High Quality Empowerment Anthems | Posted September-20-2018 What You Need To Know:
Ever since their debut in early 2014, Centricity Music group Carrollton has marked themselves as an act to keep an eye on. Their pop/rock/worship blended sound felt more like a seasoned effort than that of a newcomer, setting them apart in a way that continues to make them one of the most underrated artists out there. Following up last year's full-length debut record, the band offers a new four-track EP, Made For This.
What it Sounds Like:
A band that has long balanced the lines between acoustic pop tones and a more grungy rock vibe, this EP sees Carrollton stay predominately in the high-energy rocker realm. From the opening moments of the empowering "This Is My Time" to the final notes of guitar-heavy "Hey Kids," this is an EP you'll have a hard time listening to while sitting still.
Spiritual Highlights:
Themes of God-given confidence run through this EP, especially on tracks "Untouchable" and "Made For This" (perhaps you caught that one on a Jeep commercial earlier this summer). Another confidence-driven track, "This Is My Time" speaks to walking in God's plan for your life and silencing the doubters as you continue on in faith.
Best Song on the Record:
There isn't a sour note in any of the four tracks on this EP, but "Untouchable" is the one I keep coming back to on repeat. The infectious melody paired with power-packed lyrics and gritty lead vocals combine to create a final product well worth your listen.
Carrollton has done it again, somehow producing music of a quality far greater than what most would expect from a band in only their fifth year. Short but sweet, Made For This furthers the winning streak for Carrollton as they continue to step into the fullness of their sound and make an undeniable footprint in Christian music.
Better Than Ever | Posted September-16-2018 What You Need To Know:
Chris Cleveland, better known as Stars Go Dim, first made a mark on the CCM world in 2015 with the No. 1 radio single "You Are Loved." After an opening stint on mega tour WinterJam in 2016, the group continued their rise as a new fan favorite, mixing pop melodies with uplifting messages listeners quickly gravitated towards. Now offering their sophomore release the Better EP, Stars Go Dim is back and better than ever.
What it Sounds Like:
All puns aside, Stars Go Dim shines when it comes to crafting quality pop music. There are a few laid-back moments on the EP ("I Believe," "You Know Me Better"), but the majority of the record thrives in a high-energy space. A group of songs that are driven by strong percussion and catchy hooks, these will be stuck in your head for a long time to come.
Spiritual Highlights:
The entire EP is boldly faith-focused, with each song showcasing lyrics that inspire through topics such as identity, bringing Heaven to earth, and fixing our sights on God in times of trouble. Whether they're declaring that "there is only one Jesus" or speaking the truth of "if God is for us, who can be against us," scripture-based songwriting is at the forefront of this EP, bringing every track to a place of praise and encouragement.
Best Song on the Record:
There honestly isn't a bad song here, but radio-friendly "Heaven On Earth" is hard to beat when it comes to picking a favorite. With a powerful underlying message and a groove that is sure to keep you moving every time you hear it, this is Stars Go Dim at their best.
From beginning to end, it's easy to hear that the dreaded "sophomore slump" is nowhere to be found on this EP. Stars Go Dim has produced a stellar group of songs with Better, offering up a record that ensures their future is nothing but bright.
A Dynamic Duo | Posted September-11-2018 What You Need To Know:
The artistry of Jason Gray needs no introduction--if you've been around Christian music for long, you're no stranger to the radio hits and countless songs of encouragement the singer/songwriter has offered up for over a decade now. Likely one of the best songwriters this genre has seen, Jason pairs his deep lyrics with calming melodies that have long made him a fan favorite. Now pairing up with his son, budding producer and skilled musician Kipper Gray, Jason offers his newest collection of anthems: The Kipper Gray Sessions.
What it Sounds Like:
While Jason has had his fair share of high-energy tunes, the majority of his catalog tends to sway towards more mellow tracks. With this EP, though, Jason's gift of tackling fun pop melodies with ease gets a chance to shine in a way it never has before. Thanks to the already-exceptional production and talent of Kipper, these songs show a much more pop side of Jason's craft than we often get to hear.
Spiritual Highlights:
The themes on this EP range from the importance of community ("Mountain") and loving yourself as you are ("Be Your Own Kind of Beautiful"), to the beauty of life ("Love Life") and the patience in growing as a person ("Becoming"). But, in each of those topics, there are lyrics that point to Christ. Once more to the credit of Jason's stellar songwriting skills, these songs wrestle with general life topics while still tying in powerful bits of faith.
Best Song on the Record:
The sole ballad on this record, "Becoming," stands out to me as the best song here. While each track carries something special, this one is stripped back enough to really focus on the meaningful lyrics without losing that great underlying production. Wrapping up the EP with a powerful message, the bridge offers the lines that clinch this as the highlight track-- "It's progress, not perfection / Not a rival, it's direction / it's the living and the learning / not the finish line, but the journey."
Simply put: Jason and Kipper are a dynamic duo on this project. A father and son working together is a sweet concept in itself, but the end result here is truly something to pay attention to. The combination of Jason's long-matured songwriting and Kipper's groovy production chops go hand in hand, making for a Jason Gray EP we won't soon stop listening to.
Heartfelt and Fun | Posted August-07-2018 What You Need To Know:
Tennessee native and worship leader-turned-pop songstress Caitie Hurst is the newest member of the Centricity Music family, bursting on the scene with debut single "How Could I Be Silent" this year. The chart-climbing song was followed by heartfelt ballad "Answers," showing yet another side of the new artist and leaving fans excited to hear more with her upcoming How Could I Be Silent EP.
What it Sounds Like:
One of several incredibly strong pop records we've heard so far this year, the How Could I Be Silent EP will have you moving along with all the infectious beats and bubbly tunes. A well-balanced effort between pop gems ("Nothing To Hide," "Lights," "How Could I Be Silent") and lower energy pieces that dig deeper ("Answers," "Wanderer," "Signs"), Caitie proves that she knows how to tackle both dance jams and worshipful moments extremely well with her silky vocal.
Spiritual Highlights:
Faith is a strong subject throughout the entire EP, showing up in multiple ways that both challenge and encourage listeners to trust Jesus deeper than ever before. The topic of grace is addressed in vibrant "Nothing To Hide," as well as the hard question of "where is God when it hurts?" that is brought to the forefront on "Answers."
Best Song on the Record:
With its fun pop vibes and supporting message of freedom in Christ, "Nothing To Hide" is one of the best CCM songs I've heard this year. A track that could easily stay on repeat for quite a while, this one is a must-hear.
Repeatedly on this EP, Caitie Hurst balances heartfelt messages with pop melodies, making it a stellar place to start for the new artist. With a debut project crafted this well from beginning to end, I'm excited to see what comes next.
Starting Strong | Posted August-07-2018 What You Need To Know:
At the inspiring young age of only eighteen, Riley Clemmons is a new signee to Capitol whose breakout single "Broken Prayers" skyrocketed to popularity upon release earlier this year. It's been quite the journey for the teenage pop songstress since, with follow-up single "Better For It" yet again burning up radio waves and leading the way for her debut full-length self-titled album.
What it Sounds Like:
Riley Clemmons is a pop record through and through, making it hard to sit still while listening to these high-energy tracks. With a soulful voice that soars beautifully in each song, this is an album that captures your attention sonically from the very first beats of lively "Hold On" to the final seconds of the emotional ballad "I'll Stay." EDM-flavored in places, these songs find the perfect balance of being meaningful while also still being incredibly fun.
Spiritual Highlights:
Songs like "Better For It" and "Broken Prayers" tackle the subjects of finding the beauty in brokenness through Christ, while "Running After You" and "You First" talk about pursuing God as He relentlessly loves us. The theme of encouragement runs deep on the whole record, finding a thread in each song to spread the hope of Jesus.
Best Song on the Record:
Every song is a strong offering, but debut single "Broken Prayers" still takes the ribbon for best song on the record. Riley's powerhouse vocals meet a positive message and hook you won't be able to get out of your head to make this a track you'll want to keep on repeat.
This is only the beginning for Riley Clemmons, and what a strong start it is. Music that goes far beyond a catchy beat, Riley Clemmons proves to be a contender for pop album of the year and sets Riley off for what is sure to be a long, successful career.
A Gift to The Church | Posted June-14-2018 What You Need To Know:
California pastor and guitar master Lincoln Brewster has long been a staple voice in the worship genre with hits like "There Is Power," "Everlasting God," and "Today Is The Day." Known for transforming Scripture into powerful melodies for the church to sing, Lincoln has been growing in his craft for well over a decade with album after album of creative offerings. Now four years after his last release, the worship leader and songwriter returns with his latest project, God of the Impossible.
What it Sounds Like:
Every song on this album could fit into your Sunday morning worship set, but that doesn't mean they all sound the same--far from it, in fact. God of the Impossible holds moments of both high and low energy, producing a well-rounded album on the sonic front. Reverent times of worship set the stage for reflection ("Loyal," "No One Like Our God," "Here I Am"), while more upbeat tunes invite listeners into celebration ("God Of The Impossible," "Your Love Is Amazing," "Everything").
Spiritual Highlights:
Lincoln is skilled at turning Scripture into melodies--a craft that makes every lyric of this album a spiritual highlight in itself. With songwriting that serves the church well, each song brings a message that glorifies God with praise and uplifts listeners with Biblical truths.
Best Song on the Record:
Mixing confident lyrics of God's sovereignty with one of Lincoln's signature guitar solos, "No One Like Our God" takes the place of the best song on God of the Impossible. It carries a hopeful hook that will easily get stuck in your head, making for a moment you'll keep coming back to and worshipping along with.
Pop Tunes Worth the Wait | Posted May-03-2018 What You Need To Know:
Sarah Reeves first captured the attention of listeners with her debut EP back in 2009, bringing with her a refreshing sound that made her stand out from the status quo. After taking several years off the road to focus on her songwriting, Reeves is returning to her spot as one of CCM's most promising pop artists. Now back at the peak of her artistry with her Word Records debut EP Easy Never Needed You, the songstress revisits her pop roots with a new twist that reintroduces her to fans as a voice to pay attention to.
What it Sounds Like:
Sarah thrives in the pop soundscape, but she's also found a sweet spot as a worship leader. With a powerhouse vocal that shines in both energetic moments and reverent times of praise, Sarah mixes the two elements on this EP with songs that blend exceptionally well. Finding the perfect balance of pop production meets EDM ("Right Where You Want Me," "Something About You") meets worship ("Faithful," "Nowhere"), Easy Never Needed You brings something fresh to the Christian music scene.
Spiritual Highlights:
Whether high energy or quiet worship, Sarah uses her ever-maturing songwriting skills to point listeners to Christ with every line. Songs like "Details," "Faithful" and "Nowhere" glorify God for His sovereignty, while "Something About You" and "Speechless" praise His goodness.
Best Song on the Record:
"Right Where You Want Me" embodies the best elements of this EP, from its vertical-focused lyrics to its bright pop tones and dance-worthy melody.
Sarah Reeves is back and better than ever before, and that's a reason for fans to rejoice. With Easy Never Needed You, Sarah meshes all the goodness of her pop roots with her passion for worship, making for a powerful re-introduction.
Worship in The Waiting | Posted May-02-2018 What You Need To Know:
Alisa Turner's story is one of heartbreak, loss and illness, and while all she has endured to get where she is today could never be briefly summed up, one thing is for sure: none of it has silenced her song. The singer/songwriter walked through the depths of grief as she dealt with the tragic loss of her father and infant son, all the while also battling the brutal, long-term effects of Lyme Disease. Through it all, she continued to sing through the pain and find a solace in worship. Now boldly sharing her story with the hope of letting others know they aren't alone in theirs, Alisa offers her Integrity Music debut album Miracle Or Not--a title that beautifully sums up her journey and her perseverance.
What it Sounds Like:
When Alisa sings, she carries so much authority and emotion in her voice that you feel every word of it with her. The album leans heavily toward worship with simple and lovely instrumentation, leading listeners into a genuine-spirited encounter with the Lord. From triumphant "What A Day" to acoustic-styled "Only My Jesus" (featuring All Sons & Daughters' Leslie Jordan), redemptive ballad "Safe" and the anthemic title track "Miracle or Not," these songs capture the promises of Jesus in heartfelt melodies that will sweep you up in their refreshing authenticity.
Spiritual Highlights:
These songs are the very definition of what it means to worship in the midst of a war. Alisa lifts a song with all the grit and glory of someone who sings like their life depends on it, and each of these songs embody that. This is a worship record, so every song is vertical in its lyrical structure and pursuit of Christ as you would expect, but beyond that, Alisa's refusal to stop singing through admitted heartbreak is something that points anyone who hears it to Christ.
Best Song on the Record:
There truly isn't a skip-worthy track on Miracle or Not, but for me, the highlight of the record is Alisa Turner's stunning version of Jesus Culture's "Miracles." Not only does she carry the song with passion, but paired with her own story, it becomes even more powerful. Other highlights include "Safe," "Loved" and "Only My Jesus."
Alisa Turner's warrior spirit shines through in every element of Miracle or Not, and what it has produced is an album that feels refreshingly genuine and raw--a true gift to CCM. These songs are companions for anyone walking through their own struggles, as Alisa invites us all to sing along as she continues to declare it with every breath: He is worthy of our worship, miracle or not.
Made up of sisters Lauren and Brooke DeLeary, LoveCollide specializes in fun pop tunes that offer timely encouragement to listeners. The duo released their first album in 2014, and since then, they've only continued to grow and mature in their artistry. For a group that spends heavy amounts of time touring, writing and pouring their hearts into these songs, LoveCollide's passion for the music is evident to anyone who hears them sing. Now with their third full-length release, Tired of Basic, the girls are shaking things up and starting a revolution of their own against the status quo.
What it Sounds Like:
LoveCollide has crafted a pop sound that fits them flawlessly. With moments that feel like upbeat worship offerings ("Undeniable," "Maybe") and others that highlight themselves as EDM dance parties ("Awake," "I Don't Want It," "I Believe In Loud"), the duo covers dual ground with this album by giving fans songs that are equal parts fun and vertical.
Lyrical/Spiritual Highlights:
These aren't just your average pop tunes--they're pop tunes with a bold purpose. Each song on the album glorifies Christ through its positive lyrics and an overall theme of pursuing Christ. Tired of Basic carries deep meaning inside its energetic sound, an open invitation to every listener to break the mold of status quo and live their life in a way that radiates Jesus.
Best Song on the Record:
"I Don't Want It" was the lead single from this album, and months later still holds up as the strongest track on Tired of Basic. With its infectiously joyful pop vibes, the song encourages listeners to seek Christ above all else as it captures both sonic wins and spiritual truths.
With Tired of Basic, Brooke and Lauren say goodbye to the status quo and step into a new level of their career. In every element, this is LoveCollide's best work to date.
A Flawless Follow-Up | Posted March-19-2018
Sophomore records are historically a hard task to tackle for artists as they try to solidify their sound, but it's even more of a daunting feat when your debut was as remarkable as Dove Award-winning Jordan Feliz. The singer/songwriter appeared on the CCM scene in late 2015 with his breakout single "The River" and quickly became a fan favorite as he shot to the top of the charts and found an unexpected yet much-deserved place as a leader in his genre. In one of the strongest starts we've seen in this decade of Christian music, Jordan's career seemed to grow leaps and bounds daily as hit after hit from The River continued his rise and made him a name CCM listeners couldn't escape.
Now ready to release his highly-anticipated follow up album Future, Jordan continues to blow fans away with the musical maturity, creativity and craftsmanship of this "new artist" whose songs already stand up in quality alongside the greats.
What it Sounds Like:
Future is pure pop goodness, but not without the depth and creativity that we've already come to expect from Jordan's art. These melodies and hooks will get stuck in your head at first listen, demanding many repeat plays. As we heard in his debut, the perfect balance of high-energy songs ("Witness," "Count That High," "Streets of Gold") contrast well with more thoughtful, heartfelt pieces ("Faith," "Blank Canvas," "Lay It Down"). Jordan's soulful vocal carries each track with skill, making this an album that sonically turned out even better than we could have hoped for.
Spiritual Highlights:
The songs on Future boast messages well-worth hearing, each one fitting seamlessly like a puzzle piece in the way this album works to glorify Christ. Jordan covers a wide range of timely topics in these thirteen tracks: marveling at the goodness of God ("Count That High," "Witness"), finding hope in times of trouble ("Faith," "My Shelter") and the beauty of grace ("Blank Canvas," "180," "Changed").
Best Song on the Record:
For me, this is a hard tie between "Witness" and "Count That High." While there honestly isn't a bad track on the record, these two stand out as the ones I just can't stop listening to. Both high-energy moments that carry lyrical weight and worshipful qualities inside their pop vibes, these songs are Jordan Feliz at his best.
If sophomore records are supposed to be a challenge, Jordan Feliz didn't get the memo. With the power of a remarkable debut propelling him, Feliz tackles this follow-up flawlessly and continues to give fans the pop melodies they crave--while also making sure they walk away encouraged by the message and drawn closer to Christ. Future further solidifies Jordan's place as one of the best in Christian music today, proving that the future is indeed bright for an artist of his caliber.
CaitlinLassiter_NRT's Music and Book Reviews 
