Unexpected
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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...
Smashing Debut Stereotypes | Posted July-01-2016
Debut albums are often hit or miss. Either the vocals need help or the instrument playing is subpar. Hollis Creek Revival blows those expectations out of the water with their debut album In The River. Brandon Kelley's lead vocals and instrument playing along with those of Clint Singleton and Jacob Patillo powerfully make a statement that says "We belong here."
Some bands release two part albums with an A side and a B side, but Hollis Creek Revival has done it perfectly all in one. The A side is more modern and upbeat, while the B side is lighter and older sounding. Combined, the two sides join forces to uplift and inspire listeners.
In "Holding On," Hollis Creek Revival leads listeners in a love song to God. When a person is wholly in love with God, He will be the only one they cling to. His love never ends, and that's an incredible love story that deserves to be shared. Warning: if you stop and really listen to the lyrics, tissues may be required. "Like Brand New" is like a follow-up to "Holding On" in the sense that it acknowledges how when a person holds on to God, He makes them "Like Brand New." In God, we have new life and a safe place to run because He will wrap His arms around us and never let go.
"What A Day That Will Be" is a touching addition to the album because it holds special meaning for front man Brandon Kelley. The old hymn was his grandfather's favorite hymn, and Hollis Creek Revival performs it splendidly. No doubt, his grandfather would be touched.
The Bottom Line:In The River is a homerun of a debut album for Hollis Creek. What an incredible way to honor a grandfather! The seamless combination of voices and instruments make this a winner.
Lyrically Beautiful | Posted June-20-2016
Based on Proverbs 31:10 where it says that a virtuous woman is worth more than rubies, The Rubyz is a group of young ladies striving to live up to that standard. Tanner, Addy and Jessica not only share their love of music with listeners, they share their love for God. The Rubyz may be young, but they are full of potential! Think of them as a more pop/dance BarlowGirl.
I'll Follow You, the latest release from The Rubyz, is a short but powerful EP. As a whole, it is a solid reminder that the listener is important and no matter what, following God is top priority.
Kicking off the album is the empowering "Breathtakingly Beautiful." It's been a theme around the internet for a while now that your story is important, and it is. The Rubyz touch on that thought too with the lyric "you are a story with a heartbeat." Talk about driving the point home! The whole track is a loud and clear reminder that you are not a mistake and you are "breathtakingly beautiful," an especially touching reminder for other young ladies.
"One" is along the same theme of reminding that you really do matter. It's kind of like the old song from Bible camps, "It Only Takes a Spark." If you want to see change happen, start it! You may be the catalyst for the change you want to see happen.
The Bottom Line: The Rubyz are "Breathtakingly Beautiful" as they "Live It Awake," following their Savior.
Song to Download Now:
"Breathtakingly Beautiful" (Get it on iTunes here.)
Musical Soul Food | Posted May-26-2016
Cana's Voice is a new trio in Southern Gospel comprised of Avalon's Jody McBrayer, Signature Sound's Doug Anderson and powerhouse vocalist TaRanda Greene. Their voices blend seamlessly in a grand way to deliver songs of hope, praise and love for their Savior on their debut album This Changes Everything.
"Love Anyway" is a powerful reminder of the love that Jesus has for every one of His children, no matter their mistakes. It's also a call for Christians to follow Jesus' example and love those around us. "At the end of the day, none of us deserve it / But at the feet of Jesus we are all worth it:" if that doesn't drive the point home, nothing will.
If you're looking for a fun beat to say a prayer to, look no further than "Heavenly Father." This gospel song with a touch of salsa flair is a prayer to God acknowledging our need for His help. Another prayer asking God to make His presence known is "Holy Spirit Come Fill This Place." While not as upbeat, it's a sincere plea to God for help and guidance.
People are often skeptical when a new group is formed by current or former members of different groups. Let it be known that Cana's Voice will not disappoint! The lyrics are inspirational and the music is easy on the ears. It's everything you expect from the members, and more.
The Bottom Line:This Changes Everything is a strong combination of vocals from powerhouse singers, creating inspirational music that is good for the soul.
Refreshing Pop Worship Experience | Posted April-19-2016
Hailing from Amarillo, Texas, Joel Vaughn brings a breath of fresh air to modern worship music. After three independent album releases, Kinetic begins a new era for Joel Vaughn-- not only because it's his label debut (following signing with Dream Records), but also because it's his transition from rock worship to pop worship. Featuring solid vocals, upbeat music and encouraging lyrics, Kinetic sets the stage for Joel Vaughn to be a positive influence and welcome addition to the worship genre.
"Wide Awake" gets heads bobbing, hands clapping and bodies dancing in praise to the King. The track itself is pretty fun just because of the danceable music, but when the message of hope in Christ is added, it results in a stellar worship song.
"Truth About Me" is less dance and more introspection. Joel Vaughn reminds listeners that no matter what they think of themselves and no matter what they've done, the fact of the matter is that God knows the truth. "I am loved and I am free, and I'm covered by Your grace:" hard to believe sometimes, but spot on.
Also included on the Kinetic EP are two remixes of album tracks: "Wide Awake" by Chris Howland and "Hysteria" by David Thulin. Both bring a different feel to their respective songs while maintaining the overall tone of the album itself.
The Bottom Line: Showing hope in a new light, Joel Vaughn breathes life into pop worship.
A Natural Transition | Posted February-29-2016
It's no secret that Steven Curtis Chapman is a talented artist. He's won 5 GRAMMY awards, 58 Dove Awards, 1 American Music Award, had numerous #1 radio hits, and has several recordings certified Platinum or Gold. From his debut album First Hand (1987) to The Glorious Unfolding (2013), Steven Curtis Chapman has left no room for questioning where his faith lies. While at least one song on every album lends itself to worship, he has never recorded a full worship album until now. Worship and Believe is Steven Curtis Chapman's debut in the worship genre, and it not only solidifies his place in the worship music world, it exemplifies what heartfelt worship is.
Sometimes when an artist moves their focus from one genre to another they lose some of their "signature flair," but everything that makes Steven Curtis Chapman's music recognizable is still present here, from his guitar playing to his vocals to his passion. The much anticipated worship album from Steven Curtis Chapman does not disappoint!
Opening the album is "We Believe," a song that boldly sets the stage of Worship and Believe, ushering listeners into worship of the "One True God." With a sound reminiscent of Chris Tomlin's, it only makes sense that Tomlin is featured on "One True God." Without a doubt, this will be sung during Sunday morning worship. The ultimate truth in the song is that Jesus is great, unchanging, powerful and the only Son of God.
"Who You Say We Are" draws from I John 3:1 and reminds us that we are children of God. It urges us to tell God thank you for paying the greatest price to make it possible for us to even be called God's children. "We lift our hands and cry Abba, Father," are powerful lyrics that drive home the point. He's not just our Father, He's our Daddy (which is the best translation of the word Abba).
The Bottom Line:Worship and Believe is powerful, genuine, heartfelt worship to the King of Kings who sustains us even in the midst of life's trials.
Song to Download Now:
"One True God (feat. Chris Tomlin)" (Get it on iTunes here.)
Polished Worship for Kids | Posted February-09-2016
Bethel Music Kids is a new branch of the popular Bethel Music from Bethel Church. Much like the versions of popular songs labeled "for kids, by kids," Bethel Music Kids aims to usher a younger audience into worship. Sung by kids from Bethel Church, the debut album Come Alive features remixes of 11 popular Bethel Music songs.
As a whole, Come Alive is a funky, synth-pop evolution of worship music for kids. The album is much less "cutesy," as worship music for kids has been in the past. It is more mature, but in a fun way. Come Alive is appealing for younger worshipers because the voices are definitely those of vocalists in the same age range, and the music is danceable. The lyrical content may be considered by some to be too mature for a younger audience, but there are kids for whom the lyrics will really resonate, and that's the ultimate goal.
While all the tracks may be recognizable for those who listen to Bethel Music frequently, some of the ones non-Bethel listeners may recognize are "This is Amazing Grace," "Oh Taste and See" and "One Thing Remains." Also included is a DVD of eye-catching, dance-inducing music videos.
The Bottom Line: This is dance-inducing worship for mature kid worshipers.
Old Meets the New in Christmas Style | Posted November-16-2015
Bring on the snow and hot chocolate! Curl up by the fireplace and hit play on It's Almost Christmas by Jon and Valerie Guerra. It's folky, classic and a great addition to any Christmas album collection. Unlike many albums this time of year, It's Almost Christmas is the perfect blend of original and classic songs. Jon and Valerie's voices are also a perfect blend. They complement one another very well, and that is part of what make their new album such a hit.
One of the most notable tracks on It's Almost Christmas is "The Way You Look Tonight." Originally performed by the amazing Fred Astaire in the movie Swing Time in the 1930s and covered by many artists since, Jon and Valerie put an original spin on the classic hit. Combined with "I'll Be Home for Christmas," a Bing Crosby hit from the 1940s, "The Way You Look Tonight" paints a touching picture of Christmas hope. "I'll Be Home for Christmas" was written to honor soldiers overseas during the Christmas season, and when meshed seamlessly with "The Way You Look Tonight," it becomes a Christmas theme song for military families around the world. The song could easily be from the perspective of a deployed soldier and their spouse as they think of one another during the holiday. Fred and Bing would be very proud.
One interesting choice for the album is "Edelweiss," from Rodgers and Hammerstein's The Sound of Music. It's not a usual choice for Christmas albums, but Jon and Valerie's voices work well with the song, and it fits into the overall folk feel found on It's Almost Christmas.
"Lord Remind Me" powerfully closes out the album by asking God to help us all remember the story of Jesus' birth. Be sure to have a tissue or two handy-- you may need them, especially during the bridge. Stop and really listen to the lyrics. The words "tell me how He loves me, tell me how He wants me..." build into a duet accompanied by piano and strings that moves you to the core: "Glory in the highest, Glory in the lowest, Glory that shines when nothing seems to shine at all." Cue the tears.
The Bottom Line:
After listening to this album, I wish I had a fireplace. It's Almost Christmas is bound to get you in the Christmas spirit and make you wish you had a fireplace too. Jon & Valerie did a bang-up job bringing the Christmas spirit to listeners.
Song to Download Now:
"The Way You Look Tonight" and "Lord Remind Me" (Get them on iTunes here.)
Big Surprises in Little Packages | Posted November-03-2015
Christmas came early for Crowder fans! On October 30th, Crowder surprised everyone when Neon Porch Extravaganza was released. Recorded live in Atlanta during the Outcry Tour, this 6 song album brings the concert experience home. As something additionally fun and unique, Crowder has provided a number of different album art downloads for iTunes featuring his faithful companion Kenny Rodgers the Arctic Fox.
It's undeniable that live recordings have a different feel than studio recordings. Often times they're more raw and emotional because of the added dimension of the audience, and Neon Porch Extravaganza is no exception.
Crowder is known for his unique combination of sounds and moving lyrics. From appalachia to southern rock to gospel, he includes it all. The popular worship single "I Am" from Crowder's debut solo album Neon Steeple makes an appearance, as does the Grammy-nominated track "Come As You Are." Bordering on southern/folk rock, "Lift Your Head Weary Sinner (Chains)" (featuring Tedashii) urges listeners and prodigals to come back to God because "you can't outrun God."
The Bottom Line:
Crowder assembles an outstanding live set, and Neon Porch Extravaganza lets those who may not have been able to see it be a part of the experience.
Song to Download Now:
"Lift Your Head Weary Sinner (Chains)" (Get it on iTunes here.)
SoGo Good | Posted October-14-2015 The Perrys are a household name in Southern Gospel, among the ranks of names like The Gaithers and The Statler Brothers. In 45 years of ministry, The Perrys have released 11 albums and have been nominated for several awards. More importantly, they travel the United States sharing the Gospel of Jesus and give Him all the glory and praise. Their newest album Sing will be a blessing to those who have the opportunity to hear it.
"Did I Just Hear the Thunder" is a rousing call to hope for the return of the Lord, the perfect opening song that will pull listeners into a heartfelt, honest album. The Perrys sing about standing strong and not being afraid through the storms and trials of life. Even when "The Unexpected Storm" arises and brings up questions of God's faithfulness and love, singing from personal experience (Tracy suffered a massive stroke in 2013, but God restored him to fulltime ministry) The Perrys remind listeners that God is there by their side and He'll help them through.
Another upbeat, forward-looking track is "I've Never Been There" where The Perrys sing about looking forward to the greatness of Heaven. The title track "Sing" encourages listeners to lift their voices up and praise God for all He's done. "Sing" is a great combination of the traditional Southern Gospel message and the more modern musical accompaniment. With a soulful big band feel, how could anyone not make a joyful noise?
Closing Thoughts:
Honestly, words can't accurately describe the legacy that is The Perrys. I was honored to review their latest album. Their joy and enthusiasm for the Lord comes across in their music. If you like Southern Gospel but have yet to check them out, they're a great combination of old and new!
Song to Download Now:
"Did I Just Hear the Thunder" (Get it on iTunes here.)
Country for the Soul | Posted September-28-2015 Amber Nelon Thompson is no stranger to Southern Gospel. Amber is the granddaughter of Rex Nelon (the Gospel Music Hall of Famer) and daughter of Kelly Nelon Clark. At the age of 5, she became a "Homecoming Kid," and later she started singing soprano for The Nelons. Amber has won several awards for her singing, and she was also the GMA Dove Awards' youngest ever nominee. Now, Amber bursts onto the scene with her debut solo album Just Sing.
As a whole, Just Sing is a collection of songs that points listeners to God, no matter what may be going on in their life. More than any other track, "What Do You Say?" makes the point abundantly clear: no matter what the situation, you can give in, let go and go through your trial with Jesus by your side. Not only does He know what you may be going through, He also sees how the events of life are ultimately "Falling" into place.
One song that may seem familiar is Amber's cover of "Another Time, Another Place." Listeners may have heard (and loved) the Sandi Patty and Wayne Watson version of the early 90s, but don't let that keep you from listening to this track. Joining Amber for her version of the song is Gospel singer Michael English. Together they bring a strong rendition of the classic song, and it isn't a track to be missed!
"Sing-a-Long" is another track that shouldn't be missed. Fun and upbeat, it reminds listeners that no matter what, just singing along will lift your spirits and put you in a better mood. It's no wonder where the title of the album comes from! Just Sing, no matter what's going on in life.
Closing Thoughts:
Not only is Amber Nelon Thompson cute as a button, she's a vocal powerhouse with a love for what she does. She wants to tell others about her Savior, and she does so in a strong way. Definitely someone to keep an ear out for, because if she keeps making solo albums, she'll be a strong installment in Southern Gospel for many years to come.
PhronsieHowell_NRT's Music and Book Reviews 
