Never for Nothing - CCM Record Reviews archive B
Mark Tiddy (aka Backroom Stereo) has been songwriting for a number of years and has released EP’s featuring both punk and acoustic styles of music. This latest project sees him make full use of the acoustic guitar, alongside the latest pop sounds. He says; “Most of them (the songs) came about through films and music that seemed to inspire me to write last year. 'A Beautiful Love Story' was largely based on a dream I'd had and remembered.” It’s that very song that starts of this 6 track release, in a bright, happy sort of way. The dream unfurls, as Mark finds his true love and revels in that feeling of contentment. ‘Brighter’ tells us not to give up, when things look black. There may be a brighter future ahead. Here, perhaps Mark tries to fit in too many words, as lyrically, the verse sounds a little too hurried. The theme of love follows most songs, like the melancholy ‘Out of My League’ and ‘Falling Fast’, which contains the best acoustic guitar sound on the recording. The stand out track has to be ‘Mess It Up’ This time, the lyrics tell of meeting a love and includes a couple of lines about a disastrous first date. It’s got a foot tapping rhythm, and reminded me of The Bluebells hit ‘Young at Heart’. Mark’s lyrics are very down to earth. He doesn’t worry about using ordinary conversational sentences to tell the story, and that can take the listener by surprise. However, on the whole, I enjoyed something that is, a little bit different. 8/10. (March 2015)
BACKROOM STEREO : Pop Culture. (Private Recording.)
The first thing that I thought of when I listened to the first track on this album was that it sounded exactly like “There Might Be Giants” so much so that if I’d heard this on the radio then I would have assumed that it was them. It must be said that the same goes for the rest of it. This CD consists entirely of catchy pop style love songs, that won’t particularly challenge you on any deep and meaningful level, but are still quite listenable to all the same. I can’t really say that any of the songs on here stands out above the rest in any way. If you like the first track, then you can be pretty certain that you’ll like all of them. You can check it out at http://backroomstereo.bandcamp.com/album/pop-culture Where you can listen to all the tracks, and buy it on CD or various downloads formats. It’s also one of those “name your own price tag” albums, so you can have a listen and decide how much you think it’s worth for yourself. 8/10 Andy Sayner. (June 2015)
Backroom Stereo is actually one man, Mark Tiddy, who evidently began the project back in 2013 and has issued singles and EPs prior to this full-length release. The vast majority of music reviewed in NFN is usually Christian in nature – overtly or otherwise – but here we have 11 tracks of indie guitar-driven pop which are, according to Mark's website, '.... about falling in love, heartache and hope'. And 'It's a record that reminds me that there is always hope no matter how bad things get and not to settle for second best'. There is an 'Englishness' in Mark's vocal delivery, and he reminds me somewhat of Mark Nevin, leading light of the late eighties band 'Fairground Attraction'. Sound quality is pretty good whilst varying a bit -– compression is most obviously wacked up for instance on track 1 'Nashville' – but his vocals are clear and musically I found this album quite enjoyable. Lyrically however I found myself feeling quite sorry for Mark. He is evidently '... more personally attached' to this album 'than any record I've ever written' and '... lyrically it's incredibly honest in places and as an overall record it tells a story'. My impression at the end was of a guy who tends to lust after women from a distance, and if he does successfully enter into a meaningful relationship something goes wrong – let's hope and pray that Mark finds the lady of his dreams! Best tracks for me are 'Therapy', 'Is she crazy for me?' and 'Near misses and lost summer kisses'. The closing track is a 'bonus' one, being a duet version repeat of 'Trainwreck', but the female vocals sound somewhat strange and indistinct. Difficult to rate, but I'll settle on 6/10. Dave Deeks (October 2016)
As with his previous releases, East Yorkshire’s Backroom Stereo’s latest single revolves around love. Not that there’s anything wrong with that! And, released on Valentine’s Day, this song tells of a newly found love. “I want to spend every second I have with you,” he sings, and you get the drift of the lyrics to the rest of the song. The tune is uptempo and guitar led, in a sort of early McFly sort of way. My disappointment with this track is the lack of a bridge or a change of tempo, that would break up the verse, chorus, verse chorus feel. A weak guitar solo does nothing to improve matters, but the song does grow on you with successive plays. Backroom Stereo reminds me of Welsh independent artist Phil Lewis, who has released countless, excellent, albums over the last 20 years. In the same way, I feel that Backroom Stereo still has more to offer in the future. 6/10. (March 2017)
Backroom Stereo aka Mark Tiddy returns with a high energy ditty about love. In fact, I love the introduction to the song. Great, driving guitars in a sort of Blink 182 way. The musical theme continues throughout as Mark sings “You were the one I was waiting for; You are the one my heart was needing.” It’s amazing what love can do, and this time it’s resulted in Backroom Stereo’s best work yet. 9/10. (July 2019)
Now based in Essex, Backroom Stereo (aka Mark Tiddy) is back with his latest album of original songs based, loosely, around the life of a twenty-something year old male. A lot of the songs are based around love and relationships which, I guess, are close to his heart. “I Can Still Remember” starts the track listing, driven by a pounding bass line, before breaking into a melodic chorus with rock guitar. There’s a great guitar riff that bursts into life for “I’m Not Rock and Roll.” Mark tells that his lifestyle is not what the media portrays. He’s not out getting drunk every night, and the only needles he uses are the ones in his sewing kit! It’s a great song, and I love the energy of it. It’s a similar story for his last single release, “The One.” It’s Blink 182 meets the Undertones. Crunching guitars, break-neck rhythms and boy meets girl storyline. “Every Guy” lowers the pace a little and came across as an Oasis-angst number. “A Little Less Aware” is a bit of a plodder that asks if we’re being made too aware of everything going on around us, thanks to the 21st century media and technology? Mark certainly knows how to write songs about the oddest of topics. On “Tall People,” the song is about waiting months to see your idol/band at a concert, and then not being able to see the stage, due to all the tall people in front of you! If you’re looking for a Christian message in all of this, then the title track is for you. Stripped back to just acoustic guitar accompanies Mark’s vocals. “Cos if you’re always looking for the worst in everything then you’re sure to find. So change your heart. Look for the stars in the darkest nights. And you’ll find your way.” Definitely, the best collection from Backroom Stereo, so far! 8/10. (October 2019)
BACKSTAGE REVIVAL : Christmas Worship. (Backstage Revival Music)
Backstage Revival is comprised of husband-and-wife singer/songwriters John and Anne Lazenby. This duo leads people into the presence of God through soulful Americana-style worship. This two track EP features one traditional, and one brand news song. The old, is a sympathetic rendition of ‘What Child Is This?’ Music is provided by an acoustic guitar and a violin. Together, they provide an excellent backdrop to the couple’s fine vocals. ‘I See A Star’ has a more electric sound, but still has some nice string sounds within, too. It’s a fairly slow paced number that contains the words; “Our King Has come, hope’s alive.” Celebrating the birth of Jesus, it’s an enjoyable and worshipful sound. On the strength of these two songs, John & Anne are definitely a duo worth looking out for in the future. 7/10. (December 2021)
BANDWITHNONAME : Dying to Be There. (ICC Records : ICC1283A)
This is a package containing both a CD and a DVD, although to be honest I didn't find much of any interest on the DVD. There's a couple of music video's, a few interviews and some outtakes, plus the obligatory "Making of". The CD is a kind of fusion of rock music and rap, which was ok for a
couple of tracks, but after that it got a bit monotonous, It's almost as if the band aren't able to decide which style they want to play, and I'm afraid that after a while, I found myself "dying for them to be there" too. I reckon that this is one of those bands that you either like or you don't, but there just wasn't enough variation in the music for me. Every now and
then there was a nice intro to get your hopes up, but then as soon as the song got going normal service was resumed. I'm sure a lot of people out there who like this band, and will find this to be a really good buy, but it doesn't do it for me I'm afraid. 5/10 Andy Sayner. (October 2009)
This CD is from a band that have reformed after a gap of 13 years. Originally called "Bang Bang You're Dead" they formed after the split up of "Press Any Key" a band which any fans of After the Fire will probably remember well. One member, Rob Russell is the brother of ATF guitarist John. This CD is basically late seventies / early eighties rock music all the way through, but with modern day lyrics. There are some fairly impressive sounding guitar solo's scattered through the songs, well they are to me anyway (Bass player). And everything is on the whole fairly up beat. You get the impression with this lot that they are a load of old blokes with nothing to prove just enjoying what they are doing, and I reckon that this comes over in the music. You probably have to look past the cover though, as someone else remarked it does look a bit kind of "Spinal Tap" if you know what I mean. Just goes to show though, that you can't judge a book, or a CD in this case, by the cover. This is a really enjoyable CD, which now has a place on my Zen player. Definitely give it a try. The website has some samples on it, and you can buy the CD from there. www.batcavestudio.com 9/10 Andy Sayner. (October 2007)
Song of Victory is an anthem that encourages God’s people to declare victory over every sphere of our lives, leaning into the finished works of Jesus Christ on calvary. We stand boldly before nations, tongues and tribes, echoing our heart posture and our total allegiance to the Kingdom of God. That’s the background. So, what of the track itself? Well, it starts with the declaration that “We are the soldiers of the Lord’s Army,” and carries on the theme that we are singing and shouting of the Lord’s victory on the cross. The musical style is definitely gospel, and features a really good tune. Bari sings well and is backed by a competent choir. I wasn’t sure what to expect from thid artist but the result is a quite catchy number! 7/10. (January 2024)
BARLOWGIRL : Barlowgirl. (Fervent Records)
Barlowgirl are the three sisters who have a passion to write songs
about the journey that God has taken them on in their lives. Their
main song topics include trusting God, purity, and their stand
on not dating. Indeed, there's a massive Barlowgirl movement in
the States now, all taking similar stance. The album itself is
very much in the Avril Lavigne mould. "Pedestal" rocks
like "Skater Boi", while the more melodic "Never
Alone" is more like "I'm With You". "She Walked
Away" is a prayer from a family who's child has left home
without a word. They're left, hurt, grieving, and not knowing
why. It's a brilliantly intense song and my favourite overall.
The girls write the songs themselves and also play drums and guitar,
therefore creating a simple rock sound. But, the producers seem
to have used string pads at every opportunity and it works well.
It's an album made by teenagers for teenagers, but older folks
like myself will still find food for thought. 8/10 (March 2004)
BARLOWGIRL : Another Journal Entry. (Fervent : 8864462)
Their last album saw Barlowgirl perform songs very much in the style of Avril Lavigne, so credit them, this time, for moving on. This time, there's a more typical US rock feel to the album. Take, for instance, "Grey", it's more in the mould of one time pop/rock goddesses, Vixen. The girl's harmonies work really well on the mid-paced "enough", while the acoustic led "Porcelain Heart" is quite mellow. To me, the production is quite messy at times although I got a feeling that they've been listening rather too much to the Manic Street Preachers for their own good. "Take Me Away" and "Psalm 73" would fall into that category. Sadly, I didn't think that the songwriting was as strong as their last album, and this really lets the album down. "5 Minutes of Fame" is a pleasant enough rocker, but things just seem to fizzle out, rather like a damp firework. Lots of promise, but fails to deliver. 4/10 (May 2006)
BARRY & BATYA SEGAL : Sh'ma Yisrael. Word : 77797-0002-2)
Produced by none other than Martin Smith, this album blends rhythmic
praise and ethnic overtones with passionate worship towards the
"Holy One of Israel". For those of you who don't know,
Barry & Batya live in Jerusalme and are at the forefront of
what God is doing in the present day nation of Israel. Following
two tracks of introduction, the Segal's move into full flow with
"Baruch Haba" and the bouncy "Hallelu Et Adonai".
Mixing English and Hebrew languages, worship is of the essence
as "Hineh Lo Yanum" and "Kadosh" gently minister.
The latter actually had me thinking I was listening to Joanne
Hogg, Batya's vocals being so smooth. Someone once joked to me
that listening to Barry & Batya was like been locked in a
room with the worst entries of the Eurovision song contest. Thankfully,
I can assure you that this is not the case, as this album has
many winners. 8/10. (March 2000)
BARRY & BATYA SEGAL : Go Through the Gates. (Galilee of the Nations : 677797001925)
Barry and Batya Segal were one of the first Messianic artists
that I ever reviewed, way back in 1995. since then, I have come
to know and respect their music that brings a contemporary ethnic
sound that speaks insightfully to the prophetic times in which
we live today. This latest album shows the sprit of worship rising
up out of the Land of Israel and encourages believers everywhere
during these perilous and uncertain times. "On Your Walls
O Jerusalem" is a typical uptempo piece that conjures visions
of dancing and laughter, it's a very uplifiting song. "We
Delight in Your Shabbat" is so full of happieness and praise,
as it proclaims "We delight"…in God. "Shimcha
Kadosh" finds Batya singinig to just an acoustic backing,
joined mid-song by an angelic choir - it's quite beautiful. "Go
Through The Gates" will draw the listener into the peace
and presence of the Lord, whatever your cultural background. 8/10. (October 2002)
BART MILLARD : Hymned. (INO Records 683581)
Some may recognise Bart Millard as the excellent 'country rock' voice of Canadian CCM band Mercy Me - try sampling their stuff via www.mercyme.org. Bart explains the title of his first solo offering 'Hymned' as being '… sort of a play on words off of the sewing term 'hemmed' which I'm using in the sense that the experience of having these songs sung to me in my childhood is a big part of what has sewn my life together'. Seems a bit obscure - but it's Bart's album! The sleeve note credits/comments suggest that here we have a project that is very … err … American (yes, I know Bart's Canadian, but ….). It's the music that matters however, and with Brown Bannister sharing production credits this album has a great sound. Bart is joined by Mercy Me guitarist Barry Graul and a band of professional Nashville musicians, with Vince Gill guesting on 'Pass me not, O gentle Saviour'. Ironically, the one (almost) 'non-hymn' track also turns out to be one of the best - 'Mawmaw's song', written by Bart and Barry but with its chorus taken from 'In the sweet by and by'. 'My Jesus I love Thee/'Tis so sweet' is also particularly well done. To my ears many tracks are less successful, with their tunes set to inappropriate arrangements. Many obviously disagree - 'Hymned' has evidently been selling like hot cakes. As usual, the recommendation is to try before you buy (visit www.bartmillard.org). For me however, 5/10.Dave Deeks. (October 2005)
BAYLOR WILSON : Joy Comes in the Morning. (Halogen – Baylor LLC)
At 26, Baylor Wilson has already lived a life most people only dream about – excelling at competitive cheerleading, starring in Season 29 of CBS’s Survivor, scoring a country music publishing deal – all before graduating from college. But according to Baylor, these life-making moments were just a precursor to the abundant life she found when she met Jesus. When asked what exactly happened that prompted her to start writing songs about Jesus, she joyfully exclaims, “Jesus happened.” It’s not a bumper sticker platitude. Baylor’s over-the-top joy for the Lord radiates from deep within, spilling over onto everyone she meets. ‘Jesus Happened’ is the opening song on this 4 track EP, and what a song it is! Almost from the first note, I was in love with this song. There’s a cross between country and pop, in an early Taylor Swift sort of way. The title track is just as infectious, as the singer celebrates each day with Jesus in her life. There’s something quite clever about the way ‘Jesus Wrote Me a Letter’ is put together. Inspired by John 14:6, Baylor produces a classy number which tells of the promise of Jesus to all who come to Him. Finally, we’re treated to the glorious ‘All the Way Home.’ “I have decided I’m following Jesus; Gone are the days when I walked on my own; I have decided I’m following Jesus; I’ll follow Him all the way home.” This is one of the most exceptional songs that I’ve heard this year. I was soon playing it again and again, singing loudly along. How glad I was that CCM Magazine gave me the opportunity to review this fantastic EP. 10/10. (September 2021, Record of the Month)
THE BBC DAILY SERVICE SINGERS : The Daily Service. (Kingsway: KMCD2330)
BBC Radio 4's Daily Service programme is the longest running daily
radio programme in the world. The current crop of singers are
all experienced worship leaders who not only have the skills to
sing the widest range of Christian music, but an ability to communicate
the faith itself. On this, first, commercial release, 14 songs
are featured. Beginning with "Praise My Soul", the track
listing then runs through Stuart Townend's "How Deep the
Father's Love", Paul Leddington's "O Lord of Every Shining
Constellation", and back to Townend once more for "From
the Sqaulor". Each are given timeless classic renditions
in the style and quality that The Daily Service produce. Other
songs featured include "From Heaven You Came", "Be
Still" and "When I Survey" in what can only be
called a top album of it's kind. 9/10. (NOvember 2001)
BE STILL THE EARTH : Liminal. (Echoes Blue Music)
Marshall Usinger is the man behind this album of ambient tracks. He is a multi-instrumentalist and composer from Denver, CO. Since 2016, his music has been featured on NBC, CBS, ABC, MTV, The Discovery Channel, The History Channel, and many other networks around the world. Speaking about the inspiration behind his new album, he explains that “the visual concepts of thin places and transitional states” were integral to the formation of the music. Working with texture as much as melodic ideas, Liminal tells a story of “what it feels like to be comfortably uncertain, to give in to our doubt and curiosity, and exploring seasons of life that might not make sense in the moment.” It’s quite difficult to describe each track individually on an album like this. There’s no basic tune or melody to latch on to. Instead, the listener is offered occasional piano sounds and ambient/ethereal pads of varying description. Usinger says that through this album, Be Still the Earth invites the listener, both musically and emotionally, to a place of meditation, inspiration, and contemplation. I think that you could also add relaxation to that list, too. As a sufferer of tinnitus, I often use soft/ambient music to mask the effects when at its worst. Tracks include “In Front of your Eyes; Making Sense of Things; and Between Worlds – the latter adding some nice cello sounds to the pot. The only sign of any human voice comes on the closing “A Lasting Peace,” where Anita Tatlow (Salt of the Sound) provides some fragile vocals. The one thing I would say about this album is that there is little variation between tracks. However, perhaps that’s a good thing when using the album for your mediation or relaxation needs. 7/10. (August 2021)
BEANBAG : Freesignal. (Inpop : 7243 8517312 7)
Signed to the Newsboy's Inpop label, fellow Australians, Beanbag
are going to raise quite a few eyebrows with this release. Mixing
rap, funk and rock with crunching guitars, it's an album that
is sure to appeal to fans of Prodigy and the like. However, for
your average music fan, both your head and your ears are going
to take a severe pounding. For me, personally, the meaning of
lyrics on such tracks as "Bite the Hand" were completely
lost due to the barking vocals. Even reading the lyrics whilst
listening failed to help, although I did manage to stay with "Face
I Paint"."Disturbed", "Why?", and "Stale"
are all very much the same and, although the band were a big hit
at last year's Cornerstone Festival in America, I simply couldn't
play this more than twice. Perhaps I just don't understand. 2/10. (April 2000)
BEAUTIFUL WORSHIP - The Greatest Praise and Worship of All Time. (INO Records : 41342)
Well, with a title like that, this album certainly had a lot to live up to, even before I listened for the first time. There's some top notch performers delivering the goods, but some of the versions of well known songs I found to be rather weak. Brian Doerksen starts proceedings with an acoustic version of "Come, Now is the Time to Worship". It's all very "laid back" and I wasn't to keen on it. Similarly, Paul Baloche's rendition of "I Could Sing of Your Love Forever" fails to match the awe of it's original version by Delirious? Lenny LeBlanc co-wrote "Above All" and, here, he gives it his all to perform a smashing version of a great song. Twila Paris excels herself with "He is Exalted" , while Robin Mark leads a determined version of "Shout to the North". Of the songs I didn't know so well Hillsong and Delirious? Play a deeply moving song called "I Give you My Heart". The others, I'm afraid, are much of a muchness, and songs like "Lord I Lift Your Name on High" and "Awesome God" sound rather tired. Sorry, but while the album does contain some of the greatest praise and worship songs of our time, the renditions just don't live up to expectations. 5/10. (July 2007)
I’m rather impressed with this 5 track EP from the Manilla born but New Zealand based rap artist. That’s not say it’s perfect, just that in spite of its flaws it’s a really enjoyable and uplifting listen. The best track is the final one, “Have Faith (God is Love)” with a wonderfully catchy chorus which aptly demonstrates that there is more to rap than, well, rap. It would have made good opener so it’s a brave move to save the best until last, though I suspect that most people listen on shuffle these days anyway. In contrast, the song “Common Sins” is much more “wordy” adding into the mix a number of passages of narrated scripture. Often this kind of thing doesn’t work, feeling rather incongruous amidst the ebb and flow of a melody, but it really works here. It also fits with the theme of the lyrics so there is real coherence to the whole thing. Good job. The remaining three tracks are solid, if unspectacular, being enjoyable and well constructed. Some of the lyrical work occasionally loses its rhythmic tightness but as stated, it’s not something of great substance. Lyrically it’s bold, honest and overtly Christian – Bebe isn’t beating about the bush – yet it doesn’t feel forced or false. Overall, a real courageous collection of songs, a great debut and worthy of the effort and struggles it took to bring it to fruition. 8/10. Robin Thompson. (April 2018)
BEBO NORMAN : Big Blue Sky. (Watershed : MPCD40505)
I like this album. That's it, end of review! But it's too good
for me to leave it there. Bebo Norman is an American who's been
making a name for himself throughout Europe ever since his previous
album 'Ten Thousand Days' grabbed our attention in 1999. Not just
another acoustic guitar based singer/songwriter, Bebo has a real
depth in his songs, and manages to combine well thought out lyrics
with memorable tunes and good structures. In short, his songs
are 'complete' and work well. This album sees him at his most
mature yet, with a departure into full arrangements with a more
commercial feel. A classy production brings out the best in his
voice, which is lovely and husky with a great laid back tone.
The title track 'Big Blue Sky' shows this, along with others such
as 'I Am', 'Underneath' and 'Cover Me'. But this album also shows
Bebo Norman unplugged, the real McCoy, in such beautiful tracks
as 'All That I Have Sown' and 'Where You Are'. So we have the
best of both worlds, and the good thing is that he's still maturing
and progressing so we've got a lot of goodies to look forward
to. Yes, I like this album. 9/10 Julie Lord. (July 2001)
BEBO NORMAN : Myself, When I Am Real. (Essential Records :(MPCD40538)
I have heard a lot of really good things about Bebo Norman as
a songwriter and performer, and the fact that his last album "Big
Blue Sky" was named #1 Christian album of 2001 by Amazon.com
served only to reinforce those things. It was therefore with a
sense of genuine anticipation that I put this new release into
my CD player, and (to my great relief) I was not disappointed.
Musically there is nothing revolutionary here, and the acoustic
guitar-led Nashville influence is obvious, but the musicianship
is superb from beginning to end, and the songs are beautifully
put together. The lyrics are very much focussed on Bebo's own
relationship with God, and a sense that this is a very personal
collection of songs stays with you throughout, which only serves
to strengthen the album as a whole. For me the highlights are
"Beautiful You" and the awesome "Great Light of
the World", and unusually there are no obviously weak songs
so, in spite of having only an unmastered review copy to go on,
this one comes highly recommended. 9/10 David Cooper (October 2002)
BEBO NORMAN : Try. (Essential : MPCD40572)
I already have Bebo's excellent 2002 CD 'Myself when I am real'
in my collection so was pleased when I received this new one for
review. If you're wondering about Bebo's name, his real name is
Steven but a baby sister who couldn't say 'brother' started calling
him 'Bebo' when he was just four years old - and it stuck! He
has a really good 'light with a touch of gravel' bang-in-tune
voice, and his music is sort of in the Marc Cohn vein, which suits
me nicely. Bebo's albums date back to 1999, and this is his fifth.
Good songs as usual - Bebo has a talent for lyrics and melody
to add to that voice of his. There are probably fewer immediately
memorable 'tunes' than on the 2002 offering, but a couple of plays
soon had me singing along. The best song lyrically is 'Borrow
mine' - a neat idea skilfully put together, but I won't say more
in case I spoil it for you! 'Disappear' is also excellent, and
others worth special note include 'Nothing without you' and 'Other
side of the day' - but there really isn't a weak track here. If
your preferences include listening to guitar-based singer-songwriters,
Bebo is pretty well as good as it gets. The only down side is
the sound, which a good sound system shows up as being a bit over-compressed
- probably mixed for (so-called) 'radio play'. Despite this, a
definite recommendation - and also worth checking out Bebo's other
albums via www.bebonorman.com. 9/10 Dave Deeks (January 2005, February 2005)
BEBO NORMAN : Between the Dreaming and the Coming True. (Essential : 083061079925)
Bebo's three previous albums have all scored highly in NFN reviews, interestingly enough by three different reviewers. He says that this collection of songs are "about life lived some days in the trenches and some days on the mountain top". From soaring with God, down to deep despair, Bebo covers every angle. "Into the Day" is a good, positive start and would fit nicely into anyone's "feel good" chart. "Time Takes It's Toll on Us" is another good song and Bebo's vocals make every word plain to hear. If you want contemporary praise and worship at it's best, then look no further than "I Will Lift My Eyes" and "Bring Me to Life". Both songs are just classic tracks which I can see going down a storm at live worship events. At times, his delivery reminds me of Chris Rice but Bebo certainly is a man who knows his own mind. Sticking close to the truth of God in his life, he conveys everything in pure and simple terms, but in a very delicious way. 9/10. (March 2007)
BEBO NORMAN : Great Light of The World (The very best of Bebo Norman) Essential / Providen-Integrity 83061-0861-2
Bebo Norman is one of those artists that would need no introduction on either side of the pond, having been on the CCM music scene for around 10 years now. This as the title suggests is a greatest hits style compilation spanning from his earlier career in 1999 the present day. Saying that though, I personally cannot admit to being greatly familiar with his work of late but having heard this, it is something I would certainly make steps to becoming re-acquainted with. We kick off with "I Will Lift My Eyes" from Bebo's 2006 Between The Dreaming & The Coming True album which is an excellent start & reminds me very much of a recent offering from a band called The Longing; a greatly passionate number with a rhythmical rocky feel to it, starting quietly & building gradually to a real powerful chorus made all the richer with Bebo's gravelly tones. Great driving drum rhythms with a very catchy guitar riff in the chorus! 'Nothing Without You' follows on in a slightly more relaxed pace with some great lyrics speaking of how God is central to everything we are. The CD includes a collaboration with Caedmon's Call (Holy Is Your Name) which of course ties in with Bebo's roots in CCM, as well as 'Sometimes By Step' with Rich Mullins. What I like about this CD is that the lyrics come through without being overpowered by the musical aspects which is a great balance, often so difficult to achieve. A great introduction to the man & his music with lyrics that will make you sit up & think. 9/10 Simon Redfern (Feburary 2008)
BECCA JACKSON : It'll Sneak Up On You. (Word : 7019671608).
Another debut album by one of those American artists who seem
to appear at almost alarming regualrity. In the mould of Susan
Ashton comes Becca Jackson with her blend of acoustic pop, folk
rock and down-to-earth music. Ten songs which embrace God's word
and promises to the full. Loved the opening 'Hands Tied' which
tells of our constant falls from grace, and the catchy title track
with excellent hook. The backing music is superb but does not
detract from the sweet voice of Becca. She is, indeed, a talented
new singer/songwriter and looks set for greater things. The lovely
'He Will Build A Bridge' rounds things off, telling of Jesus'
outstretched hand, calling the lost. A good start. 8/10. (June 1997)
BEE CEE MOH : Just for Me. (Macmomoh Music)
On this new single, Bee Cee Moh reflects on the price Christ paid on the cross for our sins and made us free: “You died just for me, You bled on the cross just for me, Your death brought life to me” She sings. Accompanied by some simple bass lines, Bee Cee Moh praises the Lord for everything He has done in her life. Her voice delivers each word with feeling. Occasionally, there’s a distant backing vocal, which works really well on this stripped-down recording. The only downside appears right at the end of the song, when some a very odd guitar phrase is heard. It’s rather strange, and sounds completely out of context with the rest of the song. Nevertheless, I’m happy to give this song a 7/10. (June 2022)
BEEHIVE : Brand New Day. (Airplay/Word : AIRCD971).
In the world of British Acid Jazz, Jamariqoui lead the rest by
some distance. Whilst Capitaan flew the Christian flag last year,
Beehive have released an album which collects together, the sound
that is making the music press sit up and take note. Singer Kaz
Lewis has been praised to soul diva status and it's easy to see
why. Her voice is soft and warm , with a power to make a song
stand out - the laid back 'Can't Stop the Rain' being a prime
example. The track which is getting most radio play is 'Get Busy'
a funky tune that I thought was awful - it takes all sorts. 'Hype'
has a Latin feel to it and the summer feeling 'Father's Eyes'
has 'hit' written all over. The music is tight and Rob May's keyboard
work gives a good feel throughout. It's not a stunning debut but
Beehive look set to be the Buzz-band this year. 7/10. (June 1997)
THE BEENES : Keep Looking Up. (Stow Town Records)
Brandon and Chrysta Beene are music veterans who possess rich musical talents. Their music ministry has afforded them the opportunity to travel for two decades. Adding their teenage daughter Savannah, The Beenes now minister as a family with these songs which highlight their journey of faith. This is their debut release with Stow Town Records, and the band say; “We started this project at the beginning of the pandemic and we wanted to record songs that would bring people hope, encouragement and joy.” The opening “Taste & See” has a bright feel about it, with the vocals carrying the song along, over laid back music. The tempo picks up with “Right Here,” which is really enjoyable. “Unstoppable God” suffers from some odd vocal tones, while “It’s Not Over” shows Chrysta’s vocals off to their best. Young Savannah gets the lead on “How Big,” and I was surprised at how good her voice sounded. There’s a few styles of song on show with this album, including the poppy “Thank You Lord” and the mid-paced, country feel of “I Can Do All Things.” Was there a downside to the album? Well, if I was picky, I’d have to say that the closing “Breathe” didn’t quite have the same feel as the rest of the album. There was something about it that just made me grimace, as I listened. Still, one song doesn’t make a bad album, so I’m pleased rate this one as very good. 8/10. (March 2021)
Piling in with massive guitars and a (mostly) shouted vocal, this album is aiming for your throat and doesn’t miss. It has doom-laden picking (“Death’s Great Black Wing Scrapes The Air”, for example) and great song titles (ditto). The title track is a very moody (and slightly weird) instrumental. The interplay between the two vocalists (described as “clean vocals” and “unclean vocals”) gets better as the album progresses, working very well on “We Drag The Dead On Leashes”, for example. “Even The Dead Have Their Tasks” has a more mainstream rock feel to it spotlighting the “clean” vocal whereas “Grace, Teach Us What We Lack” has a deadpan vocal that sounds slightly flat making the “unclean” vocal shine in contrast. It’s solidly in its genre (so you probably already know whether or not you’ll like it). In trying to describe the overall sound, I’d say that there’s a feel of Anathema in parts, some early Pink Floyd, a bit of (dare I say it) 5 Seconds of Summer, maybe The Way and a lot of Nirvana, Seventh Day Slumber and Sum 41. Best track: “Grace, Teach Us What We Lack”. 7/10. Paul Ganney. (August 2015)
BELIEVER : We The Gathered.
There’s no way to mistake where this CD is going: the heavy drum intro, the rapid-fire guitar riffs and then the guttural vocal. It’s not quite Death Metal, as it’s far too uplifting. It’s more P.O.D. meets Napalm Death, really. With a different vocal it’d almost be mainstream metal in an Iron Maiden kind of way (especially on “Idolizer” where the guitar work is very good indeed). The lyrics are as uncompromising as the music (so it’s very holistic) but the music does have its lighter moments – like the mid-section to “Savior” or the instrumental “Tragedy”. Whilst the musicianship is very good, the vocal style is one of things that you either like or don’t. I’m not a great fan – I like it as a counterpoint (e.g. Leaves’ Eyes) but not as a sole voice for a whole CD. So you probably know whether or not you’re going to like this CD from that description alone. Best track: “Idolizer”, for the guitar work and the energy (not that this CD is lacking in that department). 6/10. Paul Ganney (January 2012)
Belinda has published four romance novels and has produced a number of films. She has a music catalogue of over 100 original compositions in the electronic pop genre, and is represented by BMI. Through her music, Song hopes to inspire those who need hope, and through her words, she hopes to comfort those who need strength. For Song, music is food for the soul, and can serve as a 'nourishment' for those in search of inspiration. She hopes to make a positive difference. So, to this 6 track EP of what is described as “sensual alternative RnB sounds.” My heart sank as I listened to the first track, ‘Forever.’ Indeed, it did seem to last forever. Repetitive keyboard phrases and the most unimaginative percussion are the vehicle for echoing vocals that are almost inaudible! I think that I heard the words “You and I,” but I’m not sure. Maybe, the following ‘I Love You’ would be better. Well, marginally, it is. Although that’s not saying much. The mind numbing music is quite monotonous, but at least I could hear a few more of the lyrics on this one. If I’m correct, the track is a song of praise to Jesus. The next two songs are just the same. The musical backing is just constant loops, as Belinda performs in a vocal style that I just couldn’t comprehend or understand. Now, this lady has over 780,000 followers on Instagram. Surely, they must see something in Belinda’s music that I’m not. It’s not long since I had my hearing checked, but this recording does make me wonder if I should get a second opinion. With apologies to Belinda and her followers. 3/10. (September 2022)
BELISA JOHN : Worship Medley. (@BelisaJohn)
Belisa John is a Multiple Award-winning Gospel Minister and recording artiste. The medley single features popular worship tunes like “Alpha And Omega” by Israel & New Breed, and “WayMaker” by Sinach. It’s a smooth start, both musically and vocally, that builds with the addition of a chorale backing. Belisa continues to lead the vocals in a worshipful style that tends to lose its clarity mid-track. Indeed, upon first listen, I failed to recognise any reference to ‘Waymaker,’ due to this problem. Unfortunately, production quality isn’t too good, and the overall recording suffers. 3/10. (February 2022)
Belisa is a Nigerian gospel singer and songwriter. Of this song, she says; “This is an incredibly significant piece that is going to break new ground in the Gospel.” The style is instantly recognisable as RnB, with its medium paced tempo, and vical delivery. Belisa tells us that we don’t always practice what we preach. The chorus moves into the main thrust of the song title ‘Wanna Know You More.’ There’s good vocal backing, in a gospel way, and I can see this song getting plenty of radio play. Certainly, it stands up well against secular songs of the same genre. 7/10. (January 2023)
10 year old Bella Vantes is the daughter of Billboard artist Joey Vantes. Her fresh sound, unique melodies and anointed voice is capturing listeners, taking them into a place of praise needed in these times. An ethereal vocal delivery is reminiscent of Sound of the Salt’s Anita Tatlow. The song highlights Jeremiah 1:5, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." It’s a really appealing sound from someone so young, and her voice is complimented by sympathetic instrumentation. It will be interesting to see what comes next for Bella. 9/10. (May 2021)
THE BELONGING CO. : See the Light (Live). (TBCO Music LLC)
The Belonging Co is the hub for worship leaders. This is the Nashville based church where Kari Jobe, Natalie Grant, Danny Gokey, Sarah Reeves, Andrew Holt, Mia Fieldes, Cody Carnes, Hope Darst and many others call home. Running for well over 2 hours, listening in one sitting was beyond me. For instance, the first song, led by Natalie Grant, “Turn Your Eyes,” lasts for nearly 12 minutes alone! From a gentle beginning, the song explodes into full blown worship of Jesus. We, then, get an evangelistic call to those gathered, before the song ends with a gospel choir leading the way. “Where Would I Be” and “Jesus Over Everything” swing along, in a style akin to Hillsong. Then, there’s Danny Gokey’s rendition of “Every Victory.” There’s just something about his voice that really appeals to me. On this song, he leads what sounds like a big production number. But, it still oozes praise and worship to our Lord. A lesser known name is Henry Seeley, who sings “War Cry.” Lyrics include; “Who conquers fear? And tells the dark to flee. Now raised to life; Defeated the enemy. Who is this King of Glory? He is fighting for us!” This is another really good song. Of the other tracks, Ben Cantelon’s “All My Delight” is a highlight, as is Daniella Mason’s “Heaven Invade.” So, although I have drawn comparisons to Hillsong, this collection does stand up well in its own right. Well worth a 7/10. (July 2021)
BEN CANTELON : Running After You. (Survivor : SURCD6152)
Born to Pastors in Vancouver, Canada, Ben heads up the worship for the UK-based Soul Survivor movement. He says that this album "links in with the idea of being desperate to follow and connect with God; wanting God to get closer but life getting in the way." The track listing begins with 'Not Ashamed', a rocking declaration that we shouldn't be ashamed to nail our colours to the mast. 'Jericho' tells of tearing down walls of issues and blockages within us, and it's a fine song. 'Coming Back' is an orchestrated piece in the prodigal son mould, while 'Remain' plods along with God at the centre of the song, remaining constant. I particularly liked the song 'Breathe', which prays for the Holy Spirit to be with you, but pick of the bunch has to be 'Carry On'. This song is quite stripped down, musically, and I think that it's sincerity shines through. Ben plays acoustic guitar and keyboards on this release, and he's obviously a talented and gifted guy. However, there are several songs that left me quite cold, even after two or three listens. Consistency in the songs would have seen a better score than...6/10 (November 2009)
BEN CANTELON : Everything In Colour. (Kingsway : KWCD3289)
Although a Canadian national, Ben now resides in the Uk and is a worship leader at London’s Holy Trinity Church, Brompton. Over the last few years, his music has become increasingly popular for worship, and this album includes several of his best known tunes. The title track is a strong song musically, and it really sets the tone for the whole album. ‘New Day’ speeds along, celebrating finding Jesus in your life, and I thought this was the strongest cut on the listing. Saying that, there’s still more quality praise and worship to be had with songs like ‘Saviour of The World’ and ‘My Deliverer’. Produced by Jason Ingram, there’s also writing credits for Stu G and Matt Redman. There’s more celebration with ‘Lord Strong and mighty’, while the closing ‘Love Divine’ I think would be perfect for a time of communion. I think that this collection of songs will only increase Ben’s popularity in this country. 9/10. (July 2012, Album of the Month)
BEN GLOVER : 26 Letters. ((Word:080688608729)
22 year old singer songwriter Ben Glover comes from a small town
on the edge of the Rockies. He loves music and loves the Lord
even more. His new album tackles issues of faith, community, and
culture with fearless questioning and unswerving faith. Great
sentiments but the album is, sadly, filled with too many average
songs. He's a little bit like Stephen Curtis Chapman in style
but neither the vocals or songs come up to scratch. The title
track is, probably, the best on offer, while "The Man I Want
to Be" would run it a close second. Apart from that, it was
one of those albums that I played through without there really
being one memorable song. "Hope Will Be My Song" is
quite nice but the quality just isn't there. 2/10. (June 2001)
BEN GRACE : As If Words Could Heal Wounds. (www.bengracemusic.com)
Australian, Ben Grace, now lives in San Diego, and this is his solo, debut release. On this reflective album, Ben writes of his own story through divorce, failure, and new love. Through his songs, Ben’s release is part lament, part opus, and part hope for rebuilding. “A Thousand Times” kicks off the track listing, with a little nod towards a Celtic style. I liked this song a lot, and it reminded me of Deacon Blue. From there, we move into the more experimental sound of “Mama,” which looks at systemic racism. An unashamed love song, “Come to Bed My Darlin’,” is very sweet, despite its sparse backing, while “Colorado” is another love song but, with a more of a radio friendly sound. Duetting with Molly Parden, the vocals are superb, and the instrumentation, excellent. Following, comes the foot tappin’ number called “Countin.” Edging on the side of country, Ben sings of counting his blessings, and being thankful for them all. I must admit that I found both “Write the Fear a Lullaby” and “New York Lullaby” a little difficult to understand, lyric-wise. However, ¬¬¬¬the closing “A Little Story” is much better. Telling that God’s love is bigger than any one of us, and anything, the song is one of my favourites from the album. With production coming from Sheryl Crow’s guitarist, Joshua Grange, there’s a definite quality to the overall sound. And, after two decades in the music business, Ben can count his solo debut as quite a success. 8/10. (November 2020)
Ben Lasky is a worship leader & songwriter from Colchester, UK, whose song writing, draws deeply from his own journey with the Lord. This 8 track debut album was recorded live, so it’s a warts and all production. Some of the “warts” are provided by Ben’s vocals which, at times, really strain to keep in tune. He has a vibrato modulation to his voice and struggles when he tries to hold a note. On the opening “Kingdom Come”, Ben takes some words from the Lord’s Prayer and fits them into an indie rock sound, which I found quite stirring. “Justice Reign” chugs along nicely, but the 9 minute song of worship called “Hallelujah” really struggles. Vocally, Ben is not at his best, and it’s really highlighted by the repetitive sung title, which takes over most of the song. Indeed, on both “Glorify” and “The Cross” the monotonous repetition of “We Glorify” and “Thank you for the cross” deter from what could have been two fine songs. Just when I was about to lose hope with this album, Ben comes up with a storming number called “You Alone.” Much in the mould of Tim Hughes or Paul Baloche, the song has everything that contemporary P&W should have. His voice is note perfect, and the live band really comes together for a song that is head and shoulders above anything else on the album. Closing the recording, Ben provides acoustic guitar backing to the simple song “I Know.” In my opinion, Ben lacks some experience in song structure. But, that will only come with time and despite some of my reservations, he shows that he’s a budding artist with plenty of ideas and a real heart for God. 5/10. (September 2016)
BENITA JONES : The Entreating. (Integrity Music)
Benita Jones turns out to be the artist previously known as Benita Washington (the reason for the change being her divorce from husband Delvin Washington - touched on towards the end of 'Broken things'), and following an EP this is her second release under her new moniker. A songwriter as well as singer, here we have at first glance 14 songs. "Come on, clap your hands like this" kicks off more than 80 mins of high energy live soul gospel featuring Ms Jones' powerful chops, backed by a highly capable band and a brilliant gospel choir. First track 'Joy' is followed by the equally adrenaline-charged 'Good God'. Things drop back a bit for 'Still everything' - a 'mini sermon' introduced 6 minute power ballad that morphs into a further 5 mins or so reprising the same song, featuring 'hallelujahs' and increasingly emotional climax. And so the album continues in similar vein, with one more 'reprise' and an 'intro' (to the slow ballad title track, possibly the weakest on the album) meaning there are actually 11 songs featured. The standout for me is the brilliantly arranged, produced and delivered 'You satisfy', but others come close e.g. the pop reggae 'Never let me down' (although at 9 mins long this does overdo it!), 'Broken things' (almost as unnecessarily long at 8 mins) and the beautiful closer 'Way maker'. Ms Jones is clearly an artist to be experienced live, with the album effectively capturing the atmosphere - playing it right through at a good volume on the hifi I felt rung out by the end, but sort of in a good way! Downsides? The tracks definitely tend to be overlong and could usefully have been faded at the 5 min or so mark, and Benita's excitement makes her go off key sometimes or 'vibrato above the note'. But that gospel choir? I don't know who they are but I'd happily hear an album of their own! As for this one, not my usual bag but a really enjoyable release (even the sound quality is good!) that I've added to my Tidal favourites. 9/10. Dave Deeks (August 2020)
THE BENJAMIN GATE : Contact. (Forefront records)
I really enjoyed listening to this CD. It's one of those albums
that doesn't sound like a Christian CD, if you know what I mean.
The Benjamin gate have had two number one singles, both from
their last CD, I reckon that they could have more if there is
a single release from this one. A lot of the songs reminded me
of delerious in their King of fools era, although this band has
a female vocalist. Some of the more quiet tracks have a similar
feel to The Alarm. There is a definate raw edge to the music,
something sadly lacking in a lot of material that is produced
nowadays. Unfortunatly there is no contact information supplied
for this country, but there is a website which contains loads
of stuff about the band, and it seems to be regularly updated.
It could be hard to obtain this CD over here, (the band come
from South Africa) but if you like that raw edge to your music
then it would be worth your while trying to chase a copy down.
The web address is www.thebenjamingate.com or you could try
www.forefrontrecords.com. 10/10 Andy Sayner. (October 2002)
BENJAMIN HERSH : Fulfilled Promise. (www.binyamin.org)
It must have taken a great belief for a Jewish man to go against his own family tradition and declare his faith as a Christian. But, that is exactly what classically trained pianist, Benjamin Hersh did. He and his wife, are currently establishing a ministry, after having worked with the Jewish people for many years through street evangelism, hospitality and building long term relationships. This album of messianic praise will not be to everyone’s taste, as many of the songs are sung in Hebrew, an no English translation is given on the sleeve notes. However, from the songs that I could lyrically understand, Benjamin attempts, with success, to tell some of Jesus’ story. For instance, ‘Oh What Pain You Suffered’, although a little long in length, tells the story of the crucifixion with real depth in the vocals. With just his piano playing for accompaniment, he waxes lyrical on the subject of the people of Israel crying out for a Saviour, on the song ‘A Cry From the Desert’. Of the Hebrew sung songs, I thought that ‘Hine Ma Tov’ (based on Psalm 133:1) sounded like a lament rather than my translation of brethren gathering in unity. However, I am not an authority on Hebrew, and stand to be corrected. ‘Oh Zion’ actually seems to be a little repetitive and is quite a listen at nearly 17 minutes long. What I had to do with this release, is to remember that it IS messianic praise, and that it is aimed, primarily, at Jewish people. Therefore, it’s not going to race away to the Top of any Christian charts. On the other hand, I do believe that it will be welcomed with open arms by the very people Benjamin is trying to reach. 7/10. (July 2013)
BENJAMIN WILLIAM HASTINGS : Benjamin William Hastings. (Capitol CMG)
Belfast-born but now based in Australia with Hillsong, singer-songwriter and worship leader Benjamin William Hastings has been co-writing songs that have become used by churches around the world. Here however we have his self-titled solo debut album – and with 25 audio tracks plus 7 accompanying videos, what a considerable debut it is! He acknowledges this in 'A message to my wife' when he refers to it as “indulgently long”. I can only agree, as this turns out to be a work of variable quality that would have been better without the weaker tracks included. Several are short 'links' to a subsequent song and I'm not sure that these add anything really – particularly as they exacerbate the problem of its over-length. Featuring latest single 'So help me God', other previously released singles as well as new material, Benjamin's songs major on personal experiences from his faith-based life. It is clear that he is a gifted songwriter with lyrics his strongest point, these being original and free from cliché. He is also an able vocalist and arrangements and production are often strong, as are many of the melodies. There is too much musical similarity between other tracks however, making them largely indistinguishable in this respect and further pointing to there being a fair bit of 'filler'. Sadly, it is the often distorted vocal sound that is the major failing for me however, and the stumbling block to giving this release another listen. This is frustrating, as with some 'trimming' I could otherwise find much to enjoy here. Trying to ignore this, the best tracks for me are the bouncy 'Dancing with my shadow' and the already mentioned latest single – featuring the determined chorus “I'm gonna get through this, so help me God”. A mixed bag then, that with some 'less is more' attention could have been so much better. A clean sounding 10-12 track follow-up might be in order? But for this one, it's 6/10. Dave Deeks (January 2023)
BENNY DiCHIARA & EMPOWERED : Three Days. (www.Rockin4Jesus.com)
This high-powered pop/rock 5-track album doesn’t just leap from your speakers but threatens to tear them off the wall in the process. I thought the opener (“Listen To The Children”) was pretty powerful (you may recall reading about it in October’s NfN) but then the title track arrived and it has such a catchy hook line you’ll sing it just by reading the title. Lyrically they’re very up-front about their faith (“Three Days” is very clear that it’s the time between Good Friday and Easter Sunday and the defeat of sin and the Devil accomplished then). The songs are very well written, played, recorded and produced. The musicianship is superb, the vocals powerful yet clear. Brilliant stuff. It dips a bit in “Jeremiah 29:11” but even that has some great bits – the acoustic guitar work in this case. The fourth track “Rock Bottom” is also good but doesn’t quite hit the heights of the opening two – it has a nice hook but doesn’t quite hit the bar set earlier. This album is worth it just for those two opening tracks. Best track: “Three Days”. 8/10 Paul Ganney. (January 2021)
BENNY DiCHIARA & EMPOWERED : Yahweh-Nissi. (www.Rockin4Jesus.com)
Here we have the third studio release by this Nashville-based heavy rock band, headed by main man and songwriter Benny DiChiara. There are some well considered lyrics on this five track EP which can be clearly followed – often not the case in rock productions. Kicking off with the title track, 'Yahweh-Nissi' (meaning “the Lord is my banner”) turns out to be the 'heaviest' here. The press release describes it as a “war cry for Jesus” and “a rallying cry” for “a return to normalcy in the wake of the pandemic, social upheaval, and a loss of groundedness”. The mid-paced 'Jesus can heal the world' comes next and meets its description as “a stand-up-and-jump-into-worship anthem with an instantly singable chorus”. 'Soul shaker' refers to a major event in the life of Benny – possibly the loss of his father (the basis of the last track), or the life changing brain surgery he experienced in the recent past. It begins with a nice electric guitar introduction and “last year was the hardest of my life” before proclaiming a desire to be a “soul shaker” for the Lord, a situation I can very much identify with, having many years ago had a similar 'faith sharpening' experience as a result of serious illness. 'I surrender all' uses a straight rock format and turns out to have a simple repeating chorus (“Jesus I surrender all”) that stays in my head after the EP is finished. Final track 'I'll meet you there (Daddy's song)' is written “in tribute to DiChiara's own father”, and is the band's latest single. A worthwhile release for all CCM rockers out there. 8/10. Dave Deeks (December 2022)
Grammy Nominee, Detroit Native, record label owner, and former NBC’s The Voice (Season 16) contestant Beth Griffith-Manley a.k.a BETH has released the festive single “Celebrate”. Style-wise, the song is a blend of Pop and R&B with a dash of a Caribbean flavour. Musically, the main percussion is quite annoying. It sounds like someone slapping a work surface with a wooden spoon! Other than that, the rest of the instrumentation is quite good. Beth has a nice voice, and the backing vocals work well, too. Lyrically, there’s no problem with phrases like “Don’t hesitate to spread the joy” and “Oh how I love to see all the snow falling. It’s a winter wonderland.” Certainly, it’s a sugary sounding song, and quite catchy as well! 6/10. (December 2021)
BETH CROFT : Rule in My Heart. (Integrity Music : 0000768622025)
This is the debut CD from Beth, who is a worship leader at Soul Survivor. It’s an album of straightforward rock / pop style worship songs, and with a good solid band backing her this is an excellent CD. The album kicks off with an upbeat track called “Love takes over” which features some nice delay guitar in the verses, building up to a powerful chorus section. I like the way that the songs build up as they play through, rather than everything being at one level all the time. I get the impression that a lot of thought has gone into this CD, and I would say that it has paid off. Every song seems to have something different to offer, and I didn’t find boredom creeping in at all whilst listening. The outstanding track for me was “Rule in my heart” I just love the feel of it, but really there isn’t a bad song on this CD at all. In fact I am quite happy to give this one a maximum score. You need to buy it. 10/10 Andy Sayner. (August 2014, Album of the Month)
BETH KARP : A Moment to Breathe. (www.bethkarp.com)
Beth Karp is a singer songwriter and producer based in Shropshire. She is a busy mother of four and artist. Her music is how she communicates her thoughts feelings and emotions in the most eloquent way she can. Beth’s music crosses a number of genre’s including folk, pop, rock, and Americana. First up is “Tide.” This song is themed around not going along with the flow of the material world, but going against it, and following Christ. Instrument-wise, there’s only an occasional percussion beat to accompany very nice electric guitar work. It’s a similar production with “For Granted,” a sweet love song to God. Indeed, the sparse accompaniment serves Beth well, throughout the 6 songs on show. “Slow Down” follows suit, while “Silver Linings” does include a little more sound. “More” tells of the encouraging love of our Saviour – “Your words are as gentle as the breeze.” Beth’s vocals have previously been described as “lush and distinctive,” but, at times, I struggled to hear the lyrics. (The same observation was made by another NFN reviewer). Occasionally, in style, I thought that the songs were like an early Aimee Mann – and that’s no bad thing. The final song is called “Heart.” This is an acoustic track and, for me, the best one of the six. The simple message about giving your heart to Jesus and living for Him works so well. It’s an interesting EP that took a few listens to really appreciate. Hopefully, we’ll be hearing more from Beth in the future. 8/10. (December 2020)
Shropshire-based mother of four as well as singer-songwriter and producer, Beth Karp uses her music to “communicate her thoughts feelings and emotions in the most eloquent way she can”. Following pre-release singles during November, this four track ep 'Holy Night' is a shared project with “session musician Josiah Karp” (Beth's husband?). Consisting of “two original modern carols and a new contemporary arrangement of a traditional carol” and an instrumental, it is “dedicated to sharing the story of Christmas in a contemporary way”. First track 'Emmanuel' is a simple re-telling of the Christmas story (“Jesus Christ our king, his name Emmanuel”, with a nice melody set against an uncomplicated but effective arrangement. This turns out to be my favourite. 'O holy night' comes next – the traditional hymn, again with an effective arrangement. Two problems emerge however. Firstly, noticed in 'Emmanuel' but more apparent here is that Beth's otherwise beautiful voice can tend to be somewhat wayward in its tuning. Secondly the track is at a noticeably lower level than the opening one, and it turns out that neither of the two remaining tracks quite return to the volume of the opener. 'Glory came' continues to confirm the simple beauty of the melodies and arrangements here, but Beth's tuning again tends to be slightly off. The 'bell sound' keyboard instrumental 'Angelsong' closes things nicely – apart from a very sudden end! Sound quality throughout is very good, and my overall conclusion has to be that this is a potentially very pleasant release, with weaknesses that prevent a wholehearted recommendation. With these addressed however, I look forward to hearing more from Beth. 7/10. Dave Deeks. (January 2021)
BETHANY DILLON : Imagination. (Sparrow : SPD 73905)
Bethany Dillon is a 17 year old girl from Bellefontaine, Ohio. She released her self titled debut album in 2004 and won critical acclaim for her songwriting. The theme of the album is an invitation to look at life with a fresh perspective, but I'm not sure that she really achives her ideal. I found most of the song pleasant enough, but I kept waiting for one that would take my breath away and set the album alight. Sadly, that didn't happen and, instead, I was left with a collection of very mediocre songs. Perhaps the best song on the album is "All That I Can Do", a song about realizing when you need more than your own strength to do things. It's a song that could well rate high on the charts, given enough exposure. "My Love Hasn't Grown Cold", is quite melancholy and I wasn't impressed at all, neither was I by "Vagabond". Bethany has quite a nice voice, but I really felt that the songs did little to grab my attention. 4/10. (April 2006)
BETHANY DILLON : Waking Up. (Sparrow)
Here's a young lady who has been spending her time, not only recording a new album, but on mission trips to India. Indeed, the track, "Beggar's Heart" reveals a little of what she witnessed. Bethany has sometimes failed to deliver when it comes to a full album, but I think that she's made great strides forward with this release. "The Kingdom" provides a bright start while "Come Find Me" is a cry to Jesus to rescue your soul. "Waking Up" is another sparkling song, while "Something There" takes a little rock edge on board. The songs seem to be written from a very personal point of view as she tackles subjects such as guilt, infertility, and that never to be forgotten feeling of when you first receive God into your life. The latter is cleverly captured on "Top of the World". "Tell Me" and "Are You Sure" are a little meloncholy, and reminded me of Janis Ian in style. Probably the best song on the album is "When You Love Someone". Both delivery and backing music is excellent, and it's a very catchy number. While I don't think that it's ever going to be a million seller, this album goes a long way in establishing Bethany Dillon as a worthy CCM artist. 7/10. (June 2007)
BETHANY DILLON : Stop & Listen. (EMICMG : 5099922634528)
Bethany Dillon's songs not only encourage and inspire, but deal with real spiritual truths in her life and the listeners'. Her sound is pleasing to the ear, and her popularity can be measured by major tours and Christian radio airplay. I'm sure I've made the comparison before, but I can't get away from the fact that she does remind me a lot of Susan Ashton. 'Everyone to Know' is a song about not keeping Jesus a secret, but to tell the world about Him. 'I Am Yours' is a light little number, and the title really says it all, surrendering to the Lord. The title track is probably the most mainstream sound on the album, and is a very strong song. Bethany writes or co-writes all of the songs and I think that over the years, she has honed a great style. 'Say Your Name' is a catchy number, while 'So Close' and 'Reach Out' also deserve a mention. They say that the simple things in life are the best, and that's true of the closing song, 'Everyone to Know'. Not many words, an easy song to sing a long to, and most heart warming. 8/10 (January 2010)
BETHEL CHURCH : Be Lifted High. (Kingsway : 649241927327)
This is a live worship album from Bethel Church, Redding, California and features 13 original worship songs plus a DVD. In that respect, you certainly get plenty for your money, so there are no issues as to quantity. However, in terms of quality I'm not convinced that it delivers. The style of this album is, not unexpectedly, strongly in the Hillsongs mould. In fact, if I hadn't known better I would easily have mistaken this for a Hillsongs recording. Fans of the genre will therefore feel very at home with this cd but, beyond that, I'm not convinced it really offers anything. The songs are derivative and predictable and, whilst there are some moments of note, "God I Look to You" being one of them for the most part one song sounds very much like the next. It's always an issue for live worship albums - they very rarely reflect the occasion being recorded. To work as cd they need to be more than just a recording of a good worship session and I'm not convinced that this cd offers anything more than that. 6/10 Robin Thompson (July 2011)
BETHEL LIVE : For the Sake of the World. (Integrity : 60978820144)
Two years ago I reviewed “Be Lifted High” another live worship album from the same church, Bethel Redding, California. I deemed it predictable and derivative; so is this one any better? On the whole, no. The opener “To Our God”, starts things off in a low key way and, whilst it has an engaging verse, the chorus is bland in comparison and lost my attention. The next song “Our Father” is an adaptation of the Lord’s Prayer. It’s not bad but takes some liberties with the lyrics which are enough to change their meaning. It also finishes with an adlib section which for me, comes far too early in the cd. I’m not ready at this point to go off in the Spirit. I guess this is where it is difficult with a cd as what might have been appropriate at the time, doesn’t work later on a recording. The album continues through a succession of slow to mid pace songs which are fine as far as they go, but don’t stand out from the rather saturated crowd of similar songs out there. It’s not until song number 9 “In Your Light” that I feel the album really gets going by picking up the pace. I don’t doubt their sincerity in the slightest but I think a cd needs more than that to make it work – it needs a freshness and a flow. As my eight year old daughter asked whilst listening to one of the songs “Don’t we do this song at church?” We don’t, but it was so like so many other songs it felt like we do. And that, I’m afraid, is the problem. 6/10 Robin Thompson. (May 2013)
BETHEL MUSIC : The Loft Sessions. (Kingsway / Bethel Music : 61096211064)
Bethel Music of Redding (California) are perhaps best known for their big stadium rock sounds, but this CD is certainly a departure from that famous Jesus Culture style. With The Loft Sessions , one of the key songwriters Brian Johnson says they wanted to "shake the stereotypes of what people think Bethel music is" and they've certainly done that. As you would expect, the staple of all the songs is acoustic guitar, accompanied by strings & piano as well some very subtle drumming plus an occasional dash of banjo which results in laid back ambience and generally chilled-out mellow tone. There's a number of worship leaders featured which varies the style of each song but I have to say that for me the tracks led by the Brian Johnson and Jeremy Riddle fared better, with some passionate vocals and engaging lyrics. The opening track from Brian "One Thing Remains" had more than a hint of Coldplay unplugged, followed by a more up-tempo "My Dear" which I wasn't so keen on as I found it a bit repetitive in places. "You Have Won Me" which comes up next is the pick of the CD, which is relaxed but builds nicely towards the end with some fab banjo picking plus vocal harmonies give it an amazing atmosphere of genuine heartfelt praise which is also catchy and listenable. Jeremy Riddle does a cracking job on "Walk in the Promise" - very chilled and atmosphere by the bucket load; bringing back memories of some of A-Ha's less mainstream album tracks, including Jeremy's incredible and enviable vocal range. Of the remaining tracks, I can't say that any of the tracks are particularly bad, but some inspire more than others. The band are excellent all the way but I am not so sure though that the understated tranquility and sometimes repetitive nature of the lyrics will engage everyone. There is a DVD in with the package which is OK but I did get the feeling that on occasions the sound wasn't quite in sync with the picture. It didn't add anything to my personal overall experience and I couldn't help but wonder how genuine some of the gathered worshippers were in their expressions. 8/10 Simon Redfern (May 2012)
BETHEL MUSIC : Without Words. (Integrity : 78456)
How anyone in their right mind could have passed part of the artwork for this album’s sleeve is beyond me. Dark grey wording on a black background makes it almost impossible to read the track listing. Come on guys, sort it out! As for the album itself, I gleamed the following from the Bethel website "Without Words "began as an instrumental experiment by the Bethel Music community who set out to push the creative boundaries of worship. Each song offers a distinct listening experience and carries its own story. Each track creates a dynamic, ambient, and cinematic atmosphere free from lyric and discourse. This album ventures into new territory and explores what it is to worship without words”. So, with pieces composed mostly by Brian Johnson, does it really achieve it’s objective? From my point of the view, the answer is a definite “No”. Once I managed to copy the track listing from the website, I re-assessed my initial thoughts. Track 1 is called ‘What Does It Sound Like?” My reply would be; a non descript, short piece of music, with a viola sound taking the lead. ‘God I Look To You’ is filled with lots of individual music phrases, but they don’t seem to link up well to make any real tune. The strangest sound used, has to be that of a rotary telephone being dialled, at the beginning of ‘For the Sake of the World’. What that’s all about, I have no idea. A trumpet seems to fight against some new age backing but, again, it doesn’t really lead anywhere. Try as I might, I didn’t enjoy this album at all. I just couldn’t relate any of the titles to the tunes being played, and worship was a non starter. ‘To Our God’, perhaps came the closest with what sounded more like a film score, than anything else. Later on, ‘Worthy is the Lord’ had tones of Vangelis’ “Chariots of Fire” theme. I’ve not said this for a long time, but this really is one to avoid. 2/10. (September 2013)
BETHEL MUSIC : Simple. (Bethel Music)
This eleven-song offering features some familiar Bethel Music artists as well as some special guests who have come together to create a body of work that is deeply relatable and speaks to the simplicity of life. Recorded live at Bethel Music’s own Pine Street Studio in Redding, CA, most of the songs on Simple were written in a time of reflection of the past few years where priorities shifted to everyday life and being in the moment. The question on my mind was; “Would it be just ‘another’ big church release? Well, the opening song did sound different to what I expected. With Jenn Johnson and Mitch Wong taking the vocals, the soundscape is provided by (mostly) orchestral strings. The following ‘Tend’ has minimal musical backing, as Emma Rose almost sings the words in prayer. The simple, stripped-back songs continue throughout the album, making this an almost meditational release. Highlights? Well, given what I’ve just written, it’s difficult to choose. But, Brian Johnson’s, acoustic led, ‘I Still Believe’ was probably my most enjoyable track, closely followed by Sydney Allen’s ‘Honesty.’ So, I’m pleased to say that this album is in complete contrast to most Bethel Music releases. The overall production is very good, and I’m pleased to be able to give an 8/10. (January 2023)
BETHEL MUSIC : Come Up Here. (Bethel Music)
Bethel Music's latest album, "Come Up Here," is a wonderfully ambitious project that captures the heart of the internationally renowned Bethel Collective. With the backdrop of the majestic Redwood Forest in Northern California, the album invites listeners to jump onboard this soul-stirring journey of worship. From the opening track, "The Great Beyond," sung by Brian Johnson and Amanda Cook, the album sets a tone of limitless exploration and spiritual depth. Each of the 11 songs on "Come Up Here" showcases the unique talents of various artists within the Bethel Music collective, including Jenn Johnson, David Funk, Hannah McClure, Zahriya Zachary, Jonathan David Helser, Melissa Helser, Josh Baldwin, Emmy Rose, John Wilds, and Bethany Wohrle. The lyrics of the album's songs journey into themes, touching upon the power and holiness of God, and the redemptive nature of Jesus' sacrifice, and the beauty found in surrender and devotion. Tracks like "Holy Forever," led by Jenn Johnson, create a reflective atmosphere that encourages the listeners to shift their focus from themselves and fix their gaze upon Jesus. One standout song is "Precious Blood," a celebratory anthem of new life in Jesus, featuring the dynamic vocals of Hannah McClure and Amanda Cook. This track is a powerful reminder of the eternal home provided through Jesus sacrifice for us all. Another notable track is "Surrounded By Holy," led by Zahriya Zachary, which beautifully speaks of the vastness and majesty of God's creation. The album's production and visual elements deserve special mention. Check out the videos that capture stunning cinematography within the Redwood Forest, which complements the music perfectly, creating a wonderful experience for listeners. “The backdrop of the celestial evergreens adds an ethereal touch to the overall presentation, enhancing the album's intended purpose of leading listeners to reflect on the magnificence of God's glory”. “Come Up Here" is undoubtedly a significant accomplishment for Bethel Music. The collective's commitment to excellence shines through every aspect of this project, including the powerful vocals, poignant lyrics, and breath-taking visuals. Each song is an invitation to draw near to God in a profound and transformative way. While some tracks might feel more resonant than others depending on personal preferences, the album as a whole delivers a worship experience that is uplifting. For fans of Bethel Music and those seeking a deeply spiritual and reflective musical journey, "Come Up Here" is a must-listen. Vivienne Neville 10/10. (July 2023, Record of the Month)
BEVERLEY TROTMAN : Voice of Hope. (Integrity : 99922)
Beverley Trotman entered the public eye in 2007, as the teacher who entered the UK's X Factor programme, to inspire her pupils. Since then, she has toured with a production of Fame and led worship at Spring Harvest. Now, she has released her debut album. Right from the start, can I say that this is a most uplifting collection of songs in a style that compares favourably with that of Yolanda Adams. Beverley has recorded songs from some talented writers, including the title track, written by Lara Martin. From the off, she has a terrific voice and this ballad is one of the strongest cuts. 'Awesome God' is a mid-tempo affair and mixes RnB and gospel which is easy on the listening ear. 'Love Completes Me' is another strong song, while the gospel version of 'Amazing Grace', maybe, doesn't quite come off. 'Voice of Hope' is an album of gospel praise, plotting a course of faith in a trustworthy God, and the song 'I Belong' sums that feeling up perfectly. 9/10 (December 2009, Album of the Month)
BEYOND THE ASHES : Living in the Moment. (Stow Town Records : STR3116)
Here’s a refreshing sound from Dove Award Nominee trio, Beyond the Ashes. Produced by Ernie Haase and Wayne Haun, this album features eleven songs and some great harmonies. Like me, if this group are new to you, then Anthony Farcello, Dustin Doyle, and Casey Shepherd will soon win your favour. Their style takes in country, southern gospel and pop, and their songs are very appealing. ‘Songs like ‘So Amazing to Me’, ‘Oh The Thought That Jesus Loves Me’ and ‘Walking With My Eyes on Jesus’ are just pure enjoyable praise of our Saviour. ‘Living in the Moment’ bounces along, while the vocals really comes alive with the strong ballad ‘Peace in the Midst of the Storm’. I thought that ‘When Love Whispers Your Name’ sounded very much like Lonestar, and maybe that’s why I love this song so much. Quality throughout the track listing make this release a super album. 9/10. (September 2013)
BIG DADDY WEAVE : One & Only. (Fervent Records : 9143002426)
The and may be new to you, but they've been together and touring since 1998.
They have, apparently been compared to mainstream favourite the Dave Matthews Band
and their music is described as acoustic pop/rock with a twist. What you're supposed
to gleam from that I'm not sure. There's 10 songs on the album and they're not really
exciting. They speak of the usual stuff like, having a relationship with God, and
living the Christian life, but the music just didn't move me. "In Christ"
tells you that all you need in your life is Christ, as He will provide all you need.
It's the Gospel truth, and I'm not denying it, but the song is just……flat.
"Sacrifice" is not the Elton John number, but about you offering your life
as a sacrifice to God. It's probably the best track on the album, but that's not saying
a lot. I liked the keyboards throughout, which almost single handedly stopped this
album from being reviewed after just two plays. 2/10. (October 2002)
BIG DADDY WEAVE : What I Was Made For. (Fervent : 4300672)
Singer and main songwriter Mike Weaver says that all of the subject matter of the band's previous two albums has been based on their relationship with God. This new release was recorded just as band members had survived Hurricane Ivan, bringing recroding engineers to them rather than going further afield themselves. On a personal note, I didn't find 2002's "One and Only" release much to write home about, scoring it only 2/10. But, this new release certainly is a big improvement. Classy pop songs such as "Just the Way I Am", comfortably sit side by side with the more rocky title track. "You're Worthy of My Praise" sees the guys duet with the members of Barlowgirl, and the "marriage" works well. Pick of the bunch, for me, has to be "His Name Is Jesus". It has such a simple set of lyrics, yet it's so well delivered and produced - it will certainly be on my radio playlist. I wasn't moved so much by the funky sounds of "Give Up, Let Go" or "Killing Me Again", but the slower praise numbers like "Without You" make this album a good listen. 8/10. (May 2006)
BIG DADDY WEAVE : Every Time I Breath (Live). Fervent : 8865302)
'Just a bunch of college buddies' - that's how main man Mike Weaver describes Big Daddy Weave in one of the PC-playable videos on this 'enhanced' CD. 'Every time I breathe' is the latest offering of contemporary, drums-driven, worship-based pop rock from the five members of this band who have been together for over eight years now, with a number of albums behind them. Here we have well written songs with good melodies (Mike Weaver's writing figuring strongly), well-sung lead vocals and harmonies and spot-on drumming, well produced in a predominantly guitar-based 'acoustic' setting. Stand-out tracks for me musically are 'All the same' (sax-led intro and links, complex drumming and time signature changes - a definite cut above the ordinary), 'When I see you' (medium-paced, particularly good melody, very well sung), and the old but very effectively re-worked hymn 'Trust and obey'. Whilst in some respects Big Daddy Weave are typical of a whole rash of bands Stateside at the moment, there is enough originality here to make them worth a listen. If in doubt, try www.bigdaddyweave.com for samples and downloads. Incidentally, as well as the PC-playable video content mentioned earlier, audio anoraks with the appropriate kit may be interested to know that this is a High Definition CD (HDCD) - although the somewhat compressed recording makes the only discernible benefit of this a particularly clean 'top end' to the sound. Overall, a worthy 8/10. Dave Deeks (May 2007)
The Big Glasshouse describe their music as “dancey pop sounds with spiritual lyrics and melodies that you hear once and then remain in your memory for a long time” and it’s fair to say that they deliver – the opening track “So Amazing” setting the tone well. The use of the word “dancey” is appropriate as it’s more swagger and sway than rave (which suited me fine) and lyrically their description of “spiritual” is spot on (the repeated “Jesus you’re my hero” from “Be My Guide”, for example). The songwriting is good (and catchy – just try and ignore “What Goes On” while it plays in the background) and the performance/recording/production really breathes life into the songs. Their sound overall reminded me of Tears For Fears, Thompson Twins, Icicle Works, Orange Juice and suchlike (with a hint of Jeff Lynne on the vocals) so I guess “80s pop dance” would be a good description, with the drum sound and keyboard stabs probably pointing me that way. And then, just as you think you’ve got the measure of the album, they round off with guitar-based blues boogie on “A Fool’s Awoken” and “Living In A Glasshouse” complete with the same production and songwriting values, as if just to demonstrate their versatility. The album concludes with two bonus tracks. I wasn’t too sure about the instrumental version of “We Are One”, although it did show how well put together the backing is. The extended “Living In A Glasshouse” was worth inclusion, though. Best track: “You’re Not Alone”. 7/10 Paul Ganney. (January 2017)
BIG MINISTRIES : Welcome to the Big Academy. (Elevation : ELE1746D)
So here’s the summary of this album, taken from the cd cover – 13 fantastic songs, aimed at 7-11s but with something for everyone. And actually that’s true. This isn’t merely a children’s worship cd it is most definitely suitable for the whole family. In fact, it puts much of the current crop of adult worship to shame. The reason is simple; the songs are joyful, varied, melodic and full of meaning. It used to be that children’s songs were the inferior siblings of the worship family but now it seems things have done an about turn and the opposite is true. From the crunching guitar riffs of “Wonderstruck” to the brass Flash Gordon style licks of “Hero of the Word” this album captures the joy and the wonder that being a Christian brings. There is one departure into a more reflective song, the quite sublime “Walk With You” which works well because it sits in contrast to the rest of the album. Most worship cds get stuck in this style of song with the result that their effectiveness is lost but not so here. My only criticism is that sometimes the vocals don’t quite have enough attitude for the respective style of song, the accents being a little too “English” but it is not a major issue. Make no mistake, this is a great cd. Can we have this for the adults too please? 9/10 Robin Thompson. (June 2013)
BIG MINISTRIES : The All-In Thing. (Elevation : ELE2092D)
This Cd release accompanies the “The All-In Thing” book, which is a unique resource aimed to facilitate worship when everyone’s ‘All-in’ together. The problem I found, listening, was that so many of the song’s lyrics were aimed at the very young. Sure, there were some contemporary adult sounds, but the words just didn’t match up. ‘Everybody’s Welcome’ grated on my ears, and reminded me of that 80’s BBV TV Rock Gospel Show. Not bad at the time, but sounding very dated now. ‘Strong and Brave’ and ‘Love the Lord Your God’ are both okay for kids, but I can’t see many adults wanting to singalong. ‘Whole World in His Hands’ gets the rock n’ roll treatment, but left me wondering why? On the other hand, a rocky version of ‘To God Be the Glory’ works very well. In fact, I had to play it three times in a row, as I was enjoying it so much! If you’re a teen who likes the UK group Scouting For Girls, then ‘I Believe’ will suit you down to the ground. It’s very similar in style to all their hits, containing good harmonies and keyboard sounds. If this release had been marketed with under 10’s in mind, I wouldn’t have been surprised. For that age group, it’s a credible collection of songs. Unfortunately, even as a parent, I would seriously doubt I’d join in with most of these songs. 5/10. (September 2015)
BIG TENT REVIVAL : Open All Night. (Forefront/Alliance Music).
A new name, I'm sure, to most readers but this is actually the
band's second album release. Sometimes they sound like Bon Jovi,
other times The Beatles, and - then again - Chris Rea! There's
a great track called 'Letting Go', which tells of doing just that
with a selfish life, which has become an instant favourite of
mine. Most songs are quite short and, like the previous number,
'If Loving God Was a Crime' and 'You Are' don't last long enough.
The latter track has one of those deep, echo, Duanne Eddy guitar
sounds, that I can only dream about producing. Some really good
stuff here, and I like it. 8/10. (November 1996)
BIG TENT REVIVAL : Choose Life. (Alliance : 7668 8717042 6)
One look at the front cover of this album had me wondering if
BTR had undergone major surgery! Gone are the jeans, leather jackets,
and long hair, and in come shorter cuts and designer wear. So,
what of the music? Thankfully, the band have not changed their
musical style and produce am rock steady, tight album. Every BTR
album I've heard has always had one song that has really stood
out from the rest and this one is no exception. "Fill Me
With Your Spirit" has already become a favourite on my radio
spot, and I can see it being played quite regualrly in the months
to come. Acoustic guitar and strings are the mainstay of the delightful
"The Word of God", while the wonderful ballad "One
More Song" shows Steve Wiggins vocals at their very best.
It's a rock ballad, it's a praise song, it's great. "Live
For You" finds the band in a heavier mood and not quite as
tight. The album finishes with "What I Want For Christmas",
a sort of throwaway rock-boogie that really should be thrown away!
Despite that, a good album. 8/10. (January 2000)
BILL & GLORIA GAITHER : A Campfire Homecoming. (Gaither : SHD2723)
This couple and their friends have ministered to tens of thousands of people over the years, in the USA, but have yet to make a real mark over here in the UK. The reason? Well, for me, the music just doesn't travel well. It all starts well enough, with Jeff & Sheri Easter's renditions of a happy song called 'Jesus, Hold My Hand', and a foot tappin' number, 'Livin' In the Rain'. From there, it's mostly downhill as various vocalists provide the words to some seriously dated songs. Even the Reverand Jessy Dixon can't pull things back, with an irritating cry on 'Touch Me Lord Jesus'. It all sounds as if these guys are stuck back in the 50's, and while that may work in certain parts of America, I've yet to find a niche for them here in Britain. Karen Peck and New River deliver light relief with a country ballad called 'Hold Me While I Cry' but it all finishes with a depressing melody of 'O The Blood of Jesus/ Nothing But the Blood of Jesus/ Near the Cross'. Definitely, one to avoid. 3/10. (July 2008)
BILL & GLORIA GAITHER PRESENT... : Homecoming Picnic. (Gaither Music Group SHD2724)
From the hugely successful Gaither empire comes this compilation recorded live outdoors at a picnic park in Tennessee, bringing together 19 tracks in their trademark southern gospel style. As you would expect from the Gaithers, the package is pretty glossy & very well put together with the musicianship, vocals & production being very hard to fault on all tracks despite the wide variety of people involved in this offering and the fact it was recorded outdoors. There are some real golden oldies in here including the opening "This Great Caravan Keeps On Rolling Along" & "I'm Living In Canaan Now" (both dating from the late 1930s & early 40s) & "I Was There When It Happened" - one of Johnny Cash's earliest Gospel recordings. There's the occasional more recent number coming right up to present-day with "Eastern Gate". Sadly I found the tracks very "samey" & the whole thing to be a little too twee and manufactured to inspire me into any real praise and worship. The images it conjours up are those of barn dances, cosy camp fires, older people on front porches in rocking chairs, etc. and sure enough You Tube is full of such visuals taken from the DVD of the same name. For die-hard Gaither fans and those with a penchant for foot-tapping Country & Western style music, this compilation will be an worthwhile addition to the musical library but not one for my collection. 4/10 Simon Redfern (August 2008)
BILL & GLORIA GAITHER & FRIENDS : Legacy Worship. (Elevation : ELE1469D)
I'm sad to say that, over the years, I have yet to find a UK fan of the Gaither's music. Indeed, some reviewers tell me in no uncertain terms not pass on any of their CD's! But, do the Gaither's twee American music really deserve the bad press? I guess the nearest UK comparison would be one of the All Soul's Orchestra gatherings, fronted by various worship leaders. And, with that thought, would it find favour in the US? This album doesn't give any surprises. If you've heard one Gaither album, you know exactly what you're going to get. There's great voices, and superb harmonies, and the audience definitely enjoy the songs. 'Feeling At Home in the Presence of Jesus' has some spot on harmonies, and the easy listening tone reminds me of days gone by, as a child, listening to Sunday evening radio with my mother. 'We Have Come Into the House' is interspersed with prayer, while later on in the track listing 'O For A Thousand Tongues' includes what is termed as "Worship time". What you actually get is one female, speaking about her relationship with God. It all gets too much for the poor lass, and mid way through her testimony, she begins to sob uncontrollably. Songs of merit include the triumphant marching of 'Holy Highway' and the lovely ballad 'I'd Say "I Love You" In a Thousand Ways'. If old fashioned, easy listening does it for you, then why not give the Gaither's a try. 6/10 (February 2011)
BILL DRAKE : Crimson Thread of Grace. (ICC : ICCD33230).
For those of you who don't know, Bill Drake is the International
Music Minister of Operation Mobilisation. He ministers all over
the over the world encouraging people to find fulfilment in investing
their lives into the Kingdom of God. Despite it's bright opening,
the album doesn't particularly flow well. "Toward the Mark"
is a song of personal witness that moves a long nicely, but all
too soon we're into the worst kind of cringe-filled praise &
worship of "Shout For Joy". The following piano led
worship doesn't get much better, and then it's 'spandex time'.
Yes, tonight, Bill Drake IS Michael Sweet!. Joking aside, it's
a very powerful track that was written in 10 minutes. A good rocking
sound, great lyrics and superb instrumentation. The last two tracks
had me thinking "Iona" and, when I looked closely at
the sleeve notes, there's Mike Haughton providing his usual experience
on saxophones and whistles. A bitty release that needs a few listens
to appreciate. 6/10. (September 1999)
Billy: The Early Years (DVD, Kingsway)
I made my first formal commitment to Christ at Billy Graham’s 1986 Mission: England event in Sheffield so was interested to see this biopic covering the early years of (probably) the world’s most well-known evangelist, played here by Armie Hammer (The Social Network). Framed by a deathbed interview with Graham’s long-time friend, one-time preacher and later agnostic, Charles Templeton played by Martin Landau (Ed Wood, Space: 1999), the movie opens with a sceptical young Billy becoming a Christian at a 1934 tent revival meeting and quickly moves on to his time at Bob Jones College, first fumblings as a preacher, then his time at Wheaton College where he met and fell in love with his future wife, Ruth (Stefanie Butler). After the wedding, the second half of the movie covers the development of Graham’s preaching ministry with Templeton (played as a young man by Kristoffer Polaha), and Templeton’s eventual scepticism, and it ends with Graham’s Los Angeles crusade in 1949. It is a charming film, with cinematography and soundtrack highly evocative of the period and location, and it pulls no punches in its depiction of great preachers delivering the gospel. The cast are all excellent, especially Hammer and Butler, and there is a nice cameo from The Bionic Woman herself, Lindsay Wagner, as Graham’s Mother. Whilst the story itself lacks the dramatic punch of something like The Cross and the Switchblade, it is a beautifully made film if a little ‘by the numbers’ at time. 8/10. David Cooper (February 2012)
BILLY RAY CYRUS : The Other Side (Word 08068 862742).
Being a country singer, or being perceived as a country singer,
is something that arouses mixed emotions in the minds and hearts
of music lovers. I've listened to loads of country music in my
time both secular and sacred, and although I'm not a great country
music enthusiast, there's some that I like to listen to and can
appreciate - Randy Travis, Susan Ashton, Buddy Greene, Paul Overstreet,
and now, albeit in a slightly grittier, bluesier, rockier vein,
Billy Ray Cyrus - yep, the guy with 14 million unit career sales,
and six US Top ten Radio singles, and who still holds the record
for the longest time spent at number one on the Billboard Hot
100 Album chart with a debut release, an amazing 17 weeks. Although
loads of country singers, whether Christian or not, feel that
they have to do at least one "gospel" album, Billy Ray
has gospel music in his DNA - his dad sang in a gospel quartet,
his grandfather was a preacher, and Billy Ray's own strong faith
comes over well in his first Christian release for Word, 'The
Other Side'. Eleven songs, a mix of old and new, with standouts
being the Bebo Norman song "Tip Of My Heart", receiving
airplay on UCB Europe; a gritty twelve bar blues arrangement of
"Amazing Grace"; and in new country vein, "Holding
On To A Dream", which will be the next song on the UCB Europe
playlist. Whilst Billy Ray doesn't do much songwriting, he penned
the title track, and it's a good gentle country ballad, with plenty
of slide guitar. If you only know him for "Achy Breaky Heart",
then investigate this, you might be surprised. 7/10 Trevor
Kirk (April 2004)
BILLY & SARAH GAINES : 'Come On Back'. (Warner Alliance Music).
R&B gospel comes to NFN and a welcome change in style it is
too. Sounding a little like Nu Colours, this duo (husband &
wife?) have teamed up with co-writer Michael Omartian and musicians
of the quality of Dan Huff. Track 6 is my favourite, which puts
a slightly different slant on the old chestnut of how your walk
with God is doing? "If everyone was just like me, what kind
of world would it be?" Think about it. Programmed instruments
provide most of the music but Huff's guitar is at it's best throughout.
There's romantic sounds, and there's danceable sounds to. It's
a good release and well worth your time. 7/10. (November 1996)
Here’s a great dance number from UK artist, Bimitan. It’s an infectious number, with a simple message. It’s a praise song that centres around the lyrics “We’ll be dancing all for joy.” Mid-song, there’s nice, laid back bridge, before the chorus thrusts, once more. Bimitan grew up in Nigeria and later moved to UK in her teenage years. Her love for music is deeply rooted in the Soul, Gospel, Pop genres. It’s the first time that I’ve some across this lady’s music, and this is an impressive release. 8/10. (October 2020)
BIO GENESIS : Black Widow. (Roxx Records)
Opening with riffs that reminded me of both Metallica and Nightwish, I was already set for a heavy metal feast. It’s got rhythmic changes added to symphonic keyboard work and then prog-style synth solos. This is no “heads down here we go” stuff and as such is far more interesting to listen to. Yes, there are the 100mph guitar runs (“Flesh And Blood” especially) and a bit of solo noodling (but the riff trading between classic metal guitar and classic prog synth just kept hauling you back, especially in the title track). The vocal is a little rough but melodic rather than grunted and does sit well within the material, underpinned solidly by very accomplished drumming and bass work (stick your headphones on and listen to the bass drum work in “Human Equilibrium” for example). The gentler “Angel” (the single from the CD) sounded more Scandi-rock, bits making me think of Jerusalem with a 2018 sound, especially in the vocal phrasing and the closing track “Anti-Evolution” has a really good chord progression as the band demonstrate there’s more than one way to get between two points – it also has a lot of sudden stops, which must be very effective live. Lyrically clear about their faith, this is a band to watch. There are only five tracks on the album, but range from 5:20 to 7:54 in length, adding up to a very enjoyable half hour. This is a limited-edition CD, so get one before they sell out. Best track: Black Widow. 7/10 Paul Ganney. (January 2019)
THE BLAIR BAND : Celtic Sessions. (www.ricblair.com)
According to their publicity sheet, the Blair Band are a 'Christian, Celtic folk-rock group' who have been 'impacting audiences' around the world with 'the message of freedom in Christ'. They are also 'a passionate, high energy force with an innovative organic sound'. Formed in 1995, they have evidently 'shared the stage with Steven Curtis Chapman, Point of Grace, Michael Card, and others'. Quite a build-up, then, but how do they sound? Well, despite leader Ric Blair being credited as the vocalist, he doesn't share his vocal chords with us here. This is a completely instrumental CD, and the tunes are not well-known 'Christian' ones, losing any opportunity to spread the gospel - which, if their ministry is such a powerful one, seems a shame. The CD makes for an enjoyable listen however. Whilst I see from the credits that veteran CCM guitarist Phil Keaggy features on bass, this doesn't seem to be much in evidence. But we have some Seth Lakeman-style violin-playing, beautifully haunting uilleann pipe playing (including on the effective closing track 'Taimse Im' Chodloch'), effective contributions from the penny whistle, and an overall nicely 'live acoustic' feel to the sound. All of the instrumentalists clearly know their stuff and also gell effectively as a band, always an indicator that apprenticeships have been properly served through entertaining audiences. Best track for me was probably 'Glasgow reel'. The lively combination 'Coppers and brass/The gander in the praitie hole/Merrily kiss the quaker' also merits a mention, if only for its title! Overall then, not quite what you might expect from the publicity blurb, but definitely worth a spin. 7/10. www.ricblair.com Dave Deeks (November 2006)
Not to be confused with the acapella group of the same name, this Beatles and Dylan-influenced artist probably pre-dates them (this being his thirteenth album). The album has a glorious late 60s pop (especially Liverpool) feel to it – jangling guitars (only gently processed), gentle melodies, guitar figures, odd effects, etc. It only really lacks harmonies on every chorus to make you wonder when it was recorded (and the fact that the recording quality is so much better, of course). More recently, I’d compare the overall sound to the Lightning Seeds. Nothing speaks of the influences more that “Going Back To Liverpool”, a song set in the Beatles era (released on the 35th anniversary of John Lennon’s death, so the influences are deliberate). The opening instrumental (“Atonement”) is an odd choice as it’s not really indicative of the CD – I’d have preferred it as a coda, really, although it certainly made me sit up and take notice. Lyrically, Blake deals with issues of faith, politics and love (both good and when it goes wrong). All of them are done in a gentle melodic style that has enough interest to make sure you listen to it rather than let it flow past you. If you did let it just go past, then you’d miss stories such as on “Fifteen” – about illegal abduction and forced detention. The musical style means that the subject matter creeps up on you so it takes a while to realise what you’re hearing. Much better is the Dylan-styled (complete with harmonica solo) “Dignity” telling of someone forced to rely on the state and the injustices of the social reforms – here the musical style makes you listen to the lyrics from the start. The album ends in a more uplifting style, “Set You Free” telling of how Jesus came to set us free (the clue’s in the title…). I enjoyed this album and am sure it’s one I’ll return to. Best track: “Going Back To Liverpool”. 7/10 Paul Ganney. (March 2017)
BLANCA : The Heartbreak & the Healing. (Curb/word Entertainment).
This album was written in the wake of Blanca’s painful divorce from Ben Callahan of Group 1 Crew after two years of separation. Here, the songstress vulnerably cracks her heart wide open on the 14-track collection that showcases the merger of her powerful voice and her transparent lyricism. Fittingly, this new release begins with an RnB number called ‘Start Over.’ The message of the song is that it’s never too late to start over again, no matter what you’re going through. Sharing the vocals with Jekelyn Carr. Blanca continues the theme with ‘New Day.’ Both opening tracks have that mellow, almost stuttering, beat that mainstream artists like Rhianna have used from time to time. There’s a little more melody to ‘Even At My Worst, when the singer praises God for His unconditional love. Of the three, this was my favourite of the initial songs. The ballad, that is, ‘In the Middle’ came over as rather melancholy. But, given the main subject of her writing, I guess that Blanca has every right to feel the reflected in the song. Both ‘Uncovered’ and ‘Mi Amor’ have that Rhianna feel about them, while ‘Never Too Far’ sounds much better. Here, Blanca is joined by Ty Brasel, and the vocals work really well together. ‘Let the Light In’ is a reminder that even in the darkest times of your life, the light of the world is always with you. As the album title suggests, Blanca’s journey in song, moves from “heartbreak to healing.” Consequently, the second half of the track listing is rather uplifting, compared to the first. The effervescent ‘Bring You Home’ is quite glorious. God’s reminder that “No raging sea, no mountain high, could keep you from these arms of mine; ‘Cause my love Is deep enough to calm the waters in a storm; When your waves are crashing down; you know I’ll bring you home.” Finally, Dante Brown shares vocals on ‘The Healing.’ Being so open about her struggles through the divorce and aftermath, leads this album to be a little dark at times. But, it’s also testament to her honesty, and to what she calls “The Healing” through the love of God. 7/10. (November 2022)
BLEACH : Space. (Forefront/Alliance : FFD5152).
Seattle praise & worship? You'd better believe it! With touches
of Smashing Pumpkins, smatterings of Nirvana, and a little REM,
Bleach turn p&w on it's head with their debut offering. Simple,
oh so simple, lyrics that literally leap from your speakers. You
may look good on the outside, but what's inside? So, asks the
opening song "Eleven". "Perfect Family" speaks
of God at the centre of the marriage while "Wonderful"
takes the same stance in a boy and girl relationship. The latter
track is just out of this world, with it's grungey guitar chorus
but laid back verse. These five guys sing of meeting God for the
first time and about being a friend to your brother/sister in
a style that you just wouldn't expect. I dare you to listen to
this album without loving it. 10/10. (April 1997, Album of the Month)
BLESSED & CURSED (DVD : Tyscot)
Unless you are watching "The Blues Brothers", when the most complimentary thing you can say about a movie is that it has good music, you know it is not quite hitting the mark. If you will forgive the play on words, “Dietrick Haddon’s Blessed & Cursed” is blessed with good songs, sung by gifted singers, and cursed with poor acting, a story that meanders and a script in which the most interesting things happen unseen and offscreen. The story opens with young Dwight Hawkins (Dietrick Haddon, who also wrote the music and story) moving to a new school, and his father (John Fleming) approaching a local church board to fund his vision of a brand new church in the local community. They turn him down, and this (apparently important) plot then disappears from the film only to be resolved in the last 10 minutes in a quite unexpected way. In the meantime, the now adult Dwight’s gift for singing is recognised by Bishop Wright (Loren Dean Harper) from the largest church in the city and he is appointed Minister of Music, a role he fulfils with passion and skill until family tragedy distracts him, leads him into sin and allows the church Deacon, Horrace (Connell Brown) to engineer his exit ... said “betrayal” happening mostly offscreen and with minimal foreshadowing. With the assistance of Bishop Wright’s niece, Patrice (Drew Sidora) Dwight redeems himself and we stumble into a stirring musical climax featuring a church full of people praising the Lord. Sidora shines among the unknown cast but, sadly, most of her character’s development takes place (again) offscreen. When the cast are singing, this is an enjoyable film. When they are talking and acting ... not so much, consequently the mark includes an extra 2 points just for the soundtrack and songs, without which this film would be a complete waste of time. 5/10 David Cooper (March 2011)
Blessing says; “The words came to me by the Holy spirit as I shared people’s burden on life issues. The words of the song make God’s word come alive to me. God will do what He said He will do. “Let us look ahead with hope in our hearts. We will sing the victory song. The set time to favour zion is now because God has favoured us. There shall be a revival again. Be encouraged.” The song is a slow and mellow ballad, which showcases Blessing to have a super voice. She is ably backed by quality voices, as she sings of God’s grace in our lives. No matter what you are going through, you will sing a victory song, and you will smile again. 7/10. (February 2022)
UK gospel artist Blessing says; “All over the world, there is a cry for change. People desire things to happen, communities, nations all calling for change. This album was created to remind us that change comes by the Word of God. As we look, study the Word we are changed. 2 Corinthians 3 vs 1.” The album begins brightly with the brass and keyboard led ‘Ain’t Gonna Let No Rock,’ a song that sings praises to the Lord, and encourages us to do the same. ‘We Give You Praise’ sweeps along in true gospel style, while the recent single ‘You Will Smile Again’ is very thoughtful and mellow. Then, there’s the bouncy and joyful sound of ‘Rejoice.’ The song has a really happy feel about it, and the backing vocals are perfect as Blessing leads the way. The title track and ‘Arise & Shine’ are both gentle numbers, while ‘Fresh Fire’ lifts the tempo once more. This song reminded me of Mary Mary in style, as Blessing calls for the Holy Ghost for fresh fire to fall on her anew. This is a really solid release from Blessing, an independent artist showing great promise for the future. 8/10. (February 2023)
BLESSING OFFOR : My Tribe. (Sparrow Records)
A new artist for me! my first impression was how accurate his vocal was. Strange comment I guess, but it just hit me - his soulful vocal over delightful piano. Well that’s is for the first 47 seconds! Then, in comes the orchestrations and gospel harmonies. The hooks in the choruses of ‘Brighter Days’ and ‘Your Love’ had me singing along. (This doesn’t happen often). The production is really good, with just enough reverb, for me. Listening to ‘Feel Good’ it reminded me of Stevie Wonder, and then he brings in the phrase “Songs in the key of life!” Cross that with Lionel Richie and you are not far off in sound and feel. Pain and struggle appear in ‘Believe,’ but even this brings out positivity. The next track had me going again ‘Rollin’ has a blues guitar behind the vocals too. ‘Won’t Be Long Now’ is anthemic. There’s a gentle cry in the verse. Then, the choir and band proclaim change is going to come. Magnificent! The title track is a modern sounding song, reminding us of family and belonging. Musically this continues for ‘I’ll Take It.’ ‘Look at Love’ exposes Blessings vocal talent due to the sparse acoustic guitar backing augmented with electric and drums. The song made a nice change of pace to the album. ‘Last for Now’ has interesting instrumentation, including trombones and honkytonk piano. I spent more time pulling the instrumentation apart on this one, than listening to the lyrics, yet still noticing the intricate backing vocals. ‘My Tribe’ is a well put together album, with good production (as you would expect) from Sparrow Records. Blessing has very good vocals. Reminiscent of so many artists from my life, and yet individual enough to be unique. 9/10 Noel Donaldson. (March 2023)
This is the latest single from US based gospel minister, Blessing Light. She is also a Prophetic intercessor & worshiper, as well as being a life and health coach, too. The song begins with Blessing shouting her praises to God. Musically, we’re looking at Afro Beat, and the tune is quite catchy, at first. Instrument-wise, there’s a rather annoying saxophone that sounds like it’s actually interrupting what everyone else is doing. Although Blessing’s vocals are strong, I did struggle to hear many of the lyrics. Saying that, I did hear; “I am living by God’s grace” and “I am living by God’s power.” Towards the end, the song deteriorates into a jam session, with instruments and backing vocals being thrown into the mix at will. A rather messy production let’s down this track. 3/10. (November 2021)
BLESSING OFFOR : Brighter Days. (Capitol CMG)
As the second artist signed to Chris Tomlin’s Bowyer & Bow imprint, in partnership with Universal/Capitol Christian Music Group, Blessing is poised to share his thoughtfully crafted pop instincts and unique perspective with the world. This 7 track release begins with just a lead vocal and piano. It soon becomes apparent that Blessing’s vocal is, at times, both gentle and soulful. The second song is called ‘Little Bird.’ This has a catchy tune, and I was soon humming along with the melody. The title track sees Blessing really open up those vocal chords with a sound that has just passing nod to the songs of English singer, Rag’N’Bone Man. Lyrically, the theme is all about life’s darkest days, and the promise that God’s love will make those days brighter. There are times, over the years, when a record company’s press release promises so much from an artist, and the resulting album is a bit of a let-down. Thankfully, I’m happy to say that Blessing Offor’s music is very good. Songs like ‘Believe’ and ‘How Much You Mean to Me’ have a great, uplifting quality. There’s also a poignant reminder of the power of love on ‘Love something,’ before the album closes with a Radio Version of the title track. My only disappointment with this release was that there wasn’t more songs to listen to. Otherwise, I really enjoyed it. 9/10. (April 2022)
BLESSING OFFOR : Like a Child. (Capitol CMG)
2023 has proven to be a big year for Blessing, as his full length debut My Tribe is officially the BIGGEST STREAMING DEBUT from a solo male artist at Capitol CMG. Now, he’s released this three track festive offering, which begins with just the singer’s FX’d vocals. Joining in after verse one, are some simple keyboards, and sporadic percussion. It’s certainly a different rendition to what most of us will know. Mid-song, the pace picks up a little and the tune is more familiar. The title track sees Blessing remembering Christmas’ long ago as a child, including Santa Claus, Snow, and Christmas trees. He, then, makes the comparison of loving and believing in miracles…..just like a child! The final song is Blessing’s RnB version of the Paul McCartney hit ‘Wonderful Christmastime.’ Despite knowing the original song so well, this version went down really well. All in all, a nice little collection. 7/10. (December 2023)
BLUETREE : Greater Things. (Fierce! : BTCD001)
Bluetree are from Belfast and created so much hype with their independent release of 'Greater Things' last year, that Fierce! Music couldn't resist marketing and distributing the album to a wider audience in 2008. There are 13 tracks on the album but, sadly, my copy would only play the first 8. Still, those songs gave me more than enough time to see that there's plenty of energy and excitement about this outfit. Bluetree's rock orientated songs, and Aaron Boyd's splendid vocals make sure that the album gets off to a very solid start with 'Life's Noise'. 'Burn Me Up' has a more attack minded sound to it and declares that there's "no-one like you, God." The 6 piece band also show a milder side to their product, as shown with 'When I Survey', but there is plenty more guitar based rockers for aficionados. 'Each Day' is a particularly good song, and well produced. It's message is simple. When God is with us, we are never left alone. So, the album looks promising, and I'm only sorry that I didn't get to hear the rest of the tracks in time for this review. As far as it goes...9/10 (September 2008)
BLUETREE : God of This City. (Survivor : SURCD5167)
"God of This City" is a re-titled re-release of Belfast band Bluetree's original debut album "Greater Things", which hit the US Christian retail chart big-style back in 2007 holding the top spot for 4 consecutive weeks. Indeed Chris Tomlin featured the title track on his album "Hello Love" so there's commendation for you! It is quite amazing what has been born from a mission trip to one of Thailand's notorious red-light districts - a CD crammed with spiritual truths and hope. You do get a very real sense from the passion in the words and their conveyance through the music that there's some proper worship going on here - fantastic, just what it's supposed to be!! Bluetree's style is akin to a rockier Tim Hughes with a twist of the earlier Vineyard material for good measure which I found to be a very listenable mixture, typified by 'Life's Noise' the 1st track. This builds up slowly starting with lots of background sounds eventually joined by a relaxed but atmospheric Celtic rhythm which keeps things going 'til the rock kicks in on the chorus. The rock theme continues with 'God's Plan' with a bit more synth added; only slowing down a little as we reach 'Your Love'. I often find that many bands are good with faster rock & not so strong with ballads or vice-versa but not here; Bluetree manage both with equal gusto which makes a really great change. Although in print this is a 12 track CD, you will find a 13th "hidden" track which is a reprise of some spontaneous worship which is worth a listen. Very difficult to find fault with this; it's a passionate well-produced material that I have found myself listening to repeatedly. Definitely one for the collection & I would look forward to hearing more from these guys. 10/10 Simon Redfern (November 2009, Album of the Month)
BUILDING 429 : We Won’t Be Shaken. (Essential : 83061-0979-2)
This is the band’s 6th release on Essential Records, and the first to debut at #1 on Billboard’s Christian Chart. Over the years, the sound of Building 429 has matured from grunge to adult rock. However, on this recording, I’m not the only person who has passed the opinion that Jason Roy’s vocals sound a lot like Take That’s Mark Owen. Indeed, there’s a remarkable resemblance to the opening track ’Get Up’ and a well known Take That single. ‘Bonfire’ is a lot heavier in style, with the message of “leaving the dark behind”. ‘Wrecking Ball’ is a softer number and features a duet between Roy and Blanca Callahan of Group 1 Crew. It’s a nice song, but is somewhat out of step with most of the album. My favourite song has to be the title track. It’s message is pure and simple, that whatever tomorrow brings, we will not be shaken with God on our side. The second half of the album, for me, fades, and only the closing ‘Where I Belong’ lifts the mediocrity. Still, if an album gets to #1 in the charts, it can’t be bad….can it? 6/10. (July 2013)
BOB CARLISLE : Songs From the Heart. (Diadem : 84418-2312-2)
This is the follow up to the hugely successful 'Butterfly Kisses'
which knocked the Spice Girls off the top of the US album charts.
As we would expect, it's an album full of big, polished production,
with the man himself in charge. It opens with the current single,
'We All Fall Down', complete with orchestral arrangements and children's
choir, but I have to say that I feel the album has too many slow
ballads, with lyrics bordering on the slushy. 'Lately (Dreaming
About Babies) is a good example. Bob Carlisle's voice is a lower
pitich than Michael Bolton and he really comes into his own on
the faster numbers. 'International' is excellent, and the inclusion
of the Big Motor Horns on 'Power of Love' is superb. The album
closes wih an orchestral version of a previous track, which I
felt coould have been omitted leaving the gospel choir on 'In
the Hands of Jesus' to bring it to a rightful close. Nice album,
but a bit too sentimental in parts. 7/10. Julie Lord. (January 1999)
BOB FITTS : My Eyes Are Fixed On You. (Kingsway : KMCD2190)
Bob Fitts is a new name to me but he's the man who, in 1990, pioneered
the School of Worship with the University of the Nations as a
training ground for worship leaders. This collection features
13 songs from his collection, dating back to the 1992 opener "Draw
Near". It's a MOR pop song with the careful type of vocals
associated with the likes of Michael Card, and it's really nice.
The easy going "Over All" continues a similar feel and
"I'll Never Leave You Or Forsake You" has some beautiful
backing music. Mid-album, Bob decides to take things a little
slower and produces some worship ballads. Of these, "Behold
the Man" and the title track have a tender and thoughtful
style. It's not an earth shattering album but, with another great
song called "He Will come & Save You", would grace
any praise and worship fan's collection. 9/10. (August 2000, Album of the Month)
BOB FORDHAM & STEVE GARDNER : Timeless. (CD from S Gardner, 23 Hilltop Close, Baglan, Port Talbot, West Glamorgan, Wales, SA12 8YH)
Sometimes, when you review as many albums as I do, you have to
discern between those which have full record label backing, and
those which are independently released on a miniscule budget.
This, then, falls into the latter category. Steve Gardner writes
the lyrics, and Bob Fordham puts them to music and sings. Now,
Steve isn't trying to become the next "big thing" but
is anxious to share his writing with church groups, or even individuals
who could write a suitable melody. Indeed, many of his songs have
already been taken up by churches as far away as Canada, so there's
plenty of potential. All the songs on this CD are in easy listening
style, and written by using gospel truths and passages as a base.
Therefore, they do tend to sound a little alike but, there are
a few gems. "It Only Took A Moment" has Bob's voice
sounding very much like Lou Reed, and his delivery works very
well. He's not blessed with the greatest of vocal ranges, but
his work is consistent and reminiscent of 70's duo Gallagher &
Lyle. Take, "The Jailbreaker" or the title track, both
well sung. Sometimes the music is a little samey, or a song finishes
too soon. "All of You" is one such piece where a promising
melody seems to run out of steam and ends with a whimper. No,
you're not getting the glossy record production of a big name,
but what you are getting is good, honest, truth from two guys
who are trying their very best to share the good news in the only
way they know how. 6/10. (May 2003)
BOB SMILEY : I've Got A Funny Feeling About This. (Inpop : DPR017081)
US Christian stand-up comedy albums are, thankfully, few and far
between. Of the few that I have had the unfortunate pleasure of
hearing, none are memorable. I'll say that, right away, Bob Smiley's
effort falls into the same category. He has, apparently, opened
for such groups as Newsboys, and Third Day, and "revels in
the real-life stories and the not-so-everyday situations that
he constantly finds himself surrounded by. With sharp wit and
gentle humor, he touches on topics that range from lessons learned
in grade school to lessons he's learned by being a dad."
Thing is, US comedy often fails to travel well across the Atlantic
- and vice-versa. He looks at discipline of children; his father's
sayings; visiting the supermarket, and the like, and makes comments
that just aren't funny. Mind you, the live audience seem to be
enjoying it - I can't see it being canned - so maybe it's just
not for the English. Over an hour of an annoying American guy
talking total rubbish is not my favourite thing. Bob Smiley? Maybe
he should be marketed as Bob Irritating. Bless his heart. 1/10
- I did laugh once. (September 2002)
I’ve recently come across this artist via social media, and have found his music very calming and enjoyable. Bomin is Adjunct Professor at The University of Virginia's College at Wise, and describes himself as a Pianist, Educator, & Music Director. The tempo of the songs vary, from slow and gentle, to quite fast, at times. Initially, I didn’t recognise some of the tunes, but that didn’t stop me listening to the album, a second (and third) time. Favourites of mine like “Breathe On Me, Breath of God, and “Amazing Grace” are joined by a few ttles that I hadn’t heard before. The opening “Go, Carry Thy Burden to Jesus” was especially nice to hear. Bomin is certainly a talented pianist, and if you’re looking for some quiet and relaxing music, this collection will be just what the doctor ordered. Other highlights, for me, included “I Love Thy Kingdom Lord” and “A Mighty Fortress is Our God.” 8/10. (November 2020)
BONAFIDE PRAISERS : Destined to Worship. (Emtro Gospel : EGOS-031519-2)
If good old fashioned gospel music is your bag, then this will be a welcome release to your ears. Twelve songs featuring the Bonafide Praisers, whooping it up, and getting very mellow too, at times. The opening 'Trust in the Lord' starts off well with an RnB feel. The album also includes the "hit single" 'Work it out', and this is by far the best track. There's some lovely female vocals providing the backing, while a male artist takes the lead in a Ron Kenoly style. I certainly didn't enjoy the screaming vocals on 'Awesome power' and 'Take Your Burdens'. Why on earth the singer thinks that yelling the words is going to catch your attention is beyond me - it was just a complete turn off. Then, completely out of the blue, comes a Grits style hip hop type of thing, called 'Heal the Land'. Well produced, and well sung. The thing I found most annoying about this album was the lack of consistency is the songs. While some were rather good, others lacked any real power and consequently, the finished article is only average. 5/10 (March 2009)
BOOLEY : Bathroom Floor. (ICC : ICCD42730)
Citing such people as Elvis Costello, Aimee Mann, and Bruce Cockburn
as his influences, Booley (aka Peter Wilson) presents an album
full of interesting and, sometimes, very deep thinking songs.
The whole concept is based around his own life, warts and all,
and the song "My Little Glory" says it all. Lost, and
then found, it's another declaration of what God can do in anyone's
life. Not quite sure where he's coming from on the excellent "Patrick
Moore", but it reminded me of those classic Undertones' singles
of the late 70's. "Alright" is more of an acoustic sort
of thing that tells of a journey, while the tongue in cheek "Tesco
Queen" has a sideways look at love. Booley is certainly a
very talented writer and not just a run of the mill one, at that.
I couldn't listen to the title track as the CD was damaged but
for someone who wants to look at everyday life as a Christian,
this is one to buy. 8/10. (May 2000)
THE BOOTH BROTHERS : Speak Jesus. (Stow Town Records)
Collectively and individually, the Booth Brothers have been recognized as one of the finest in Gospel Music for decades. Masterfully weaving together music and entertainment, inspiring songs and uplifting humour, encouragement and restoration, audiences leave a Booth Brothers event with hearts and minds refreshed. Michael, Buddy and Jim’s deep commitment to musical excellence is evident in every note, as is the utmost desire for each song and lyric to minister to audiences, touch souls, and ultimately point others to Jesus Christ. This is the label debut from the group, and my first chance to give them a listen. Kicking off with the bright and breezy ‘All My Days,’ it’s soon clear that the lead vocals and harmonies are spot on. ‘My Next Victory’ follows in similar vein, before the group turn their attention to the classic hymn ‘Oh, How Great the Love of Jesus.’ I must admit, I found that to be one of the weaker tracks on the album. I much preferred the gentle tones of ‘Nothing Like Grace,’ which tells the listener that it’s never too late to turn to God. If you’re looking for an uptempo, foot-tapper, then the glorious ‘Let’s Sing’ is for you. The boys really rock it up, as they praise Jesus. Guitars take the lead, musically, but there’s also some sumptuous keyboard work, too. It’s a good, solid, album of southern gospel music that I’ll definitely be listening to again in the future. 8/10. (November 2022)
BOTTLEROCKIT : One Small Step. (Elevation : Eled00330)
A debut Cd from a new band that appeared on the bill at Greenbelt
this year. The album is rock orientated in the modern style of
such bands as Blink182, although the lyrics are less controversial
- or more so depending on your outlook. It should appeal to the
younger generation and to middle aged teenagers like myself. "One
Small Step" starts with the thrashing guitars on "Better
Than I do" and ends in the same way with "Cartoon Rumours"
- my favourite two songs. The who album is in the same style,
with the exception of the more reflective "Goodbye JFK".
The vocals are clear throughout making a good all round release.
If you like this type of music Bottlerockit are certainly worth
listening too. 8/10. Tim Robinson. (October 2001)
THE BOYS OF ST JAMES', GREAT GRIMSBY : Praise. (CD £13.95 from Cantoris Records, Freepost NEA1269, Lincoln, LN2 1BR).
My first thoughts on receiving this traditional choral release
was "What do I know about this type of music?". The
answer being, "Absolutely nothing". 'Praise!' contains
14 tracks, of which 3 are instrumental organ pieces. 'Elegiac
Romance' lasts for some 10 minutes, whilst 'Saraband in modo elegiaco'
sounds as if it's been culled from a 1930's horror movie. Both
tracks are quite dreadful. However, the choristers themselves
are the main thrust and they do come over very well. Being the
average Mr Sunday Churchgoer, I found that, although one track
quickly melted into another, there was a distinct quality and
relaxing feeling about the songs. Well known ditties such as 'There
is a Green Hill' are complimented by 'Magnificat in G' - not to
be confused with 'Magnificat in D'. Traditionalists will love
this album and, quite rightly, sing it's praises. For the rest
of us, it's still quite enjoyable. 7/10. (November 1997)
BRAD ALDEN : New Soul. (Bridge Music)
L.A based Brad Alden describes this EP release as “fun songs celebrating an authentic life with Jesus at the centre of everything. I think this is the most fun we’ve ever had! Words can’t explain the joy we feel sharing songs that express our worship authentically.” There’s certainly a bright, celebratory feeling to the opening “Good Day.” Guitar led, it’s an instant feel good song about Jesus being the light of the world. “More of Your Love” has a choppy rhythm that took me back to the eighties, remembering Daryl Hall & John Oates. Vocals are crisp and clean as Brad praises his Saviour, and results in another good song. The final track is “Praise the Lord.” Although still guitar led, keyboards are prominent too. The song has a blues flavour to it, mixed with a touch of gospel. Here, I enjoyed the lyrics, but wasn’t too keen on the musical genre. However, as the old song goes; two out of three ain’t bad. 7/10. (November 2019)
Written by reggae artist, Bradda, the song promotes family time and giving thanks to God. He sings that Christmas time is the best, enjoying traditional food with lots of laughter and fun. It’s a very simple tune and sadly, Bradda’s vocals do struggle at times. Sleigh bells add a festive feel to the music, but the percussion sound is some of the worst I’ve heard in many a year. The idea behind the song is admirable but the finished project doesn’t live up to the expectations. 3/10. (December 2019)
I first came across reggae artist, Bradda Biggs last Christmas, and his festive tune “Let Us Gather Around.” I mentioned, then, that the percussion was some of the worst I’d heard in many a year. Unfortunately, the same can be said of this new song. It actually sounds like a small Casio keyboard that I bought in the late 80s. Forty years on, it’s not a good sound. He says; “66 Canon is stand for the 66 books of the Bible, the main message in this song taken from the book of John 3:16.” Now, I can hear the title repeated many times, but I really struggled to hear most of the lyrics. Wait a minute….he’s just mentioned “the virus.” I suppose that’s topical, if nothing else. As much as I tried (and believe me, I played this song several times) I couldn’t make sense of it. I did hear that “Jesus is number one,” so I’m assuming that Bradda is serious about getting his message heard. My previous knowledge of Christian reggae artists include Christafari, and Sherwin Gardner. Some great music from both of them, have come my way over the years. Maybe Bradda’s delivery is an off-shoot of that genre? I feel bad, but this song is just awful. 1/10. (July 2020)
BRADY NOVOTNY : Passions Collide. (MTS Records)
Brady has a wide range of experience in the music business. His experience ranges from the Pittsburgh rock scene to national tours. He has worked as a Pittsburgh session guitarist, Worship leader, and guitarist at several mega churches. He has also taught guitar at clinics and universities. Brady says; “I hope the music will inspire you to pursue your dreams and passions in life. I even pray that some of the melodies cause healing in your heart.” The tracks are, mainly, instrumental, containing very clever rock guitar solos, crunching rhythms, and the occasional acoustic flamenco – a style he says he “immediately fell in love with, [as well as its] passion, virtuosity and rhythm.” The opening title track, and “Ancient Romance” fit those descriptions and style. On “Redemption’s Cry”, Brady’s wife, Jennifer, provides vocals, with a quality reminiscent of Femme Fatale’s Lorraine Lewis. There’s more rock guitar and super solos on “Heart’s Fire,” while I felt that “The Journey Home” came over like a triumphant film score. Brady, himself, sings on “Blue Rose” – a poignant number on the theme of loss. The closing solo took me back to days of Joe Satriani and his “Surfing With the Alien” days. So, while not always appreciating guitar albums, I’m the first to admit that Brady’s skill is first class, and will be welcomed by lovers of this genre. 9/10. Editor’s note: After writing my review, I asked guitar aficionado and artist, Matthew James McKay for his thoughts on Brady’s album: “Seriously impressive stuff, really did like what I heard. By listening to his playing, you can tell that he is influenced really heavily by a lot of 80s neoclassical virtuosos, like Randy Rhoads, Yngwie Malmsteen, Satriani, classical music, which he manages to fuse really greatly together. I also really like the seamless transitions between Brady playing electric and classical in some songs, makes for an interesting, almost progressive rock vibe to it. One track that stood out particularly to me was Redemption's Cry, the track has a very bluesy vibe to it, reminiscent of Gary Moore or Joe Bonamassa, and this crossed with Brady's classical influenced playing and natural feeling makes for a great combination.” (October 2019)
BRAILLE : Push It Down. (Gospel Banquet)
Bryan "Braille" Winchester is an American hip hop recording artist. He has been writing and recording hip-hop music since he was 13 years old. The title track sees the artist admitting that he’s his own worst critic. On the song he asks himself, if his music becomes popular, will he lose his focus on God? His answer to this question and more is ‘push it down.’ In true hip-hop style, Braille continues with ‘How Many Days’ which (I think) looks at the second coming of Christ. Lynnea joins Braille for ‘Yet Always Rejoicing.’ This time the artist rejoices in everything, each and every day. Thankfully, unlike some hip-hop artists, I could hear most of the lyrics and understand them. That made this 5 track EP more listenable to this reviewer. Repeated guitar phrases provide most of the music for ‘Restin,’ while ‘Flex’ also features the vocals of A.I. The Anomaly. This time, Braille looks at the birth of his child, the death of his father, and losing material things. It’s a deeply personal song, but brings hope through the love of God. I’m not usually a hip-hop fan, but I found this release to be one of the best that I’ve heard. 7/10. (April 2023)
BRANAN MURPHY : Coming Home. (Provident Label)
“I write songs about what it’s like to be human,” says Branan Murphy. “We are all complex people. We have struggles. We have contradictions. We have deep desires. We are all seeking to be loved, understood and satisfied. My songs attempt to capture those deep emotional, even spiritual, yearnings we have as human beings. The bottom line is that I want to make great art, but most of all I want to be honest. I want to sing about what people are really going through.” This new single follows three successful Top 10 hits. Listening to his back catalogue, Branan is a mixture between rap and pop. This song has a lively beat to it, and a theme that we all make mistakes and, sometimes, distance ourselves from God. He’s got a really good voice, while there’s a hint of disco in the guitar work. Certainly, I could hear a riff similar to Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky.” Overall, the track is radio friendly and should see continued exposure of this Atlanta, Georgia native. 8/10. (March 2019)
BRANAN MURPHY : Life is Hard. God is Good. (Dream/Paravel Records)
North Carolina’s Branan Murphy has been releasing several songs leading up to the album’s release and Life is Hard. God is Good. has already been streamed over 3 million times. The singer/songwriter says; “It’s really the story of my own journey through some really hard things the past few years – pain, disappointment, loss, confusion, sin.” Staccato sounds accompany the vocals predominantly on the title track. “No matter what life brings, God is the light in the dark, and nothing can separate me from His love.” Branan’s vocals have a rather thin quality about them, but that’s not to say that they are not engaging. The following ‘Love Won’t Let Go’ is a prime example of this, as he draws the listener in to how God has got him through all his troubles. There’s a distinct excellence to these opening songs, and the trend continues with ‘Look at What Grace Can Do.’ It’s a simple pop song, but the whole production is simply wonderful. ‘Close,’ ‘Thankful’ and ‘Still’ get a more acoustic feel, with the latter offering praise and worship. ‘Love Like That’ moves at pace, thanks, in the main, to an eighties sounding drum machine. Meanwhile, the fx’d vocals on ‘Palaces’ makes the track sound like something Owl City might have released. Closing the album is ‘Kintsugi’ were Branan bares his soul to all, and testifies to the goodness of God. Amen. 8/10. (April 2023)
The title of this, Nathan's second solo CD, is rather appropriate, since Nathan, his family and his delightfully named label, Small Person Music, have just relocated from Alabama to North Carolina, so it's a brand new day in more senses than one. However, on the strength of this, he might become a Big Person in contemporary Christian music very soon. Nathan's style is easy-to-listen-to acoustic power pop, with the majority of the 11 tracks self-penned; the opener and title track is a belter, with Mike Weaver from the roots rock band Big Daddy Weave on guest lead vocals, but there are gentler moments. 'Amazed', written by Jared Anderson, the music pastor of the New Life Church in Colorado Springs, is five and a half minutes of acoustic worship; 'This Is Love' is inspired by the well-known words of I John 4:7-11; and 'Blessed Are Those' is another finely-crafted acoustic ballad with some very poetic lyrics that blessed me to bits when I first heard it. If you'd like to hear what I'm on about, 'Brand New Day' is on the UCB Europe playlist, and there are sound clips on the Small Person Music website. A worthy effort from an excellent indie artist - buy with confidence. 8/10 Trevor Kirk (March 2006)
BRANDON HEATH : Don't Get Comfortable. (Reunion Records) . www.brandonheath.net
I had to listen to this a couple of times before I started to like it, but after that I found it to be quite a pleasant album all round really. It's mostly acoustic guitar led pop / rock music, It reminds me a lot of the kind of material that Del Amitri used to play,or maybe early Randy Stonehill, so on the whole it's a fairly laid back affair. The lyrics are all well written, and you get the impression that most of the subjects covered here are from personal experience, yet there's nothing that so deep and mysterious that you can't identify with it, which makes it work well in my book. I personally liked the track "I'm not who I was" the subject is fairly obvious. All in all then this is a good CD and definitely worth a listen. 8/10 Andy Sayner (March 2007)
BRANDON HEATH : Blue Mountain. (Provident Records : MPCD40694)
This CD is set in a fictitious place called "Blue Mountain". The songs all deal with different characters that live there. The music is fairly laid back, kind of acoustic guitar led rock / pop, but there's a strong element of folk music in the writing. the standout tracks for me are "Jesus in disguise" about the fact that Jesus comes to us all in different ways that we don't recognize. "Dyin' Day" is about a man on death row receiving forgiveness, and is another good song. All of the songs here are stories about life, and most people will be able to identify with something on this album. All the music here has been very thoughtfully written, and this is a most enjoyable CD, that is just a little bit different from the rest. It would definitely be worth your while to track down a copy of this CD. 9/10 Andy Sayner. (March 2013)
BRANDON HEATH : Enough Already. (Centricity Music)
As I start this review, it may help the reader to know that I am old. This album would probably be better suited for my children, but, I will continue with my thoughts. The release has a very contemporary sounding start, with lots of repeated vocal lines. And, that is how it grows on you! There are nice harmonised vocals throughout - just enough, not overbearing. I quite like. For me, by track 3 (‘This Changes Eveything’), the reverb is bugging me. There’s just too much. It seems to be an attempt to give a slightly live feel, but I wasn’t keen. Pleasingly it disappears as the album goes on. ‘That’s Enough’ is the best track so far. The hook on the chorus works very well, and the lyrics are good, with a simple message: “God is good and that’s enough.” I would have liked a little more guitar coming through but the arrangement is full and well- constructed. ‘See Me Through It’ has a jazz/gospel feel and works quite well, while ‘Another Song About Love’ reminded me of Sparky’s Magic Piano on the chorus! The backing vocals appear to be through a processer giving a Fender Rhodes sound. ‘He is Not Worried’ is more of a ballad and I really liked this one. No, it’s than that. I really, really liked it! It’s a song which encourages and strengthens you through a few different scenarios. Good arrangement and, bearing my earlier comments re age, it speaks to all generations. Great song. The title track reminds us that God takes us as we are. We are enough already and don’t have to try impress Him. Finally, ‘Human Nature’ is an acoustic version of the first track and more in line with my tastes. Overall a good album, with interesting songs - and I like the non-cliché lyrics. A good, honest release, which will speak to many people. 7/10. Noel Donaldson. (June 2022)
BRANDON HIXSON : Instrumental Songs That Shaped Me 1970s. (https://www.brandonhixson.com)
Well, this is a bit of a blast from the past! A bunch of chart sounds from the 1970s all given a reprise by worship pastor, Brandon Hixson. The man himself has been actively involved in music since 2000. He has been the lead vocalist and sax player for the Christian outfits, Godfueled, Splendorleaf and Racing Gravity. He has written and produced 21 albums. First up is Silver Convention’s ‘Fly Robin Fly’ from 1975. It’s an orchestrated piece with a disco beat, in the same sort of way that Van McCoy made popular, all those years ago. Next up is ‘Spring Rain’ which the Italian pianist, Bebu Silvetti, had a minor UK hit with. I’d not heard of ‘The Chase’ before but, it turns out to be the theme from the film Midnight Express. Again, the disco beat is prominent, with a echoing melody and bass provided by a synth’ keyboard. After a slower number called ‘Nadia’s Theme,’ we’re treat to Barry White’s ‘Love’s Theme.’ Listening back, it’s almost identical to the original, so there’s a good quality to the sound. Brandon seems to have made a few albums under the banner of ‘Songs that Shaped Me,’ and they appear to be a bit of self-indulgence on his part. Closing the 7 track album is Walter Murphy’s ‘A Fifth of Beethoven.’ Although there’s nothing wrong with the instrumentation or the playing of all the tracks, I just wonder who he’s actually producing these albums for? 5/10. (April 2023)
For those who missed God TV's Braveheart II Conference last October,
or indeed for those who did attend, this album release captures
some of the dramatic praise and worship that was witnessed. Revival
in the UK is what it's all about and Jean Darnell's challenging
prophecy is something a little different to the norm. The music?
Well, it's provided by the Morning Star Band and brings a mixture
of songs old and new. Take, for instance, the opening "Awake
O sleeper" - it's just full of praise and anointing! The
worship during "Amazing grace" is so spontaneous and
encompassing, that you do really feel that you're there with everyone.
My favourite track has to be the closing "Hey, Won't You
Come Around". It sounds as if proceedings has been interupted
by some classy rock band, as the whole style of praise changes
and becomes out of this world. If you're used to the normal style
of praise and worship, then there's plenty for you to get your
teeth into. However, just be ready for one or two surprises. 8/10. (April 2003)
BRAVEHEART WORSHIP with Sheila Walsh. (Venture3Media)
A prominent name in Christian music back in the 80s and 90s, Sheila Walsh has since written several books and travelled as a public speaker. Last year however she returned to the recording studio to bring us this latest album. With a title 'Braveheart Worship (with Sheila Walsh)' and showing Sheila with three others on the front cover, it is difficult to tell whether 'Braveheart Worship' is the name of the group or just this album – a press release calls it 'the new worship expression from … Sheila Walsh'. Whatever, here we have 11 tracks of well produced and performed ccm – described as having a “Celtic flavour”, although I couldn't detect much of this! Most are originals but I recognised 'Hope has a name' and 'Christ Redeemer' and a quick Google identified these as being from River Valley Worship and Nate Marialke respectively. 'It is well' is partly original, being a thorough re-write of the hymn 'It is well with my soul'. Musically this is a very enjoyable album, and Sheila's excellent voice has never sounded better. The songs are well written, featuring overtly Christian lyrics peppered with Biblical phrases. Kicking off with the triumphant 'A thousand hallelujahs', what follows is a consistently well delivered 'worship expression'. Mostly with Sheila as lead vocalist, the main exception is 'Love changes everything', which features male vocals and happens to be one of my standout tracks. Others for me are the mid-paced and beautifully delivered 'Hope has a name' (“His name is Jesus”) and the similarly strong 'Already done' (“every battle is already won”). The previously mentioned 'It is well' is the closer, being a duet with a guy with a well worn voice and a lisp – that turns out to be Sir Cliff Richard! He and Sheila have been good friends for many years and I'm sure they enjoyed this opportunity to sing together, but his voice obviously isn't what it was and I feel this track is the low point on the album. Another downside is that the album suffers from fairly poor sound quality – even evident on my small wireless speaker. Taking everything into account then, 8/10. Dave Deeks. (April 2021)
BREAD & WINE is the sound of those pursuing deeper communion with God and one another. Founded by Bethel Atlanta worship pastors Ben and Kelly Smith, BREAD & WINE lead simple gatherings of worship for all to experience the beauty, mystery, and wonder of relationship with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. As far as the production of the album goes, it really does capture the true essence of this live gathering. There are 12 tracks in all, but 5 of them are spontaneous versions of the previous song. For instance, the opening “When You Are Here” features some great vocals by Ben, testifying to the great miracles that God can do. It’s followed by a spontaneous version which I really liked. Sometimes, these things can sound a little contrived, but note here. Likewise, when Kelly takes over on “Great is the Lord”, the power of the song spreads through both versions. The overall style of the album is contemporary, but is very different to that emanating from, say, Jesus Culture. For me, that’s a big plus, as I found this release so appealing. Stand out song is “Mountain to Valley”. Ben sings so well, with lyrics such as “In the silence or in the city streets, your presence covers me.” What a great promise to know, that God is with us at all times and everywhere we go! And, for those who struggle with the father figure as Godhead, just listen to “Never Met a Father”, it’s simply wonderful. The excitement of listening to a new artists’ album is one I treasure, and hearing this one has been a pleasure. 9/10. (December 2015)
The duo Bread & Wine is made up of Ben & Kelly Smith. The album TWO offers songs recorded live at Serenbe (a new urban village south of Atlanta, Georgia) and co-written by the couple along with friends such as Matt Redman ("10,000 Reasons"), Jason Upton ("In Your Presence"), Pat Barrett ("Good, Good Father") and Aaron Keyes ("Sovereign Over Us"). These well written quality songs give this album a flying start and there’s no denying the Bethel connection as you listen to the sound of these second generation worship leaders. Break Open the Box is a powerful song that would sit comfortably in most local church worship sets I particularly like the inclusion of the spontaneous part of this track. It leaves room for the listener to enter into worship too. Another very personal and powerful song, "Oh Good God" was co-written and sung by Kelly Smith out of the pain, and ultimate realization of the sovereign goodness of God that she went through after the miscarriage of her first child. “In a way I want to blame you but I know your heart is grieving too” she sings with honesty and vulnerability. These lyrics are fresh and real. There’s nothing predictable here! Ben & Kelly have managed to find their individuality within a well-known worship culture. I really love this album and have no doubt it will do very well & I look forward to hearing more from them. 10/10 Angie Lendon. (July 2016, Album of the Month)
This bluegrass outfit have been ministering to churches all across North America since 2001. The family have a heart for reaching the lost with the saving gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, and encouraging Christians and churches by preaching, singing, music instruction, prayer, teaching, and soul winning. So, bluegrass. What can you expect? Vocally, there’s tight harmonies and some nice leads. Musically, most of the tunes are kept on track with banjo and mandolin sounds leading the way. Early on, the track listing includes foot tappin’ numbers like ‘In the Heat of the Battle’ and ‘Just Over Yonder,’ while the slower ‘One Day I Will’ and ‘My Jesus, I Love Thee’ give a distinct contrast. Songs are fairly short in length, but I still found plenty of enjoyment and scriptural truths within. ‘In My Robe of White’ soon became a favourite of mine but, honestly, the simple sounds of most songs were favourable. Sometimes, less is more. And, in this case, the uncluttered production is first class. 12 songs on offer, and an excellent presentation from the Brent Rochester Family. 9/10. (May 2022)
BRENTON BROWN : Adoration. (Survivor : SURCD5178)
Brenton Brown's contemporary praise and worship has become very popular in the UK over the last three or four years. 'Holy' and 'Because of Your Love' are just two songs that are just made for collective praise and worship. Of course, the well known title track bounces along as a very solid opener, but there's also the stirring rendition of 'Our God Saves', co-written with Paul Baloche. This collection of Brenton's songs goes as far back as 1998, with the inclusion of 'All Who Are Thirsty', a prayer that asks the Holy Spirit to visit each one of us. The album seemed to whiz by very quickly each time I listened to it. This made me wonder about the content of each song, and whether there was enough in the lyrics to keep the listener hungry for more? There again, sometimes, the simple songs are the best. 7/10 (April 2010)
BRENTON BROWN : Our God Is Near. (Kingsway)
Having moved to America, Brenton Brown has recently been writing with other artists like Paul Baloche and Matt Maher. Whether that has led to improved material I'm not sure, but this album certainly does have it's high's. 'Our God is Mercy' is the opening number, and it's a rousing statement, within a rousing song. 'Joyful' is sung in similar, contemporary style, while 'We Lift You Up' stands out as my favourite track. This is a song that you instantly want to play again. It's very well sung, and the production is first class. 'Glorious' describes the Lord, while 'His Name' glorifies Jesus. The frist time I heard this album, I was really impressed with each track, but the more I played it, I realised that some tracks stood out more than others. 'Arise and Sing' and 'All I Want' sound a little lethargic, but the driving guitars and thumping beat of 'Higher' really rocks things up. Not outstanding, but a good, solid album with plenty of food for thought. 8/10 (November 2010)
BRENTON BROWN : Our God Is Near. (Kingsway : SURCD5204)
Brenton Brown will be known to many as one of the worship leaders behind Vineyard, and a great number of their popular releases such as ‘Hallelujah (Your Love Is Amazing)’ and ‘Lord, Reign in Me’. Having now established himself as one of the biggest names on the CCM scene, he brings us ‘Our God is Near’ – his 3rd solo release, where he collaborates with other big names such as Eoghan Heaslip, to deliver a top-notch and very upbeat album. The proceedings kick off with ‘Our God is Mercy’, described in the press as “shamelessly euphoric2, which you can’t contradict, with it’s slowly building drums and jangly guitars. We follow this with ‘Joyful’, which is a very effective re-working of the classic golden oldie, written to the tune of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. Into this mix, throw in a little Kings of Leon, from ‘Glorious’, and the effective simplicity of ‘Arise and Sing’, and you have an album which maintains a real sense of worship, as well as being a CD that can be cranked up in the car and hold it’s own, and even surpass, most secular offerings. Many of the tunes lend themselves more to worship at big events rather than church congregations, but could be used in smaller settings with a competent band of muso’s. For me, the most important element of this album is the re-kindling of the enthusiasm I had for Christian music in the early Vineyard days. And that’s amazing. There’s no chance of this album gathering dust, and I would thoroughly recommend it to fans of contemporary music who are fed up of listening to the same old stuff that’s all too prevalent on the CCM scene. 10/10 Simon Redfern. (June 2011)
BRENTON BROWN : God My Rock. INTEGRITY : KWCD3318)
Native South African worship leader, Brenton Brown has released his 4th full length album, recorded live in Dayton, Ohio, in front of 4,000 high school students. Featured, are 6 new songs, as well as new versions of brown classics, including “Everlasting God,” which was honoured by ASCAP as one of the most performed songs in the USA in 2007 across all genres, marking the first time that a worship song has been recognized with such an honour. Musically, the backing group are very tight and give most songs a real edge. The title track is one of the new numbers on show, co-written with Paul Baloche. It’s a mid-tempo affair, where the guitar solo is almost as memorable as the vocals! ‘Jesus Take All of Me’ is a song of real quality. Originally, a 19th century hymn, Brown and the band give it a warm, up to date feel, and it stands proud as a real highlight. ‘Wonderful Redeemer’ and ‘Hosanna’ work well, as does the majestic ‘Glorious’. It’s an album that has a typical American feel to it – Brown is now based in the States. The guitars take the lead and the man himself is totally immersed in his songs for God. Find out more at www.brentonbrown.com 9/10. (February 2013)
In just a short time, Bria McDaniel has established herself as a gifted singer with a genuine and sincere heart for being in the presence of the Lord . Upon hearing Receive It, originally done by African Worship Leader Mercy Chinwo, Bria said;. “The song inspired me, “Bria added. “As I listened to it more, I simply began to write additional verses and then the bridge and vamp came. I sat down with my producer Randy Jenkins and explained what I was hearing, and he added the elements to give it its cinematic and ethereal feel, and thus, Receive It was rebirthed.” The song begins quietly before Bria is joined by a full orchestral and gospel backing. Eventually, the vocals get a little out of hand, and the song quality suffers. What you get is almost three minutes of repetitive shrieking from Bria, that really doesn’t do her or the song justice. Such a pity. 4/10. (June 2019)
BRIAN & JENN JOHNSON : Where You and I Go. Ion : Ion1008)
Recorded live at the Bethel Church in Redding, California, this album features 12 songs written and performed by Brian and Jenn Johnson. According to the sleeve notes, the songs were birthed in a move of God where the supernatural became natural and miracles became and everyday part of life. That's a bold statement, and certainly the wild cheering between tracks seems very enthusiastic. Brian has a voice and singing style not unlike Martin Smith, and sometimes it's hard to forget that you're not listening to a Delirious album. 'Greatly to Be Praised' and 'All My Worship' being two prime contenders. Jenn delivers a lighter style and the pop sound of 'Isn't He Great' is quite enticing. The title track sees both the singers whipping up quite a frenzy with those gathered, despite it being one of the most tedious songs to listen to. Indeed, I found the whole album a chore, rather than a listening pleasure. Songs are very much alike and the format rarely changes. While great things may be happening at the Bethel Church, it fails to ignite this recording. 5/10 (July 2009)
BRIAN & JENN JOHNSON : Here Is Love - Live Worship from Bethel Church. (Bethel Music : 5019282620122)
Many will know of Brian and Jenn Johnson as the worship pastors at Bethel Church in Redding, California, who have written numerous songs that have become favorites in churches worldwide. Here they are joined on vocals by Jesus Culture members Kim Walker-Smith, Leah Valenzuela and Chris Quilala, and solo worship leader Kristene Mueller. All vocalists are excellent, with Jenn Johnson deserving special mention for her terrific 'white soul' voice. Most tracks are longer than is customary (the longest is 9 minutes), allowing the excellent arrangements to develop - and overall this is a particularly strong live worship album with the recording capably capturing the atmosphere and band, and giving clarity to the lead vocals. The set begins with the Delirious? song "My Soul Sings" followed by Ben Cantelon's "I've Found A Love", and the album continues with compositions of similar quality. The Vineyard song "I Love Your Presence" is probably the stand-out track for me (a particularly strong performance from Jenn Johnson) and incorporates part of the chorus of David Gray's "Babylon" (amazingly - it works!) before leading into a time of spontaneous worship. Other highlights are "What does it sound like" (sung by Brian Johnson) "Healer" (Leah Valenzuela) and "I need you more" (Kim Walker-Smith). Downsides for me? - the oft-repeated electric guitar riff in "My Soul Sings" is a minor irritation(!), the beautiful "Here Is Love" is spoiled by too heavy an arrangement, and the mastering suffers from the fashionable tendency to wack up the volume, great for car listening but losing much in the way of dynamics and giving lead vocals a nasty digital edge. As many people don't seem to notice this however(!), a worthy 9/10. Dave Deeks (August 2010)
BRIAN DOERKSEN : You Shine. (Hosanna! Music : 22012)
I get the feeling of deja' vu this month, as this reminds me exactly
of last month's Paul Baloche review. Why? Well, Brian is another
worship leader who's songs rate highly on various compilation
albums. Now there's a chance to listen to a whole album of his
own material, and it's a bit of a none event really. Not that
it doesn't start off well. The title track, plus "Hallelujah"
shows that everyone at this live recording were really getting
into things, with some enthusiastic praise. And, later on, that
feeling is mirrored during "With All My Affection".
But, as for the middle running order? Well, it just, sort of,
happens. "Your Faithfulness" gives gentle assurance
of a loving, constant Father in Heaven but the rest fail to inspire.
Perhaps it's due to the various duets included, I'm not sure,
but there's little energy or feeling to the remainder of songs.
A big disappointment in my book. 4/10 (April 2004)
BRIAN DOERKSEN : Level Ground. (Integrity : 48572)
Brian Doerksen dsays that ‘Level Ground’ is not just a collection of his new worship songs. The project began as a simple idea…a picture of grace. He’s collected some fine musicians around him, and shares these songs in an intimate setting. A lot of the songs are very laid back in presentation but later on in the track listing, he does liven things up. ‘Welcome to the Place of Level Ground’ is a very pleasant beginning, while ‘The Jesus Way’, featuring Steve Mitchinson, plods around in your brain for some time after hearing it. Teresa Trask takes the singing role on ‘Lifelong Passion’, and some “full on” worship, while ‘Enter the Rest of God’ tells the listener to “Lay down all your burdens”. There’s a touching medley of ‘Here is Love’ and ‘Give Thanks’, but a rather sombre piano accompanied piece called ‘Giver of Life’. Other highlights include ‘Thank You For the Cross’ sung by Stephanie Lang, and Tracy Rahn, on ‘First’. It’s not a mind blowing album, but one that most people will find as “comfortable” worship. 8/10. (April 2011)
BRIAN DOERKSEN : The Ultimate Collection. (Integrity : 51162)
Canadian worship leader Brian Doerksen is one of the most prolific Christian singer/songwriters of this age; someone with whom few can claim to be unfamiliar with. Even if the name doesn't ring a bell, his songs most certainly will. Brian started out with Vineyard Music way back in the late 80's, penning such classics as "Refiner's Fire", "Hallelujah (Your Love is Amazing)" & "Come, Now is the Time" - songs which are sung in many a church pretty much every week across the globe. As the title suggests, The Ultimate Collection features 15 of Brian's most well known worship songs, including the aforementioned tunes as well as a couple of my personal favourites ""Light the Fire Again" & "Today (As For Me & My House)". The album features a mixture of live & studio tracks with the quality of the vocals & musicianship being excellent, as you would expect from a guy with such an incredible track record. Having been led in worship by Brian a number of years ago, I have some idea of what he can belt out and it's amazing! I did find, however, that the album felt a touch over-produced and little bit flat in places and lacking atmosphere. That said though, I did find great benefit in getting to know some slightly less familiar tracks like "Holy God" as well as hearing classics done in a different style - even "Your Love is Amazing" complete with a distinctly Irish feel to the musical interludes. Most enlightening! This album is a great addition to the collection of dedicated fans as well as newcomers & unlike a lot of "best of..." type albums, the element of worship isn't lost in commercialism which is very refreshing. 9/10 Simon Redfern. (May 2013)
BRIAN HOUSTON : Big Smile. (Kingsway : KMCD2304)
Brian Houston has toured with and opened for such names as Van
Morrison and Dr John, and has a folk/country rock style that blends
nicely with either. Oh yes, least I forget, he's also quite Dylanesque
in some of his musical delivery, like the opening "Won't
Let Go", and the closing "I Love You". His lyrics
have great strength and depth, yet Brian uses ordinary words that
have appeal easily to your average man in the street. "Every
Plan" gets the old feet tapping along with a song about laying
everything (good & bad) in front of God. "You took me
as I am, you know what I had done", are more of the simple
words that are used to form part of "Your Whisper",
where Brian, once again, conveys just how much the Lord loves
every single person of His creation. Who would have thought that
the great hymn "Be Thou My Vision" would ever make an
album like this, but it has. Here, powerful drumming and rocky
guitar produce a holy sound of praise. If I had to pick a fault
(and I usually do) then, there's a slight dip in quality mid-way
through the running order but, believe me, add this one to your
Christmas list. 9/10. (November 2000)
BRIAN HOUSTON : Jesus & Justice. (BHS : BHCD2010)
You'd be right in thinking that it doesn't seem long since we reviewed a Brian Houston CD. It is, in fact, only a matter of months since we had the pleasure in hearing the brilliant "13 Days In August", complete with his witty writings and Bob Dylan sounding songs. So why release another CD so quickly? Well, your guess is as good as mine, but it seems that Brian may have had a few songs he felt ready for release but weren't quite good enough to make the first listing. Indeed, I think that this album sounds a lot like a collection of "nearly" songs. When I say that, I mean that they may well have been ready for the first album but didn't quite make the standard of those that did. The opening "God is My Shepherd" is a rousing number but, from then on, the standards drop and it becomes what, years ago, would have touted as an album of B-sides. The songs just don't have the same kick as Brian's previous collection and the shuffling rendition of "What A Friend We Have in Jesus" fails to hit the mark. All in all, quite a disappointment. 3/10. (May 2005)
BRIAN HOUSTON : Gospel Road. (Brian Houston Music : BHCD2021)
I must say I wasn't sure what to expect when I found this album on the doormat. I can't say that I've heard anything from Brian before, and the picture on the cover in the old suit and bowler hat all in sepia made me fear the worst.
I was however quite pleasantly surprised by this CD, It's a collection of traditional sounding gospel, bluesy, kind of material, leaning towards the acoustic rather than the electric. If I were to compare it to something you may have heard of, then the nearest thing I can think of would be Mark Knoppfler's solo stuff, or maybe the Notting Hillbillies, but without the guitar solos of course. Also it must be said that Mr. Houston can genuinely sing, whilst Mr. Knoppfler seems content to grunt the lyrics, but that's the feel of the music anyway. I wouldn't want to listen to this every day, and if I'd come across it in a record shop without hearing it I probably wouldn't have bought it on impulse, but it has grown on me more and more as I've listened to it. The sleeve by the way, is actually spot on for the type of music. Definitely worth a listen. 9/10 Andy Sayner. (January 2010)
BRIANLITTRELL : Welcome Home. (Reunion : 602341-0098-29)
Despite being at risk to all the usual trapping that mega-stardom can bring in the world of pop music, Backstreet Boy, Brian Littrel has never kept his faith a secret. Nor has he been afraid to speak out about that faith, and this debut solo album shouts it loud and clear. "My Answer Is You" is a brilliant song to start the album and it soon had me playing it again and again. His single and title track is a classy pop song and shows Brian's warm vocals in all their gloss. It'snot just an album of simple pop though, and Brian brings a little gospel into being, with the soulful "You Keep Givin' Me". There's a little intimate number called "Gone Without Goodbye", before we get back to the pop of "I'm Alive". Brian shares many of the writing credits for the songs on the album, but there's also worthy contributions from Joy Williams and Ian Eskellin, amongst others. Closing with the accapella "Jesus Loves You", this is a fine release. 8/10. (July 2006)
BRIANA DOMENICA : Warrior in Me. (Song Rocket Records)
Singer/songwriter Briana Domenica was born in Falmouth, Massachusetts and raised in south Florida. Performing from a young age, her musical theatre career blossomed. Briana immediately realized it was her calling to be on stage, whether singing or acting. Various opportunities gave Domenica an outlet, enabling her to strengthen her skills and to express herself. Following ten years of classical voice training, the young songstress ventured into other genres and eventually found her passion in Contemporary Christian music, which was a natural for her. This album showcases all that talent with songs that show an engaging style that sounds fresh to the ears. “Dare to Dream” is a lovely, mid-paced piece that has some great music behind the vocals. An instant favourite of mine was the poptastic “Lighthouse.” The tune is very simple, but so catchy. “There is help, there is hope, don’t you dare let go; Your life is a lighthouse for all to see.” The words work so well! Many of these songs seemed to strike a chord with me, such as “Face My Fears.” Especially, through the times we are currently living in, the words remind us that our Lord is with us always, in everything we do. The title track honours all those who have lost loved ones to suicide, recognizing those who face their own struggles, and reminding each and every one of them that you can overcome these obstacles and that you are not alone. The songstress says; “I want this song to be an anthem for people struggling with the many issues life throws at us…I also want people to remember that no matter how bad it gets, there is a warrior inside each and every one of us." There’s some nice vocal harmonies on “Awakening,” while “Love Carry On” benefits from its simple keyboard sounds. The quality of songs never wavers, and that fact certainly struck me as I listened to the closing “Every Time.” Briana is a very welcome addition to the independent artists that I am so blessed to hear through my work. Give her a listen. I’m sure you’ll find great songs, with encouraging lyrics. 10/10. (December 2020, Record of the Month)
BRIDE : Oddities. (Organic : ORCD 9830.1998)
Combining a hard rock sound with several almost-ballads, Bride
has crafted a genuinely fine album of late 20th century popular
music. The first time through I found my reaction to be the one
from the past - this is Bride and thus it can't be very good.
After several additional playings, I came to appreciate most of
what is on the album. The faster, louder songs will please the
hard music enthusiast, while the slower, more melodic ones will
attract an older listening crowd and will appeal to radio programmers.
On the whole, I found the album to be extremely fine, with many
of the harder tunes to my liking. The slower ones continue to
demonstrate Dale Thompson's growth as a songwriter and this, if
for no other reason, makes "Oddities" worth your attention.
8/10. The Old Codger, courtesy of The Cutting Edge Magazine.
http://www.geocities.com/sunsetstrip/venue/1006/118bride./ html
(March 1999)
I don’t know Bride that well – of the only 2 tracks in my collection by them, one is a Steve Taylor cover (see Vol 2) – so I’m unable to compare this CD to the best of their output, which means I’m coming to it fresh although it is hard to escape the “out-takes” feel. Bride have been through quite a few band members, but vocalist Dale Thompson (who sounds like cross between Axl Rose and Rob Halford on tracks such as “Dirty” and “Pyramid”) and guitarist Troy Thompson have remained throughout. The tracks on this CD are material recorded between 1988 and 1993 for possible inclusion on albums released then, but didn’t quite make it (although two tracks did eventually morph into one that did and “How Long” made an appearance on a live album). The CD has energy, but the songwriting is not quite there – which may explain why these tracks didn’t get released first time around: good but not yet great. Some moments don’t quite sound right, as thought they’d have been tidied up/re-recorded if the track had made it. The album is surprisingly consistent, given its origins, but doesn’t have those stand-out moments that would mark it out as a “must-have”, although the album that “I Don’t Get It” and “Hollywood” failed to make it onto must have been a cracker to keep these out and the quality improves as the CD progresses, despite it not being in chronological order. The rockers, especially the heavier ones, stand out overall. If you’re after an introduction to Bride, then this is probably not the best one. If you’ve got some of their CDs and are wondering whether this is worth adding to your collection, then the answer would seem to be “yes”. Best track: “I Am The Devil”. 6/10. Paul Ganney (February 2014)
I don’t know Bride that well, as I noted in my review of “Vol 1” so I won’t repeat most of those comments here. It is part 2 of 3 in that it contains demo versions of songs from 3 of their earlier albums from the early 1990s. Along with Vols 1 and 3 this was originally released in 1994 but this is a remastered version from 2013. Being demos, these tracks generally have a rawer feel to them than the final versions (especially compared to the bonus track) and (I’m told) different arrangements that range from the subtle to major. Some tracks don’t quite sound finished (“Kiss The Train” and “Everybody Knows My Name” sound very much like parts 1 and 2 of the same song, for example), whereas some (such as “Same Ol’ Sinner”) have a “ready to release” feel about them. It’s a CD for the fans, really, but certainly not a rip-off (as so many “out-takes and demos” CDs are). The bonus track I mentioned earlier is a cover of Steve Taylor’s “We Don’t Need No Colour Code” from the “I Predict A Clone” CD. It’s a testament to the overall quality of the CD that it doesn’t fly so high above them – indeed, I don’t place it as “Best track”: that honour goes to “Same Ol’ Sinner”. 6/10. Paul Ganney. (February 2014)
BRIDE : The Lost Reels Vol 3. (Retroactive Records : 845121067132)
I don’t know Bride that well, as I noted in my reviews of Volumes 1and 2 so I won’t repeat most of those comments here. It is part 3 of 3 in that it contains professionally recorded demo tracks from the 1997 Jesus Experience sessions. Only one track (“Alive” – an unplugged session) has been released before, and then only on a compilation limited to 1000 copies. There’s thus a feel that these are the tracks that didn’t make the final cut, for one reason or another. There’s a good consistent feel to the tracks – almost as though they were one long session. They’re polished, but not finished (if you know what I mean). “Break My Spine” shows some nice changes in feel as it progresses and “Cosmic Christ” has sparks that made me wonder what it might have become had they worked further on it. The same might be said of other tracks – “Cover Dry Bones” just settles into a groove and sits there for ages before breaking out for a while and slipping back again. It’s a good groove, but just needs that bit more, really. They’re certainly doing grooves well here: “What Am I Supposed To Do?” has shades of “My Sharona” about it but lifts out of it for the choruses. It’s the middle of the CD that provides the best tracks – the above listed especially, although “Alive” does stand out slightly, mostly for its different feel. If you’re a fan of Bride, then this is the best of the 3 “Lost Reels” CDs. If you’re not, then it’s probably better to check out one of their other albums. Given the quality of the stuff that didn’t make it, “The Jesus Experience” must be pretty good. Best track: “What Am I Supposed To Do?”. 6/10. Paul Ganney (July 2014)
The self-titled debut album from British creative collective ’Bright City’ presents 13 tracks of faith and hope. Based at St Peter’s Brighton, UK, the Bright City project brings together song-writers, musicians and producers who all have a vision to make music that is authentic, creative and passionate. Written by Johnny Bird, Sarah Bird, Paul Nelson and Martin Smith, the title track is a song of triumph and an excellent way to start the album. ‘Force Field’ has electronic beats and is sung in Kesha style, while the guitar driven ‘Forever Yours’ has a sound that wouldn’t be out of place on any secular radio playlist. There’s such a variety of styles on the album that, on first listen, I had no idea what to expect next. The dance beats of ‘Colour’ is bound to be a favourite, while the slower ‘I Will Rest’, benefits from clear, crisp vocals, and some simple, but effective guitar phrases. The running order of the album sounds like a live concert set list, and the anthemic chorus of ‘We Believe’ would see any audience lift the roof in worship. Likewise, ‘All I Need is You’ brings pure exhilaration and pleasure, as you worship the Lord of all things. Ending the album, are two quieter, reflective numbers. ‘Never Let Me Forget’ and ‘Broken’ sit well in, what is a super release. 9/10. (May 2015)
Following on from their critically acclaimed 2015 debut, the family of artists from Brighton’s St Peter’s Church bring us their new release. The sultry vocal that begins “Maker of the Moon” immediately pricked up my ears. What a voice! Sleeve credits aren’t song specific, so I’m not sure the vocals belong to Sarah Bird or Lizzy Coulson. The song itself is about the God of time and space, which cleverly links to the album’s title. It’s one of those number’s that builds in power as it goes along, and is really well produced. “You Are the One Thing” has to be my favourite track. Give Evanescense sound an electro twist, and you have a terrific song. Writing credits are too numerous to mention, but there’s a welcome sound, overall, that differs from the monotony of Hillsong, Jesus Culture, and Planetshakers music. “Father” is a song of thanks, with the promise that “I will never leave your loving arms.” “Come, Holy Spirit” is a 7 minute epic that dries to god to show His glory, while “Fly” is given a hi-energy dance feel. It was good to hear some guitars driving the praise filled “You Reign” – another excellent song. The closing “Song For A Dreamer” starts off rather atmospherically, before transforming into a cacophony of electric sound. Just when you expect the song to pick up again it, disappointingly, fades to an end. There’s a lot packed into this album, and the family that is, Bright city, can consider this album a success. 9/10. (August 2017)
BRIGHT CITY : Still - Volume 2. (Integrity Music)
This CD is a collection of 13 instrumental worship songs performed in various styles. There are string arrangements, synthesised brass arrangements, and other electronic arrangements. The publicity for this album suggests that it is "A perfect backdrop for creating an atmosphere for soaking prayer to offering a sonic oasis during the rush hour commute, this series calls listeners to still their hearts before God". The album kicks off with a atmospheric rendition of "Our God Reigns", although I couldn't recognise it as the song that we are all familiar with, still. it's quite pleasant. The second track is a completely different style altogether. Entitled "Here For You" it's a driving rhythmical song, and is not in the slightest bit meditational in my opinion. In fact I found this to be a bit of a curious album all round really. There are some nice laid back songs, that you could possibly use as soaking, prayer songs, but these seem to be punctuated by other tracks with really complex and distracting rhythms. I found that I was trying to work out what was going on in the songs rather than relaxing into any kind of meditation. As an instrumental album this is quite a good listen, but a lot of the arrangements are far too complicated for a meditational piece. Personally I found the best way to listen to this was to play it in the background whilst doing something else. I understand what the goal of this album is, but I think myself that the arrangements should have been a lot more sparse in places in order to achieve it properly. 6/10 Andy Sayner. (April 2018)
BRIGHT CITY : Change. (Integrity Music)
Brighton-based worship movement Bright City are back with single hinting that new horizons are being explored by the team as they head into a new decade. The song was recorded live at St Petr’s Church, were Worship Pastor Paul Nelson says; “"We believe that evening was a prophetic moment laying the ground for the next season in our city. That night we lifted up a shout of praise in the heart of Brighton and we believe it opened up a way for a move of God in our city." The song is a bit of mid-tempo plodder, that centres around the phrase, “We can see a change coming.” There’s some nice keyboard sounds that carry the song along, while the vocals fail to really set it alight. To me, it sounded rather dull as a standalone song. With Paul Nelson’s comments in mind, I guess that you had to be there to appreciate it. 5/10. (March 2020)
BRIGHT CITY : Christ in Me. (Integrity Music)
“Christ in Me” reminds our hearts of the undeniable beauty and grace found in reflecting on Jesus' life laid down for us. Meaningful in the run up to Easter, the single is also timely in the challenging circumstances we are facing worldwide at this moment. Recorded live on the 10th anniversary of St. Peter's Brighton, 'Christ In Me' captures the powerful essence of Jesus being at home in us, both as individuals and the Church. The song starts off with a gentle sound, and a lone vocal. Some of the tune reminded me of another song, but I couldn’t quite put my finger on it. However, the chorus is very uplifting with the lyrics “My Jesus, my victory. Oh the promise of Christ in me.” I must admit that I found this song much better than their previous release., and can see it becoming a firm favourite with churches around the globe. 8/10. (April 2020)
THE BRILLIANCE : Brother. (Integrity : 64232)
The Brilliance are a US-based liturgical band led by David Gungor and John Arndt, who previously released four albums. The duo are backed by a variety of musicians including cellists, violinists and rhythm players, and it all makes for a type of worship music that I can’t remember hearing before. The title track reminds us to look at everyone as our brother in Christ, even our enemies. A theme of forgiveness also runs through the lyrics. ‘Now at the Hour’ is a lovely acoustic number, with vocals that seem, almost, apologetic in their delivery. For ‘Does Your Heart Break?’, piano leads the way, but with some interesting orchestral fills too. Towards the end of the song, percussion crashes in, as does some rather random distorted guitar sounds. I found this rather bizarre! God’s love is constant, in all our trials, and that’s the message of ‘Love Remains’. It’s very difficult to define the band’s style. Is it folk? Is it classical? Is it, indeed, just a mixture of many, musical styles? I enjoyed the oboe's that’ lead on ‘Breathe’ – always an underestimated instrument of beauty, I think. There’s a feeling of simplicity about the music and its production, and I think that it will take listeners a few plays to appreciate. On the plus side, if you thought that you’d heard every type of worship music, The Brilliance will make you think again. 7/10. (May 2015)
Brittany Ryan has been a singer her entire life. While receiving some formal vocal training, she refined her skills and passion through singing along to influential artists, such as Adele, Tori Kelly, and Joss Stone. Her mother, who gave up her own singing career to raise Brittany and her two brothers, heavily inspires Brittany and her music. Brittany’s story and life experiences give her a unique chance to speak to others who may be going through difficulty. This single release begins with a simple piano, before launching into the type of song that has made the aforementioned Adele so popular. Brittany’s vocals are crisp and clean, with real feeling in each word that she sings. The song itself is about finding God and trusting in a relationship with Him, when hurt from worldly ones. She’s currently raising money to fund an album and interested parties can go to www.gofundme/brittanyryanmusic 8/10. (April 2017)
BRITT NICOLE : Say It. (Sparrow : SPD79964)
There's been a lot of hype about this young lady in the Christian media, so it was with mixed feelings that I began to play this album. After the first track, 'Holiday', I still wasn't sure. It's an RnB sound that didn't really hit any high points for me. But, then, Britt moves into straight forward pop with her next song. 'Believe' is a little rocky, well sung, and is very catchy. She says that she has a heart for the youth of our generation, showing them that God is for everyone. Well, she really comes into her own mid album, and the music should get the message of God right to the heart. Britt's vocals really soar on 'Set the World on Fire' and 'You' - I think - is a sure fire radio hit. At times, she sounds a little like Kelly Clarkson, then, at others, Gwen Stefani or Pink. For one so young, her song writing has to be applauded and I believe that we've unearthed another great talent here. 9/10. (November 2007)
BRITT NICOLE : The Lost Get Found. (Sparrow : 509992 1235825)
Fresh off the heels of her critically-acclaimed debut album, 'Say It', rock/pop artist returns to the shops with this second release. She says that the album is "simply about being who we are called to be as Christians, and through that, seeing the lost get found." For this album, Britt has lost a lot of the angst that seemed to be with her previously. Only on 'Welcome to the Show' does she really rock it up in an Avril Lavigne sort of way, and it doesn't really work. Far too often, I struggled to hear the lyrics as the music seemed to take centre stage. The title track is quite an individual sound, and the catchy 'Headphones' make them both ideal tracks for the radio. The best song, for me, has to be 'Walk on the Water'. It's a medium paced number about stepping out in faith, and is well constructed. I'm not sure that Britt's got all the right material here. The album certainly has it's highlights, but there are plenty of lows too. I guess it's that old fashioned "second album" thing, and only time will tell if a third is forthcoming. 6/10. (November 2009)
THE BROKEN : The Moment Of Truth (MK1CD003)
Well, this review has been a long time coming for which I apologise
to The Broken, but it's given me longer to listen again and again
to this album! I'm not a great worship album fan, as you know,
but this one stands head and shoulders above most of the rest.
Featuring Dave and Sue Clemo, things are kept in the family by
including their son, Chris on drums. Dave's been in the business
a while, and has honed his songwriting skills over the years to
produce some excellent songs on this CD. The album is recorded
well, with Dave's crystal clear vocals ringing out. Mainly guitar
based, there are some great mandolin sounds, and the arrangements
work well. I particularly liked 'Salvation Comes To Those Who
Believe', 'Such A Mystery' and 'For Such A Time As This' - the
theme song for a recent Cross Rhythms festival. The album includes
several covers of Matt Redman, Martin Smith, and Janis English's
material, but I felt this was one of the few things that let it
down. The standard of original songwriting is so good, that I
would have liked to have heard more! Check it out on their website:
www.thebroken.co.uk 7/10
Julie Lord. (December 2001)
Broken State are a Christian electro/rock/EDM worship band from Reading, and consist of Andy Aitken, Rob Eisner and Pete Redfern. They formed in 2010 and aim to write songs that are, at their heart, congregational worship songs, but with a sound that challenges the idea of what 'worship music' sounds like, with the aim of leading people closer to Jesus. This 4 track EP gives just a taste of what Broken State are all about, and it’s great to hear. The opening ‘I Love Your Name’ is full of synth sounds, drums and guitar, and reminded me of a cross between The Remission Flow and Phil Wickham. ‘Mighty’ is a little more abrasive, and I think that it certainly does challenge your idea of what worship music sounds like. The song itself has fine lyrics, putting your trust in God, and worshipping His greatness. ‘Pour Your Anointing’ is a stripped back track, with barely a synth in sight. This time, the song focusses on the Holy Spirit “raining down”. I’ve got to say, that I thought Rob Eisner’s vocals are spot on all the way through, and it’s the sort of voice you immediately like. The last track, for me, is the best. ‘For your Glory’ is all about surrendering to Jesus and living a new life for His glory. I simply love the synth sound on this track, and it’s production makes this song quite glorious. Indeed, it’s been played many times over the past few days. There’s certainly nothing broken with this band, and I can’t wait for the album. 9/10. (March 2015)
BROOKE LIGERTWOOD : Bless God. (Capitol CMG)
Brooke needs no introduction, as she’s one of the most popular female artists around. I was looking forward to hearing this new EP, but my heart sank when I realised that it was filled with 5 versions of the same song. Still, on we go. The first version was recorded live from Passion 2024 and features Brandon Lake and Cody Carnes. The song itself is typical “big church” fodder – a contemporary worship song. The recording is very good and I could envisage the power of the live event. The second rendition is co-titled ‘Every Chance I Get,’ Was it a different song? Not really, it just seems to change into spontaneous worship. Then, we get to a Radio Version, followed by an Acoustic Version. By now, I was completely deflated by, what seemed to be, the same vocal track to yet another musical backing. In it’s own right, it’s a fine song, but the same thing, five times over was just too much for this reviewer to handle. 8/10 for the initial song, but 4/10 for the rest of it. (May 2024)
THE BROOKLYN TABERNACLE CHOIR : Light of the World. (Word: 080688612429)
I read the track listing of this Cd, played the album, and my
worst fears were born true. Christmas is just around the corner,
and the first festive Cd has been released. Taking a closer look
at the sleeve notes, you might think that this is just another
Christmas album, full of familiar songs that, in the past, have
been re-arranged to death. However, I was more than pleasantly
surprised to find a really enjoyable album. There's some great
vocals from both the main choir and individuals, including various
children. Listening, it had me imagining an old fashioned, traditional
Yuletide, complete with everyone gathered around a big log fire,
and being led in some great tunes of yesteryear. "Glory to
God", "O Holy Night", "Peace on Earth",
they're all there. The medley of "Tell Me the Story",
"The First Noel", "Angels We Have Heard",
and "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" is particularly good.
One of the better Festive albums. 9/10. Judith Wilson. (October 2001, Album of the Month)
THE BROOKLYN TABERNACLE CHOIR : Be Glad.
The choir began recording this album in late September of 2001,
just days after the nation's tragic loss of lives in the September
11th terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Many choir members
worked in the towers, and fortunately were able to escape the
buildings alive, although other members of the church were lost
in the tragedy. "We were all in shock and it took a while
for us to get our bearings," Choir leader Carol Cymbala shares.
"We start each of our choir practice sessions with prayer
- sometimes we might pray for an hour, and sometimes we may end
up spending the entire practice in prayer. As we began to come
together in September to rehearse for this album, a lot of that
time was given over to prayer. Many of our members just needed
encouragement, and they needed to get their comfort from the Lord."
The finished product, then, is one of great power and deeply personal.
As long as I listen to this type of gospel music, I can't see
me liking the old fashioned hollering that goes on in some of
the songs. It just isn't for me. But, there again, that didn't
stop me enjoying the calmer songs such as the title track - a
real swinging good feel chorus - and the big production number
"He's God". Brilliant harmonies throughout and never
bettered than on the slow and powerful "Go Forth". A
really good gospel album. 9/10. (June 2002)
THE BROOKLYN TABERNACLE CHOIR : Live…This is Your House. (Integrity : 000768250228)
There's just something about a Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir release
that brings out the best in gospel music. From the moment they
begin with "Made It", the amazing voices of the choir
ring true throughout. The choir have the most amazing sound, while
the soloists really wear their hearts on the sleeves. "Lord
I Believe in you" is a big production, and I mean - BIG.
It showcases the choir in full flight and the power of it all
is just out of this world. Also included on this double CD are
testimony's that, somehow, just blend into the rest of the album.
The ballad "Holy Are You Lord" shows that there's more
to gospel than just energy, although the rendition of "Days
of Elijah" would exhaust me - one of the best versions I've
ever heard. If you had negative thoughts about this type of gospel
music, think again. This is superb. 10/10. (March 2004, Album of the Month)
Geoff writes: Wanting to show just how reviews of the same
Cd can differ, I secretly reviewed the same album as one of our
regular reviewers. You can read my review above
as Album of the Month, but let's see how David Cooper sees the
same album:
THE BROOKLYN TABERNACLE CHOIR : Live…This is Your House. (Integrity : 000768250228)
I have nothing against live worship albums in themselves, in fact
I quite like them. Unfortunately they are everywhere at the moment,
and the ones I have heard share a fundamental flaw: a singular
lack of creativity and imagination. This is fine when you are
right there at the event, where the simple spontaneity of meeting
with God and following the Spirit's lead is all important, but
the "sameyness" of the recordings grates on me after
a while and I long to hear something genuinely original, or even
slightly out of the ordinary. Don't misunderstand me, I am a huge
fan of the big choir sound, and BTC do it very well. Magnificent
close harmony singing, solid worship songs (including a nice interpretation
of Robin Mark's 'Days of Elijah'), uplifting and worshipful feel,
these are all here in abundance, but to be honest you could be
listening to any live worship album featuring any large American
choir. Much is made of the two testimonies included in the double
CD set but, whilst they are powerful stories in their own right,
they sound like they were recorded in a metal filing cabinet and
badly disrupt the flow of the music. Overall … not terrible,
not brilliant. But OK. 6/10 David Cooper
BROTHER'S KEEPER : Cover Me. (Ardent Records : DPRO17014)
Taking over two years in the making, "Cover Me" is the
follow up to this band's self-titled 1999 debut. The members of
the band are all high school and church group friends who's original
album cover photo shoot was set for September 11th last year.
As the events of that day unfolded, the guys called off the shoot
and prayed. Thankfully, the album has finally made it and what
a good one it is too. A little reminiscent of Big Tent Revival
in style, it's an album filled with acoustic led edgy pop. "Blonde
& Tan" has some added keyboards to the basic sound, which
give it a bit of an edge over some of the other tracks. However,
neither "Take Me To the Cross" or "Be Like You"
suffer - the former being my favourite track. "Out of the
Blindness" talks of being blind to God and then, suddenly,
seeing the light that has been hidden for so long. It's another
good song that's enjoyable to listen to. If the album has a dip
in quality, it comes in the second half, where the noisey "Out
of This World" sounds like the 'odd one out' in an otherwise
excellent track listing. The sounds are fresh, and the time taken
to record the album has been well worth it. 9/10. (April 2002)
BROTHERS OF THE HEART : Listen to the Music. (Gaither Music)
Brothers of the Heart feature award-winning americana/bluegrass/country/gospel artists Jimmy Fortune, Bradley Walker, Mike Rogers, and Ben Isaacs. Produced by group member Isaacs (producer for Oak Ridge Boys, Rory Feek and more), the Brothers reimagine country, gospel and pop classics. Staying with the “brothers” moniker, the album’s opener is the 1972 hit ‘Listen to the Music’ – originally a hit for The Doobie Brothers. I enjoyed the next track, a smooth rendition of ‘Gentle on My Mind,’ complete with some lovely fiddle playing. This is quite an easy listening album, with gentle versions of songs like ‘Ring of Fire,’ ‘These Days’ and the ‘Let ‘Em In’ all getting the soft treatment. Great harmonies are part of this quartet’s offering, and these are clearly seen on the classic ‘Desperado’ and the lesser known ‘Precious Memories.’ The Everly Brothers’ ‘Bye Bye Love’ gets an outing, with some honky tonk piano, and the album is brought to a close with a foot tappin’ number called ‘Liza Jane.’ For an album of cover songs, these guys provide an entertaining listen. 7/10. (February 2023)
BROTHERS OF THE HEART : Will the Circle Be Unbroken. (Gaither Music)
Brothers of the Heart — featuring award-winning artists Jimmy Fortune, Bradley Walker, Mike Rogers and Ben Isaacs — delivers its third album, Will the Circle Be Unbroken. On the 12-track record, produced by group member and Grand Ole Opry member Ben Isaacs, the Brothers reimagine country, gospel and pop classics, which begins with the Jack Greene classic ‘There Goes My Everything.’ Staying faithful to the original, it’s a nice version. That’s followed by a sweet song called ‘Church in the Wildwood’ which benefits from some nice guitar and piano sounds. One of the ‘classics’ mentioned earlier is the sweet rendition of The Temptations’ ‘My Girl.’ Vocally, there’s some good harmonies all the way through the track listing, and never better than on ‘Seven Bridges Road.’ I, especially, liked the song when the pace picked up with some competent banjo playing in the background. The slide guitar on ‘It is No Secret’ is played sympathetically on a rather pedestrian version of the song. Jimmy Cliff’s ‘I Can See Clearly Now’ gets an outing, as does Willie Nelson’s ‘Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain.’ Both are quality recordings. In fact, all in all, it’s a relaxing album featuring many songs that you’ll be familiar with. Brothers in Arms can be well pleased with their release. 7/10. (January 2024)
THE BROWNS : Love Loud. (Stow Town : STR3121)
The Browns are three blonde siblings and their mom from an Iowa farm family. After catching the attention of StowTown Record co-founders, Ernie Haase and Wayne Haun, it was only a matter of time before The Browns spent time in the studio crafting a CD with a progressive style that is all their own. There’s a great start to the album with one of the two female vocals coming over really strong on ‘Love Loud’. There’s a traditional southern gospel feel on ‘Rock & Redeemer’, and some nice harmonies thrown in too. I wasn’t too sure about ‘The Captain’s Got It Under Control’, but somehow it works. Basically, it’s telling you that, in the storms of life, God is the captain of your ship and that everything is under His control. ‘Everything Changes’ is more modern in style, while it’s old style country on ‘A Place in the Choir’, complete with obligatory banjo. While I wasn’t too sure about an earlier song’s lyrics, ‘River in the Rain’ is just the opposite. “My heart is like a river in the rain”, tells of a heart being renewed and being constantly filled with the love of God. It’s an album that is worth a listen or two, even if the style is not your usual sort of thing. You may well be surprised by The Browns! 7/10. (February 2014)
THE BROWNS : Brave. (Stow Town Records)
The Browns are Adam, Andrew, Michaela, and Shelley. The album title and opening song says that “We gotta be brave.” Just like the disciples, we Christians need the reminder to carry the Gospel message despite the obstacles and difficulties. And that tie track is such a strong, foot tappin’ number, in true, southern gospel style. Both “Passing It On” and “Little fires” are good songs, but “Better Off There” is lovely! Great orchestrations are match by excellent vocals, on a song celebrating the life of loved one in Heaven. “Not Even for a Moment” is a big production ballad that shows one of the female singers giving an outstanding performance. In fact, the only song that I wasn’t keen on was the closing “Shelter of the Rock.” Nothing wrong with the lyrics, I just didn’t like the style of this one. Sadly, there’s only 7 songs on this release. A bit on the short side, but the quality is very good. 8/10. (September 2020)
THE BROWNS : Christmas Now! (Club 44 Records)
The Browns have been touring across the United States since the group began 20 years ago. The heralded group began on the local and state level and has expanded and grown into a national and international touring group. This is their Christmas offering, which opens with a medley of festive tunes, backed by orchestral sounds. As with previous recordings, the group’s vocal harmonies are first class. ‘Caroling, Caroling/Masters of the Hall’ has a very joyful sound to it, while the poignant ‘Light a Candle’ has the message of being a light in the darkness, especially at Christmas time. A welcome change to festive track listings was the inclusion of ‘Themes from The Nutcracker Suite.’ I do like a good piece of classical music, and this one didn’t let me down. The ‘Holiday Season Medley’ gets a Michael Buble, big band treatment, with tunes like ‘Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,’ and ‘Mary Did You Know’. The Browns give you quite a varied selection of yuletide tunes and, although it just snuck into this month’s reviews, I was still impressed enough to give the album a 7/10. (December 2021)
THE BROWNS : Breakthrough. (Stow Town Records)
Breakthrough is the eighth recording on which The Browns have partnered with multi-award winning producer and arranger, Wayne Haun. With that in mind, you just know that the musical quality will be first class. An, that’s certainly the case on the first song called ‘The Song We Sing.’ Great vocal harmonies and a tight music score. ‘No One Greater’ is a praise number that features some nice violin sounds in the background, while the title track is a slow plodder that I wasn’t so keen on. Vocally, there’s nothing wrong, but the pedestrian pace of the song left me cold. Thankfully, things are different with the classic ‘Try a Little Kindness.’ It’s got a light and joyful feel about it, complete with a simple, singalong chorus. Hain’s orchestral touches on ‘My View from the Valley’ are exquisite, and these sounds are perfect for The Browns’ super vocal delivery. Closing this 7 track release is the big production number ‘The Tomb is Empty Now’ which sings of the glorious resurrection of Christ. It’s another fine piece of work, and a fitting end to the mini-album. 7/10. (July 2023)
THE BROWNS : Christmas in Prague. (Club44 Records)
The Browns, Shelly, Michaela, Adam and Andrew, collectively known as The Browns, left their quaint hometown of Le Mars, IA, for the Czech Republic to enlist the assistance of the famed City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra to create this Christmas collection. The question is, what makes this recording any different than countless other albums of festive favourites? Well, the orchestral arrangements are certainly a plus point, and the vocal quality of this group are as spot-on as ever. The uptempo rendition of ‘Snow’ (taken from the film White Christmas) is a nice addition, and a relatively “new” song to me. The list of well-known songs includes ‘It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year; Silver Bells; Mary, Did You Know?; O Holy Night,’ and more. For me, it’s the orchestral arrangements that lift this recording above the average Christmas fodder. For instance, ‘Pat a Pan/Joy to the World’ is purely instrumental, and sounds very fresh indeed. Similarly, the contemporary rendition of ‘Little Drummer Boy’ is one of the best that I’ve heard. I loved the pounding drums, and electric guitar especially. In contrast, the closing ‘We Wish You the Merriest’ sounds very dated. Still, The Browns show that there’s still life in Christmas classics, and they should be applauded for that. 7/10. (November 2023)
BRUCE CARROLL : Boomerang. (Benson/Word83061-0304-2)
"Anyone who listens to CCM, likely knows half a dozen of
Bruce Carroll's songs off by heart". Well, that's what the
press release said. Me? I knew none! The opening title track is
a pleasant enough tune, paving the way for nine more m.o.r country/pop
songs. "Pray Hard" has a touch of blues about it, with
the message of praying hard, rather than just going through the
motions. Carroll makes you think about your relationship with
God in an easy going style that nice to listen to, without being
out of the ordinary. "Memory of Chains" attacks well
and is my favourite track of the album. It's more uptempo and
raw feel, out-strip the rest. "Boomerang" is a light-weight
album that Christians may find most helpful if they are, themselves,
asking questions about their religion. 7/10. (April 1998)
BRUCE COCKBURN : Bone On Bone. (True North Records : B071S7RPSX)
If you're already familiar with Cockburn (and if not, where have you been for the last thirty years?) then you know what you're in for. Intelligent lyrics (he's never going to chant "I love your body" for three minutes, is he?), half-sung, half-recited over very accomplished (mostly) acoustic guitar playing (see the instrumental "Bone On Bone" for a particular example of his skill), plus band, but they generally sit back letting the main man take the lead, adding flourishes here and there, all very good in a Dire Straits/Neil Young/Johnny Cash sort of way. Opening with the country-rock-by-numbers "States I'm In" (the first single from the album) and "Stab At Matter" (the latter with a shoutalong chorus), the album kind of finds a groove that it likes and then mostly sits there. "Looking And Waiting" has a nice shuffle to it and "False River" some musical licks that grab your ears. Lyrically there are hints of a faith making sense of the world aroundabouts, but mostly it seems to reflect on the journey of life: as the statement at the top of his web site puts it, “Part of the job of being human is just to try to spread light, at whatever level you can do it”, which is a fair summary. "Al Purdy's" has some nice lines ("I'm the product of some parents the sort who shouldn't breed") and "Jesus Train" is reminiscent of Dylan's "Slow Train Coming" material in terms of metaphors (and not just the railway references). I was thinking "Twelve gates to the city" was getting a bit repetitive until ultimately he sang "doesn't matter what tribe you're from there's a way in for you" and it suddenly made sense. Every song reminded me of something else (not by Cockburn), which somewhat detracts from the songs themselves as you spend time trying to work out what it is you're thinking of rather than listening to the track itself. The album displays an artist very comfortable with where he is: there's an effortlessness to the playing and arrangements that is very smooth, but lacks some of the edginess that made Cockburn stand out in his early days. It's very well done but is somewhat eclipsed by what precedes it. Best track: “Al Purdy's.” 6/10. Paul Ganney (February 2018)
BRYAN & KATIE TORWALT : Here On Earth. (Elevation / Jesus Culture Music : ELE1697D)
Building on the success of their involvement in leading worship at the US “Awakening” conference with Jesus Culture, this husband & wife duo release their debut album on the JC label. Their style is a little less stadium rock than Jesus Culture releases tend to be, but that’s not to say the tunes lack any vigour – quite the contrary! From the outset, it is quite clear why they did make an impact & why this release has attracted many positive comments / reviews to date. ‘Glorious’ begins the offering in fine style – a pretty lively track, mixing more than a hint of Coldplay with Katie’s melodic, slightly folky tones making a highly palatable combo. Bryan takes the lead on ‘Holy Spirit’ which is very laid back in comparison to ‘Glorious’, the impact of the song coming more from the heartfelt words with the vocal & musical arrangements bearing more than a passing resemblance to US group “The Longing”…a group which I’ve not heard for some years but an album which I was immediately hooked on. There’s a good mix of lively & relaxed tunes on the CD with the music being well played & produced throughout; blending well with some cracking passionate vocal solos & harmonies from the couple. All songs are original compositions & it’s evident that lyrics are from the heart which helps Here On Earth stand out from the crowd. This is further aided by the absence of performance from the worship offering which is fantastically refreshing. If I had to pick up on 1 thing, it would be a criticism that has been leveled at many a modern worship song in that some of the choruses can be a little repetitive - “I’m a Lover of Your Presence” is a classic example. I could imagine people in a corporate worship setting starting to wander off (mentally not physically)! That said though, this is one of the best & most original worship CDs I have listened to in some time & it certainly won’t be gathering dust on the shelves. 9/10 Simon Redfern (March 2012)
BRYAN & KATIE TORWALT : Kingdom Come. (Jesus Culture : ELE1988D)
Two years after their debut album, Bryan & Katie Torwalt return with their second release on the Jesus Culture label. With so much new music coming out of the Jesus Culture and Bethel Church, it’s sometimes hard to keep track of everything. It’s very similar to what’s been happening through Australia’s Hillsong and Planetshakers, but it’s a very, definite American sound. Imagine if Amy Grant had been crossed with Kelly Clarkson, and I think you would get an inkling into how some of these songs sound. Saying that, Bryan takes on some of the lead vocals, as in ‘He Is the Light’. Not a bad song, but it sounded exactly like tens of songs that had gone before, over the last twelve months. Katie comes to the fore on ‘Weight of Glory’. Lovely vocals and a powerful musical backing. ‘When You Walk into the Room’ isn’t the old 60’s classic, but a new song that plods along, without really getting anywhere. I hoped that the chorus would burst the song into life but, it didn’t. ’Shores’ is the best song on the album, as Bryan & Katie lead you praying for Holy Spirit. This song really does capture the essence of worship, and stands head and shoulders above anything else on the album. From mid album, it’s a bit of a bore. ‘Worthy King’ lifted my spirits a little, with it’s worshipful sound, but that was all. The couple’s last album, ‘Here on Earth’ scored a mighty 9/10, but, for me, this one doesn’t reach the same heights. 6/10. (April 2014)
BRYAN & KATIE TORWALT. (Elevation Music : B002280002)
This is a collection of contemporary worship songs, that feature lead vocals from both artists. It starts off with a cracking song called “He Is Faithful” which is a high energy no nonsense rock arrangement, this song pretty much sets the tone for the whole CD. Most of the songs on here are cleverly arranged and tend to build up from a quiet start into what are some quite busy and atmospheric rock / pop arrangements. I sometimes feel that a lot of worship albums tend to be somewhat “over produced”. This one certainly doesn’t fit into that category, and in fact works quite well, although most of the songs do give the impression of being intended for use in large meetings, and not your local church. It’s probably an advantage, having two different singers leading these songs. Both of them have a completely different vocal style. and it does keep things moving along nicely, which is probably quite a good thing, as this CD runs in at just under 75 minutes. One of the highlights for me is “Holy Spirit”. Which is a song calling for the Holy Spirit to fall on the congregation, and is a very powerful song. I can’t say that I found any of the tracks on here to be disappointing. I would certainly recommend this CD if you like good solid worship music, as opposed to the normal watery rubbish that we get served up on endless compilation albums. This is well played and original, and a breath of fresh air to my ears. 10/10 Andy Sayner. (September 2015, Album of the Month)
BRYAN & KATIE TORWALT : Praise Before My Breakthrough. (Jesus Culture)
Bryan and Katie Torwalt are well known as the writers of popular worship song Holy Spirit. Their fourth project, Praise Before My Breakthrough is a 5 song album that is packed full of truth and hope. “These songs are our prayers and declarations as we were learning to praise while dealing with fear and anxiety in the middle of an extremely difficult pregnancy, the birth of our beautiful baby girl and navigating parenthood for the first time” say Bryan and Katie. Listening to the album I love how these songs are relatable and put the words into the mouth of the listener to declare the goodness of God into their own situations. Songs like Prophecy Your Promise and Praise Before My Breakthrough are great examples of this with the latter destined to be a popular anthem sung in the church. An enjoyable project that showcases their fresh distinctive sound. 9/10 Angie Lendon. (March 2019)
BRYAN DUNCAN : Blue Skies. (Myrrh : 7017009614).
For Bryan's 10th studio album, he and producer Don Posthuma chose
to collect a core group of musicians to play on all the tracks
instead of relying on computers. The result is a mixture of good
and average numbers, sandwiched between one excellent and one
downright awful song. The former ("Tell Me Where You Are")
is a ballad that includes a searing guitar solo midway that almost
make the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end. The album
begins with the happy sounding "Blue Skies" and it bounces
along quite nicely. This one leads into "After This Day Is
Gone", another chirpy number that gets you singing along
quite merrily. Bryan's vocals are nothing out of the
ordinary but, there again, he copes quite admirably throughout.
It's an album of MOR pop that you'd expect to hear on the likes
of BBC Radio rather than Independent Networks. As albums go, it's
quite good, without being anything special. 6/10. (April 1997)
Brylie’s path in music is a heartfelt narrative. Growing up in a quaint Arkansas town, she was introduced to church hymns from a young age. At just four years old, she inherited a set of guitars from her grandfather, marking the start of a lifelong relationship with music. Throughout her adolescent years and into college, Brylie turned to the guitar for solace, using her talent for singing and songwriting as a means to converse with God. Indeed, her guitar playing provides the main body of music for each song. The whole album has a very simply produced feel to it, and reminded me of my own recordings when I, first, made inroads on the Christian music scene many, many, years ago. Most of the songs are of a fairly slow pace – a change of tempo here and there would have been nice. Vocally, Brylie is pretty competent throughout. She sings clearly and it’s easy to hear every word. Of the songs themselves, ‘One and Only Jesus’ tells the listener that Jesus is the only one (Saviour) you’ll ever need. ‘All I Am’ lays all before Jesus, while the chugging ‘I Will Remember’ celebrates the cross. The latter was, probably, my favourite track on this 12 song album. Brylie certainly has a gift for songwriting, and I hope that this release will lead to a bigger and better production next time. She deserves it. 6/10. (October 2023)
BRYN HAWORTH : Songs & Hymns. (Kingsway : KMCD2083)
To celebrate his 25th Anniversary of becoming a Christian, Bryn
decided to make this album, based around his love for the lyrical
and musical content of old hymns. Here, he gives the 'Haworth
Treatment' to such classics as "Praise to the Lord"
and "What A Friend We Have in Jesus". The former is
quite delicately displayed while the latter features some of the
slide guitar work that Bryn is renowned for producing. There are
some original songs on the album and "The Glory Zone"
really stands out as a fine country number, complete with accordion
accompaniment. "More Lird" is another Haworth penned
number and, at nearly 7minutes in length, really does lead the
listener into a great and personal time of worship. Surprisingly,
this is the first solo album of Bryn's that I have ever heard
and, apart from the slide guitar solo's, it has left a very positive
impression upon me. 7/10. (June 1999)
BRYN HAWORTH : Simply...Just As I Am. (Kingsway : KMCD2632)
This triple album is in Kingsway's new 'Simply...' series, being re-releases by early CCM artists. Here we have Bryn Haworth's albums 'Wings of the morning' (1983, slide guitar, soft country), 'Live' (1993, rock n' roll and blues) and 'Songs and Hymns' (1999, easy listening). I have to admit that I have never found Bryn's voice particularly inspiring - tuneful, but curiously uninteresting. His main abilities lie in his guitar playing - but it is too rarely here that he shows what he can do, with the 'Live' album doing so the most. The first album features particularly simple tunes and unimaginative arrangements and sounds especially 'low budget' - although 'Make us holy' and 'I found a love' are worth a listen. The best tracks on the second album are the always brilliant 'People get ready' (with a particularly good guitar solo), and 'Start with me'. The first track on the third album, 'Praise to the Lord', is also good. If you are a fan of Bryn's you may well have these albums - but if not, you could find this triple a welcome addition to your collection. Too few high points for me, but you may like to decide for yourself by listening via www.kingsway.co.uk. 5/10 Dave Deeks (July 2005)
BUDDY MULLINS : Fearless. (Stow Town Records)
Fearless marks the debut release from Mullins under the StowTown label, and features 12 original cuts penned by Mullins, complemented by the rich, soulful vocals that have made this talented musician so loved by audiences for decades. As well as working with the Gaither Vocal Band, The singer has worked with numerous artists, and is currently a member of The Booth Brothers gospel group. The title track is a bluesy declaration that God is our victory and, consequently, we are fearless and unafraid. ‘I Promise You’ is a lovely ballad that encourages us to put trust in Jesus, as He will guide our footsteps all the way. It’s a timely reminder to us all musically, backed by some fine orchestral sounds. The lyrics of ‘Giant Fall’follows a similar theme – the message of each song on the album is meant to provide hope. “This project was created from all we have been going through in our world over the past couple of years,” Mullins shares. “Realizing that we have not been given the ‘spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind,’ is what these songs proclaim!” Certainly, Buddy has produced an album that is inspiring in its lyrical content, with songs like ‘That’s Why We Pray’ and ‘Learn to Be Me.’ Ballads are mixed with more uptempo numbers and, occasionally, a style that had a touch of the Blake Shelton’s about it – ‘Hold These Walls’ and ‘Love Like You’ being prime examples. It would have been easy for Buddy Mullins to record an album of typical southern gospel songs. So, hats off to him for digging deeper into his musical gifts to produce ‘Fearless.’ 8/10. (May 2023)
BUILDING 429 : Space in Between Us. (Word : 0806 88632120)
Here's a bunch of US guys who have been making great strides in
their native country, especially after the release of the single
"Glory Defined". No doubt about it, it's a great song
and it's first on the list. The songs mainly take on a worship
and evangelistic approach, but in the modern rock style. Whilst
Third Day may rule the roost at the moment, I can see Building
429 running them pretty close in that genre. Songs like the title
track, plus the rocking "Angeline" show that the band
have got a good strength and belief behind their writing. "No
One Else Knows" turns into a ballad - the sort every rock
outfit sing - but I really enjoyed it. Lots more to come, I think,
from this band. 7/10. (September 2004)
BUILDING 429 : Rise. (Word : 8864052)
Debuting in 2004, the album "Space In Between Us" spawned "Glory Defined," a song that hit No. 1 on eight different charts and became BMI's 2005 Song of the Year for Christian music. The band received four Dove Award nominations and was named the Gospel Music Association's 2005 New Artist of the Year. Now, they're back with a brand new album promising more of the same. The opening, "Searching For A Saviour" starts things off well, in a no nonsense rock style. "I Belong To You" carries things on, but then things start to go downhill. "Because You're Mine" is a love ballad of mediocre quality, while I found "I Believe" to be instantly forgettable. It became one of those albums that finished without me hardly noticing. Sadly, the songs on this album just don't come up to those on their previous release. "Alive" talks about glorifying God, and finishes the track listing as well as it began, but in between, there were just too many below par songs. 4/10 (October 2006)
BUILDING 429 : Iris to Iris. (Word : 8870932)
Well, I'd heard, on the grapevine, that Building 429 had changed their sound somewhat from their previous album, so I wasn't too sure what to expect this time round. Gone, are the grungy sounds of their previous two albums, and in has come a more mature rock style. While I didn't think that their songs were brilliant, Jason Roy's vocals certainly have improved and suit the new sound well. 'Majesty' is a light rock praise number, while 'You Carried Me' delves into the style of rock worship. 'Amazed' had me smiling as, at times, you can sing 'I Could Sing of Your Love Forever' to it's similar tune. 'Taken', I think, is the song that I'd choose as a potential radio hit. It's just got everything. There's great guitar's, a good tune, and Roy's vocals caress every word. 'Constant' is a six minute rock worship song about not being able to live without God in your life. What I like about this song is that it's so straightforward and un-complicated in its production. The album is an improvement on their last release but it will be interesting to see how many of their fans mature with the new sound. 6/10. (October 2007)
BUILDING 429 : Live The Journey. (Provident : B07DXS2NTJ)
Sitting in that interesting overlap between pop and modern worship, these songs have a great singalong quality. Without a background in some of the lyrical phrases used, it’d be hard to work out exactly who the “you” being addressed is, though. (“Beginning and end – it’s who you are”, from “Assurance” for example. It’s track 4 before Jesus gets a name check and 7 for God – the credal recital here leaves absolutely no doubt, to be fair). Whether that bothers you may depend on the context in which you see these songs: performance or congregational. Regardless, the vocal similarly straddles the crossover in style – being reminiscent of The Wanted, Hillsongs, Hawk Nelson, One Direction et al. The overall feel is very uplifting, songs such as “Shame doesn’t live here anymore” celebrating Jesus’ victory more than reflecting on our sin that made it necessary, which fits the style well – music and lyrics conveying the same message. Even the gentler numbers have that sort of feel to them. The band are tight, playing very much to support the vocal – nice flourishes, pauses and so on for emphasis (e.g. “The Journey”) and all very well played without necessarily breaking new ground. It’s all very well done but I just couldn’t get away from the feeling that I’d heard it all before – maybe the subtleties of the genre are lost on me. It is an album that is uplifting though and is very good to listen to. Best track: The Journey. 7/10. Paul Ganney. (December 2018)
The name of this Washington-based band refers to the resurrection of Jesus Christ that we’re invited to share: "having been buried with Him in baptism, in which you were also raised up with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead" (Colossians 2:12). Colton Reed, the mastermind behind the band, is hoping that his songs share a piece of that miracle with his listeners. The sound is (very) heavy rock, in the mould of bands like Disciple and Skillet. I’m not sure if Reed is doing all the vocals but, at times, his clearly audible vocals are supported by a rasping voice that would leave many singers with sore throats! Thrashing guitars are complimented by thumping percussion on opening numbers like ‘The Front Lines’ and ‘Out of Control.’ Then, comes the rather lighter rock sound of ‘It’s Never Too Late.’ Now, this one was more to my personal taste. A great tune and lyrics, combined with some Bon Jovi type backing vocals. ‘Already Written’ sees Dawn Michele take a share of the vocals on another fine track. With Biblical truths put into song; “As long as my heart is beating; As long as I’m still breathing; I will not walk through the darkness alone; I’ll follow your voice ‘til I make it back home.” This song was a real highlight for me. The heavier rock theme returns for the remainder of the album, with songs like ‘Sweet Misery’ and ‘Divide.’ There’s a lot to be admired in this band, even though some of the songs may not be my personal taste. Certainly, they match up well against bands of the same genre that I’ve reviewed in the past. 8/10. (February 2022)
BY THE TREE : Invade My Soul. (Fervent : 679143001894).
Chuck Dennie and Kevin Rhoads are the two founding members of
By the Tree, and who both love the Lord. And although their songwriting
styles may differ, the two come together with drummer Aaron Blanton
to create a new sound for Christian music. Blending modern pop
sensibilities and a slight rock edge with their worshipful and
vertical lyrics. I picked up on their lyrical content straight
away with the song "Reveal", praising the wonder of
a personal relationship with a loving an almighty God. "Walk"
is the next one to make you sit up. A slower song by comparison
to the first two but, nonetheless, every bit as good. "Open
My Eyes" gets better with each listen as does the guitar
driven title track, and it's hard to know quite where to pigeon
hole them. "Wonderful Again" features some Verve like
strings, while the modern worship feel of "Fall" had
me making comparisons to "The Stone Roses". "Invade
My Soul" isn't just another album. It's got some quite refreshing
sounds and songs, and I hope that By The Tree will blossom into
something big. 8/10. (September 2001)
BY THE TREE : These Days. (Fervent Records)
This is a straightforward rock/pop CD with some catchy tunes,
and enough variation to keep you interested. This is the second
album from By The Tree, who were apparently voted one of the top
ten acts of 2001 by "Soundscan" (No I don't know what
it is either). In some places it reminded me of Robbie Williams
in his more melodic songs. the production is very good, and this
band are obviously quite a talented bunch.(They have already taken
two Dove awards for their first CD)There is a nice cover version
of Into Your Arms (The Lemonheads), but as there are no songwriting
credits anywhere I'm not sure if any of the other songs are original
or not. For me the best track on the CD is the last one, entitled
When I found you, recorded with piano and strings it's a nice
change of pace to what is a CD worth trying to get hold of. 9/10.
Andy Sayner. (December 2002)
BY THE TREE : Hold You High. (Fervent Records)
It's nearly three year's since this Texas trio debuted with their
album "Inside My Soul". I said, then, that I hoped they
would grow into something bigger and better, and judging by this
album, they certainly have. Although primarily a worship album,
it's very contemporary, with a rocky edge that blends well. There
again, at their most melancholy, they sound like Coldplay or Keane,
as shown on the track "Miraculous". Well known songs
like "Beautiful One" and "Your Beloved" both
motor well, with a guitar flavour that's done tastefully well.
I also liked the acoustic led "Jesus Washed", which
shows the band in true worship, quiet, worship mode. At this rate,
the band should add many more sales to their current status of
150,000 units. 8/10 (August 2004)
BY THE TREE : World on Fire. (Fervent : 8065022)
By the Tree have gone through numerous line up changes over the years but have become one of the most popular bands on the contemporary worship scene. They've been likened to Leeland, amongst others, and they've a modern pop/rock sound to appeal to the youth of today. This album seems to have the theme of "love" running all the way through it with references to satisfying and pefect love, as well as a love song to Jesus. "How Beautiful You Are" encompasses the latter while "Perfect" and "You Are My Desire" relate to the former. "I WIll Follow You" has a real catchy chorus and it's the song I would personally pick as a potential radio hit. The guitar playing, especially, stands out here. I understand that the former drummer, Aaron Blanton, is now doing all the lead vocals, and he does quite a good job. The music itself is quite good, but I would like to have been excited more than I was. Still, it's not a bad album. 7/10. (May 2007)
BYRON CAGE : Memoirs of a Worshipper. (Verity Gospel/Authentic Media : 88697-97077-2)
Memoirs of a Worshipper is the 7th album from American gospel recording artist and Stellar award winner, Byron Cage. It features eleven tracks, some of which are co-written by Byron whilst the others are penned by a variety of other writers. The songs are recorded live, in a worship setting, though there are some interesting fade-outs. Whether these are for timing purposes or for some other purpose is not clear but I found that they interrupted the flow slightly. Not a major flaw in the recording, but since Byron is an accomplished worship leader it does undo some of his hard work! True to the gospel genre the songs offer some complex arrangements and interesting nuances - they will therefore only ever appear in churches led by accomplished musicians - in fact I wouldn't say that the songs lend themselves to congregational worship at all. However, their complexity makes them interesting and engaging, they brim with emotion and passion and require some serious and considered listening. The songs I believe to be the pick of a very good crop are probably the declaratory "Out of then All" and "Victory" but the anthemic "Great and Mighty", the longest song on the album at over 10 minutes, probably comes out on top. This album is nearly 70 minutes long but it seems surprisingly shorter. Since they say time flies when you are having fun, I therefore have to declare this album to be exactly that - fun - at least in the sense that it is unexpectedly enjoyable and wonderfully uplifting. 8/10 Robin Thompson. (October 2012)
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