Heaven's Worth the Hurting | Posted January-16-2024 What You Need To Know
Luke Bower is a new name in the Christian music industry. Although music was always part of his life, he would practice and write songs secretly. His dream of becoming a musician was always at the forefront of his mind, but he chose to enroll in Baylor University to seek a career in finance instead. He felt he was letting his dream of becoming a musician get away, so he prayed for a chance to see his dream become reality. Shortly after, Bower received a text from a talent scout who'd found one of his YouTube videos.
A domino effect happened. That text led to a trip to Nashville, where he realized he needed to tell his family about his dream. They supported him, so Bower left Baylor University and pursued songwriting. When he was only 20, he signed a record deal with music label Fairtrade Services. Since then, he has released songs such as "Haunted" and "Not My Home" from his upcoming EP, Man On Fire.
What it Sounds Like
The first time I heard Bower's song "Not My Home," I was in tears. Beauty was packaged into a three-minute and twenty-five-second track. His style differs from the typical contemporary Christian Music (CCM) genre. While many CCM songs can be bland and each one similar to the next, Bower has presented us with an entirely new way to think about Christian music. He's putting creativity back into Christian music.
Noah Kahan is a common name on my college campus. His folk music has become highly successful, and he's practically become a trend among my peers. But for Christian families trying to protect their kids from explicit lyrics, his songs are less than ideal. That's why it's so important that artists like Luke Bower are coming onto the scene. He's providing listeners with clean, uplifting folk songs that glorify the name of Jesus.
From "Haunted," which has an edgy, folk-rock feel, to "Man On Fire," with its beautiful, poetic lyrics, there's no shortage of talent on this EP. Bower is breathing new life into the often-overlooked genre of Christian folk.
Spiritual Highlights
It would doubtlessly take me several listens before I could present a list of all the incredible spiritual messages on this five-song EP. Each song is laden with profound scriptural truths, provoking me to think deeper about the lyrics. "Halfway To Your Heart," in particular, is lyrically one of my favorite songs from the record. It's a desperate cry to chase after God's heart--no matter the cost. There's a line that says, "I won't stop this searching even if it isn't working/Heaven's worth the hurting."
This concept of chasing after heaven also appears in other songs, including the title track "Man On Fire." In it, the artist opens up about how lonely it can feel to be a Christian "with a cross on your back." The EP is an encouragement that, as lonely and challenging as it can be to be a "man on fire," it's worth it. At the end of all our pain and suffering is heaven's promise: our reward in Jesus Christ. What could ever be better than that?
Best Song
"Not My Home" is the first song I ever heard from Luke Bower, and it's remained my favorite song on the EP. As a college student, I deeply resonate with this song and this entire EP. I, fittingly, listened to this song over Christmas break and was stunned by its relevance to my life. I've wrestled with the question of "home" and have tried for months to figure out where that place is. Is home where my favorite city is, or is it where I grew up? Is home even a place, or is it a person?
Those questions were laid to rest with this song and the simple reminder that nowhere on this earth is my home. My citizenship is in heaven. My true home is not a particular country, state, or dwelling place. My home is where Jesus is, and His home is in heaven. And sometimes, heaven will come down and touch the earth. That's when I realize where I truly belong.
"My eyes have never seen it, but I know that it exists/Something in my soul says there's a better place than this/I'm a stranger in my own skin 'cause there's Eden in my bones/If home is where the heart is/Then this world is not my home."
Luke Bower shared, "I want my music to be different and raw, that can touch the heart. I want to make stuff that can resonate with souls." And that is undoubtedly what he's doing. He's making music that is profoundly resonating with souls, including mine. I've been so impressed by this new artist's music, and I'm excited to see what's ahead for him.
If you're a fan of folk music, Man On Fire is a must-listen. Listen on Spotify here and Apple Music here.
Honoring A Classic | Posted September-14-2023 What You Need To Know
Switchfoot is an alternative rock band from San Diego, California. The band is composed of lead singer Jon Foreman, his brother Tim, Chad Butler, Jerome Fontamillas, and Boaz Roberts. Their history dates back to 1997, when they released their debut album, Legend of Chin. Since then, the group has released hit after hit with songs like "Live It Well" and "Love Alone is Worth the Fight." But perhaps the group is most well known for their songs "Meant to Live," "This Is Your Life," and "Dare You to Move," featured on their 2003 record, The Beautiful Letdown.
As a celebration of their landmark record, Switchfoot has released The Beautiful Letdown (Our Version), which features rerecorded versions of the songs from their hit album. By bringing new life to the original tracks while maintaining their authenticity, the band has created an updated version that is sure to please fans. To make the release even more special, Switchfoot has enlisted the help of some friends for The Beautiful Letdown (Our Version) [Deluxe Edition].
Featuring renowned artists such as Jon Bellion, Owl City, Jonas Brothers, and Relient K, each song on The Beautiful Letdown received a unique makeover.
What it Sounds Like
With each artist bringing their own sound to their respective songs, there's no specific genre The Beautiful Letdown (Our Version) [Deluxe Edition] falls under. There are aspects of pop on Owl City's version of "Gone," indie singer/songwriter on Monica Martin's version of "More Than Fine," and, of course, rock and roll on Relient K's version of "Ammunition."
Switchfoot somehow brought together all the genres and artists I love into one place for The Beautiful Letdown (Our Version) [Deluxe Edition], and I'm obsessed with it. But even with the various musical styles, every song has Switchfoot's stamp. This album honors the milestone 20th anniversary of The Beautiful Letdown, and I couldn't be more pleased with how this record turned out.
Spiritual Highlights
What I like about Switchfoot is how they incorporate their faith into almost every song they write. While not every track paints a picture of Jesus in black and white, the gospel is in the poetic flow of their lyrics. One of the best examples of this is in "On Fire." While it's unclear who the song was for, it reminds me so much of my relationship with God.
"You're on fire when he's near you," popstress Ingrid Andress sings in her beautiful version of the song. "You're on fire/When he speaks/You're on fire/Burning at these mysteries."
As an aspiring poet, Switchfoot beautifully draws you into the story they're trying to tell through their music. The way they include elements of their faith in their music is inspiring, and those elements are especially apparent in this album.
Best Song
Is it possible to pick a favorite from this album? Owl City's version of "Gone" made me smile and brought me to my childhood. Dayglow's "Adding To The Noise" brought all those feel-good West Coast vibes. Sleeping At Last brought their iconic sound to "Monday Comes Around." But the biggest highlight is "Dare You to Move," featuring OneRepublic lead singer Ryan Tedder.
"Dare You to Move" is the only song on the album to feature Jon Foreman's vocals. (As a big Switchfoot fan, this is a personal favorite.). His voice and Ryan's blend perfectly. I cannot think of a better way Switchfoot could have honored this song. It respects the original well while bringing a new voice to the track.
"I dare you to move/I dare you to move/I dare you to lift yourself up off the floor/I dare you to move/ I dare you to move/Like today never happened/Today never happened before."
I grew up listening to The Beautiful Letdown. To see these songs be given new life and introduced to a new audience warms my heart. It's easy for a band to produce an album--especially early on in their career--and forget about it. But Switchfoot knows how much these songs mean to their fans, so they've given it much honor and respect.
It's a new era for Switchfoot, and I couldn't be more excited. In addition to the new album, Switchfoot is currently on The Beautiful Letdown 20th Anniversary Tour to celebrate this milestone occasion. For tickets and more information, click here.
Listen to The Beautiful Letdown (Our Version) [Deluxe Edition] on Apple Music and Spotify.
From Hurt to Healing | Posted May-04-2023 What You Need To Know
David Dunn has been bringing his unique style and sound to Christian music since his first album, For the Life of Me, in 2012. With songs like "Today Is Beautiful," "I Wanna Go Back," and "The Long Way Home," David Dunn's blend of pop and EDM has gotten the attention of fans and music critics alike. Now, he's back with his fifth full-length album, Boys.
The 11-track album follows David's 2020 album, Perspectives. Featuring songs like "Spend a Life" and "Church," Perspectives further established David as a talented songwriter and musician. On Boys, David continues to tap into his musical expertise in each of the 11 tracks. Once again, he has proven himself to be among the best of the best in the Christian music industry.
What it Sounds Like
The first thing that stood out to me on Boys is David's knack to pen such vulnerable and relatable songs. From start to finish, Boys is a journey from hurt to healing and the messy yet beautiful process in between. Common themes on the album are doubt, trust, faith, pain, and the unending love and kindness of God.
There's been a slow demise of artists writing honest songs. Although I love reminders that everything will be okay, I find albums like Boys much more relatable. As much as I need songs about God's greatness, I also need songs that remind me that God isn't afraid of my doubt; He isn't afraid of my pain. That's precisely what David Dunn's album is all about.
The album journeys through the highs and lows of life while maintaining a balance of pop and EDM that David Dunn is known for. Every track was intentional, resulting in an album that is one of my favorites of the year.
Spiritual Highlights
David Dunn indirectly references scripture in some songs while he makes bold declarations of faith in others. "Poison" is the perfect example of how David is able to incorporate the truth of scripture in a subtle way.
The song finds the artist torn between right and wrong. In the bridge, David sings, "I keep hating what I do, but I love it/I keep loving what I do, but I hate it." It echoes Paul's words in Romans 7:19 (NIV), "For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do--this I keep on doing."
But beyond merely referencing scripture, David does an incredible job pointing his audience back to the heart of God. In "Hymn of an Addict," David sings about finding Jesus in his lowest place. The song reflects on the freedom found in Him, while "The Greatest" focuses on our call to love like Jesus. Song after song, David finds clever ways to include Biblical truths.
Best Song on the Record
My favorite song on Boys would have to be "Did You Come for Me." Every lyric is incredibly vulnerable yet carefully crafted. The song feels like a love letter to Jesus, the One who lived and died to give us victory. David sings, "I don't wanna live in fear all by myself/God, I need some company, what if it was you and me?"
Some believe we must clean up our act before we can come to Jesus. But this song reflects the opposite message--it invites Jesus into our mess. "I'm the weak, I'm the broken/I'm the widow and the orphan/Did you come for me?/I'm the poor, I'm the leper/I'm the blind, just another beggar/Did you come for me?"
Jesus came for all of us: not just for the religious elite or those living a perfect life. He came for the broken, the weak, the widow, and the orphan: you and me, at our best and worst. And the best news of all is that He didn't come just to leave us; Jesus is living inside us, breathing His life into ours. His ever-present company will always be with us, for now, and all eternity.
I believe it's safe to say that Boys is one of the best albums of 2023. David's songwriting prowess is evident throughout the entire record, and I love how he gets the gospel across in a way that isn't cliche. Boys breaths new life into old truths, and the vulnerability it displays will impact its listeners. This album has already been encouraging me, and I can't wait to see the reach it will continue to have.
A Tribute to Ireland | Posted March-02-2023 What You Need to Know
After touring around Ireland and the UK with a makeshift band called The Remission Flow for three years, Darren Mulligan left his native Ireland to pursue a calling. With his wife Heidi and three young children in tow, they headed to Nashville, Tennessee, with the prospect of a record deal with Word Entertainment. The family started their new life in the United States, with Darren daily writing songs and pursuing the calling that God had placed on his life. For the next year, he wrote more than 100 songs--14 of which became his debut album under the moniker We Are Messengers.
The 2016 Curb/Word Records release included songs "Magnify," "Point To You," and "Everything Comes Alive," which quickly became chart-topping hits. Since then, We Are Messengers has continued their successful career with songs like "Maybe It's Okay," "Love," and their latest radio hit, "Wholehearted."
Darren's latest EP, Hills of Tyrone, is a personal collection that points back to his Irish roots. The EP is a compilation of love songs for his wife and wisdom for his children, echoing his deep love for his homeland.
What It Sounds Like
Although We Are Messengers began only seven years ago, there's something nostalgic to me about Darren's voice. When I started following Jesus, I had Darren's debut album on repeat. Day after day, I would listen to his music, and his songs "Magnify" and "Giants Fall" became anthems for me as I found freedom from my battle with anxiety. We Are Messengers became the soundtrack to those early days of knowing Jesus, and I can't listen to his music without thinking back to that sweet time.
In the same way, We Are Messengers' latest EP, Hills of Tyrone, must invoke feelings of home and nostalgia for Darren Mulligan. The EP feels like a love letter to Ireland, and it will transport you to the green hills of his homeland. From the warm, acoustic guitar notes in "Oiche Mhaith" to the powerful lyrics in "Seasons," each song will have you longing for the beauty and wonder of home.
Spiritual/Lyrical Highlights
While Hills of Tyrone is mainly a tribute to Darren's family and his native homeland, one song is solely a love letter back to God. "Father Would You Hold My Hand" is more like a prayer than a song, and the simplicity of it is so compelling.
The first verse asks, "Father would you hold my hand?/The water's rising I can't stand/I led myself to sinking sand/So Father would you hold my hand?" We all have had moments where it feels like we're drowning. Whether it be in anxiety, depression, or a trying season of life. But this song is a reminder that, even through the difficulties, we have a Father who is willing to hold our hand. What more could we ever ask for?
Best Song
Nearing my high school graduation, I find any song about growing up to be a tear-jerker. Darren's song "Older" speaks about how scary it can feel to grow up--yet we can't do anything about it. All we can do is hold onto the ones we love, whether a friend, parent, or spouse. Each song on the EP is memorable, but this one hits home for me.
The slow, introspective song doesn't provide answers as much as it gives comfort. The years will go on and the seasons will change, but "Older" beckons us to hold onto the people around us. The chorus sings, "Everybody's getting older/I find it kinda hard to believe/But I don't really care about being young no more/Cause darling you're getting older with me."
I almost forgot how much I love We Are Messengers until I listened to Hills of Tyrone. I've mainly had my head in alt-rock lately, but it was lovely to branch out and listen to We Are Messengers again. They were my first favorite Christian band, and I loved rediscovering their music again.
Hills of Tyrone is a beautiful tribute to Darren's family and to his homeland, and I'll have it on repeat for the days to come. Listen to Hills of Tyrone now on Spotify and Apple Music.
Music filled with hope and faith | Posted October-22-2021 What You Need To Know
Emerging artist Emily Faith bursted into the Christian music scene in 2017 when she opened for Newsboys during their God's Not Dead - Rivals tour. Shortly after, she started opening for the Grammy Award-winning duo for KING & COUNTRY. In 2020, Emily released her debut single "Breakthrough" and recently dropped her new EP, Rebel. The four-track record, co-written with songwriters Tony Wood, Benji Cowart, and Caleb, showcases what Emily is capable of as an artist.
What it Sounds Like
As soon as I heard Emily's new EP, she instantly reminded me of another rising artist: Anne Wilson. Both artists started their musical careers at an early age. And both bring a unique mix of country and pop vibes to their songs. Emily's songs are all biblically based and rooted in the central message of Jesus. Her lyrics are inspiring, and the melodies are upbeat and filled with faith. From the optimistic "Rebel" to the slower-paced "All You Wanted Was Me," every track is laden with truth and hope.
Spiritual Highlights
These four new songs are about holding on to hope and faith, even when the world looks at us (that is, Christians) as "rebels." The whole EP is tied into this theme (hence the title). The world might look at us as "different" or "outcasts" because of our faith, but Emily isn't afraid of that. 1 Peter 3:15 says, "But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect." Truly, that's what all four songs are about. It's about telling the world about Jesus and sharing hope in a hopeless world.
Best Song
"This Is Faith" is the best song on the record. As the title implies, it's a song about faith. It's about holding on to faith even when we can't see the whole picture. Our circumstances may seem dire or impossible. But Emily makes it clear to her listeners that with God, we can trust that there's more to life than what we see now. The song is hopeful: "This is just believing when it seems impossible/This is just the silence right before a miracle/This is hurry up and wait, just before the breakthrough breaks and takes you right on to the next right place/This is faith."
Emily Faith is an artist to keep your eye on. She's definitely going places. I wouldn't be surprised if I hear her songs go to radio soon. Although her songs aren't necessarily my style, her pop-inspired melodies and enthusiasm are infectious.
An Invitation to Flourish | Posted August-31-2021 What You Need To Know
Although vocalist Mike Donehey only recently started releasing music as a solo artist, he's no stranger to the Christian music scene. For 20 years, Mike was the frontman for the celebrated band Tenth Avenue North. Shortly after they disbanded in 2020, Mike decided to continue to make music.
By the end of 2020, he released his debut single "Better," followed by two EPs. Flourish is Mike's first full-length solo album, featuring his hit radio single "All Together." The 11-track record, written during the COVID-19 pandemic, expresses Mike's desire to flourish through pain.
What it Sounds Like
Compared to Tenth Avenue North's albums, Mike's new album Flourish has a slightly different sound. With this solo project, Mike is inviting fans to see a more personal side of him. It feels like this is what Mike's career has been leading up to. The record is filled with honesty, and every song tells of what God has done in his life. All of these songs are raw and real, and it almost reminds me of Tenth Avenue North's The Things We've Been Afraid to Say EP. Mike's new music has a singer/songwriter vibe to it, and I love seeing him experiment with this project.
Spiritual Highlights
This album was birthed out of the pandemic. Without a doubt, 2020 was a year filled with division and heartache, but this record reflects the opposite. Every song, filled with unity, tells of how God can use pain and make it beautiful. The album has many different spiritual highlights, with valuable life lessons. It's filled with messages about God's faithfulness and His provision.
But, the biggest theme throughout the record is trust. These songs point to the character of Jesus and how He won't let us down. We can trust that He has a plan that is bigger than our own and that we're going to flourish in it. The title track says it all, "I'm gonna flourish/Your promises are water for my soul/I know I'm gonna flourish."
Best Song on the Record
There are so many great offerings on this record; every song is unique in its own way. But, the catchy opening track, "Standing At The Edge of My World," would have to be the best. It's a great intro to the album, setting the stage for the sound and theme of the whole record. The song's production is outstanding. It also has a sense of adventure, which invites listeners to take risks: "I can fail, but You won't/It's true/Every breath is an offer from You/Would it be enough to keep me from/Standing at the edge of my world."
Overall, Mike has released an impressive debut record. I've been a fan of Tenth Avenue North for years, but I was a bit skeptical when I heard that Mike would be releasing solo music. I knew it would be different, and it is. However, Mike continues to deliver powerful lyrics, just in a slightly different setting. This feels like a new beginning for Mike, and I can't wait to see what else he has in store for us.
An Unleashing of Creativity | Posted August-09-2021 What You Need To Know
Switchfoot is an alt-rock band that has been making music since 1997. years. Since the release of their album Learning to Breathe featuring the hit song "Dare You To Move," the band has been making a profound impact in the music industry. The band has released many crossover singles, and their songs have found their way into movies like A Walk To Remember, Unbroken: Path to Redemption, and many others. Over the past 24 years, Switchfoot has been reaching people with this simple message: hope is the anthem. Their songs are brimming with hope, while also asking questions about life and faith. Their new 11-track album Interrobang continues in that theme and provides listeners with a thought-provoking soundtrack.
What it Sounds Like
I was slightly skeptical about Interrobang at first. It's different from anything Switchfoot has released before, but at the same time, it's an album that only Switchfoot could make. It's filled with creativity. From front to back, the album has an experimental sound mixed with those classic Switchfoot guitar riffs. From the energetic track "Splinter" to the deeper sounding "Wolves," the band shows off their musical abilities throughout the record. They pushed the boundaries of genres and somehow created a record that is so unique to Switchfoot. Interrobang blended all the sounds of rock and pop, and together it formed an outstanding album. Switchfoot took a risk with Interrobang, and it certainly paid off.
Spiritual Highlights
"i need you (to be wrong)" was our first taste of this new era of Switchfoot music, and it really is the song that shapes this whole album. Both lyrically and musically, it sets the stage for the rest of these songs. We need each other, and that's the theme of this whole record. Our world is divided, and this album invites listeners to look at the perspective of others. "if i were you" captures that with the question, "If I were you/And you were me/Would we still be doomed to disagree?" In a world full of confusion and hate, the Bible still says, "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." We always want to be right, and we always want things to happen our own way. But the truth is--whether we're right or wrong-- we're all made in the image of God. Unity is possible, and that's the overarching theme in these songs.
Best Song on the Record
Every single track on this record is unique, and each one is different from the other. But the stand-out song would have to be "beloved." It's a powerful, timely anthem. The song is a cry for change, and it speaks of where our world is currently at. Originally, I was confused as to why Switchfoot would name their album Interrobang. An interrobang is a punctuation that looks like a question mark and an exclamation point. But "beloved" is the perfect example of this. It's filled with both questioning and hope. The opening line, "Maybe all the world is insecure, maybe all of us are looking for a cure," exemplifies this questioning and longing. While the chorus provides a possibility of hope, "If only I could open up my eyes, would the truth be what would set me free?" The song captures this tug-of-war between questioning and the longing for answers in a beautiful way. "beloved" truly defines the meaning of Interrobang.
Interrobang marks a new era for Switchfoot. 2020 was a hard year, but out of it came so much incredible music; including this new record. This is one of the most creative albums we've seen from Switchfoot, and I'm so excited to see what else they have up their sleeve. They always have a way of coming up with songs that are relatable and relevant, and they accomplished that once again with this new album. Even after 24 years as a band, Switchfoot still continues to innovate and come up with unique ways to make music. They continue to inspire me, and they're truly leaving a legacy. Their music means so much to me, and they keep blowing me away with their endless flow of creativity. Interrobang proved that Switchfoot has some serious talent. You can listen to Interrobang on August 20 on Spotify or Apple Music.
An EP That Tells A Story | Posted July-29-2021 What You Need To Know
Originating from North Carolina, Coby James is a 19-year-old singer/songwriter. Although he's young, he's already making an influence in Christian music. Recently he signed to the record label Centricity Music, and he has four EPs under his belt. In addition, his latest single "Brand New" just went to radio. He's a brand new artist, but he's already making a big impact. In April he dropped Mixtape: Side A, the first in a trio of mixtape EPs. His second mixtape titled Mixtape: Side B just released, and it features four new songs. If you're a fan of artists like Cade Thompson or The Young Escape, Coby James is an artist that you'll want to keep an eye on.
What it Sounds Like
Each song on Mixtape: Side B features Coby's signature falsetto vocals, and the instrumentation has an acoustic feel to it. The EP feels like a combination between ballad, pop, and acoustic. Every song tells a story, especially in Coby's song "3 Years." It's a song that he wrote for his little brother, and it perfectly captures this blend of pop and acoustic which is felt throughout the whole EP.
Spiritual Highlights
There's an overarching message throughout this record of the love of Jesus. The Bible promises that Jesus will never leave us, and we can surrender everything we have to Him. That truth rings out in every song on this EP, especially on "In My Love." The song is all about surrendering control and resting in the love of Jesus. The last song on the EP, "Try," perfectly rounds out this theme. It's a love song that sums up how hard it is to put love into words. There's nothing else like the love of Jesus, and Coby tries to express that in this new EP.
Best Song on the Record
"Try" is a beautiful duet with a soothing tone to it. It has a romantic feel to it with outstanding lyrics. This song also follows the acoustic theme which is throughout this EP. It's a song that tries to put words to love; whether that's confessing our love to Jesus, or to someone we know. "Nothing could ever describe, but just know that I'll always try/Wrote you a letter twice, ran out of room to write/Thought that I'd better just tell you but I don't know how 'cause my tongue is tied"
Coby is continuing to put his unique mark on all of his songs, which makes him stand out from other artists in the Christian music industry. Although I liked some songs better than others, Coby still released a solid EP. You can stream Mixtape: Side B wherever you get your music.
A Blend of Worship and Country | Posted July-03-2021 What You Need To Know
Contemporary artist Chris Tomlin is a legend in Christian music. Most Christian music enthusiasts have heard of him. He's been releasing music since 1995 with his debut independent album Inside Your Love. Since then, he's become an extremely influential artist. Every Sunday, churches across the world are singing his songs, like his hits "Jesus Messiah," "Indescribable," and "How Great is Our God." In 2020, he released a new full-length project called Chris Tomlin & Friends. The album featured country artists like Brett Young, Russell Dickerson, Lady A, and many others. It became successful, and now Chris is back with his second Chris Tomlin & Friends project, Chris Tomlin & Friends: Summer.
What it Sounds Like
Like the last Chris Tomlin & Friends record, this project will appeal to anyone who's a fan of country music. The EP blends the sounds of worship and country music in a way that only Chris Tomlin can. It features country artists Thomas Rhett and Florida Georgia Line again in the re-release of "Thank You Lord," and country artist Russell Dickerson in "Talk To Him." It's been interesting to see Chris Tomlin cross over into the genre of country music. But with these country artists by his side, Chris has been able to nail down two projects that truly sound country.
Spiritual Highlights
Chris always puts Jesus at the forefront of his songs, and these new tracks are no different. This EP talks about the intimate friendship we can have with Jesus. Each song is full of praise, especially "Sing." One of the biggest themes on the EP is God's love. It begins with "Good to Be Loved By You," which recognizes how much we're loved by God. It closes with "Sing," which praises God for His incredible love. They're bookends to each other. These five songs are a great reminder that we are seen and cared for by God.
Best Song on the Record
"Thank You, Lord" is the best song on the record with its upbeat tune and catchy lyrics. Like the title implies, the whole song is about thanking God for the blessings He's given us. There are so many things we can thank God for. "Thank You, Lord" shows that. From the small things to the hard times, there will always be something we can thank God for: "Waking up today/Yeah, I just gotta say thank You, Lord/I just wanna say thank You, Lord."
I'll admit, I'm not the biggest fan of country music. Bu,t for those who are, this new EP is for you. With the release of two Chris Tomlin & Friends records within a year, I'm looking forward to seeing what else is in store for this new project. You can listen to Chris Tomlin & Friends: Summer EP now on Spotify or Apple Music.
An Artistic Take on Christian Music | Posted April-01-2021 What You Need To Know
Juniper Vale is the alias for independent pop artist Sarah Jane. Sarah is a trained opera singer, as well as a banjo player. In 2016 she started releasing monthly singles leading up to her debut album, Everything Is Color. Sarah's work is a multimedia project; she combines whimsical comic-book-inspired album artwork, alongside her incredible songs. Her album covers features her illustrated dopplegänger and her giant turtle companion, Senelala, giving her fans a unique listening experience. She's currently working on a brand new follow-up album to her 2018 release and is working alongside composer Avery Bright (U2, OneRepublic), as well as Christian singer/songwriter Jason Gray. Recently Sarah teamed up with Jason for her latest single, "Something True," which dropped on March 19.
What it Sounds Like
As soon as I heard Juniper Vale's new single with Jason Gray, I immediately fell in love with the song and the whimsical world that Sarah creates through her album covers and music videos. "Something True" really is such a beautiful single. With Sarah's stunning vocals and Jason's incredible harmonies–plus the beautiful instrumentation and production of this song, "Something True" is sure to become a hit. This is a song that you'll want to have on repeat and an artist that you don't want to miss out on. I've already listened to "Something True" multiple times, and I'm sure I'll listen to it many more.
Spiritual Highlights
This new single was birthed out of intense anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. This song is comforting for anyone dealing with the stress that this past year has brought. "Something True" implies the fact that we all need love and a place where we're known and safe. Thankfully as Christians, we can find that in Jesus. He knows us, and He loves us so much. Luke 12:17 says that he knows the count of the hairs on our head. He knows us better than we know ourselves, and He is the "something true" that we need in our lives.
Final Word
Overall, Sarah Jane of Juniper Vale and Jason Gray have released an inspiring and beautiful new song. I can't say enough good things about it! Her style is unique and is different from anything else that I've seen in Christian music before. I'm excited to see what's next for her (and for her giant turtle too, of course)! You can stream "Something True" now on Spotify and Apple Music.
GraceChaves_NRT's Music and Book Reviews 
![The Beautiful Letdown (Our Version) [Deluxe Edition] by Switchfoot](thum_creater/phpThumb.php?src=../images/album_cover_images/cover_30662.jpg&w=60&h=60&hash=9dca4efbd3dabaadea6fdfd0b4fc0160)
![The Beautiful Letdown (Our Version) [Deluxe Edition] by Switchfoot](thum_creater/phpThumb.php?src=../images/album_cover_images/cover_30662.jpg&w=90&h=90&hash=9dca4efbd3dabaadea6fdfd0b4fc0160)
