An Amazing Album From an Amazing Artist | Posted April-22-2020 What You Need To Know
Micah Tyler is a talented singer/songwriter from Buna, Texas. Before becoming a full time musician, Micah was a youth pastor, and also ran a food truck. He became hugely popular for his hilarious video called "Millennials," and for his hit song "Different" that released as the title track to his 2016 EP. Micah is known for his unique sound and his compelling lyrics that are in all of his songs. New Today is Micah's third full-length album, which features his newest radio single "AMEN."
What it Sounds Like
New Today is such a fun and uplifting album! From "Welcome To The Family" to "Love Lifted Me Up," these songs are upbeat, and are ones that the whole family will love. Micah has always brought fresh pop songs to the table and this album is no different. I love the various sounds featured on this album, like the acoustic guitar playing on "By Name" to the choir on "Walking Free." New Today is an extremely impressive album.
Spiritual Highlights
There's a consistent theme throughout the album about what God has done for us. God has freed us from our sins like Micah sings about in "What Mercy Did For Me," He fights for us ("My God Fights For Me"), He gives us hope ("Life Up Ahead"), and He gives us new mercies every day ("New Today"). I've never listened to an album before like this one that brings out so many biblical principles in every single song. If you're needing a reminder of who God is and how much He loves you, I highly suggest this album. I'm certain that there's a song on this album that will encourage you and will help you through whatever battle you're facing right now.
Best Song on the Record
The best song on the record would have to be "My God Fights For Me." Micah is joined by Austin French and Nickie Conley. Their three voices on this album are absolutely incredible. The song goes through three stories in the Bible that all show how God fights for us even in seemingly impossible situations. "He's my shield/He's my sword/The victory is the Lord's"
I love this new album from Micah Tyler, and I'm sure it will be listened to for years to come. It's exciting to see how far Micah has come just since his last full-length album, and I can't wait to hear more new music from him! You can listen to his new album on April 24th on Spotify and Apple Music.
A Great New Worship Album | Posted April-01-2020 What You Need To Know
Selah is a contemporary Christian vocal trio that has been around for 23 years. The band was founded by brother and sister Todd and Nicol Smith, and the two were joined by their friend, Allan Hall. After Nicol left the band to pursue a solo career in 2004, the band auditioned 15 female vocalists and chose Amy Perry to join Selah. The band has been nominated for many Dove Awards; They have won a total of seven awards. The trio recently joined music label Integrity Music for the release of their new album, Firm Foundation.
What it Sounds Like
Selah's new album proclaims the truth of Jesus and who He is. I can see congregates at church singing each song on the album. Or, for yourself, if you're needing a reminder of God's faithfulness, then listen to the record on your own. From the title track, "Firm Foundation," which speaks of how Jesus will always be our hope and our foundation, to "I Belong To Jesus," which is a praise song to God, these songs are straight-up worship music.
Spiritual Highlights
There's a theme throughout the record about how our hope is in Jesus, how He is a miracle worker, and how He is with us--even through the storms of life. The album features both original songs and hymns that both share this same theme. There's a line in their rendition of worship band CityAlight's song, "Yet Not I, But Through Christ In Me," that sings: "To this I hold, my shepherd will defend me/Through the deepest valley He will lead." The song reminds me of Psalm 23:4 (ESV) that says, "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." It's great to see this theme all throughout the album. And, it's sure to encourage you.
Best Song on the Record
The best song on the record would have to be "The Sound Of Love." I love the message of it. My favorite part of the song is the chorus that proclaims, "I hear the crashing waves thundering through my soul/I hear a quiet voice/Reminding me of hope/I hear a mighty roar singing a melody/Louder than all my fears/As it washes over me/It's the sound of love." It's a comforting song that I'm sure you'll love.
Overall, Selah has released a great worship album that contains so many biblical truths. Their worship songs are ones that will be relevant for years to come. You can stream Firm Foundation now on Spotify.
An Inspirational Album from a New Artist | Posted March-18-2020 What You Need To Know
Sheri Lynn Riley is a relatively new independent artist. She is also a freelance writer, performer, and speaker. Her new album Love Matters is her second album, which also has a companion book and study guide that goes with it.
What it Sounds Like
Sheri is an independent, inspirational artist who has a worship and country kind of sound to her music. Her songs speak of who Jesus is; some are ballads that depict different stories. From her song "Names Of God" to her song "Unravel Me," these two themes are consistent throughout her album.
Spiritual Highlights
Her title track, "Love Matters," speaks of how, in everything we say and everything we do, we need to portray Jesus by showing love in everything. This reminds me of 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 which says, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." In everything, let's act out of love with 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 as our guideline. The message in "Love Matters" is clear: "When I speak (love matters)/When I listen (love matters)."
Best Song on the Record
The best song on the record is "Names Of God." I love how Sheri sings of who God is, and what His names are in this song.
Sheri has given us a unique album that truly speaks of who God is. If you're looking for an indie inspirational album, listen to Love Matters. The album is now available to stream on Spotify.
An Impressive Song From a New Artist | Posted March-11-2020 What You Need To Know
Skylee Shea is an independent artist who hails from Prescott, Arizona, and now resides in Nashville, Tennessee. At only 20 years of age, Skylee has already started her career in music. She has toured with artists like Building 429, Stars Go Dim, Love & the Outcome, and other Christian bands and artists over the past few years. She has a fresh, new sound, and is an artist that you should keep your eye on.
What it Sounds Like
Skylee's new single, "Drowning," has a fun pop sound to it, and a great lyrical message. Skylee shared that the song was written about struggling in a toxic relationship. And, how she found hope in God when she felt like she was drowning. I love her heart behind this song. If you're in a similar situation, I suggest you listen to this new single. The upbeat pop sound and the encouraging lyrics are sure to uplift you.
Spiritual Highlights
This song is a reminder of Deuteronomy 31:6, which says: "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Whatever you're going through, whatever fear you're facing, remember that God goes before you, and you're not drowning. "Drowning" is a reminder of the hope that God will get you through to the other side, and you won't drown. "I was feeling lost when I fell to the ground/But I found my voice now I'm screaming out loud/Like the waves you came crashing down/Wait a minute/I'm not drowning."
Final Word
For being an independent artist, this is an impressive song. I'm excited to see what God has in store for this new artist. This song is sure to be a fan favorite. And, is one that you should listen to.
A Reminder of Hope | Posted February-10-2020 What You Need To Know
It's been almost two years since the JJ Weeks Band has released any new albums. So, it was a surprise for fans when JJ Weeks released his new solo EP The Sound of Freedom. JJ recently signed an agreement with Radiate Music as a solo artist, so this seems to be the beginning of an exciting new season for JJ Weeks.
What it Sounds Like
JJ has brought us an EP that has those beautiful acoustic and pop sounds that he carries into all of his songs. The songs on the album tackle struggle we face in our day-to-day life, like in JJ's song "Days Like These." We all have bad days, and JJ used this song to share how God remains faithful even through the struggles of life.
Spiritual Highlights
The main theme of this album is that in any circumstance we may be facing, God will be with us. That message is clearly expressed in the song, "Here With Me." The chorus of the song recites, "Even when it's hard to see/You're here with me/I can feel you're by my side/You are my only hope /There's no where else to go/God, I need you here tonight/Here with me." The Bible promises that God will never leave us or forsake us. So, I love how this is a consistent theme throughout the album.
Best Song on the Record
The best song on the record would have to be "Got This Feeling." It's really just a fun pop song, with a great motivational message. It's a reminder that everything is going to be alright, and there's still hope.
Overall, JJ's EP is a reminder of hope and it will be an encouragement to so many. The lyrics are relatable and will help you understand that God is always by your side. You can stream The Sound of Freedom now on Spotify.
Remakes of the Classics | Posted February-09-2020 What You Need To Know
After a nine-year pause from the music scene, Sammy Ward is back with his new EP, Hymns Anew. Sammy is a singer/songwriter from North Georgia but currently resides in Nashville with his family. On his new EP, Sammy takes old hymns that the church has been singing for years, and puts a new, modern spin on them that will appeal to both young and old.
What it Sounds Like
You could ask any of my family members, and they would all give you the same answer: I'm not a fan of hymns. But, surprisingly, I love Sammy Ward's new EP. He has completely modernized hymns like "Glory to His Name," "There Is Power In The Blood," and others.
Spiritual Highlights
Every song on the EP has a spiritually-rooted message. But, my main takeaway is that God never changes. Although some of these songs are over 100 years old, the message remains the same: there is power in the blood of Jesus, and we will always have Him to lean on. But, we can so easily become immune to hearing these old lyrics, because we've heard them so much. I love that Sammy has updated these hymns. So, we can get a fresh, new take on the songs. This way we can really pay attention to the significance of the lyrics. His original song, "Hymns Anew," sings "With fresh faith and with fresh fire/to honor You is my desire/as I trust and follow through/I'll be singing Your hymns anew." This new EP gives us all a chance to listen to these hymns with fresh faith and fresh fire.
Best Song on the Record
The best song on the record is "Blessedness (Leaning on the Everlasting Arms)." It's a great upbeat version of the popular hymn, "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms." It's one that I'm sure the whole family will love. The song has the pop vibes that reminds me of Building 429's hit songs. Essentially, it's an all-around great remake of the old hymn.
Overall, Sammy Ward released an impressive EP. I hope that we'll hear more of these remakes of old hymns in the near future. You can listen to his EP now on Spotify.
A New Worship Album From a New Worship Artist | Posted February-04-2020 What You Need To Know
Taylor Tripodi is an independent singer/songwriter from Cleveland, Ohio with a beautiful voice, and powerful lyrics. After she served as a youth minister for two years, she had a desire to bring hope to hurting people. She decided to pursue a full-time career as a musician and worship leader. Recently, Taylor released her third album, Awakening. One of Taylor's biggest musical influences is Audrey Assad, who is also a Catholic artist. You can hear the similarities to Audrey in Taylor's music. And, her peaceful melodies in all of her songs.
What it Sounds Like
Taylor's worship style is similar to For All Season's, and I'm all for that. Her voice is absolutely beautiful, and her biblically rooted lyrics tie it all together. Her song "We Are Alive" sings of how we are alive in Jesus. And, her song, "Stand In Awe" tells of how incredible and awesome God is.
Spiritual Highlights
Some albums don't speak a whole lot about Jesus; however, this album speaks of Jesus in every single song, and I really love that. The songs on Awakening speak of the glory and splendor of God, and speaks of how we are alive in Christ, like in Taylor's song, "The Dark Is Not Your Home." This song, as well as "We Are Alive," reflects Ephesians 2:4-5, which says, "But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved."
Best Song on the Record
The best song on the record would have to be the title track, "Awakening." Taylor shared in a story behind the song video, that the song speaks of how God is pursuing us and wants to speak life into us. I love how this song is an upbeat worship tune. And, I love the message behind it. "Awakening" is a song that you'll want on repeat. "Awakening, I'm awakening / Spirit come alive in me / awakening, I'm awakening / Your love it sings over everything / I'm awakening."
Taylor has a gifted voice, and, hopefully, we'll hear even more new music from her soon. It can be hard to find new female worship artists. So, if you're looking for a worship album from a new female artist, I suggest you listen to this one. You can stream Awakening now on Spotify.
A Worship Experience | Posted November-19-2019 What You Need To Know:
Leeland is made up of musicians Leeland Mooring and Casey Moore, and is coming off being a part of the Bethel Music Collective, now signed to Integrity Music. Leeland originated in Baytown, Texas, but the members now reside in Nashville, Tennessee. This is the band's first live album, but has previously released five studio albums. They've been nominated for multiple GRAMMY's and Gospel Music Awards, and have received six million views on their "Way Maker" music video.
What it Sounds Like:
Since this is a live album, you really feel like you're part of the audience. It's a unique worship experience that Leeland brings with this new album, but at the same time feels familiar with the comforting lyrics packed with Biblical truths. Leeland's style is similar to that of the Bethel Music group which they spent their past season being a part of.
Spiritual Highlights:
There's a consistent theme throughout the album about the love of God, and waiting on the Lord. With songs like "First Love Fire," to "Wait Upon The Lord." Each song on the album will fill your heart, and remind you that God is faithful. "Let's wait upon the Lord / He will renew our strength / if we just wait upon the Lord / He will renew our strength" –Wait Upon The Lord
Best Song on the Record:
"Way Maker" has become a popular song in worship circles, and Leeland has a beautiful rendition of it on this new live album Better Word. The song proclaims that God is a promise keeper, and even when we can't see it, He's working in our lives. From the lyrics, to the crowd singing in the background, it's a beautiful song, and is the best song on the record!
This album as a whole is beautiful, and one that you'll want on repeat as you go through your day. If you need a boost of encouragement, and a reminder of how much God loves you and is for you, this is an album you have to listen to! It's one of the best live worship albums I've ever heard.
An Album to Remind You of God's Love | Posted October-30-2019 What You Need To Know:
HOUSE is a worship band made up of the worship team of Bethel Church in Temple, Texas, not to be confused with the popular band Bethel Music out of California. Their debut self-titled album came out this summer - it contains twelve original tracks that were recorded live, and they talk about God's love, forgiveness, and faithfulness.
What it Sounds Like:
Every song is a reflection of praise, and how we should worship God with everything we are. It reflects on how God has given us so much, has loved us so much, and that our response should be worship. With songs like "You Make Us Whole" and "My Reward," each song will remind you of the confidence we have in God.
Spiritual Highlights:
The song "Never Gonna Let Me Down" talks about how God will never let us down or let us go. It reminds me of Deuteronomy 31:6, which says, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." God will be by our side in and through everything we will ever go through, so we don't have to ever fear.
"In the darkest night, I'll see / You're watching over me / cause You're never gonna let me down." -Never Gonna Let Me Down
Best Song on the Record:
My favorite song on the record would have to be "Depth of Your Love," featuring Kat Harmann on vocals. It's a beautiful acoustic sounding song that talks about how much God loves us and desires a relationship with us. It also talks of how God came down from Heaven to be with us because he wanted to forgive us and be our forever friend.
HOUSE's debut album is a worshipful one, and will appeal to those who love church music! If you're looking for an album to remind you of who God is and how much He loves you and is for you, this album will be an encouragement!
A Worshipful Debut EP | Posted October-24-2019 What You Need To Know:
Kalley Heiligenthal is part of the Bethel Music group in Redding, California. She's co-written many of the band's songs, including "Every Crown" off Bethel Music'sVictory album, "Let The Redeemed" by Josh Baldwin, and the well known "Ever Be" that churches have come to know and love. Kalley has ventured into a brand new solo EP project called Faultlines, and has released in two volumes.
What it Sounds Like:
Faultlines Vol. 2 is different than Vol. 1, and has more of a worshipful tune to it. It's quieter when compared to Vol. 1, and has more instrumental increments, like in Kalley's song "Vow." However, tt's still beautiful and just as well done as the first volume of the EP project!
Spiritual Highlights:
The second song on the record, "Blessed," reminds me of The Beatitudes in Matthew 5:3-12. We're reminded in those verses that those who have gone through trials will be blessed, and the song reflects that truth. Through every struggle, through searching for God, He will bless us in the end. The song reflects many Biblical truths, and in one verse sings, "Blessed blessed are those whose hearts have been broken / they will they will be held / better than when they began." That line makes me think of Psalm 147:3: "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."
Best Song on the Record:
I love all of Kalley's songs, but my favorite on this EP would have to be "All That I'm After." The song reminds us that we need to pursue God. It also reminds us that we need to surrender our hearts to Him, and truly commit to Him. Surrendering to Him should bring us joy because he is all we need.
From the more worshipful remix of "Faultline" to the symphony of "Vow," Kalley has released an EP that will make any worship lover's heart explode. If you're looking for a worship record to help pick you up and encourage you through a stressful day, this one's for you! It's both a calming and reassuring album that speaks loudly of the truths of God.
GraceChaves_NRT's Music and Book Reviews 
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