Album of the Year | Posted June-03-2021 What You Need to Know
21 year-old Riley Clemmons’ self-titled debut album Riley Clemmons includes the hit singles, “Broken Prayers” and “Better For It” and it was one of my Top 10 Albums of the Decade. Clemmons followed that up with her hit singles, “Fighting For Me,” “Over and Over,” “Healing” and her newest single, “Keep on Hoping." With comparisons to contemporaries ranging from Kelly Clarkson and Demi Lovato to Natalie Grant and Britt Nicole, Clemmons’ seemingly effortless, rich and pure vocal tone exhibits the passion and confidence of a seasoned artist. Riley’s songwriting is real, honest, and vulnerable, and she is positive, determined, and confident.
What it Sounds Like
Godsend features an empowering theme of the Lord reigning in our hearts and minds in song after song and how we are reminded that the Lord's glory, His strength, is found in our weakness. Opening song “Healing” celebrates that truth. These lyrics are totally encouraging: “Gave myself some grace/And my soul began to feel the change/I let love flood my heart/Like the sun upon a tear-stained face.” Hit song “Over and Over” also declares the thesis statement of the album, "You keep running to me/No matter where I am/Over and over again.” The album gives listeners words to “Keep on Hoping” with declarations like, "There’s hope for a better tomorrow/There’s hope for joy over sorrow/Cause God’s still good/And He’s still got it all in control.”
Spiritual Highlights
Riley has impressed me with her mature faith and sincere desire to serve Jesus. We’ve spoken for a behind the song devotional about “Fighting For Me” from this album and Riley wrote that song based on many scriptures where the Lord tells us “Do not be afraid,” including 2 Chronicles 20:17: "Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.” A sincere desire for God to take our thoughts captive is found in every song such as the declaration, “With all those voices in your head/Just don’t, don’t ever forget/That God’s still good and He’s still got it all in control“ in the standout, “Keep On Hoping.” Each of her songs are about proclaiming her dependence on God throughout this stellar offering. The album is designed to be listened to in track order as you’ll go on the journey with Riley from “Healing” with the confession-“I found strength through the pain/What was broken is standing again/And I’m healing,” to the standout “I’m Not Alone” with the declaration-”You are for me/Not against me/I call on Your Name/You silence the shame/You hear me, You’re with me/I know I’m not alone.”
Best Song on the Record
I can’t get enough of “Godsend” and it sets the tone for the entire experience with the beautiful declaration of dependence in the chorus of God’s provision in our lives—“What if maybe every broken place I’ve been was a Godsend?” His love is never-ending, and He is our refuge and our strength. If you are looking for a firm foundation in your life, make these lyrics of “Fighting For Me” your personal prayer: “Cause You love me like nobody else, You stand up for me in the darkest night, when my faith is weak You’re still by my side, You will never stop fighting for me.” Faith is when we are empty of ourselves and are filled with Him and His Holy Spirit. This album is filled with moving prayers of thankfulness including the gorgeous “Over and Over.” You’ll be singing along, “I thought I was unlovable till You told this heart of mine, I’m worth more than my past mistakes, I’m never too far gone to save.”
Godsend is about proclaiming the majesty of God and crying out in awe and wonder for His Presence. All of the songs are memorable, personal and worshipful. These moving and reverent recordings are all prayers and personal confessions of submission to God and they are poignant songs of adoration. Every song is completely anointed, Spirit-led and emotionally captivating. Riley’s powerful and gorgeous vocals keep me hanging on every word she sings. She invites listeners into her life by sharing what's on her heart and relying on God’s grace in her edifying lyrics. The standout songs each feature an engaging and emotive musical style while phrasing her prayer-filled songs in a creative and personal way, making it my top album of the year.
Let Yourself Be Loved | Posted April-29-2021 What You Need to Know
MercyMe has topped the charts for more than 20 years since they released their multi-platinum single "I Can Only Imagine," which is the most downloaded song in the history of Christian music. They have followed that up with hit after hit, including "God with Us," "All of Creation," "Beautiful," "The Hurt & the Healer," "Greater” and “Even If." Inhale (Exhale) has been one of my most anticipated albums of 2021. It has songs with inspirational story-style lyrics that will immediately cause you to worship and sing along with these ultra-talented musicians, lead singer Bart Millard, guitarists Mike Scheuchzer and Barry Graul, bassist Nathan Cochran, and drummer Robby Shaffer. The very relatable and transparent words of these songs perfectly depict our daily walks as believers wrapped around catchy songs. All the tracks really display the musical and lyrical excellence and intentionality of MercyMe. These are catchy melodies and biblically-based lyrics reflecting unashamed faith. Every song on this stellar collection displays the band’s heart of what they do, leading people in worship of our Savior, reminding us as believers that, “With all your strength/Sister run wild run free/Hold up your head/Keep pressing on/We are almost home.”
What it Sounds Like
This band can really write a hooky and truth-filled chorus, and the single “Say I Won’t” is catchy, relevant and worshipful like their previous hit songs “Hold Fast,” “Flawless” and “Even If.” The song has an uplifting message based on the inspirational story of Gary Miracle. The chorus is very stirring and convicting, “I'm gonna run/No I'm gonna fly/I'm gonna know what it means to live and not just be alive.” “Let Yourself Be Loved” features Bart Millard’s tender and powerful vocals and takes listeners on an emotional and spiritual journey with every lyric sung about faith in our God and to live out the commandment to “love your neighbor as yourself.” In many ways, the main message of this album is to “let yourself be loved/See yourself as Jesus does.” If you’ve always liked MercyMe, this album will absolutely connect with you.
Spiritual Highlights
“Say I Won’t” reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Other highlights include “On Our Way (feat. Sam Wesley),” “So Yesterday,” “A Little Love (feat. Gary Levox),” “Bright Side of Broken” and “Almost Home.” Poignant song “The Moment” is a stirring testimony song reminding us of our salvation day with a convicting declaration: “The fire in your bones will never let you down…Praise the Lord and say, here’s to the day that I met grace." Like previous MercyMe albums, these songs are all filled with spiritual truth. The hope of the Gospel is heard loud and clear, “Love is patient, love is so kind, because He loved us first we know…the world is going to know us by our love” in the standout “A Little Love.”
Best Song on the Record
I'm really engaged by the emotional vocals and the deep, prayerful lyrics throughout the album. “On Our Way” is an upbeat and catchy song in the vein of “Greater,” and “Move,” which are among my favorite MercyMe songs. I find myself singing the worshipful lyrics throughout the day, “As long as we have hope, we have everything!” That theme is echoed in “Bright Side of Broken,” which will have you crying out, “It’s gonna be okay!”
“Almost Home” is an especially beautiful song. The faith anthem is the cry of my heart, “I know that the cross has brought heaven to us/But make no mistake/There’s still more to come/When our flesh and our bone/Are no longer between/Where we are right now/And where we’re meant to be.” There are several stand-out songs, and “Say I Won’t” is an uplifting offering of praise to the only One who has power to save. It is a very sing-able song, and I love singing, “The world's gonna hear/Cause I'm gonna shout/And I will be dancing when circumstances drown the music out/Say I won't.”
This new album demonstrates once again the passion and energy that have made MercyMe one of Christian music's most compelling acts. True to form, this new project Inhale (Exhale) reflects real life and emotion, from longing and struggle to breakthrough and gratitude, with front man Bart Millard’s forthright songwriting and intimate and unmistakable vocals backed by powerful arrangements and stellar musicianship. It derives its power from the fact that life and music intertwine so fully. These are very passionate worship songs sung with vocal sincerity and reverence with biblically based lyrics.
This has been my most anticipated album of 2021, and I’m pleased to say it exceeds my expectations as I could not “imagine” they could outdo themselves. This incredible band has once again released their newest best album. It has a very warm musical style that will immediately soothe your soul and cause you to worship and sing along with these ultra-talented musicians. The album has a comforting and cohesive theme as each song threads the message of how “I will be dancing when circumstances drown the music out.” This is sure to be one of the top albums of the year.
Free Like a River! | Posted April-17-2021 What You Need to Know
NEEDTOBREATHE has very quickly become one of my all-time favorite bands. They know how to move me with such amazing and spiritual lyrics that truly reflect how I feel as a Christian.
Live From the Woods, Vol. 2 is an incredible live album recorded after a year of quarantine and not touring to support their recent album Out of Body. The new live project celebrates our freedom to sing together after we’ve been--and continue to be--socially distanced from one another.
To me, this new release is an ode to freedom and a celebration of the fellowship of community that brings people together. You'll want to sing along in unison with this outdoor crowd in the woods of Tennessee.
What it Sounds Like
Listening to “Mercy’s Shore” to open the 15-track collection, it's clear that the themes of relying on God’s grace and mercy and seeking and speaking truth flows throughout this excellent album, highlighted by several of my new favorite songs, “Alive,” “Who Am I,” “Banks,” “Survival” and “Child Again.”
You’ll be hooked right from the opening notes of “Mercy’s Shore” which really sets the tone for this album. As Christians, we can all relate to the vulnerable and sincere crying out: “One day we’ll wash up on mercy’s shore!” Fans of the band’s trademark high energy live shows will flock to “Prisoner,” “Feet Don’t Fail Me Now,” “Alive,” “Great Night” and “Riding High.”
This album reminded me of how much I really miss live music. If you feel the same, then don’t miss out on this amazing live recording. I also got choked up at first listen. At the piano intro of “Prisoner,” I realized how much I miss the community of fellowship, singing songs in-person with strangers.
Spiritual Highlights
We're fearfully, wonderfully and perfectly made, which is expressed in the standout, “Who Am I”: “Somehow You really love who I really am/I push You away/Still You won’t let go…Who am I to be loved by You? The beautiful strings accentuate the biblically inspired message of “Garden,” which lead vocalist Bear Rinehart describes as one of the band’s most requested songs from their album, The Outsiders. The song features the gorgeous prayer, “Let the songs I sing bring joy to You/Let the words I say confess my love/Let the notes I choose be Your favorite tune/Father let my heart be after You.” It’s a moving song that celebrates the freedom we have in Christ based on His sacrifice for us.
Best Song
“Who Am I” is a daily prayer, asking God to come and change our hearts and our lives. Only Jesus can give us our identity. What a powerful expression of what it means to accept that God never leaves or forsakes us. I'm profoundly moved by the lyrics, “You grow Your roses on my barren soul/Who am I to be loved by You?”
There are several standout songs. I'm really engaged by the emotional vocals and the deep, inspirational lyrics on other songs, specifically “Alive,” Banks,” “Garden,” and “Bridges Burn/Forever On Your Side.”
I’ve had the privilege to see this band in concert a dozen times. This album is the next best thing to seeing them live. “Child Again,” is a beautiful standout song, musically and perhaps even more so lyrically, reflecting the band's wide range of sounds and emotional expressions. The lyrics to “Child Again” are prayerful and moving: “I know that gettin' hurt/Is really how redemption works/My ego is a ball and chain/My instincts only make it worse/In the mornin' light/I don't want to run from pain/You know I can't afford to cheapen grace/I know that pain just means my soul's awake.” The takeaway message of unity and freedom to the band and for all of us is found in the moving bridge, “You're my hope unbroken/You're my innocence/I am free like a river/I'm a child again.” It’s that range of songwriting that sets this album on the highest level for me, and is why they are my favorite band.
NEEDTOBREATHE consistently makes songs that remind us to get to that place where we're at in humble submission to God. Don't play it safe. Ask for God to be real in your life. You'll never see true beauty if you don't fully submit to God.
Live From the Woods, Vol. 2 is one of my top live albums I’ve ever heard from both the Christian and mainstream music markets. NEEDTOBREATHE has long been my favorite band.
If you've always enjoyed the band's soulful anthems, you're in for a treat with this album. It has a great balance of upbeat rockers and reflective ballads. Many of these songs express my emo feelings. Yet, remind me that I wasn't made for this world.
These songs will have you singing along in one listen. “Banks” connects deeply with the lyrics, “I wanna be there when the darkness closes in/To make the truth a little clearer/I wanna hold you close but never hold you back/I'll be the banks for your river.”
No matter your situation, this band has songs that can really bring healing and reflect the cry of your heart. The very relatable and transparent words of these songs use poetic descriptions and biblical language throughout these stellar tracks, resulting in NEEDTOBREATHE’s celebration of the freedom of community gathering around live music. Sing along, “I am free like a river, I’m a child again.”
Captivating and Passionate | Posted March-25-2021 What You Need to Know
Harry Connick, Jr. is a critically lauded singer, songwriter, and jazz musician, as well as actor. Connick, Jr. released his collection of hymns and original songs that both pay homage to his childhood heritage and to his faith as he recorded these songs during the pandemic. From my first listen, I was totally captivated by this jazz-infused worship album by Harry Connick, Jr. I'm really engaged by his emotional vocals and the deep, prayerful lyrics throughout the album. For me, Harry brings sincerity and relatable themes that get deeper with each listen.
What it Sounds Like
The album includes new recordings of some of Harry’s favorite songs of the faith. Don't miss his jazzy renditions of “Amazing Grace” and “How Great Thou Art.” Both songs are incredible prayers, flawlessly delivered by Harry’s smooth and sincere vocals layered over textured and powerful musical arrangements. I'm emotionally moved by the prayerful songs "Be Not Afraid," "Benevolent Man” and “All These Miracles.” When you put yourself under a microscope and examine whether you really believe the words of these great songs, you'll find that it will challenge your faith and how closely you are walking with God. These songs also give insight into Harry's walk as a believer in God.
Spiritual Highlights
I find many of the songs, like “Be Not Afraid,” “Because He Lives” and “The Old Rugged Cross” proclaim my heart's cry to worship my King, Jesus. Those songs and their dependence on God have perfectly poetic biblical descriptions of God and are filled with piercingly difficult truths to believe all the time. They are emotive and poetic descriptions of a beautiful picture of what Jesus did for us. You'll want to join fellow believers in singing these words. You'll be worshipping right along with Harry. You can sincerely pray these biblical and prayerful words, and cling to the truth of these powerful songs. The word of the Lord doesn’t return void, and these songs put God’s Word in the mouths of believers reminding them of the truth of God’s promises. My personal devotional prayer has been to have more faith and “Be Not Afraid” is my heart’s cry and anthem to sing daily in praise to the Lord, regardless of my circumstances, doubts or worry. The song is based on The Beatitudes and proclaims, “And blessed are your poor/For the kingdom shall be theirs/Blest are you that weep and mourn/For one day you shall laugh/And if wicked men insult and hate you/All because of Me/Blessed, blessed are you.” It’s an extremely moving portrayal of God’s love for us.
Best Song on the Record
I am very moved by “Alone with My Faith.” The lyrics are very stirring: “Alone with my faith/What I know is true/What gives me assurance/When I don't know what to do/I don't have all the answers/But I have always known/I'm eternally faithful/So I am never alone.” The song is poignant and powerful with earnest, worshipful lyrics and reflects the boldness for Jesus to that I pray for my daughters’ to feel in their hearts as well. Join in with Harry and proclaim, “I still believe/My story's not over/I'm making my way/Just not like I planned/I still see the sun rise/I still see the rain fall/I know who I am/And I know where I stand.”
These excellent songs are all prayers and personal confessions of submission to God. These are great songs to pray along with Harry and express your own yearnings for holiness and God's presence. These are captivating and passionate worship songs sung with vocal sincerity and reverence with faith-based lyrics. A sincere desire for the presence of God is found in every song. Every song will have you hanging on each word that Harry tenderly sings. His vocals will soothe your soul, and the vertical lyrics will direct your attention and focus on Jesus. All the songs are catchy, reverent, and worshipful. Alone with My Faith is a must-have for your praise and worship collection.
Soul-stirring and stunning | Posted February-11-2021 What You Need to Know
This long-awaited solo project Departures by Switchfoot’s front man Jon Foreman has captivated my spirit. The album includes standout recordings like the sing at the top of your lungs anthems “Education” and “Red and Gold,” and the reflective and worshipful vibe of “Side by Side,” “A Place Called Earth,” “Jesus, I Have My Doubts” and “Thanks Be To God.”
What it Sounds Like
From my first listen, I wanted to tell others about this great new album which immediately reminded me of some of my favorite emotional alternative rock artists like The Fray, Lifehouse, and Switchfoot’s softer songs. The project opens with “The Ocean Beyond the Sea” which has a reflective and ambient vibe and it builds to an exciting refrain that stirs my soul. I'm really engaged by Jon's emotional vocals and the sincere, enthusiastic and introspective lyrics throughout the album. “Education” is layered with an upbeat alt-rock musical style. The song will have you singing along in one listen. “You lose yourself when you love someone/You lose yourself and you come undone,” is the refrain of the catchy song, which is in some ways the thesis statement of this stellar album.
Spiritual Highlights
I can't get enough of the stand-out song “A Place Called Earth.” Jon's emotive vocals and the Kingdom-focused lyrics takes me on an emotional journey that causes me to excitedly worship along with the stirring lyrics every time I hear the song. It also features Lauren Daigle and expresses Jon’s emotional plea, “Oh I long for heaven in a place called earth/Where every son and daughter will know their worth." From the beginning notes of “Jesus, I Have My Doubts,” I was hooked by the reflective musical vibe and prayerful message. The song declares bold confessional and prayerful statements: "Jesus, has the world gone mad? Jesus, feels like the world's in pieces/I'm sure You've got Your reasons/But I've got my doubts/Jesus, I've got my doubts." The song is a gorgeous offering in the style of David’s Psalms. Other spiritual highlights are found in “Thanks Be To God” with the refrain, “Thanks be to God who delivers me, Christ, Christ alone come and set me free.”
Best Song on the Record
All these songs are poignant and powerful with earnest lyrics sung from the perspective of someone like David in the Psalms or Solomon in Ecclesiastes. “Side By Side” is a beautiful song featuring Madison Cunningham, with Jon displaying emotive vocals with the comforting refrain sung as a duet, “You and I will find the ocean we come from.” “Red and Gold” expresses words of comfort, “So hold your faith, you're not alone here/Stay your pace, you're almost home.” The aforementioned “A Place Called Earth” stopped me in my tracks and caused me to immediately replay the song. You’ll get swept up in the emotion and message of the song, causing your heart to ache for heaven. It’s my early choice for song of the year.
This is a great collection of confessional and authentic expressions of faith. The songs are poignant and powerful. There are no filler tracks, and this is easily one of my top “gourmet” albums of the year. If you want to experience an uplifting, soul-stirring, stunning and introspective album, look no further than Jon Foreman. These songs will certainly connect with listeners and showcase the multi-talented singer/songwriter's trademark balance of vocal tenderness and intensity, and, above all, a sense of hope and inspiration. This is an incredibly deep, worshipful and emotional album, and Departures is one of my top albums of the year.
His love heals! | Posted December-15-2020 What You Need to Know
Christian contemporary artist Jordan Feliz's debut full-length project, The River, helped put the artist on the map. The album features the very recognizable hit single and We Love Award-winning Song of the Year, "The River." Since then, Jordan has released other hit songs, such as “Never Too Far Gone,” “Best of Me,” “Witness,” and “Faith.” Jordan's music has energy and infectious enthusiasm. His songs also have celebratory messages of faith. Admittedly, I can't help but worship along loudly in spirit and in truth.
What it Sounds Like
The combination of his stellar vocals, up-tempo melody and OneRepublic-like musical inflection really brings home the solid gospel messages. His music really hits home with the message: God's grace washes us clean in the river of His Holy Spirit, and we become a new creation in Christ. I must say Jordan's recent singles “Glorify” and “Next to Me” from his new release, Say It, a nominee for a We Love Award for Album of the Year, has really caught my ear.
Spiritual Highlights
Each song includes tender and powerful vocals and takes listeners on an emotional and spiritual journey with every lyric sung about our faith in Jesus. Every song is completely anointed, Spirit-led and emotionally captivating. "Glorify" reminds me that we need to have the type of faith that Jesus describes in the Bible: "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." Jordan expresses with transparency his walk with the Lord and how he relies on God during his battles with self-doubt and anxiety.
I'm really engaged by the emotional vocals and the deep, prayerful lyrics throughout the album. “Every day we got a reason/Cause church ain’t only on the weekend,” reflects the everyday faith we are called to have in “Glorify.” “Oh, You know I tried to do it on my own/Oh, You say it’s time/For me to come back home/Right next to me,” are the cries of worship in the bridge of the heartfelt and soul-stirring, “Next to Me.”
“Wounds” is a powerful ballad and I love the emotion and biblical truth that Jordan brings to the song. The song features Jordan’s soothing vocals as he prayerfully sings, “I’ve seen the light come in/To my darkest rooms/I can tell you, friend/That His love heals wounds.”
Best Song on the Record
There are several standout songs on the album. Many of the songs are arranged in a very sing-able and catchy style, such as "Jesus Is Coming Back" which is filled with great statements of faith, proclaiming Him as the Lord of our lives. The ballad “Wounds” is an especially beautiful song. The faith anthem is the cry of my heart and expresses the theme of the album, “His love heals!” "Glorify" is a comforting message saying that there's always hope. Breathe it in like oxygen. God's hope will turn whatever you are going through into something different for His glory. A song that I can’t get out of my head is "Next to Me" so I’ll highlight that song as the must-download track, but you’ll want the whole album. These songs will have you singing along in one listen.
With a probing spiritual curiosity and imaginative, self-examining lyrics, this album solidifies Jordan Feliz’s place among the finest song crafters of his day. His poignant songwriting is coupled with musical excellence as each song urges me to better see God. This album is sure to connect with all listeners who like catchy songs filled with truth and yearning for God. I really enjoy the exciting musical vibe of this album, and the melodies and lyrics are all catchy and biblical.
Say It is loaded with great rock beats, catchy melodies, and solid lyrics reflecting unashamed faith in Jesus. Don't miss out on this incredible album, one of the best of the year for sure. Jordan’s enthusiastic and reverent style of writing and singing songs has consistently been a draw for me. His prayerful sentiments are consistently filled with his personal adoration of God. I've felt that he's improved with each new album and this is my favorite Jordan Feliz album.
Rejoice, Rejoice! | Posted November-19-2020 What You Need to Know
Powerhouse female vocalist Kerrie Roberts, known for her hit CCM pop songs "No Matter What," "Outcast," "Rescue Me (How the Story Ends)" and "What Are You Afraid Of," returns with a powerful rendition of “O Come Emmanuel.” As a pastor's daughter, Kerrie's heart as a worshipper has been heard throughout her albums as her powerful songs "Beautiful to Me," "Savior to Me (Sing Glory)," "In Your Sight" and "Seek Your Face" have all been vertical offerings of praise and worship.
What it Sounds Like
Kerrie’s rendition of “O Holy Night” is my all-time favorite Christmas song recording, and “O Come Emmanuel” is sung in the same worshipful and reverent vein, showcasing Kerrie’s shimmering, emotion-laden voice. Several of Kerrie’s songs over the years are accessible pop and worship songs that are deep in meaning and content and this song is no exception. Kerrie’s vocals are strong and pure; and the production is subtle and uplifting.
Spiritual Highlights
Kerrie has consistently impressed me with her mature faith and sincere desire to serve Jesus. This song is based on Matthew 1:23 (VOICE): "A virgin will conceive and bear a Son, and His name will be Immanuel which is a Hebrew name that means "God with us." Whatever struggle or depression you are facing, you can know that God, Emmanuel, is with you, always. God's prophesy in Isaiah 7:14 is where God tells us exactly what is going to happen 700 years before the birth of His Son. One of my favorite Christmas hymns is "O Come, O Come Emmanuel." This song captures that emotional, anticipatory feel of being expectant with reverent waiting for this holy day. You can sing this song in preparation this Christmas season, in remembrance of Jesus.
Kerrie has once again captivated me. She is a uniquely gifted singer/songwriter with a big voice that is memorable and dynamic, yet intimate. I'm really engaged by the emotional vocals and the meaningful lyrics. Kerrie’s vocals will soothe your soul, and these lyrics will direct your attention and focus on Jesus as He is the reason for the season. What’s most amazing about our Savior Jesus is that of all the ways He could have chosen to save us, He chose to come down and be the least among us and a suffering servant. The main message of the song is to hold on to Christ, as something better is coming. We need to sing “Rejoice, Rejoice!” and celebrate the birth of our King and Savior. Ask the Lord Jesus to look inside your heart and receive Him with a childlike wonder. That’s what Christmas is all about.
Hello, Grace! | Posted November-05-2020 What You Need to Know
Veteran trio Selah returns with Step Into My Story, a much-anticipated album following up 2019's Firm Foundation and 2017’s Unbreakable. Those albums featured the standout songs, "Let The Saints Sing" and "I Got Saved." Selah means “pause” in Hebrew. “Our band name means ‘to pause’ — we borrowed it from the Psalms, and it’s appropriate for us right now because we literally paused, reevaluated our past, thought through next steps and are moving forward with the most incredible team and fan base anyone could ask for,” says Selah’s Todd Smith. The group’s 16th album invites listeners to pause, reflect and share their own stories.
What it Sounds Like
From the beginning, Selah has had a desire to make music that matters, that stretches beyond entertainment and stretches the parameters of popular worship music. I greatly enjoy the stirring vocals, prayerful lyrics and the musical arrangements. This worshipful album captivates me with its honesty and stirring lyrics, especially the standout songs, “Step Into My Story,” “When They Hear It” and “Hello, Grace.”
Spiritual Highlights
I love how prayers and songs of praise are a communal experience that we can all share. I think the Lord wants us to long for Heaven. When we've been indwelled by the Holy Spirit, we have a personal relationship with the Comforter and a peace that surpasses understanding to know that this fallen world isn't all that we are living for, ultimately. “Hello, Grace” is a worshipful response to our Savior reflecting the blessed hope of someone who understands the Good News of grace. In this post-election haze, being reminded about grace will be more important than ever. Not only receiving grace but granting it to others. The song proclaims, “Hello, Grace, it’s good to see You, I thought I’d have to pray a thousand prayers to reach You, I shouldn’t be surprised, You’re right on time, the way You’ve always been through every chapter of my life, hello, Grace.”
Best Song on the Record
You can sincerely sing these prayerful lyrics, and cling to the truth of these powerful songs. There are several standout songs on the album. Many of the songs are arranged in a very sing-able and catchy style, such as "Step Into My Story" which is filled with great statements of faith. "When They Hear It" is yet another great song. The song has a great worshipful chorus with Selah singing "Sing it, shout it, there’s wonder-working power when they hear it, It changes nations, miracles will happen when they hear it." A song that I can’t get out of my head is "Hello, Grace" so I’ll highlight that song as the must-download track, but you’ll want the whole album.
Something I've long appreciated about Selah's music ministry is the focus on the Word of God in their lyrics, such as in their classics "Wonderful, Merciful Savior," "You Raise Me Up" and "Before the Throne of God Above." Continuing in their traditional style, Step Into My Story is comprised of a mix of song styles. There is newly written material like "Step Into My Story," "When They Hear It" and "Hello Grace," along with new recordings of the older hymns "What A Friend We Have in Jesus," "Nothing But the Blood" and "Shall We Gather At The River/The Water is Wide." There are also modern worship songs done in Selah's signature style, including a new arrangement of "Living Hope." If you’ve always enjoyed Selah’s contemporary style including vocal harmonizing and worshipful lyrics, you’ll love Step Into My Story which will have you singing loudly, “Hello, Grace!”
A Very Special Christmas | Posted October-22-2020 What You Need to Know
GRAMMY-nominated artist and multiple Dove Award-winner Francesca Battistelli has released her second solo Christmas album, This Christmas, on Oct. 23, which includes classics and newly-penned tunes. Since I first heard "Free to be Me" by Francesca Battistelli from My Paper Heart, I was hooked by the emotional and biblical messages of her songs. After an eight year wait since her debut Christmas album, it’s exciting to hear new Christmas music from Francesca. This album was preceded by “Behold Him” as a radio single. The musical vibe of that song sets the tone for this exceptional album, which is not be missed.
What it Sounds Like
As a mother of five, this time of year is also extra special for Francesca and her family, and this album really celebrates that unique holiday spirit. Several of Francesca’s songs over the years are accessible pop and worship songs that are deep in meaning and content and this album is no exception with jazz-styled and light-hearted classics such as “Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow,” “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” and “This Christmas.” So many people can relate to the messages of these songs. The standout songs also include a reverent recording of “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,” and the beautiful “Messiah.” I'm moved by the prayerful song "Behold Him.” The song proclaims my heart's cry to worship our "Defender," Jesus. Francesca’s vocals are so strong and pure and the production on these ultra-catchy songs could easily be featured in mainstream music alongside top-selling artists.
Spiritual Highlights
Francesca has consistently impressed me with her mature faith and sincere desire to serve Jesus. You'll be blessed by these powerful songs and the standout original anthems with convicting declarations including: “Born to seek and born to save/Born to take our pain away/God with us, Emmanuel/In His arms, all will be well,” in “Behold Him.” Whatever struggle or depression you are facing, you can know that God, Emmanuel, is with you, always. The comfort and rest offered by Jesus is beautifully captured in “Messiah.” Franny beautifully depicts the message of identity that we all need to hear, “All we longed for/ all we needed; Shining in this child's eyes/Hope forever, death defeated/Because of this one holy night.”
Best Song on the Record
There are several personal songs that melt my heart, especially “Silent Night,” “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,” and “Messiah” and fun and upbeat recordings of “This Christmas,” December We’ll Remember,” and “Christmas Valentine.” The message of finding freedom in Christ is found in my favorite song, the stirring “Behold Him” which celebrates, “In your silent night/When you're not alright/Lift your eyes and behold Him/Feel the thrill of hope/You are not alone/In this moment behold Him.” Amen to that.
Franny has once again captivated me as this album features her unique brand of gourmet lyrical phrasing embedded with the truth of the Gospel for those "with ears to hear." This Christmas showcases not only Franny's gifts as an artist, but her shimmering, emotion-laden voice. She is a great role model for girls and moms everywhere and consistently produces music that is both classic and fresh at the same time. I'm really engaged by the emotional vocals and the meaningful lyrics found in these sacred and fun songs alike. Francesca’s vocals will soothe your soul, and many of the lyrics will direct your attention and focus on Jesus as He is the reason for the season. Have yourself a very special Christmas.
Jason Gray’s Best Album | Posted October-15-2020 What You Need to Know
Ever since I heard Jason Gray's "Blessed Be," from his album, All the Lovely Losers, I was hooked by the emotional and biblical messages of his songs. I'm always excited to hear new music from Jason. Last year, Jason released his EP, Order, the first of three EPs Jason Gray has released over a year’s time, mirroring the themes of the pandemic in many ways. The names of each EP are "Order," "Disorder," and "Reorder." Jason tells a story of the process of transformation in three volumes. Order featured the hit songs, "I'm Gonna Let it Go" and "Order Disorder Reorder." Disorder EP was preceded by the hit song, “Remind Me You’re Here.” Now, Reorder EP has released and was preceded by the hit song, “Glory Days” in conjunction with this full album release, Order, Disorder, Reorder. Jason Gray is an anointed songwriter and singer. He has a profound way of piercing my soul with his poignant words, tender singing, and inspirational truths. Like his previous releases, the album's central theme is about finding our identity in Christ, being honest and transparent with ourselves and others to allow God's grace to shine in our lives by demonstrating how in our weakness, His strength is made perfect.
What it Sounds Like
Gray can really write a hooky and truth-filled chorus and the single “Remind Me You’re Here” is catchy, relevant and worshipful like his previous hit songs “Remind Me Who I Am” and "Learning." The song is a great confession of faith. “Glory Days” is a gorgeous offering of praise to the only One who has power to save. It is a very sing-able song, and I love singing the joyful lyrics, “The hard times are where You get the best of me/Yeah, this is where we turn the corner/I’m becoming more than I ever dreamed/In the glory days of my reorder.” “Honesty” features Jason’s tender and powerful vocals and takes listeners on an emotional and spiritual journey like his heart-wrenching song, “Not Right Now.” Every lyric is sung about faith in our God Almighty sprinkled in with Jason’s clever and personal lyrics taking listeners on an emotional journey. If you’ve always liked Jason Gray’s brand of “gourmet” songs, this album will absolutely connect with you.
Spiritual Highlights
“Fight For You” reminds us, “The Lord will fight for you, You need only to be still, trust that God will fight for you.” Other spiritual highlights include “I'm Gonna Let It Go,” “Through,” “Remind Me You’re Here,” and “Glory Days.” “I'm Gonna Let It Go” gives me more conviction to not feel worthless or afraid. With many areas in our lives, we spend a lot of time worrying. We need to let that go and allow the Lord to be our redeemer. We all have lies that we believe about ourselves. Be free from those doubts about yourself. And sing, “Oh, 'cause if I trusted, I could move with Your flow/Being carried in the current of Your love/When I lean into Your arms, You're enough/So, I'm gonna let it, I'm gonna let it go.” Like previous Jason Gray albums, these songs are all filled with spiritual truth. The hope of the Gospel is heard loud and clear. “What the Hard Times Taught Me” ties the album’s theme of God’s never-ending faithfulness, grace and hope in the hard times that runs through the album.
Best Song on the Record
I'm really engaged by the emotional vocals and the deep, prayerful lyrics throughout the album. "Order Disorder Reorder" is a great reminder that our circumstances do not define our joy. Our position in Christ and His unending faithfulness is worthy of our gratitude and adoration. This song gives me more conviction to not feel worthless or afraid. With many areas in our lives, we spend a lot of time worrying. So, let your worries go. Let the Lord be your redeemer. Those prayerful words capture the hopeful tone for these songs that are filled with the truth of God’s unending grace in our disorder. “Through” is an especially beautiful song. The faith anthem is the cry of my heart, “I can’t keep pretending everything’s okay, I need You to lead me through.” There are several stand-out songs, and my favorite song “Remind Me You’re Here” is a gorgeous offering of praise to the only One who has power to save. It is a very sing-able song, and I love singing the Book of Job-inspired introspective lyrics, “I won't ask You for reasons, 'Cause a reason can't wipe away tears, No, I don't need all the answers, Just be here beside me, Father, remind me You're here.”
With a probing spiritual curiosity and imaginative, self-examining lyrics, this album once again solidifies Gray’s place among the finest song crafters of his day. Gray’s poignant songwriting is coupled with musical excellence as each song urges me to better see God. This album is sure to connect with all listeners who like catchy songs filled with truth and yearning for God. Jason invites you into his life in such an authentic and relatable way, you’ll feel like you are a lifelong friend after you hear this album. Once again, Jason has invited listeners into his story of faith. Each song features his unique brand of lyrical phrasing, embedded with the truth of the Gospel for those "with ears to hear." Jason is one of my favorite Christian music singer-songwriters. His songs are so emotional, vulnerable and authentic. If you like singer-songwriters who wear their hearts on their sleeves and sing about the truth of what it means to walk with God and work out their salvation with fear and trembling, then don't miss out on one of Christian music's most treasured artists. Order, Disorder, Reorder is Jason Gray’s best album and one of my top albums of the year.
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