When they first appeared on the scene in 2014 with their debut EP Breathe In Deep, Carrollton's striking acoustic/pop sound immediately marked them as a group worth following. With their follow-up Sunshine and Shadows EP a year later, they continued to impress listeners with the seasoned talent they brought to the table on only their sophomore release. Now with the release of their first full-length record Everything or Nothing, the band takes another step in the superior artistry that sets them apart.
Opening track "Glimpses" is a standout moment with hints of a Lifehouse vibe, mixing lead singer Justin's raspy vocals with a rhythmic acoustic background for an all-around captivating sound. Lead single "Shelter" is another highlight on the record, displaying the boldness in Justin's voice while creating a sonic landscape that pulls the listener in. Always a group to infuse strong values into their songs, foot-tapping "Stand My Ground" acts as a follow-up of sorts to "Let Love Win" on their previous release: "It's not too late / all of this hate will start to change and turn around when love is where I choose to stand my ground."
Bringing the energy down briefly, title track "Everything Or Nothing" speaks to the importance of being fully invested, similar to the message of sonically laid-back "Giving It All To You" which encourages a life fully surrendered to Christ's plans. Upbeat "In Between" boasts thought-provoking lyricism for the mundane moments: "Show me the miracles in the simple / open my eyes to see that beautiful life is found in the journey in the days in between."
Worshipful "Rebuilder" and "Leaning In" serve as praise for the character of God, beautifully wrapped in simple acoustic settings that point the focus towards the message. Yet another high point on this record, vibrant "Promises" proves hard to take off repeat with its up-tempo reminder of God's faithfulness: "You come through like You said You would / I'm holding on for You are good." Piano-led "I Will Trust" closes the album with alluring harmonies and lyrics of bold faith in the face of uncertainty.
The Bottom Line: For me, Carrollton has time and time again proven their status as one of the most innovative and talented groups CCM has seen in a while. While they are a group that is still largely underrated, the remarkable artistry and seasoned sound Carrollton crafts into their music makes them a standout that always leaves me wanting to hear more. For only being their first full-length release, Everything Or Nothing is an impressive step in the sonic footprint Carrollton is making on this genre.
Album of the Year Contender | Posted October-02-2017
Compilation albums are a delicacy of sorts since they often bring together the leading artists in a genre, uniting them on one record under the banner of a special project. It's clear from just one look at the outstanding track list overflowing with brand new songs and unique collaborations from CCM's top voices that Word Entertainment's My Utmost for His Highest compilation album is set to be one for the books.
Celebrating the beloved Oswald Chambers' devotional of the same name with thirteen songs each inspired by a specific passage of the bestseller, this album contains tracks from industry giants for KING & COUNTRY, Lauren Daigle, Big Daddy Weave, Francesca Battistelli and many more.
Kicking off with a long-awaited collaboration, Grammy winners for KING & COUNTRY join their sister Rebecca St. James for a moving version of "Amazing Grace." The true standout moment for me on the album comes early, delivered flawlessly by Meredith Andrews' powerhouse vocals on "Needing You Now," a tender yet captivating song of praise in difficulty. Following with an equally special, We Are Messengers puts their fingerprints on Crowder's lyrically-stunning "My Victory," which was co-written by Messengers' frontman Darren Mulligan.
A previously unreleased acoustic version of Lauren Daigle's "Power To Redeem" displays her smoky vocals, much like pop songstress Hollyn's heartfelt ballad "There's A Hope" featuring Chris McClarney. In unique collaborations that perfectly hit their mark, Zealand Worship is joined by Tenth Avenue North's Mike Donehey on well-written "Yours," Big Daddy Weave and Francesca Battistelli join forces for worshipful "Lavish" and Unspoken and Blanca team up on thoughtful "Light That Never Fades."
Worship leaders Sarah Reeves and Chris Quilala bring their signature passion to "This I Know," while "I Surrender" is another praise-worthy offering from Brandon Hampton and United Pursuit. The first piece of new music from Chris August in a while, "Abide In Me" shines with Chris' soulful vocals at the helm. Closing out the album, Selah's emotional "Unfailing Father" contrasts well with upbeat, sonically energized "I Come Alive" from Out of the Dust and The Gray Havens.
The Bottom Line: After only one listen through, I was ready to name My Utmost for His Highest a strong contender for album of the year. The more I listen, the more hooked I get on each brand new, heartfelt song. No other album this year has given us multiple artist pairings like this, not to mention the eloquent songwriting, quality creativity and top-of-their-class vocals found in every track. My Utmost for His Highest is a highly significant release you don't want to miss.
Faith-Filled Lyrics Through Dynamic Pop Melodies | Posted September-28-2017
In 2002, Jeremy Camp appeared on the CCM scene with breakout singles "Walk By Faith" and "I Still Believe." Born from the deep grief of losing his first wife to cancer, Jeremy channeled his pain into music and chose to be vulnerable with his story, creating songs of healing for all who would listen.
Well over a decade later, the sound has evolved but the heart is the same. Jeremy's last few records have proven that gone are the days of his rock roots, and in their place is a worship-tinted pop vibe that stands up well beside the ever-present anthemic lyrics of faith that have been a constant from the very beginning. Now ready to proclaim a new message of hope, Jeremy prepares to release his ninth studio album, The Answer.
Lead single "Word Of Life" kicks off the album with the high-energy sound that has become signature in Jeremy's music, followed by standout track "My Defender," which pairs vibrant beats with equally uplifting lyrics proclaiming who Christ is: "You're my defender / You fight for me / I will remember You're all I need / You are my healer, my remedy against the power of the unknown / I will not stand alone 'cause You're my defender."
Carrying faith-filled messages, worshipful title track "The Answer" contrasts well with bold "Storm" that longs for the presence of God. Acoustic-flavored "My Father's Arms" and "Heaven's Shore (Forevermore)" display Jeremy's raspy dynamic vocals, while "Never Stopped Loving" and "Tell The Whole World" take things a bit down-tempo while never losing power.
Sonically captivating "Carriers" and "Love So Great" will grab the attention of listeners within their opening moments. Swampy "Awake O Sleeper" closes the album with a grungy rock feel nodding to his roots.
The Bottom Line: Jeremy Camp's rock days may be over, but the high-energy pop sound has been established with just as much impact. Mixed with all the sonic developments, the moments of heartfelt worship Jeremy leads so well are still as present as ever alongside the lyrics of bold faith that have been a staple from the beginning. The Answer is yet another success from Jeremy as he keeps proving to his fans that the well of quality music is nowhere near empty.
Another Storytelling Success | Posted September-19-2017 Matthew West is a phenomenal artist, creative, musician and so much more--- but I would propose to you that there's nothing Matthew does quite as well as tell stories. Be it with his own story or the stories of others, Matthew has a remarkable way of transforming painful pasts into lyrics that breathe hope and healing.
With a songwriting craftsmanship that somehow continues to get better with each record, Matthew's discography is overflowing with track after track that has changed lives and encouraged listeners by pointing them to Christ. Now ready to share a new message with the world, Matthew's latest release All In has a story all its own: "The fact that God still uses me blows me away. There are a lot of times that I feel broken and unqualified for God to use me, but day after day He invites me into the gates and says 'I'm going to use you in a powerful way' because our God is in the business of using broken people and broken things."
The title track "All In" opens the album with a strong display of West's vivid writing that cuts straight to the heart of the message: "Turns out 'safe' is just another word for regret / so I step to the edge and I take a deep breath / we're all dying to live but we're all scared to death / this is the part where my head tells my heart it should turn back around but there's no turning back now / I'm going all in." Lead radio single "Broken Things" follows, offering a fresh take on the reminder that God is more than able to use our weaknesses for His glory.
Matthew's storytelling skills come alive beautifully as he details his own life experiences in "The Sound Of A Life Changing." Continuing that thread, "Power Love Sound Mind" powerfully meshes together the true stories of others and "Never Ever Give Up" honors the life of Matthew's young friend Brooke Mulford. Brooke recently passed away after a long battle with cancer, but her inspiring story of strength and her resilient spirit live on through this song (click here to see Matthew play the song for Brooke).
Redemptive "Mercy Is A Song" and foot-tapping "Amen" will have listeners singing along with their catchy melodies, contrasting well against emotional "The Beautiful Things We Miss" and heartfelt "Becoming Me," which features Lulu West in a touching father-daughter moment. Keeping with that theme of family, "Jesus & You" and "Something Greater" are beautiful tributes to his wife and their life together.
Wrapping up the hearty fourteen-track album, "Dream Again" offers a dose of encouragement to discouraged hearts, and "You Are Known" serves as a letter to those who feel forgotten and alone.
The Bottom Line: There are few artists who convey their messages as descriptively, creatively and passionately as Matthew West consistently does. Carefully crafted by a writer who doesn't shy away from baring his heart and allowing a refreshing authenticity to invade his music, All In offers the perfect mix of both fulfilling pop tunes and heartfelt ballads as beautiful lyricism completes the picture of a quality record.
Geared Towards Kids, Impactful For All | Posted September-19-2017
For every artist, music is a vehicle for sharing their story--and Tim Timmons has a powerful story to tell. Over fifteen years ago, the singer/songwriter was given five years to live due to an incurable cancer diagnosis. In the pain and uncertainty that followed such a life-changing event, Timmons began to pour himself into music, sharing his inspiring journey of faith strengthened in difficulty through songs that challenge listeners to live as though God's promises are true, even in the face of hardship.
Now with several impactful studio albums behind him, Timmons infuses those same themes into a children's project, Who I Am. Inspired by his 10,000 Minutes movement/blog started in 2015, the album seeks to remind kids (and parents too) of who they are in Christ and what it would look like if we lived that out all week long--a message Tim is especially passionate about.
Kicking off with the title track, "Who I Am" offers the first taste of the high-energy pop goodness that fills the whole album, backed by lyrics that speak to both kids and adults: "I won't let fear call my name / I won't be shaken or afraid / Jesus, I'm confident in who You say I am." "Reflections Of You" continues the 10,000 Minutes theme by challenging listeners to represent Jesus with their lives, not just during Sunday's church service but throughout the rest of the week too.
Catchy "A Beautiful Thing" encourages with a singable reminder of the Lord's affection for His children, while equally upbeat "I Will Follow You" and "King Of Forever" touch on the sovereign ability of Christ to lead our lives. "I Surrender" is a highlight on the album, mixing deep lyrical content with a fun melody for the best of both worlds.
A special treat for CCM fans, former Sanctus Real lead singer Matt Hammitt makes an appearance on "The Name Of Jesus," lending his raspy vocals to the track as a phenomenal addition. Examples of the stellar sonic creativity that makes this project a success, "We Know" and "Center Of It All" keep the tempo up and continue to give listeners lyrical substance wrapped in feel-good tunes. Bringing the album to a close with revamped versions of a few songs from Tim's last record Awake Our Souls, "All I Really Want" is featured alongside a live version of "Everywhere I Go."
The Bottom Line: Who I Am is the epitome of a children's project done right. Creative production meets memorable melodies to create high-energy moments that will no doubt pull kids in, while also packed with profound lyrical truths made simple to sing along with. Still, the best part of this album is its wide accessibility. Though it is very much geared towards kids, it also carries enough substance for adults to enjoy too. A record that will infuse infectious faith and danceable joy into all who hear it, this is Timmons in his element.
An Acoustic Success | Posted September-04-2017
With an impressive catalogue that has long sealed his spot as one of the most profound and impactful artists Christian music has ever seen, any time Jason Gray releases new music, it's something to pay attention to.
A fun little project to hold fans over between major releases, The Acoustic Sessions EP is the culmination of four acoustic performances released on Jason's YouTube channel earlier this year. Half re-workings of his original songs and half covers of well-known tunes, this EP may be short, but it shows no lack of creativity.
Opening the album with a strong display of Jason's innovating skills, a stripped-down version of empowering "I Will Rise Again" from his latest studio album Where The Light Gets In is ushered in with a brief piece of Prince's "Thieves In The Temple." Featuring bold lyrics of faith carried by Jason's raspy, emotional vocals, this new take on the song is every bit as strong as the original, with an additional beauty that only a raw acoustic performance can bring. Another special track that made it over from Where The Light Gets In, "Thank You For Everything" is a lyrically compelling moment that shines in this acoustic setting.
Putting his fingerprints on a piece that proved to be a big deal this year, Jason's cover of "City Of Stars" from the hit film La La Land is so well-executed that the song sounds like it was made for him. Wrapping up with Imagine Dragons' "Believer," Jason tackles the pop cover with flawless ease and gives listeners a sonically fulfilling moment.
Over and over again through his career, Jason Gray shows that there is no song or setting he can't handle with exceptional skill. Whether it's a studio recording, live show, cover tune or acoustic session, the singer/songwriter knows how to own the song in a way that keeps listeners intrigued from beginning to end.
The Bottom Line: With a constant creativity that few artists carry as well as Jason Gray, The Acoustic Sessions EP is an entertaining collection that will keep fans anticipating his next release.
Ready To Fly Again | Posted August-31-2017
For pop songstress Jamie Grace, the past few years have been a mix of every possible emotion as she's struggled to release new music. From the frustration and disappointment of parting ways with her record label (which almost caused her to call it quits on her music career), to the excitement and possibility that came along with being pulled up on stage to sing with powerhouse Adele at a show last year, Jamie's faced quite an eventful landscape of highs and lows since the 2014 release of her sophomore project Ready To Fly.
Now ready to begin the next season of her career as an independent artist, Jamie is finally sharing the new music she has believed in for so long. "As far as style and production, this is the most fun I have had working on a project," the "Hold Me" singer says about the excitement surrounding her long-awaited third studio album '91.
'91 kicks off with the movingly autobiographical, acoustic-toned tunes that fans have come to expect and adore from Jamie. "Different (Interlude)" sets the stage for the rest of the album, alongside "Daughter Of The King" (featuring Jamie's sister and fellow artist Morgan Harper Nichols) and "Sixteen." These tracks contrast well with what is largely an upbeat album by remaining sonically laid-back, leaving the focus on Jamie's stellar songwriting skills and raw emotion.
Previously released "The Happy Song" acts as a musical infusion of joy with Jamie's versatile vocal paving the way for an entertaining listen, much like current feel-good single "Party Like A Princess." Both will no doubt get fans up on their feet. Peppy "One Of A Kind" and heartfelt "Bella" (which Jamie calls the follow-up to "God Girl") revisit Jamie's personal method of forming lyrics to encourage listeners that they are known and loved by God.
Jamie tries her hand at rapping (and nails it!) on "Reverb (Interlude)," followed by sonically intriguing and lyrically hard-hitting "Games," which tackles the tough subject of bullying: "Careful how you treat the kid that never fit in / your words might hurt more than you could ever think."
Closing out the project on a lighter note, Jamie offers an acoustic version of "Bella" and moving "Heaven (Fix Things)," a vulnerable, emotionally powerful and hopeful moment on the album.
The Bottom Line: It's official--Jamie Grace is back and ready to fly again. '91 holds all the unique personality, musical creativity, lyrical skill and vocal talents of her previous work, with the added passion of someone who has fought hard to release songs she whole-heartedly believes in. Intimate acoustic tracks come alongside fun dance jams and powerful anthems of self-worth to produce what we can safely name Jamie's best work yet. It's the beginning of a new era for the singer/songwriter, and good things are sure to follow.
Authentic Worship | Posted August-26-2017
U.K. songwriter and worship leader at the New Wine fellowship of churches, Chris Sayburn is no stranger to working with Integrity Music. Chris has been writing and collaborating in the background for the label's projects for several years, but he returns to the spotlight with his Integrity debut album Saved By Grace.
"It would be a blessing to hear if just one song impacts someone to keep going, keep loving and following Jesus...this would be worth all the effort. My benchmark for success is that the album adds value in serving the Church. My desire is to write songs that the local Church can get hold of and use," Chris says of his goal for the ten tracks on this album.
Chris' smooth vocal opens the album with "Spirit and Truth," a declaration of worship that I can see being a powerful moment in many congregations. Upbeat "Up and Alive" follows, a melodically fun track that would make a great opening for a church service: "Gonna dance for You and we don't care if we look like fools / 'cause we know what we're born into and it's nothing less than Your glory." Slowing down to a more reverent tone, "Nothing But Grace" and "My Jesus" prove to serve the church as well-led times of worship.
Another melodic success, "Praise His Name Forever" will get stuck in your head with its drum-driven backdrop. Gentle "Trust In You" is a call to proclaim His faithfulness, contrasting nicely with "Closer," which mixes the softness of worship with the captivating beats of a well-produced CCM track. "Have It All" continues the theme of great production, bridging the road between worship and AC music. The project wraps up with emotion-heavy "Come To The Water."
The Bottom Line: A collection of songs that serve their purpose well, Saved By Grace will no doubt be a gift to the church in their times of worship. Gathering strong vocals, scriptural lyrics and creative melodies in every track, Chris Sayburn has crafted an album of authentic praise with his Integrity debut.
Powerful Praise in the Face of Pain | Posted August-18-2017
For new Integrity artist Alisa Turner, worship music isn't just a career--it's the thing that has carried her through her hardest nights. Through the death of her father, the tragic loss of her infant son and years of suffering the chronic pain and debilitating difficulties of Lyme Disease, Alisa has never once quit singing. She'll be quick to tell you that in every dark moment, she goes to her piano and finds a song. It is the meeting place with God that keeps her breathing.
Newly signed by Integrity Music and heading toward the release of her self-titled debut EP, Alisa's heart for worship and genuine spirit that creates lyrical honesty will capture the attention of anyone who listens. With a voice that's both strong and soaring yet gentle and reverent, she has turned the brokenness of all she's faced into a boldness that fans will hear in every line of these six new tracks.
Previously released as part of All About Worship's last album, "Lift My Eyes" opens the EP as a powerful declaration of Christ's faithfulness, carried gracefully by Alisa's passionate vocals. A heartfelt moment of worship that will quickly pull you in, Alisa's emotion is nearly tangible in "Not Even Now" as she sings of His sovereignty in suffering: "Though sometimes the future seems uncertain / though sometimes we're faced with the unknown / nothing's gonna strip You of Your power / nothing's gonna shake You from Your throne / not even now are You defeated." A personal proclamation of sorts, upbeat "More Than Gonna Make It" offers a lyrical dose of confidence and assurance in Christ to give us victory in hard times.
The lead single currently at radio, "My Prayer For You" is the only song on this EP that Turner didn't have a hand in writing, though the message and melody fit her as perfectly as if she had penned it herself. "May God give you eyes to see He's still greater / courage to rise and believe He's able / may God be your peace in the fire you're walking through / this is my prayer for you," the hopeful chorus says.
Previously recorded by labelmate Corey Voss on his new project Songs Of Heaven and Earth, "As It Is In Heaven" is yet another time of worship that feels refreshingly authentic in its delivery. Closing out the EP with a vulnerable take on Scripture, "Psalm 13" pairs the Word of God with Alisa's raw vocal for a beautiful outro.
When Alisa Turner sings, it's impossible not to feel the emotion carved into her voice. Her story is one of extreme heartbreak and unrelenting hope, a combination that sets the stage for a compelling testimony when paired with songs that praise His goodness and faithfulness in the face of pain. The songstress encapsulates what it means to be a true artist, carrying an overwhelming passion and authentic soul into all she creates.
The Bottom Line: Short but sweet, the six songs on the Alisa Turner EP are proof: this is a voice worship music needs to hear.
A Legacy of Authentic Praise | Posted August-09-2017
Beginning with the first Planetshakers Conference in 1997, the Australian worship band has continued to unite countries and generations in praise for two decades now. With hearts set on seeing people transformed by encounters with Christ, Planetshakers have travelled across the world sharing their songs and worshipping together.
Following the release of their spring EP Legacy Part 1: Alive Again, the Legacy Part 2: Passion EP was recorded live in Melbourne, with the full Legacy CD/DVD set to release later this year.
Infused with the special energy that only live recordings contain, the lively title track "Passion" opens the EP with near-tangible joy and excitement: "You have it, my passion, my praises, always / I give You my passion, my praises, always / I give You all of me." Flowing nicely into the next track, "Prophesy" continues the theme of energetic praise with bold lyrics and a melody to make you dance.
Two lengthy recordings, "We Speak Life" and "You Call Me Beautiful," close the EP with powerful lyrical declarations of faith. Though both of these are close to the ten-minute mark in time, they never feel forced and keep the listener captivated in authentic worship throughout the whole track.
As someone who listens to a lot of worship music, I can honestly say that this EP is one of the most genuine-feeling expressions of praise I've heard in a long time. What it lacks in track length, it more than makes up for in lyrical depth, engaging vocals and powerful worship moments captured in their live setting.
The Bottom Line: In a season where worship albums seem to be multiplying faster than listeners can consume them, the Legacy Part 2: Passion EP is one you don't want to let pass you by.
CaitlinLassiter_NRT's Music and Book Reviews 
