Angeles.
Marthe funded her debut project on Kickstarter, titling it Preludes because, in her own words, "our most sincere worship... is a mere reflection of what it will be like when we one day stand in front of God's throne. Our words... are a foreshadowing of what lies ahead, they are ‘Preludes' of things to come."
It is evident from the start that rather than conforming to any worship music formula or trend, this record forges its own path. Marthe combines organic and electronic elements to create her own sound: a lively and fresh mixture of EDM, Worship, Pop, R&B, and Urban.
First up, Marthe taps Butta P of Rhema Soul for the danceable, beat-heavy "Trust in You." Butta P's rap underscores the song's central message of resting in God and trusting in His providence no matter the circumstance.
Urban-flavored "Only You Are Holy" pronounces God as supreme and sovereign, while "Never Let Me Go" trusts that He never abandons: "Even though I know I'll fall / You will see me through it all."
As she declares love and fidelity to Jesus on hook-laden "Your Love Is Crazy," the song's pulsing, throbbing heartbeat supplies a vitality that renders Marthe's passion irresistibly contagious.
On "Glorious," Marthe gets creative with electronic sounds that perfectly convey awe, wonder, and power, while for "Hallelujah"she uses a mellower expression and a more straight ahead R&B/Gospel sound.
Edward Rivera lends his able voice on "Greatest Sacrifice," joining Marthe as the two sing praises to Jesus: "You made a way for us to be with You." At over seven minutes long, the track sets and maintains an atmosphere conducive to corporate worship with enough breathing room for personal moments of prayer and reflection.
The gorgeous "Amen" brings the worship toward a close. Beginning very simply and gently, Marthe sings a tenderly repeated "amen" over a piano melody before introducing electronic elements around the one minute mark. She then transitions into The Lord's Prayer, setting off the verses with her amen refrain. As it nears the end, the song takes a grander turn with horns and percussion seemingly announcing the presence of the King before turning quiet again, as if on bended knee in supplication.
Just when you think you have a feel for Marthe's sound, she throws a breathtaking curve with "Lær Meg Å Kjenne." This gorgeous traditional Norwegian song may be familiar to some as it has been recorded by the popular soprano, Sissel. The song was composed by a fisherman who, upon returning home, discovered that a fire had claimed his possessions and taken his loved ones. Marthe turns in a stunning performance as she sings a beautiful lyric that translates as: "Teach me to know your ways / and to walk them trustingly step by step / I know that what I own / are borrowed goods, and everything is yours / But if your strong hand guides me / I will never see the wrong goal / and for every hope that dies down here / I will receive a greater hope in heaven." (Translation found on Sissel's website, http://www.sissel.cc/laermeg.html)
Closing Thoughts:
In Preludes, Marthe offers up her own brand of worship. With its creative approach, strong set of songs, and uniquely current sound, this compelling debut reveals Marthe De La Torre as an artist gifted with a talent for composition and an earnest heart for Jesus. Though Preludes is just the tip of the iceberg that is her promising future, there is much to be enjoyed here. You'd be remiss not to have a listen.
A Career-Defining Album | Posted September-24-2013
Daughter Maria's death brought changes to Steven Curtis Chapman's music. To follow up This Moment, rather than returning to the studio, he wrote and recorded his own psalms, Beauty Will Rise, while on the road with Michael W. Smith. Later came repackagings and re-recordings, and yet another Christmas record. Seasons of healing were needed before Steven could throw himself into new material again.
This January, if you witnessed the multi-artist event A Night Of Hope And Healing for the people of Newtown, Connecticut, you saw an impassioned Chapman singing his songs with unshakeable faith in the truths they contain. He was bringing hope to hurting people, ministering to and comforting them in ways only he could. He'd been through the fire himself and had come out stronger. Creatively, you sensed big things were on the horizon.
With Deep Roots, a bluegrass album released in March, Chapman showed that he was refocused and reinvigorated. Surely, his next project would not be too long coming. And here it is: The Glorious Unfolding, the first studio project of all new songs from Steven Curtis Chapman in seven years, a tour de force and triumphant return to form!
Reminiscent of the "Prologue" that precedes "The Great Adventure," "Glorious Unfolding" indeed heralds that great things are in store. The grand-scale masterpiece unfolds like a sunrise, starting with a whisper and ending with a bang. The sound flawlessly embodies the central idea that, with our lives, God is telling a planned story broader in scope than we could imagine. And, though it may sometimes feel hopeless, until we can finally see the whole picture, we need to trust God and faithfully watch events unfold.
High-spirited lead single "Love Take Me Over" percolated in Steven's mind for seven years. Filled with rhythm, percussion, and a commanding chorus overflowing with energy, it feels right at home alongside mega-hits like "Dive" and "Live Out Loud."
Son Will's muscular drum work lends strength and momentum to standout "Take Another Step." Here is yet another instance of Chapman doing something he does so well – perfectly marrying the personal to the biblical to create a song that both teaches and encourages: "If there's an ocean in front of you / You know what you've gotta do / Take another step and another step / Maybe He'll turn the water into land / And maybe He'll take your hand and say / ‘Let's take a walk on the waves / will you trust Me either way?'"
Upbeat "Something Beautiful" continues the theme of trusting God's promises. It looks forward, imagining the finished product when God tell us, "I'm gonna turn it into something different / I'm gonna turn it into something good / I'm gonna take all the broken pieces / And make something beautiful like only I could."
Like "Glorious Unfolding," the epic "Finish What He Started" assures that even through the darkness, God is ever-present and active in our lives, and He'll complete His work: "Not a thread will be unwoven / Nothing will be left undone / Every plan and every purpose / that He has will be accomplished / And God will finish what He's begun."
Where "Fingerprints of God" encouraged his then teenage daughter, Emily, on "Only One and Only You" it's daughter Shaoey's turn to hear Dad say, "You're better than a Beethoven symphony / And Mona Lisa wishes she / could be a masterpiece like you / ... / You are the only one and only you."
Optimistic "See You in a Little While" puts life and death in hopeful perspective. Viewed through eternal eyes, our life span is so brief as to make time spent waiting to be reunited with our loved ones seem "only the blink of an eye."
Similarly informed by perspective,"A Little More Time to Love," concludes that "we've got just a little more time to love." So the best, and really, only way to live while we wait for the "day that is coming / when all the last will be first" is "to do justly and love mercy / and show the love we've been shown."
Using his lower register, a trusting Chapman sings to God over a beautifully finger-picked guitar on the moving "The Sound of Your Voice." What begins as thoughtful and introspective breaks out into a joyous, energetic moment where Chapman joins the voices of wife Mary Beth, daughters Emily and Stevey Joy, and daughters-in-law Julia and Jillian to his own background vocals.
Twenty-four years later, gentle orchestral ballad "Together" is the sequel to "I Will Be Here." While the latter became widely adopted as a wedding song, one can imagine this song of time-tested love, commitment, and survival—which credits "God's mercy and His grace" as the sustaining factor—marking milestone anniversaries and being used at vow renewal ceremonies.
The beautifully organic "Michael and Maria," with a touch of bluegrass instrumentation and a pennywhistle, is a poignant missive to lost loved ones. Written with the benefit of the passage of time and God's healing, it is hopeful and trusting rather than hurting: "I know we didn't really lose you / That's just how it looks from here / Right now it seems we'll never understand God's higher ways / But we are trusting Him until the day we do / And He will carry us just like He carries you / And if we believe His promises are true / Michael and Maria I know we'll see you soon."
Chapman brings The Glorious Unfolding to a spine-tingling close with the spectacular "Feet of Jesus." With haunting and ethereal fiddle, guitar, and pennywhistle, the track transports us to the feet of Jesus where we will "lay down [our] struggles / ... lay down [our] shame / All the fear [we] drag around through this life / like a ball and chain /...[we] will sing Hallelujah to the One who sets [us] free."
Closing Thoughts:
Thematically, much of The Glorious Unfolding centers on trusting God to complete the work He has started. It employs lessons in perspective that teach us that, thanks to God's mercy and grace, life is both grander than we imagine and much more brief. So while death feels like loss, it's merely a temporary parting compared to the forever that we'll spend together in Heaven. And while God sometimes seems lost in the darkness, He never leaves, and He never stops stitching together the fabric of your life. If you'll just hold His hand and keep believing, one day you'll see a glorious finished product that was never a mystery to Him.
While Steven Curtis Chapman's work is never less than solid, The Glorious Unfolding is nothing short of remarkable. Listeners will benefit from the fruits of Chapman's life and songwriting labors, as these distillations of lessons learned are sure to strengthen and inspire. This is a landmark achievement and a career-defining record, an album for the ages that will take its place beside much acclaimed albums like The Great Adventure, Signs of Life, and Speechless. It's so good that one senses that if Chapman could take one example of his life's work with him to Heaven, The Glorious Unfolding would be it.
Karen Peck Gooch first came to the attention of Southern Gospel fans in 1981 when she joined popular group The Nelons. With a sweet soprano voice and a personality to match, Karen has long been a fan favorite—readers of Singing News Magazine have voted her "Favorite Soprano" 11 times. She performed with the Nelons for 10 years before leaving to establish her own mixed ensemble, Karen Peck and New River. Marking their success to date, in addition to many No. 1 songs, the group has earned three Grammy nominations.
Though some faces have changed, Karen's sister, Susan Peck Jackson, has been at her side from the start. Since 2010, Karen and Susan have joined their voices with that of tenor Jeff Hawes.
Karen Peck and New River experienced a banner year in 2012. On the strength of their 2011 release, Reach Out, the vocal trio took home several awards, including two GMA Dove Awards: Country Song of the Year ("Good Things are Happening") and Southern Gospel Album of the Year. On the heels of this success, Karen Peck and New River present their newest work, Revival.
Stirring title track "Revival" leads off the record in vivid fashion. It's a summer day under the big tent. You feel the sweltering heat; you see the sweat rolling off the preacher's face into the sawdust. Voices fill the air and the ground shakes beneath your feet. It's more than the vibrations of "toe-tappin'" or "hand clappin'." It's a Holy Ghost "faith stirrin', shake the earth Revival!"
On "Oh, Hallelujah," bouncy banjo, airy background vocals, and stately synth strings provide backing to a joyous vocal as Karen and friends remark how God's love is on display all around us as "endless beauty, if we have the eyes to see." The trio rejoices: "Oh, Hallelujah! / Oh, Hallelujah! / Oh, Hallelujah! That's what I keep singing."
"Finish Well" takes a popular sports and endurance event sentiment and applies it to daily living, urging the listener to maximize each day. "Wherever He may lead us, whatever it may cost," the song implores, "finish well, every day that we are given / finish well for the glory of His name / finish strong until the Savior finally calls us home."
Easy-going, country-flavored "Everybody's Going Through Something" relates that no one is immune to struggle, while lending comfort by reminding that, with Jesus, we don't have to go it alone: "If everybody's going through somethin', I'd rather go through somethin' with Him."
When Jeff Hawes steps up to the plate for "Dancing Like Lazarus," he hits it out of the park! The lively, earthy tune uses anecdotal New Testament evidence, in perfectly rhymed lines, of Jesus' dominion over life and death: "I am singing like the blind man when he got his sight that day / laughing like Jairus watching his little girl run and play / shouting like Peter when he came from the empty grave / and I'm dancing like Lazarus, when the grave clothes fell away."
Prayerful "Jesus, Remember Me" gives voice to the many instances when we need help. It's a hushed, humble plea: "As you're looking down from Heaven, all the millions you must see / Oh, Jesus, remember me."
Strong harmony chords on the chorus make "I've Been Broken" a joy to listen to. Susan takes lead on the verses which speak about how we are blessed, even by trials. Take heart, sufferer, for once you come out on the other end, you'll be singing, "I've been broken, but I've been blessed."
Classic "Joy in My Heart," a long-time live highlight for Karen Peck, has been featured on Bill Gaither specials. Peck and New River tackle it here with aplomb. This performance has everything a good ol' southern gospel tune needs: an engaging arrangement, a false ending, and energy enough to bring a crowd to its feet!
Hawes is again featured on the emotive "You Did it Anyway," which contemplates the sacrifice that Jesus made, knowing full well what lay ahead: "You did it anyway / You walked on up that hill / ... / You did it anyway."
The record started with a tent revival and ends with a barn party. The melodic, contagious energy of "I'm Saved," with dancing fiddle and toe-tapping upright bass, will have you shouting and singing along: "I've been saved by His glorious grace / My heart has been set free / I'm saved, now I see / Hallelujah, I've been redeemed!"
Closing Thoughts:
On their latest Daywind Music release, Revival, award-winning vocal trio Karen Peck and New River share an engaging, musically diverse set of songs that will encourage listeners in their daily walk. With bits of country, bluegrass, contemporary, traditional, and progressive southern gospel, listeners of all persuasions are bound to discover something they like. Whether you're moved to clap, sing, dance, and shout by cuts like "Revival", "Oh, Hallelujah", "Dancing Like Lazarus", "Joy in My Heart", and "I'm Saved"; inspired by "Finish Well"; or comforted and encouraged by "Everybody's Going Through Something", "Jesus, Remember Me", and "I've Been Broken", Revival is sure to speak to your heart.
Authentic and Edifying Worship | Posted September-11-2013 One wonders if, when Keith and Kristyn Getty met while writing songs together in Belfast, Northern Ireland, they had any inkling of how many people across the globe would one day hear and sing their songs. The two married in 2004 and began their recording career in 2006. By 2007, they had brought their music to the US with their domestic debut In Christ Alone, titled after their most enduring and beloved modern hymn which has been recorded over 100 times. 2008 release Awaken The Dawn, 2011 project Joy: An Irish Christmas, and 2012 offering Hymns for the Christian Life comprise their other recordings to date. With the exception of the holiday album, each has resulted in a GMA Dove nomination.
Keith and Kristyn now call Nashville home but take sabbaticals to their Northern Irish getaway on a regular basis to write and reflect. In addition to playing for President George W. Bush, they have performed at notable venues like the Pentagon, Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry, and London’s Royal Albert Hall. The Gettys have taken part in events such as Franklin Graham crusades, the Third Lausanne Conference on World Evangelization, and, most recently, The Gospel Coalition 2013 National Conference. The latter was a five-day conference in Orlando, Florida, attended by over 5,000 people representing 49 states and 40 countries. Alongside sermons and speeches, Keith and Kristyn shared biblical truths through their songs.
Those performances are collected in their first live project, Keith & Kristyn Getty Live at The Gospel Coalition. The 16-cut album, produced by Ed Cash, contains two traditional hymns, one new song, and 13 favorites from Keith and Kristyn’s catalog of modern hymns, such as “In Christ Alone”, “Come People of the Risen King”, “By Faith”, “Speak, O Lord”, and “O Church Arise”.
>From the opening uillean pipe notes of “Christ is Risen, He is Risen Indeed,” it is clear we are in for a treat. Kristyn’s voice is strong and fervent, and the crowd immediately grabs hold of the lively, gospel-focused melodic verses and lends its collective voice, creating such a forceful chorus that it sounds like Kristyn is performing accompanied by a substantial choir.
The entire set is presented with a high level of musicianship and a spirit of authenticity that is impossible to overlook. This is no average live worship record -- these are not songs that employ clichés or vague professions of “We love you, Jesus.” Instead, they are compositions that use scriptural truth to communicate the gospel and its promises. Indeed, the context within which this live recording took place is significant. The Gospel Coalition identifies itself as “a fellowship of evangelical churches deeply committed to renewing [its] faith in the gospel of Christ and to reforming [its] ministry practices to conform fully to the Scriptures.”
Keith and Kristyn share this commitment, taking seriously the responsibility that comes with leading the church in worship. They write and perform theologically sound songs for the modern church that teach faith while respecting biblical and musical tradition. To be certain that they are fulfilling the needs of the church, Keith and longtime co-writer Stuart Townend regularly take time after concerts to talk to people and inquire after their needs and preferences.
It has become nearly standard practice to refer to today’s worship tunes as modern day hymns. In most cases, this is an unsubstantiated claim. Keith and Kristyn Getty’s compositions merit this distinction. When the first traditional hymn, “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name,” is played, it blends right in. Moreover, both classic hymns are so at home within the set that, should you be unfamiliar with them, it would be difficult to distinguish the new from the old.
Moments you don’t want to miss include, but are by no means limited to, the brilliant new song “Lift High The Name of Jesus” which combines bluegrass and traditional Irish folk to create a special hybrid dubbed “greengrass”; the moment at the end of “The Power of the Cross” when Kristyn drops out nearly completely and the crowd carries “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross”; and the exquisite “Holy Spirit, Living Breath of God” that contains the gorgeous strains of a melody some will know as “Gabriel’s Oboe,” Ennio Morricone’s theme for the film The Mission, while others may recognize it as the air to classical lyrical piece “Nella Fantasia,” first recorded by Sarah Brightman.
Closing Thoughts:
Keith and Kristyn Getty’s two-fold goal is “to sing songs that build up the church” and “to get people of every generation all across the world to sing.” Truly, songs like “Oh How Good It Is”, “Across The Lands”, and “O Church Arise” focus on this unity of purpose in living out God’s message and taking it to the world.
The pair is careful to ensure the lyrics of their songs impart theologically rich messages. They take you to church: Listening to this record is an hour-long spiritually edifying experience. That’s not to say that the record is tiresome. On the contrary, from the lively opening number through peaceful moments like“Compassion Hymn” and “Kyrie Eleison” to closing hymn “Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty!”the set is thoroughly engaging.
This project is not a commercially-minded recording of a live worship spectacle. Rather, it is an end-product of a special evangelical conference that the Gettys attended as part of a higher calling. With quotes from pastors and speakers who attended the Gospel Coalition 2013 National Conference presented alongside the lyrics, the CD booklet reads like a devotional. And when you listen to the songs, the difference is substantial and palpable. These are not just catchy, singable turns of phrases. They are distillations of God’s Word, laid over striking melodies, that teach the faith without watering it down. When Kristyn inspires you to offer praises to God, you’ll understand the import of the words you sing, and fully grasp not only why He is worthy of worship, but also how His love should shape your daily walk.
In sum, this record, with its songs and spoken interludes of scripture reading, along with its expansive packaging, affords you a unique opportunity to worship and praise God while giving you tools to grow in your faith. Wholeheartedly recommended!
Mississippi native David Huff is well into the third phase of his career. The long-time industry vet, with the help of his twin brothers, founded David & The Giants, first billed in 1964 as Little David & The Giants. The group was a secular rock outfit who continued to record and tour into the 1970's. In 1977, when David and his brothers accepted Christ, there was a fundamental shift in the direction of the band. Once immersed in the rock ‘n roll party scene and all the temptations that came along with it, the guys now chose to dedicate themselves to playing songs about Jesus. The pioneering Christian rock group spent twenty years on their new path before finally disbanding in 1997.
Huff began a solo career in 2000. In addition to releasing projects on his own Giant Records label, he is the proprietor of his own recording studio, Huff Recording, outside of Atlanta. Chris Tomlin has recorded in Huff's studio, as have other artists, churches, and choirs – only Christian music is recorded there.
For an elder statesman, Huff has remained surprisingly prolific. In fact, his latest work, Wait, is his sixth solo project to date. The album, two and a half years in the making, ended up serving Huff as a lesson in patience. Hence the title, Wait.
With music that feels at once retro and progressive, opening track "The Best Is Yet To Come" voices hope for a better tomorrow. Huff's vitality and zest propels the song forward and pulls the listener along. So much so, that when he sings, "There's no limit to Your love / I believe that the best is yet to come," one senses that, in addition to referencing coming blessings and Heaven's promised rewards, Huff is making a personal declaration as an artist: "God's not done with me yet."
His energetic delivery continues with the celebratory praise of "We Made It." Huff acknowledges that it's Jesus who makes possible our victories so that we may rejoice and sing on earth now, and later, before God's throne: "We made it / We won it / You brought us out of it / You did it / We're living because of all You've done / Oh, we made it."
Upbeat "We Must Wait (On The Lord)" is about resting on faith with expectancy, while trusting that God has a plan: "I'm learning the blessing of knowing You know why / When life's situations don't turn out like they should / I know it's working for our good." Huff sings with conviction the message that He will renew our strength and never forsake us.
Melodic yet muscular rock number "Just a Shout Away" rejoices that our redemption and our King's coming is "just a shout away / He's just beyond the clouds."
Huff shows his mellow side with "You Alone," a beautiful song about how Jesus reaches us, breaching the walls we build around our hearts, and by so doing, draws us into deeper relationship.
Beatles fans will heartily embrace the extraordinary "God Is Love." While the "love, love, love" in the chorus recalls "All You Need Is Love," the track's musical sensibility and Harrison-esque guitar solo suggest it could have been right at home on deeply spiritual George Harrison's seminal work, All Things Must Pass. Huff wisely opened the vault to bring new life to this 1982 David & The Giants tune. This superb new recording is not to be missed!
"Step in My Shoes," another updated David & The Giants song, was originally the title track from their 1979 album. It's a laid-back jazz/blues fusion number that serves as both personal testimony and explanation from a converted Christian to a confounded observer.
Huff's sincere vocal performance works in tandem with gorgeous musical accompaniment to entrance on the tender "To Be With You," one of the prettiest worship songs I've heard this year.
After a contemplative intro, Huff jolts us awake with the lively lead radio single, "My God." Fans of dcTalk and tobyMac should appreciate this great tune and its driving, melodic bass line.
Huff focuses once more on Jesus' return, wrapping up the record with the funky "He's Coming Back." Supported by backup singers and a soulful groove, Huff counsels us to get ready: "I know He's coming back / Well, He's coming back / to take His children away."
Closing Thoughts:
David Huff has said that among all his recordings, he is most proud of this one. For an artist accustomed to fast results, Wait was a labor of love. Sometimes industry vets make the mistake of trying to adapt to current musical trends or of emulating today's artists. Thankfully, Huff has chosen to stick to what he does best. Wait reveals a versatile artist with a refreshingly unique sound and a voice that belies his age. Each of the ten tracks has its own identity, and together they form a showcase where Huff demonstrates that spiritual fervor does not fade with the passage of time.
Family group The Isaacs, who began singing together 35 years ago, have long been a favorite in country and southern gospel circles. The band is mother Lily Isaacs and her children, Ben Isaacs (bass), Sonya Isaacs Yeary (mandolin) and Rebecca Isaacs Bowman (guitar). Each sibling is respected in his/her own right: Ben is an award-winning producer, nominated for seven GMA Dove Awards this year— three with the family— including Producer of the Year. Sonya and Becky, in addition to being lauded songwriters whose songs have been recorded by many, are often asked to lend their voices as background singers (Sonya has worked with artists like Reba McIntyre, Brad Paisley, Trisha Yearwood and Vince Gill, while Becky has worked with legendary names such as Paul Simon, Alabama, Dolly Parton, Don Williams and Merle Haggard).
Together, the family is a tight unit whose unique sound mixes bluegrass, country, contemporary, and southern gospel, among other genres. The siblings' hallmark three-part harmonies are so precise and intricate that, according to industry giant Bill Gaither, "[they] have stumped the most astute music scholars."
The songs on their latest release, The Living Years, are primarily covers of classics and hits from the past, presented in an intimate acoustic style which casts a bright spotlight on the group's matchless vocal blend. The project debuted at #1 on both the Bluegrass and Southern Gospel Billboard Charts, and at #9 on the Contemporary Christian Album Chart. Jointly produced by Gaither and Ben Isaacs, it aims to reproduce on record what The Isaacs do on stage.
The Isaacs' treatment of the Mike + The Mechanics hit "The Living Years"pushes the lyrics front and center, revealing how effectively this song communicates the complexities of family generational dynamics. It's a cautionary reminder to neither leave important things unsaid nor wait too long to compromise or make amends.
Verses and a bridge were added to an old spiritual chorus Bill Gaither discovered, creating "Walk Together Children."Backed by only a touch of percussion, Gaither adds his famous "boom, boom" to the siblings' harmonies, while Lily rounds out the sound. The ensemble delivers a terrific, timeless piece about walking in faith as the body of Christ.
The Dottie Rambo classic "If That Isn't Love"begins tenderly with Becky on lead, supported by Ben and Sonya. The trio's voices soon swell and soar as they carry the tear-jerking words that convey the depth of Jesus' love. If by song's end, Becky, Ben, and Sonya haven't completely stolen your breath, you'll exclaim "wow!" while wiping the tears away.
It's time for some fun with "Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate The Positive."Before the younger crowd gets the wrong idea, this isn't School House Rock. The Isaacs learned the arrangement by watching YouTube videos of Bing Crosby and the Andrews Sisters' famous rendition of this American classic. The ladies sound terrific here, and it's great that a 40's hit still has feet. Novelty aside, the tune is sound advice for life.
Lily takes lead on a moving performance of "For Those Tears I Died,"which is followed by a jaw-dropping, flawless group a capella display on the classic hymn "I Must Tell Jesus."
Sonya and siblings shine on the Judds favorite "Grandpa (Tell Me ‘Bout The Good Old Days),"lending a sensitivity and sincerity that rivals the original while proving the song is deeper than sentimentality. It's a commentary on love and commitment, and if you've been impacted by divorce, this song may break your heart.
The tempo picks up with the George Speer toe-tapper "Daniel Prayed."It's full-on bluegrass, and it's a joy!
Though the album is mainly covers, The Isaacs do offer up some originals. The first is "I Wanna Be There,"a gripping, country-flavored number that relates stories about earthly struggles while looking forward to their heavenly cures.
Pennywhistle and fiddle add an ethereal quality to the dazzling "I Am a Child of God,"another example of impeccable harmony bringing a beautiful lyric to life.
A new composition by Bill and Gloria Gaither and Buddy Green, "Leave It All On The Altar,"has a Fats Domino-type bass line and New Orleans blues feel. Ben doesn't often get a lot of attention as a vocalist, but he's clearly in his element here. And the lyrics, with allusions to Jesus' garden tears and His carrying of the cross, are inspired.
"I Know Who Holds Tomorrow" begins with a measured solo vocal from Becky that is later augmented by her brother and sister's contributions. The sisters' full-voiced blend is formidable.
With its accordion accompaniment, the second Isaacs original, "Shalom My Home,"is a unique, arresting melodic piece that resembles an old Jewish folk song. Lily, a child of German-Jewish Holocaust survivors, impresses on this nod to her heritage – both familial and musical.
The Isaacs close with a rendering of "The Lord's Prayer"that, for all its homegrown reverence, could hold its own beside any classical singer's performance of the song.
Closing Thoughts:
The familiar Isaacs' family instruments are here— upright bass, mandolin, guitar— but one of the strengths of this record is that it so perfectly captures the magic of the group's harmonies. The family is skilled at vocal arrangement, and these unpretentious acoustic recordings are outstanding. Acoustic versions of songs can often sound like demos, unfinished and lacking polish. These songs lack nothing. In fact, it would have been a sin to add anything more to them.
Along with incredible harmonies, lyrics are consistently accentuated on this project, so it's fitting that The Isaacs chose to rely on time-tested material. But don't dismiss their originals – they do far more than pass muster.
If you are unfamiliar with The Isaacs, The Living Years is an excellent introduction. It's a jewel of a record, a time capsule documenting spectacular moments normally found only in a live setting, here preserved to enjoy forever.
The Dream Records family grew a little larger when three guys from outside of New Orleans, Louisiana were signed in April. The group, CRAVE, comprised of lead-singer/founder Ross Hebert and friends Jason Williams and Joe Babin, was first introduced to the public when three of their songs were featured in the film Ring The Bell. Their self-titled debut releases August 27th.
Album opener "Never Be The Same"is a profession of love for God. It touches on the transformative nature of divine love— "just one touch and I will never be the same"— but lyrically is not otherwise all that different from a romantic love song.
"Ring The Bell"was the title track in the film soundtrack of the same name. The song played during an emotional moment marking the protagonist's decision to commit to Christ. While the song was effective in the film, it loses clarity and impact when moved outside the context of the movie's storyline.
"We Don't Care What They Say"finds Hebert resolved to remain close to God despite the world's attempts to pull him away: "I get pulled in every different direction / Trying to steal me from you."This bold song offers encouragement to new believers who might be choosing an unpopular path.
God is a constant companion who always hears the concerns of our hearts and will sustain us. This is the message delivered by"Not Alone,"the first of three tracks on the record written from God's point-of-view.
"Who You Are" is melodic and musically sound, whereas, lyrically, it is hindered by a focus that casts too broad a net.
Jesus stands with hands outstretched in "Come To Me,"a strong altar-call type song that deals with the fragility and uncertainty of life while positing Jesus as the answer. The guys display solid musicianship and abundant heart on this number.
High point of the record "His Love" seizes on the momentum of the preceding track and takes things a step further as all the pieces fall into place: a strong sense of melody, an inspired lyric, and sturdy musicality. This one's a hit!
"Need"finds Jesus having a heart-to-heart with a broken-hearted soul, encouraging: "Don't take a second to think / Just pray to Me / Cause you don't know how I want you to need."
Potentially ambiguous "I Can't Stop"gives expression to feeling swept away by God's love and being unable to contain or hide it. It's presented here as a slow-burning power ballad and again at album's end as a bonus track. Though there will be those who might prefer the energy of the first, the latter instance— a stripped down, piano-based acoustic presentation— feels more sincere.
Celebratory "Dance"is a spirited, fast-paced praise number whose high-energy performance feels a touch frenetic on the choruses. The raw energy spills over into "Rearrange"which has a little more of a garage band edge. The higher octane sound shakes things up a bit for sonic variety. Unfortunately, this doesn't happen without casualty— the melody isn't quite there.
The record ends in worship with "Desperate."Once again, the group has a heaping measure of heart but lyrically, the song isn't engaging enough to lead large numbers in corporate worship.
Closing Thoughts:
CRAVE's debut release reveals a youthful band, passionate about worship, singing songs about a marvelous Creator. While the lads have strong musical chops, this is clearly a young band. Still, there is no denying that these guys have fire in their bellies. So while songs like "His Love" and "Come to Me" outshine some of the other material, given time and continued songwriting experience and maturity, CRAVE should be a band to watch.
Song to Download Now:
"We Don't Care What They Say" (Get it on iTunes here.)
Dawno's Music and Book Reviews 
