| Christian
Music Reviews
Who cares what some 40-year-old in New York
has to say about what music you should buy and how good the latest
POD album is? You want to know what your buds are saying? Check
out our Music Reviews by real people listening to YOUR music.
Have a review you'd like to share with Youth4Him? Send
it in!
| Carrie Pettit, Dream On |
Various Artists, Girls
Rockin' for God |
| Switchfoot, Nothing is Sound |
Audio Adrenaline , Until
My Heart Caves In |
| Big Daddy
Weave, What I was Made For |
Pivitplex, Under Museum Quality Glass |
| Scott Krippayne, Gentle Revolution |
Farewell June, 1939 |
| Various Artists,
Absolute Modern Worship |
Exit East, Exit
East |
| Various Artists,
WOW Hits 2005 |
Newsboys,
Devotion |
| TAIT, Lose
This Life |
Ceili Rain, No
You No Me |
| Bob Smiley, I've
Got a Funny Feeling About This |
OC Supertones, Live
Vol. 1 |
| LifeHouse, No
Name Face |
Fusebox, Lost
in Worship |
| Sonic Flood, Resonate |
POD, Satellite |
| Michael Tait, Empty |
DC Talk, Intermission:
The Greatest Hits |
| 3rd Root, A
Sign of Things to Come |
Kevin Amax, Stereotype
Be |
| Salvador, Salvador |
Paige, Paige |
| Natalie Grant, Stronger |
Calibretto 13, Enter
the Danger Brigade |
| Point of Grace,
Free to
Fly |
Set Free Hip Hop Soldiers,
Set Free |
| Newsboys, Shine-The
Hits |
Johnny Q. Public, Welcome
to Earth |
| Switchfoot,
Learning
to Breathe |
Fanmail, Fanmail
2000 |
| Delirious?,
Glo |
Various Artists,
WOW 2001 |
| |
Album: Girls
Rockin' for God
Artist: Various
Artists
Reviewer: Taylor Loftin
Girls Rockin’ for God features eight practice versions
of today’s biggest Christian rock hits with adjustable
vocal levels to help you learn these awesome songs and eight
performance versions without vocals for when you want to take
the lead. The perfect sing-along tool for music teachers or
students, performers or fans, this unique CD lets you take
center stage, no band required. Featuring tributes to
some of the biggest names in contemporary Christian music,
including Aly & AJ, ZOEgirl, Rebecca St. James, BarlowGirl,
and more, this CD makes it simple to sing along to your favorite
songs without having to play any instruments. It’s
great a great way to get kids involved at church groups or
just for a fun game of karaoke! Step into the spotlight with
Girls Rockin’ for God and let your faith shine!
This CD is available for purchase here: http://www.cmhrecords.com/web/page.asp?pgs=product&catid=43&id=1241 |
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Album: Dream
On
Artist: Carrie
Pettit
Reviewer: KD
Carrie Pettit brings us a breakout
debut album with Dream On, that comes with musical sense
and ability beyond what you'd normally expect from a freshman
offering.
With a somewhat different approach,
Carrie comes to the music scene after serving in vocational
ministry as a worship leader and by way of a bachelor's
degree in theology. Her self-described approach is less
of a marketing and sales approach, and more of a ministry
approach. Obviously, it seems all Christian artists should
view their music as ministry, and in Carrie's case, she
delivers this as well as any.
The album, "Dream On," is a heartfelt,
soulful, and musically sound offering, with a broad range
of sound and feeling. It's a strong piano base, but very
musically diverse, and well produced. The lyrics are also
soulful and serve as an offering to the Lord and should
bring that worshipful feeling you'd expect from a worship
album.
I'm always impressed with artists that
write their own stuff, showing a strong side in songwriting
as well as performing. That's the case here, Carrie either
wrote or co-wrote every song on the album, and they are
very well done.
If you are a fan of artists like Natalie
Grant, Point of Grace, and other Christian artists on that
side of the coin, this is a definite must for you. Even
if you're on the harder side of the coin, this is an excellent
Christian album from an up and coming new artist.
For more information or ordering info,
check out her website. |
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Album: Until
My Heart Caves In
Artist: Audio
Adrenaline
Reviewer: KD
Audio Adrenaline stands as a corner-stone
of the Christian Rock scene, having been around for a long-time,
and effectively setting the musical stage for the rest
that have come after them.
After a significant number of albums,
according to the band, they've delivered their true passion
musically with their latest offering, "Until My Heart Caves
In". This is a solid Rock and Roll album, with exciting
intensity, strong guitar and vocal base, and a distinct
Audio A sound driving through the mix.
Although to me, the song order starts
out a little "hard" for my tastes, Audio A junkies will
find it as expected, and the song offerings throughout
are really good. I didn't find any that I skipped on the
CD. Listeners will find an unexpectedly great remake of
a late 60's Jackie Wilson tune called "Your Love Keeps
Lifting Me Higher," which has a spiritual twist as the
lyrics are engineered into a worshipful and soulful offering
to the Lord.
This is another great album by Audio
A, and judging by the line up in their current tour, a
precurser to an excellent season in the life of the band.
If you have an opportunity to see these guys live, take
it. With other bands like Sanctus Real and Superchic[k],
it promises to be a great show.
For additional informaiton on the album
or the band and tour, check out their website. |
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Album: Nothing
is Sound
Artist: Switchfoot
Reviewer: KD
Without a doubt, Switchfoot is one
of the best Christian Rock bands in the industry today,
and they've had substantial airplay throughout other secular
genre's as well in a variety of media. Switchfoot is a
group of talented songwriters and musicians, and their
ability and professionalism exudes from all of their projects.
From a pure musical standpoint, these guys are "tight."
Nothing is Sound is the latest offering
from the band, and it's another strong album from a strong
band. If you listen to Christian radio, you've been hearing
some of the songs already on a regular basis, such as Stars,
which is a great song.
For those of you seeking a less overt
Christian band and set of songs, this is a good choice
for you. Switchfoot, as I see it, seem to be more of a
band of Christians vs. a typical Christian music band.
Although they do write songs with Christian themes, you
won't hear a lot of songs that are easily identified as
a "Christian" song. That approach makes for a
good "marketability" to non-Christian folks,
especially rock fans, as they can be drawn into the music,
and a bridge can be made with "yeah, did you know
these guys are a Christian band?"
I'm confident God is doing great things
through these guy's unique ministry opportunities.
The only downside to this album, one
that is acknowledge
by the band, is that Sony, like other music companies
is starting to release CD's with really annoying copy-protection
features. Basically, the CD isn't in CD format, it's in
protected WMA (windows media) format, and you load the
CD through a flash player on your computer. Take it from
me, if you're an Itunes/Ipod user, this is a PAIN, and
after a series of attempts to work around it, I gave up.
I'm basically playing 437 albums through Itunes and 1 through
Windows Media. According to that article, they're looking
for a second release that fixes the problem. My advice
is that if you're an Itunes/Ipod user, go to the music
store in Itunes and download it from there vs. buying the
CD itself.
If you do want to buy the CD, you can
find it all over the place, you can get it from their
website as well. |
| |
Album: Under
Museum Quality Glass
Artist: Pivitplex
Reviewer: KD
Okay, so this album has been out for
a while, but since these guys are heading back into the
studio for their follow up effort, have been touring all
over the US, and since I saw lead singer Scott Brownson
at a BBQ last night and realized I never did a review of
it, I figured it was time to get the word out on Youth4Him
about these guys.
Pivitplex is one of those hard-to-classify
Christian bands, with a diverse sound, but if you had
to put a label on them, I’d say a good rock-n-roll
band with a touch of alternative flair.
Most of the songs are guitar
and drum driven, which gives them a distinct feel. Scott’s
vocals add that edge you like to hear in a good strong
lead sound as well.
This freshman effort is a noble
one, with excellent song writing, catchy tunes, and a
good solid song package. With songs like “You Know,” and “Some Will
Fall,” you get a solid message without too much preaching.
Pivitplex is definitely a band
worth checking out, and they’re getting good airplay, so chances are, you’ve
already heard them and perhaps didn’t know it. Under
Museum Quality Glass is a good album.
You can find the album all over the place, you can get
it from their website as well.
|
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Album: What
I was Made For
Artist: Big Daddy
Weave
Reviewer: KD
“The music and calling of Big
Daddy Weave is simply all about relationship. We were created
to know God. Jesus summed up all the commandments like
this – ‘Love God and Love people.’ We
want to grow closer in our won relationship with God in
such a way that encourages others who know Him to know
Him more. For those who don’t, we want them to know
that they are invited into a day by day love relationship
with the creator of the universe.” – Mike Weaver
of Big Daddy Weave
To me, that sums up everything
the phenomena of Christian music should be about…getting those of us that know
God to know Him better, and getting those that don’t
know Him to learn about His Awesome Love.
If you’ve been paying attention at all, you know
about Big Daddy Weave. They’re one of the most popular
bands in Christian music, and with songs like “Audience
of One,” and “In
Christ,” they’ve
definitely made a big name for themselves in the industry
(pun intended. ;->)
Now, with the new album, What
I was Made For, and a #1 song, “You're
Worthy Of My Praise” with
BarlowGirl, Big Daddy Weave continues to grow in momentum,
and continues to spread the good news of Christ, with
some awesome Christian Music.
This is a great album, and worth a look, here are some
notes about a few of the songs:
It’s All about You – a
heart felt, humble, and musically compelling number.
You’re Worthy of my Praise – With
Barlow Girls. Can you ask for a better combination? This
is an excellent, and possibly my favorite rendition ever
of this song, and the guys and gals pull it off with
flying colors!
His
Name is Jesus - right to the point,
He’s
the man, He died for you, and He’s calling your name.
With a trend in the industry to be “not just a worship
band” these days, I personally find it really cool
that a song like this gets right to the heart of what I
believe Christian music is supposed to be about…helping
people find God. It’s a catchy tune, and an awesome
song.
This album has very strong vocals
and great song writing. You’ll also find some out
of the ordinary sounds with even cool and funky, Ray
Charles type electric piano and horns as well.
There’s an interesting surprise in the album, with
the goal of helping you get closer to God. I’ll leave
the surprise a surprise…
Go out and pick this up when
it comes out in July, it’s
well worth it. You can preorder it for $10 from their website.
|
| |
Album: 1939
Artist: Farewell
June
Reviewer: KD
From their own website:
“Somewhere between Eric Clapton, Dave Matthews,
Cademon's Call, Blues Traveler and James Taylor, FAREWELL
JUNE takes the listener on a journey of life and hope through
Christ. Never in your face, but always ready to offer a
solution…”
This seems as good a description
of the sound of Farewell June as I could possibly give.
The debut album, 1939 is an awesome mix of acoustic sounds,
great melodies, and some rockin’ tunes as well.
You can easily hear some James Taylor influences, Indigo
Girls, etc. in the song writing, but this truly is a sound
all their own for Farewell June. With songs like Shine
On (my favorite,) Kansas, Irony, and others, the production
quality is top notch, the sound is unique and inspiring,
and the lyrics bring some thought-provoking time for the
listener.
They’ve just released their first single, Servant,
which describes the hard road we take in life, and how
God is always there to lift us up and bring us through
it. I can see why this was the first single, it’s
an awesome song, but also provides an excellent representation
of the band’s musical prowess and style.
Farewell June is a great new band,
and this record is plain and simple, awesome. No matter
what your musical style, this is one for the collection.
I'm impressed, and you will be as well.
The album is available now, and you
can order it on
their
website as well.
|
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Album: Gentle
Revolution
Artist: Scott
Krippayne
Reviewer: KD
I love Scott Krippayne's music, plain
and simple. His stuff is very good musically, with a heavy
piano sound to it, and the lyrics are well written, finding
that great balance between story-telling, worship, and
enough wit and humor to keep you really engaged in what
he's saying.
Billed as his "no longer playing it
safe" album, Gentle Revolution delivers what fans would
expect, but with an added sense of who Scott is both personally
and spiritually, and the music leaves you satisfied with
what you're hearing, but longing to not only be closer
to the subject matter, and to hear some more Krippayne.
This album brings a similar piano influence,
of course, but you'll find more live-rock feel to it with
songs like "Lyin" and a much less pop-oriented and more
guitar-feeling music. The long and short of it, this album
brings not only what you'd expect, but also some really
rockin' tunes from Mr. Krippayne.
In addition to "Lyin", I think my favorite
tune is a more ballad-like song called "In the Name of
God," but frankly, I don't skip any songs as I listen to
the full album, it's definitely a keeper, and you won't
be disappointed.
The album comes out on January
25, 2005, and it will be well worth the wait.
Look for it in stores then. For samples or more info, go to
Scott's Website.
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Album:
Absolute Modern Worship
Artist: Various
Reviewer: KD
The Absolute
series has been taking the nation by storm in the last year.
With sales of over 300,000 units, this has been the hottest
new series launch in Christian music in the last few years.
The concept behind the series is to bring
artists and labels together in one compilation, offering
the best in Christian Music in one place for us, the lucky
listener.
I'm a huge fan of Christian compilations,
it's an excellent way to get the most music for the money,
getting the top artists and songs in one place, and it saves
you the trouble of making your own custom playlists, it's
already there!
This album is all worship, all modern,
and it is definitely Absolute
Modern Worship, with songs like Here I am to Worship,
Meet with Me, and Shout to the Lord, and artists like Ginny
Owens, Skillet, and Todd Agnew. You've basically got a who's
who in Christian Music, and 25 of the best worship songs available
today.
The album comes out on January
25, 2005, and it will be well worth the wait. Look
for it in stores then. In the meantime, you can check out
some of the other Absolute
offerings here.
|
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Album:
Exit East
Artist: Exit
East
Reviewer: KD
The debut album from this up and coming
band is due out January 18, 2005,
and it's definitely something to look out for, especially
if you're looking for a great Christian album with a true
Rock and Roll appeal.
When listening to the album, I get a real
sense of musicianship here; along with great songwriting,
these guys can simply get the job done in terms of putting
it all together in a high-tempo and high-energy offering.
They absolutely Rock!
Most of the songs are very upbeat, a great
mix for your iPod playlists for driving or exercising, with
a couple of exceptions that are little more heartfelt and
"soulful." I think my favorite song is "Me
From Here," which sounds great, gets you thinking, and
gets you feeling what the guys are trying to say with this
album.
I'm giving 4.5 out of 5 here, this is
really an excellent album from a new band.
They're offering pre-sales copies from
their website, and you can check it out here.
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Album:
Wow Hits 2005
Artist: Various
Artists
Reviewer: KD
The WOW compilations have become the standard
for Christian music since they came out back in the 90's with
worship versions, gospel versions, and of course, the pure
"hits" versions like this one for 2005.
With 34 songs from the best in Christian
music (Stacie Orrico, Jars of Clay, Barlow Girl, etc.), there
simply is no better way to get all of the best music in one
place, and for about $20!
Basically, you've got a compilation of
the best songs from Christian music from 2004 (probably some
in 2003 too), so if you're short on cash, or if you're just
trying to get the best bang for your buck, or if you're looking
to get someone a good start on Christian music (Christmas
is coming, you know), this is the way to go.
Every music collection should have all
of the WOW music collections, and the Hits 2005 version is
no exception. Make sure you pick it up today!
Listen
to some audio clips of the album, or Buy
Now (this will open a new window.) |
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Album:
Devotion
Artist: Newsboys
Reviewer: KD
“If it isn’t broke, don’t
fix it.” That’s good advice if you’re a
rock band that’s consistently been in the Christian
music industry’s spotlight for more than 17 years.
With the Newsboys newest effort, Devotion,
however, this awesome band ignored traditional wisdom in that
advice, and relied more on the leading of God. The album is
a musical expression of Peter Furler, the band’s front
man, spiritual re-committal about 3 years ago.
The album is edgy, and is what you would
expect from the Newsboys. It’s spiritually rich, leaning
on songs such as Blessed be Your Name, and Name Above All
Names, It is a great listening album, and will touch the heart
as well as your ears.
With collaboration help from Rebecca St.
James, and Stu G. (delirious?), you get more than you pay
for with Devotion, as those artists add additional heart,
and an additional dimension to the album.
This is a great new album, and worth checking
out. It will be available to the public on 11/2/04. Check
out the Newsboys'
site for more info.
|
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Album:
No You No Me
Artist: Ceili
Rain
Reviewer: Carol Lee Bohannan
Ceili Rain's newest CD "No You No
Me" is a must listen to.. It is lively and fun.. This
is a CD that will get you moving.. and make you want to see
this lively group live.. It's fun to see a live show, because
you could very easily see a Grandma dancing with her teenage
grandson. This group jumps out of the stereotypical labels,
and reaches new heights. Granted, even though it's not a lively
as some of the earlier CD's, it still is filled with fun.
A Hundred Smiles an Hour, gets you going right away.. Man,
do I ever remember becoming a new Christian, and feeling that
wonderful excitement.. Forty Shades Of Green, reminds me of
my dad.. No he doesn't turn forty shades, but it's a song
he'd like.. Queen For a Day, kind of reminds me of playing
dress-up when I was little. It's nice to remember that. House
Not Made With Hands, makes me fill like I want to sign up
to go to Heaven RIGHT NOW... The song Ping Pong, reminds me
of all the fun ping pong games my best friend Jo and I use
to have.. (even though she would beat me every time) I had
to listen to this CD's several time, before I could hear everything
about every song... You can bet that I will be playing it
for a long time to come.
Listen
to some audio clips of the album, or Buy
Now (this will open a new window.) |
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Album:
Lose This Life
Artist: TAIT
Reviewer: KD
If you’re looking for a great new
Rock worship album, look no further than TAIT’s second
album, Lose this Life.
The project is highly energized, and offers
a lot of “get up and go,” throughout the album.
“There’s a believable passion that carries through
Lose This Life,” says Michael Tait, the band’s
lead singer. “Even the slow songs have tremendous energy…as
a band, we don’t feel like we have time to sit back
and tickle people’s ears.” Well said, and when
you listen to this album, you’ll see that the band hits
the mark, creating something that will stir you musically
and spiritually, and challenge the way you think.
My normal musical taste is a bit softer
than this album, but it didn’t stop me from really enjoying
listening to it over and over. My favorite tracks are the
title track, Lose This Life, as well as Free Will, an awesome
story about how we hold back from God, and how we need to
choose to live for God. In addition to these tracks, you’ll
get a great hidden track surprise, just in time for the holidays.
Pick up the album today and see how TAIT
continues to expand their offering, beyond the DC Talk legacy.
Listen
to some audio clips of the album, or Buy
Now (this will open a new window.) |
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| Album:
I've Got a Funny Feeling About This
Artist: Bob Smiley
Reviewer: KD
I've never even explored the idea of there being a chance
to place a very fine line between comedy and ministy...maybe
I just haven't had very funny pastors over the years. However,
listening to the new album from Bob Smiley, I realized that
given the right gifts, it is definitely possible to have the
two things coexist, and in Bob's case, crossover and back
instantaneously.
There is an old movie cliché' that says "you'll
laugh, you'll cry..." Again, Bob Smiley helps to place
some merit into that cliché' with a comedy album that
is intertwined with personal testimony, real, take-it-to-heart
ministry, and an outstanding sharing of the gospel and Christ's
love in a non-threatening way.
To be honest, I've been relatively in the dark when it comes
to Christian Comedy, and other than Bob Smiley now, I don't
think I could name more than a couple of comedians that would
identify themselves in that arena. All you have to do is watch
Comedy Central or any other late night comedian avenue, and
you'll realize that most comedy is centered around worldly
ideas of what is funny, foul language, sexual and deviant
humor, etc. It's refreshing to listen to a guy who not only
is very funny, but truly loves the Lord.
The basics? Bob Smiley is funny! From topics such as parenting
to an experience in Bartlesville, Oklahoma (that one hits
too close to home, since I'm from Oklahoma), the bits are
great.
I would not only recommend that you pick up the album, but
I'd also recommend you give it to your non-Christian friends
as a witnessing tool.
Thanks, Bob, for providing great comedy and great ministry
alike, God Bless You!
Listen
to some audio clips of the album, or Buy
Now (this will open a new window.) |
| |
| Album:
Live, Vol 1
Artist: OC Supertones
Reviewer: KD
As lyrically powerful and musically focused as their four
studio albums have been, the Orange County Supertones are
best known for their heart-pumping,  body-moving
concerts. So it's no surprise and totally appropriate that
this particular SoCal party-band-with-a-message has chosen
to release a collection of their greatest songs in live form.
Coming after "Loud & Clear," their latest studio
release and its smash tour, "Live, Vol. 1" serves
as both a career-spanning celebration for die-hard Supertones
true believers, AND a great introduction for new fans. If
anyone has ever wanted to sample the rocking joyfulness that
comes from seeing the OC Supertones in concert, "Live,
Vol. 1" is an excellent place to dig in.
This is a great album, with both excellent "jump up
and down and rock" opportunity, but also some true heart-felt
worship.
The live album comes on the heels of several great successes
for the Supertones, from performing for the Pope at a youth
rally attended by thousands in 1999, to just coming off the
much-publicized Festival Con Dios tour, which was featured
in a cover story in Newsweek magazine.
A great rendition of "Holiness" opens the album,
and sets the overal spiritual tone. Other great cuts are "Your
Are My King (Amazing Love)," "Resolution,"
and an awesome version of "So Great a Salvation,"
which has not only a great melody, but some mid-point improv
mixed in...it's fun.
The album is classic OC Supertones, and for both fans and
newcomers alike, I think it will be a great addition to the
collection. Check it out today!
Listen
to some audio clips of the album, or Buy
Now (this will open a new window.) |
| |
| Album:
Lost In Woship
Artist: Fusebox
Reviewer: KD
For those of you looking for a good "rock" album
with a great sense of worship and praise for God, then Fusebox's
new album, Lost in Worship
is just for you. With great a great guitar and overall musical
backbone, this album is chock-full of praise. This is not
surprising considering the band members, youth pastors and
former mainstream rockers turned evangelists, fresh from touring
for the last year with the one and only Rebecca St. James
(who could help be on fire for God hanging out with her?)
The album features both originals and covers, including modern
worship songs like Every Move
I Make (a way cool upbeat version), and awesome praise
songs like Light the Fire
(a duet with Rebecca St. James) and
Everything, a soul-filled song with a strong message.
This band is the real deal, and they truly have God in their
hearts. In fact, the album title Lost
in Worship is what they say their mindset was during
recording and in their lives. They say that all in all, the
album is a reflection of the overwhelming gratitude and thankfulness
each of the band members feel about their relationship with
Christ.
If you're looking for an opportunity to get Lost
with Christ in praise and worship music for a while, then
pick up the new album from Fusebox, it's sure to not disappoint.
Listen to some audio clips of the album, or Buy
Now (this will open a new window.) |
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| Album:
No Name Face
Artist: Lifehouse
Reviewer: Pastor Joe
Christians in the Mainstream: Most of you have probably heard
one of the most popular songs of 2001, within the top 5 of
most year end countdowns I've heard, "Hanging by a moment."
This song has had as much play time as any song in 2001 on
the radio waves as well as MTV and VH1. And it's by none other
than a trio of church going boys from California that call
themselves "Lifehouse." In their liner notes they
thank God and Christ several times, as well as "everyone
at the vineyard," as in the vineyard church they have
been involved with for many years in California. The album
this song is on, "No Name Face," is overall not
as fast paced as this song, as their latest single, "Breathing,"
might hint at. However, their are several more driving rock
tunes that due contribute to a nicely balanced album. Their
lyrics are quite filled with biblical and spiritual overtones,
as in this song they say, "I am looking past the shadows
of my mind into the truth and I'm trying to identify the voices
in my head God which ones you?" Several other songs are
also very suggestive biblically and spiritually. I highly
recommend this album. If your looking for more "mainstream,"
wholesome music, this is it. It is definitely worth supporting
our brothers in Christ in their endeavor to saturate with
good, a market saturated with trash.
Listen
to some audio clips of the album, or Buy
Now (this will open a new window.) |
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| Album:
Resonate
Artist: Sonic Flood
Reviewer: Willis
The band that reinvented praise and worship is back with
a band new album to juice you up and get your body to rock
for Jesus Christ. From influences direct from Africa on the
first song, to the ballad at the end and all the rock and
roll, soft and slow in between, Sonic Flood does not skip
a beat and aims to get you pumped for Jesus. You can't help
but start feeling the groove! My favorite songs are found
on track 2 and 6. They are just enough to get your head to
bob back and forth with having it fall off your shoulders.
I love these guys and in the spirit of their first breakthrough,
self titled album, sonicflood, they come back to energize
us and get us lifting our hands and shouting the name of Jesus
to all the ends of the earth. Check it out and join SonicFlood
in lifting the name of Christ to new levels!
Listen
to some audio clips of the album, or Buy
Now (this will open a new window.) |
| |
| Album:
Satellite
Artist: POD (Payable on
Death)
Reviewer: Willis
POD has shaken the world of music with its hard-rock influenced
power music. With the unfortunate attack on the World Trade
Center, the masses reached for an album that would give timely
release of feelings felt from this disaster. P.O.D. couldn't
have delivered a more profound compilation of moving hits
then it did with the release of Satellite.
The songs on their latest album, expode with the passion
for our lord and savior, Jesus Christ. If you at all into
the heavier music, P.O.D. has just raised the standard in
thrashing for the Lord. With songs like Satellite, Alive,
and Boom, it makes the listener become completely enveloped
in the hard pounding bass tracks and vibrating guitar licks.
The writing is not from this world...it is God's pen striking
on the heart of the whole band. It is Christ that walked into
the sound stage and picked up drummer Wuv's sticks, guitar
player Marcos's 6 string, turned up the amp and plays Traa's
bass, and wails through lead singer Sonny's chords. This is
our holy Father stepping up to the plate and taking his "best
shot" at stirring the masses. I heard this album and
started to feel the sweat pouring from my head....I took a
deep breath and played it over...and over...and over again.
The beats and lyrics leave you reaching for more.
This is God Rock at its absolute finest. You will rock, you
will breath, and you will beat you chest and scream for Christ.
P.O.D. leaves you experiencing ultra heights and not wanting
to back down.
Listen
to some audio clips of the album, or Buy
Now (this will open a new window.) |
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| Album:
Intermission: The Greatest Hits
Artist: DC Talk
Reviewer: Willis
DC Talk, rock hiphop trio of the ages, has just released
the album we've all been waiting for. Spanning the years,
Intermission: leaves the core DC Talk fans completely satisfied
with reprises of the hits that brought them to fame back in
the 80s and 90s. These guys always brought it real right to
the heart of the believer and told it like it was and still
is...God loves us all and he is with us in ALL that we do.
Beginning with influences in the world of hiphop and funk
R&B, DC Talk rhymed and reasoned with our satan plagued
lives and their early works gave us hope.
As time passed and the trio reinvented themselves, we were
treated with a seattle grunge sound on the Jesus Freak album.
Not wanting to back down, DC Talk released an album a few
years later entitled Supernatural that brought us back to
the sounds of melded 70s rock and synth with a new twist of
beats from a new era. Spanning the various genres, DC Talk
is truly a band for the people with a talent base that goes
left to right and doesn't miss a beat in between. The latest
arrangement has familiar hits like Mind's Eye, Jesus Freak,
and I Wish We'd All Been Ready.
There are some remastered hits like Say the Words, that gives
a pleasant twist on an old favorite and being the first song,
it leave you begging for more. SugarCoat It is my favorite
track as it is a new wer track and hopefully a sign of what
is to come from these 3 men of God.
Listen
to some audio clips of the album, or Buy
Now (this will open a new window.) |
| |
| Album:
A Sign of Things to Come
Artist: 3rd Root
Reviewer: Willis
| Rating: |
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| 2 out of 5 |
OK....if the heavy wasn't heavy enough, enter 3rd Root. These
metal-head God Rockers hit the scene running with their album
A sign of Things to Come. Songs like Wah Wah, Fly, Broken,
and Torn completely envelope you in a trance beat that moves
you closer to God on a deepened and riveting level of music
heavier than the world itself. In the spirit of groups like
P.O.D and Disciple, 3rd Root aims its sights on the hardcore
agressive metal heads that know God on an extreme level. God
is extreme, 3rd Root is extreme, and thus, the match is made.
This album isn't for the faint of heart. If you are looking
for music where the heavy comes on thick and the undercurrent
of guitar and bass get molded into one twisted line, 3rd Root
brings you powerful lyrics and a love for Christ that is refreshing.
This is music that will make Satan shudder and run. Stick
around for a heart pounding sequence of hits that rock God's
universe and slaps Satan and his demons right across the face.
Listen
to some audio clips of the album, or Buy
Now (this will open a new window.) |
| |
| Album:
Empty
Artist: Michael Tait (of
DC Talk)
Reviewer: Willis
Singer extraordinaire of DC Talk Fame, Michael Tait has been
busy on his first solo album. What many christian music fans
don't know is that DC Talk (Michael Tait, Toby McKeehan, and
Kevin Max) have released their album "Intermission:"
as a place holder for fans until their individual studio albums
could be released.
There was an album between the solo efforts and "Intermission:"
called "solo" which featured a live hit from the
band and two sampler songs from each of the solo debut albums
of the three Jesus Freaks. "Empty" is Tait's release
of self penned works. Armed with a terrific band and a host
of personal talent, Michael set out to rivet the Christian
world with the sounds of songs like Alibi, Spy, American Tragedy,
and Empty. The familiar vocals remind you that this man is
truly gifted and can raise you up to Christ with his voice
from even the deepest of places.
These songs are more than just personal testaments of Michael's
love for Christ, this is a personal display for his unmovable
faith and grasp on the Father and all that he is and will
be for every Christian. He embraces his God given talent and
brings you to a place where he shares himself and his talent,
apart from DC Talk, with you on a personal level.
You cannot help but feel drawn in by his soothing voice and
gripping songs. A true example of man and God on a level plain
collaborating to bring you the best of feel good tunes and
challenging music to make you stronger.
Listen
to some audio clips of the album, or Buy
Now (this will open a new window.) |
| |
| Album:
Stereotype Be
Artist: Kevin Max (of
DC Talk)
Reviewer: Willis
As with all things, the individual will feel moved to break
away from the shelter of comfort and release itself into an
unknown world to embace its own talent. Kevin Max, and his
other two brothers of DC Talk fame, have met the challenge
of each other and entered the studio apart from one another.
They have done this to embrace their talent on solo collaborations
and bring the listener a treat from different perspectives.
Kevin Max, the dedicated poet of the trio, has put together
a host of songs that show his love for God and his appreciation
to his fans. He is, afterall, a seasoned singer and songwriter
and his first song, Return of the Singer, is a song dedicated
to the fan who has so warmly embraced his stage presence time
and time again. Having always felt the rush and love from
the fans, this was Kevin's chance to return the love to so
many that have fallen for his talent and come back for more
every time. Other songs like Dead End Moon, Be, On and On,
and Angel with No Wings, Kevin expressed himself no less eloquently
than in his time with DC Talk. He writes songs that touch
the heart and the soul and make you glad you are a Christian.
A garanteed smile will come over your fac on some songs,
and a tear could find its way down your cheek on others. Such
is the way when Kevin is at the helm of his own vessel guiding
you through the perilous waters of his mind showing you his
world and love of Christ through his own eyes. Be moved.....
Listen
to some audio clips of the album, or Buy
Now (this will open a new window.) |
| |
Album:
Salvador
Artist: Salvador
Show: Promise Keepers 2001, Nampa, ID
Reviewer: KD
| Rating: |
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| 5 (really a 6) out of 5 |
This review is a combination album review and a concert review
as it is impossible to separate one from the other experientially.
The name Salvador means "Savior" in Spanish. I
could not have picked a better name for this group of guys!
As a band, they exude the Holy Spirit of the Savior better
than any group of guys I've ever seen. It's so obvious, one
might expect them to have to buy extra plain tickets for JC
when they travel. As I would expect them to want me to, I'll
clarify that I'm not giving the glory to the men, but to the
power of Jesus Christ acting through them and their faithfulness
to His word and will. These guys love the Lord, and there
is no denying it.
I had the privilege to see them perform as part of a recent
Promise Keepers event in Nampa, Idaho. The event itself was
completely full of the Holy Spirit, and many men gave their
lives to Christ while there. The show was the musical and
spiritual highlight for me, and as I observed, for many others.
It was amazing to see several thousand men, both young and
old (including several hundred at the foot of the stage),
dancing together, raising their hands, jumping up and down,
and singing praises to God. The Holy Spirit was totally acting
through Salvador as they played, and I know I had goose-bumps
during many of the songs. The rendition of "Lord I Lift
Your Name on High" was probably the best and most moving
I've ever experienced.
So, who are these guys? There are 7 of them: Nic, Art, Pablo,
Eliot, Josh, Billy, and Chris. Although I'm hesistant to single
out any one band member, as they are ALL awesome, especially
since the lead singer always gets singled out, I'd be remiss
in not sharing a couple of thoughts on Nic, the lead singer
and guitarist. At 24, his God-given talents are simply amazing,
vocally, musically, and as a performer. He is simply a natural
on the stage, and was great fun to watch and to praise with
(which is exactly what you are doing). "Boy, that kid's
cocky, but it's great," was a comment a guy I was with
made. I'd actually not describe his presence that way because
cockiness comes from within. I don't know Nic personally,
but I can tell you by watching the show that he definitely
lets the Holy Spirit move through him, and he is doing great
work for Jesus Christ. In case you've not gotten it yet, I
was impressed.
The music is great praise music, and also very upbeat. With
largely a Latin feel, including a heavy horn influence (trumpet
and trombone at the show), the music will get you moving whether
at a live show, or sitting in your chair, as I am now. Even
for a guy who couldn't dance to save his life, listening will
make you think you can get the Salsa moving! The music is
well written, well practiced, and tight. There are no missed
beats here.
There current album features some great upbeat songs like
"Lord, I Come Before You," (also featured on the
Wow 2001 Set) and "Now It Moves,
plus some excellent praise ballads like "With God"
and "Crucified." There won't be a song on this album
you'll hit the Next Track button on.
The guys as I write this are spending time recording their
new record (not sure on the release date), so by the time
you've burned holes in this CD listening to it, they'll be
another one ready for you. Please be in prayer for them as
they travel doing shows and that their ministry of music will
lead others to Christ, which is the goal of all Christian
artists.
If you get a chance, go see Salvador in concert. You can
learn more about the band at their web site (www.salvadorlive.com).
To contact their management group, click
here.
Listen
to some audio clips of the album, or Buy
Now (this will open a new window.) |
| |
Album:
Paige
Artist: Paige
Reviewer: Michelle
Talk about an AWESOME CD! I would have given this 6 crosses,
if I could have. I am a newcomer to Christian music but this
CD has really opened my eyes to a whole new genre of music
I have been missing. For a while my friends have been trying
to get me to listen to Christian music but I was convinced
it was all like the old hymns my parents listen to so I kept
refusing. Finally one of them gave me this CD to listen to
and it is now my favorite CD! It is so NOT my parents music!
Paige has an amazing voice and a God given gift for writing
songs! I can't believe she wrote all the lyrics on the CD!
The music is just awesome too. My favorite songs are "Hide
Myself in You" and "So Not About Me". In "Hide
Myself in You" she says "Sometimes I think it would
be easier to die for you than to live for you." Man,
is that ever how I feel sometimes! I also love "So Not
About Me" because it totally reminds me that my whole
life is not about me, but should be completely focused on
and for Christ.
Thanks for the reminder, Paige. I would recommend that everyone
at least give this CD a listen to. I almost guarantee you
will feel a desire to buy it. I listen to it every time I
am in the car, working out or messing around on the computer.
Nothing I have ever listened to has lifted me up and kept
me focused on the important things in life as much as this
one has.
Listen
to some audio clips of the album, or Buy
Now (this will open a new window.) |
| |
Album:
Enter the Danger Brigade
Artist:
Calibretto 13
Reviewer: DSMTH
Here is the low down: This band Rocks. They are a Christian
Acoustic Punk band (imagine if you will) one of their most popular
songs is High Five, to
their other songs (my personal favorites) Creep
and Goodbye Cruel World.
I do dislike is the quickness of the songs, If only they were
a wee bit longer.
Their song Creep talks
about how some people act like Christians yet they do not
truly live a Christian walk with God. Goodbye
Cruel World is pondering about why bad things happen
to good people and it explains why. The Apple
Song is a funky song. It talks about apples and worms
and Men and Jesus XD. All in all, I give it a 5 out of 5. |
| |
Album:
Stronger
Artist: Natalie
Grant
Reviewer: KD, 28
God is definitely a good God, and He has given us all unique
talents and gifts that we may share His word with the world.
In Natalie Grant, he's given a beautiful gift of both music
and ministry. Natalie's new album, Stronger,
just hit stores 6/12/01, and it's wonderful! Who would ever
guess that Natalie is a relative newcomer to the Christian
Music scene, with her first release just 2 years ago.
Stronger is a montage of beautiful sounds, with diversity
throughout. The first single, Keep
on Shining, has been performing well on the charts,
and understandably, with a solid sound, strong beat, and most-of-all,
a great message about God's love that carries us through.
For a softer feel, If The
World Lost All Its Love, brings a more serene sound,
and it's extremely strong and heartfelt.
One highlight to the album is a great collaboration with
Plus One called, Whenever
You Need Somebody. It's a quintessential love song
of the Christian kind, and through a great R&B duet sound,
it delivers the message of Christian friendship in the most
awesome way!
Natalie Grant has shared God's gifts and God's love in a
wonderful way with her music and ministry. Stronger
will leave you feeling the presence of the Holy Spirit,
and wanting to share His love with the world.
Learn more about Natalie Grant and her ministry at her website.
Listen
to some audio clips of the album, or Buy
Now (this will open a new window.) |
| |
Album:
Set Free
Artist: Set
Free Hip Hop Soldiers
Reviewer: Phil, 21
This review is on the band Set Free Hip Hop Soldiers from Screaming
Giant Records. This hip hop crew is straight from the street,
raised up in a preacher's home. They have seen the devastation
of drugs and violence in peoples lives. The album self entitled
Set Free talks all about being set free in Jesus! The reggae
song If you Love Jesus Like
Set Free Does that is off the hook, and their theme song
Anthem is being aired
nationwide and is one of the Top 20 videos in the USA.
The music is hard-core, yet so uplifting to the spirit.
They rap and sing all about Jesus. A must for kids who love
hip hop rap. Mj is the producer and his brother chilli is
the rapper/singer, they do all their own musi | |
