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...
King Size Fun, Fun Size Wrapping | Posted August-24-2015
New and exciting music from husband/wife duo Jack Shocklee and Beckah Shae, Scripture Snacks Kids -- Fun Size Volume 1 gets the stereo jumping and the kids learning verses. Shocklee and Shae are no strangers to the industry. Shocklee has produced, remixed and composed tracks for tobyMac, Montell Jordan and his wife Beckah Shae. Beckah Shae has had multiple Billboard charting singles, a Dove Award nomination and features on albums by tobyMac and Montell Jordan. Joining mom and dad for this album are their daughters Joy and Grace, who sing every song. They may be young, but they harmonize well and are a perfect fit for Scripture Snacks Kids.
The overall feel of the album is part electronic dance, part pop, part 50s diner. What better way to learn Scripture than to make it fun? The songs are easy to learn the words to, which is good since the second half of the album is all karaoke tracks! For the parents wondering, every track is made up of one or two Scriptures that cross-reference and are listed in the liner notes. These are the kinds of songs you won't mind listening to more than once!
Dance track "Fruits of the Spirit" teaches kids both Galatians 5:22-23 and John 15:8. Producing fruit is how we know we're disciples of Christ, but if we don't know what those fruits are, then how do we know? "Fruits of the Spirit" makes that connection for kids (and adults, if you weren't sure either).
Based on Psalm 90:12 and Ephesians 5:15-16, "Time" reminds kids that it's important to make wise decisions. Plus it has some nifty beat boxing, which is probably why an 8-yr old boy picked it as his favorite track. "Think of These" (references are Philippians 4:8 and Colossians 3:2) was another favorite track on Scripture Snacks. It makes the connection that the things listed in Philippians 4 are the things of Heaven that we should be thinking of.
Closing Thoughts:
It's like a whole new era of Sunday School songs. Back in the day there was Wee Sing and Steve Green's music for kids, now there's Scripture Snacks. Scripture Snacks Kids -- Fun Size Volume 1 is kid and parent approved! My own kids gave it "20,000 thumbs" and 2 whole hands up. I think it's safe to say that we're all greatly looking forward to Volume 2!
Car-Worthy Kid Tunes | Posted April-07-2015
Her name's not Nancy and she records fun worship music for kids. It's Yancy, and she's back with Little Praise Party: Taste and See! Filling a need she saw within her own church and leaning on her experience as a mother, Yancy is able to put out kid- (and parent-) approved music. Enlisting the help of my six-year-old daughter--because who better to review kid music than a kid?--we'll share some of our favorite things about Yancy's newest production.
From a parent's perspective, the music is not annoying like a lot of music for kids tends to be. Yancy's parenting experience has definitely helped her know how to hook both kids and parents! It's always fun to play music in the house or car that makes your kids get up and dance but also puts positive messages in their ears and minds. The mix rock/dance, country-ish, and contemporary worship makes Little Praise Party: Taste and See a musically well-rounded album. Besides a variety of genres, Yancy also included a variety of messages. From the real meaning of Easter to the greatness of God to obedience, it's all about living a life for God.
As far as songs go, "Praise the Lord Every Day" includes the older Sunday School song "Praise Ye the Lord", which was immediately recognized by my daughter as one that she's sung in class too. "The Bunny Song" was a fun way to remind kids that the real meaning of Easter is "J-E-S-U-S." And "I Love You Lord" was a particularly moving blast from the past, for me anyway.
From a kid's perspective, everything is to love about Little Praise Party: Taste and See. It's fun to dance around to, it's fun to listen to, and it would be good for Sunday School. Five songs stood out among the rest: "Stop and Go", "Obey", "There Are Promises", "Gonna Serve", and "It's A Happy Day." Rounding out the top of her favorite list was "Stop and Go" because it's fun to make stop motions every time Yancy sings the word "stop."
Closing Thoughts:
If you're looking for music to listen to in the car that won't make you go certifiably crazy, Yancy's kid music is a good place to start. That alone makes it exciting to see what she's got up her sleeves for the next album!
A Powerful Legacy | Posted February-09-2015
Darlene Zschech, one of the biggest names in contemporary worship— how can any review do her music justice? By focusing on the message of the music. She lives her life, sings and writes music to bring glory to God.
The saying "it's always only ever been about Jesus" is an accurate summary of Darlene Zschech. In late 2013 she was diagnosed with breast cancer, but even when the going got tough, all praise and glory went to God (and a blog dated November 30, 2014 updated followers with the news that no cancer was found on her latest scans!). Beyond music, she works with Compassion International and started Hope: Global with her husband to bring the love of Christ to those who might not experience it otherwise. Is it any surprise, then, that her music points listeners to God? In Jesus' Name: A Legacy of Worship & Faith is a compilation that highlights some of the best songs from Darlene Zschech's musical library.
If you've been in a church that sings modern worship songs, you've probably heard "Shout to the Lord" and "At the Cross." "Shout to the Lord" is upbeat praise and adoration that warms people up to worship, while "At the Cross" is more of a call to remember what Christ did for us. It's the one that would be played closer to the end of worship to prepare hearts for the sermon or altar call.
"God is Here" is another upbeat, start of the service song. It's a prayer for God to reveal Himself to worshipers, but also an acknowledgement that God is present and powerful.
When a 4-year old stops what they're doing to ask if the music on the album is music that they've heard at church, you know one of two things: either they were listening more in church than you thought, or they were able to pick up on the basic message of the music. The message here is clear; it's all about God. Darlene Zschech sings about her Savior without hesitation and reaches people of all ages.
Closing Thoughts:
Leading worship is more than just standing on a stage with a microphone. It's also about living a life that points others to God, and Darlene Zschech does just that. I know I've been brought to my knees in worship during her music and have been amazed by her steady faith. This collection is a beautiful example of her legacy in the worldwide church. Thank you, Darlene Zschech, for following God's call for your life.
Good Old Fashioned Praise | Posted January-21-2015
The Jim Brady Trio is composed of husband-wife singing team Jim and Melissa Brady and singer/musician Tim Parton. Jim was part of the Southern Gospel trio The Booth Brothers until the summer of 2014, when he felt called to step down and join with his wife Melissa to form The Jim Brady Trio. The trio was completed when producer/arranger/singer Tim Parton was asked to partner with them. Despite being a new group in Southern Gospel, The Jim Brady Trio is already well on its way to becoming a big name in the genre with their album A New Chapter.
A New Chapter is a big, bold step onto the Southern Gospel scene. Beautiful harmonies accompanied by everything from piano to orchestra, often with country music flair, are just the beginning. Songs of God's goodness and mercy bring with them a range of emotions. Eye-closing, hand-raising goodness saturates "The Greatest Miracle of All," the hard-hitting truth in "Ordinary Love" gets you right in the feels, and clapping and toe-tapping is unavoidable during "The Half That's Never Been Told."
The Jim Brady Trio was blessed to have had the late Lari Goss (1945-2015) arrange an amazing version of the hymn "The Love of God" for the project. Words truly don't do it justice. It's one of the best arrangements of a hymn in recent years, without a doubt.
Closing Thoughts:
There are times when The Jim Brady Trio reminds me of the Statler Brothers (without the crazy low bass) and times when I could see them standing on the Gaither Homecoming stage. If I had to describe A New Chapter in 144 characters or less I would say: "Toe-tappin' with purpose #SoGoGood." I'm definitely looking forward to hearing more of the over 200 songs they've already written and whatever new music God leads them to write.
Song to Download Now:
"The Half That's Never Been Told" (Get it on iTunes here.)
A Relaxed Christmas Experience | Posted December-08-2014
Joshua Mills is an ordained minister, speaker, musician, and author based in our great neighbor to the north, Canada. He's known internationally for preaching that brings the glory of God to those he ministers to.
Christmas Miracle is great for those who are less into the rock-n-roll style Christmas music. Lots of piano and a little bit of jazz make this album a traditional contemporary mix.
Bringing back memories of making the staff Christmas video was a rendition of "Marshmallow World." Just can't get away from those marshmallows! Gratuitous use of jingle bells, finger snapping and what sounds like electronic drums gives new life to the old classic. The single "It Snowed" was featured on NRT's own Christmas sampler, and more than anything, it makes this reviewer wish it would snow "four feet high."
Closing Thoughts:
This project is different, in a good way. Having not heard anything by Joshua Mills before, it was a good first impression. Overall, it sounds like something that would be played in a mall while snow falls outside and everyone does their Christmas shopping. The music and Joshua's vocals work well together to bring a Christmas album worthy of being in anyone's playlist.
Song to Download Now:
"The Nutcracker: Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy" (Get it on iTunes here.)
Reminiscing | Posted December-05-2014
Andrew Peterson's music has been touching hearts and changing lives for over 20 years. It might surprise you to learn that Andrew Peterson is also an accomplished writer. "The Wingfeather Saga" has been capturing the attention of readers everywhere since 2008. After finishing the last book in the series earlier this year, Andrew Peterson decided to release an album of past hits, previously unreleased tracks and recreated songs.
After All These Years is a 20 track summary of Andrew's vast library of work, including classics like "Dancing in the Minefields," "Don't You Want to Thank Someone" and "Nothing to Say" alongside new single "After All These Years." Every song seems to have been carefully chosen for the message it conveys, resulting in an album that reminds listeners of the hope we have in Christ and leading us into a quiet place where we can hear God speaking to us. Sometimes it's through lyrics, and sometimes it's through the accompaniment, but these songs are always speaking to you where you need it most. Whether you're in a place where you aren't hearing God or you hear Him on a regular basis, there will be something that changes you for the better.
Being a mom, I was particularly moved by the lyrics in the song "After the Last Tear Falls." Something about the lines "After the last young girl's innocence is stolen… There is love…" hit me right between the eyes. If something were to ever happen to my girls, even in that, God would still be good. He would still love, He would still care, He's our solid foundation that will still be there when the world has gone away.
Closing Thoughts:
I've been missing out! Andrew Peterson has been making music for pretty much my whole life, and I've never heard it until now. After All These Years is definitely an album that I'll be listening to a lot. It makes me want to go find the rest of his music because it's perfect for morning (or late night) quiet time. Is it a little long? Maybe a little bit, as 20 songs is a significant amount. But they're good, and well worth the roughly 86 minutes of listening time.
Song to Download Now:
"After The Last Tear Falls" (Get it on iTunes here.)
Hard-hitting Worship | Posted November-06-2014
Pastors Phillips, Craig and Dean have been making worship music together since 1991. They've won a number of awards as well as achieving an amazing 21 Number 1 singles. Worship music by PCD has been sung in church services around the world and even played in Rangers Ballpark in Texas as walk-on music for former Ranger's Outfielder Josh Hamilton.
Above It All is Phillips, Craig and Dean's 14th album, containing more of the high-quality worship that PCD is known for. The theme of the album is one of hope and praise as listeners are reminded of the great power of Jesus. Earlier in 2014 PCD released "Jesus, Only Jesus" as the first single from Above It All. The song reminds listeners that the Jesus who raised the dead is the same Jesus who "…paid it all to bring us peace." This is definitely a song that will be making appearances in worship services. Next to the goosebump-inducing chorus, the line "You stand alone, I stand amazed…" is a reminder to us all that we should be in awe of our Lord.
"Hope Has A Name" is an excellent reminder of who our hope is. The line "…there is the Lamb resurrected. There is a tomb left in shame..." points listeners to the victory over death that Jesus, the Lamb, has won. He is our hope. A few tracks later is the catchy song "Let It Be Known." The music is upbeat and reminiscent of something you'd hear in children's church or youth group, but the message is one for all believers: "Let it be known, our God saves…" by shouting out His name "louder and louder."
Closing Thoughts:
Phillips, Craig & Dean has always been a personal favorite when it comes to worship groups. Above it All definitely does not disappoint if you're a PCD fan! I really think this is Phillips, Craig and Dean's best album in their 23 years as a ministry. "Let It Be Known" brought me back to my youth group days, and I really wanted to get up and jump along with the music. Above It All is an excellent worship album, and I can see a few of the songs being brought into the music rotation of many churches.
Kid Friendly Worship | Posted October-27-2014
Founded by Jimmy and Mai Swan, His Kidz United aims to bring uplifting Christian music to kids between the ages of 5 and 14. The Swans felt that because the music was for kids, the songs should be sung by kids to have the most impact. Because of that conviction, students from the Dallas Neighborhood Art & Music School (NAMS) were asked to cover songs from popular CCM artists, but with a kid twist, for His Kidz United Vol. 1.
In a blast from the past, the students from NAMS sing Audio Adrenaline's "Big House." It sounds almost exactly like the Audio A version, only with kid voices. "Big House" by His Kidz United is just as fun as the original, and it's a great way to connect with your kids if you were an Audio A fan back in the day.
Another great cover is Matt Redman's "10,000 Reasons." A popular worship song done in many churches today, the His Kidz United version brings Sunday morning worship to your kids any time during the week. His Kidz United Vol. 1 also includes a cover of TobyMac's 2012 hit "Speak Life."
Closing Thoughts:
Hid Kidz United Vol. 1 has talented young singers that produce a much better quality product than other "by kids for kids" CDs on the market. Unlike others out there, the songs on His Kidz didn't have to be modified to be "kid-friendly," and that's a big selling point. You're never too young to worship God, and His Kidz United Vol. 1 proves that point well. I like the motivation behind His Kids United, and I look forward to sharing their music with my own kids!
Getting 'Sentimental' Together This Christmas | Posted October-09-2014
Dove Award winning Producer/Songwriter Wayne Haun is ringing in this Christmas with a long-awaited new album titled Sentimental Season. This album is a 10-track, jazz mix of original songs co-written by Haun and some older Christmas classics to warm your hearts this holiday season.
Joining Haun on this project are TaRonda Greene, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Jaimee Paul, and Leif Shires. Not only do popular artists make an appearance, Haun's grandmother, mother, and sister perform with him making this truly a sentimental season.
The title track, "Sentimental Season," is an original piece that sets the mood for the whole album. Remember when you were a kid and Christmas was awe-inspiring, with the lights and carols and fun, instead of stressful? Wayne Haun does too, and wants this Christmas to be like the old days, not just for himself but for everyone. Rather than approaching the season looking behind like adults tend to do, he's "in the mood for a sentimental season" of slowing down and taking it all in.
"Light a Candle" is a call to think outside of ourselves and remember those less fortunate. In this original piece, Wayne Haun reminds us that, especially during the Christmas season, it's important to be a light and do something to warm the hearts of those around us. The question he sings, "Can we open our hearts to shine through the dark?" brings to mind things that we can do for those in our own communities who might need some help. "Light a Candle" is a great reminder to have during a season that's become highly commercialized.
The classic 1940s song "Beautiful Star of Bethlehem" is an extra special track on Sentimental Season. This song features the vocal talents of Mary Fox, Shelby Fox Haun, and April Haun Wise. What better way to make the season memorable than to sing with your grandmother, mother, and sister? Every verse has a different singing configuration. Sometimes Wayne takes the lead and is backed by the ladies and other times the ladies take the lead. No matter the set-up, their voices blend perfectly to make for a great cover of a classic Christmas hit.
Closing Thoughts:
The music and vocals reminds me of a '40s jazz lounge during Christmas. Honestly, I think my absolute favorite part of the whole album was having the honor to hear Wayne's grandmother sing. If you like jazz and Christmas, this is an album you're going to want to add to your collection.
Christmas With Family and Friends | Posted September-15-2014
Multi-Grammy and Dove award winner Michael W. Smith celebrates Christmas in his newest album The Spirit of Christmas. Ringing in the holiday season with him are some well-known names in Country music, including Lady Antebellum, Carrie Underwood, Little Big Town and Martina McBride.
The album has the feeling of a friends and family TV special. A mixture of newer seasonal hits and traditional carols, on this project Michael W. Smith and friends bring life to the Christmas season. In true Smith fashion, the album includes two instrumental tracks. "The Miracle of Christmas" opens the album and sets the mood for the rest of the listening experience. The other instrumental track is "The Spirit of Christmas," which sounds like a majestic Christmas movie soundtrack. It also divides the album in half, separating the upbeat tracks from the traditional and more reverent offerings. "The Spirit of Christmas" flows wonderfully into "Silent Night" featuring Little Big Town, bringing harmonies perfect for a classic Christmas carol.
Capturing the magic of Christmas from a child's perspective is "Somewhere in My Memory," showcasing the vocal talents of Smith's granddaughter Audrey. The music is light and whimsical while the lyrics bring to mind fond memories of past Christmases spent with family. Even Bono from U2 makes an appearance on The Spirit of Christmas. Set to Irish background music, Bono reads a portion of the traditional Irish carol "The Darkest Midnight."
Closing Thoughts:
Michael W. Smith should really do a Christmas Special on TV. He knows how to gather the right people to make the music emotional and fun all at the same time. The Spirit of Christmas will satisfy both Christian music and Country music lovers.
PhronsieHowell_NRT's Music and Book Reviews 
