T H E R E V I E W Z O N E
With grateful acknowledgement to: 7CORE MUSIC, AUTHENTIC, CAPITOL CMG, ESSENTIAL CHRISTIAN, INTEGRITY, McCAIN, PLANKTON, PROVIDENT & VERITY MEDIA ORGANISATIONS.
RECORD OF THE MONTH
JEAN WATSON : Behold. (https://jeanwatson.com/home)
This new EP from Jean commemorates 20 years of music and ministry which began with her landlord heard her sing and gave her rent back so she could record my first album ("Christmas Presence") in 2003. The Celtic style that has become synonymous with Jean’s music is, once again, at the forefront of this release. The opening ‘Come Thou Long Expected Jesus’ is simply divine, and the singer’s beautiful voice embraces each word. ‘French Carol’ has an ethereal feel about it with Jean also providing some sympathetic violin sounds. The lullaby that is ‘Sweet Little Jesus Boy’ floats majestically along with producer, Jonathan Crone adding acoustic guitar sounds to the main string arrangement. There’s a joyful intro to ‘Gesu Bambino’ which leads to an inclusion of some lyrics from ‘O Come Let Us Adore Him.’ The song really swings along, and I really enjoyed this one. Saying that, I enjoyed all six tracks! From her previous releases, I’ve come to expect quality music, and this EP is no different. Closing proceedings is a charming rendition of ‘The Holly and The Ivy,' and the quite beautiful ‘I Wonder As I Wander.’ On the latter, Jean sings of how Jesus came to forth to die for orn’ry people like you and I. A super Christmas release from a very gifted lady. 10/10.
LUCY GRIMBLE : Between the Shadow and the Sun. (Integrity Music)
The name Lucy Grimble is already familiar to readers of NFN, and here we have the recently-moved-to-Devon singer/songwriter/worship leader with her latest full lengther. Started during the pandemic and developed over the past three years, I am happy to say that these ten songs, lyrically grounded in the realities of life during recent world events, for me represent the pinnacle of Lucy's output to date. “I found that pain and suffering cannot be divorced from the Christian walk, and in fact the Christian walk is so often learning how to trust God in the midst of pain.” Said to be “a thought provoking and uplifting project all at once”, it is the kind of album that as a reviewer and music lover I find only comes along once in a while. The subtle groove of 'Ready for the dawn' turns out to be just the beginning of a beautifully judged musical exploration of the Christian faith journey. The title track follows, reminding us of God's presence in all circumstances (“He holds us in the shadow and the sun”). The clear message of previously released single 'Perfect timing' (“Your timing is perfect”) leads into the particularly lovely melody and chords of 'Hope (again)'. 'Spacious Place' comes next, which becomes my standout musically because of its exceptionally beautiful arrangement. Second single 'Shedding skin' provides some of the 'heaviest' musical moments on the album. 'But for the grace' features the beautifully played 1780 Nicolo Gagliano violin of Grig Cuciuc. Last track 'Now and forever' provides a rousing 'build' before dropping away to solo piano to end a really lovely album. This is top quality CCM with songwriting of the highest standard, melodies and arrangements that are inventive and interesting, and all topped off by lovely recorded sound – why can't all releases sound as good?! I've had the pleasure of reviewing some excellent albums in the past twelve months. With its predominance of real acoustic instruments and lovely note-perfect vocals added into the mix, this one at least equals the best and is therefore a strong contender for my album of the year. 10/10. Dave Deeks
ALISSA DeGROOTE : Receive My Love. (https://alissadegroote.com)
Receive My Love is the final track in a series of releases by Des Moines, Iowa based Christian artist Alissa DeGroote spanning 2022 & 2023. Preceding it, were the song collections Turn the Page, Sweep Me Away, Hidden and My Child. All scored highly with NFN reviews. This song continues Alissa’s meditational style of production, beginning with just her voice, piano, and pulsing synth’ pads. As the track moves forward, an acoustic guitar gently leads the singer’s voice. Then, the orchestral arrangement kicks in as she sings; “Receive my love; I’ll give you everything you need; Right here right now; Just receive.” It’s a glorious sound, that eventually gives way to a more intimate vocal delivery and, finally, spoken word. Alissa delivers yet another, soothing, and gentle song. 9/10.
HOPESTREAM WORSHIP : We Wait For the King. (www.hopestreamworship.co.uk)
Here’s the brand new album from UK band, Hopestream Worship. It contains 10 tracks, including the recent single ‘Abide,’ which is a song to encourage people going through difficult or trying times, and to draw near to God and rest in Him. The sweet, yet powerful, vocals see piano and cello providing most of the musical backdrop, resulting in listeners being comforted and helped, at the same time. Kicking off the album is pop orientated ‘By the Spirit of God.’ This is a great start, and I loved the way the verses and chorus flowed into one another. The style is repeated with the following ‘My Defender,’ which is another good song. For ‘His Everlasting Arms’ things get a bit Abba-esque with a rhythm that reminded me of ‘Lay All Your Love On Me,’ at times. Vocally, both Polly and Sue work really well on this track. Then, there comes a slower, more laid back, section of songs. ‘O Lord My Shepherd’ is a slower song of worship, with sensitive piano and strings accompanying the singers. A bigger production is granted to the splendid sounding ‘I Am In Awe.’ The opening lyrics set the tone for the whole song. “I am in awe of You, My Saviour; I want the world to know Your worth; I kneel in worship at Your tear drenched feet; You’re my all, Jesus You are my King.” Promising that Jesus is with you always, is the medium paced ‘He is For You,’ which is a super declaration! One of the lovely things about Hopestream Worship is that their overall sound is so uncluttered. You can hear each, individual instrument, and the vocals are clearly heard. Add to that, a collection of well-written songs, the result is an album of high quality that listeners can easily engage with. 9/10.
ANTHEM EDITION : Here Comes Christmas. (Sonlite Records)
This 7 track EP bounces into life with the up-tempo title track, which celebrates the festive season. An easy to remember chorus, will soon have you singing along. “Here comes Christmas; Bells are ringing; Lights are shining; Kids are singing.” The second song is a poignant look back at years gone by. ‘The Way It’s Always Been’ feels a little sad, and I wasn’t too keen on this one. A popular song at recent Christmas’ has been ‘Feliz Navidad,’ and Anthem Edition get in on the act with a lukewarm version of their own. A joyous song, this rendition just seems to lack a little something. Thankfully, the foot tapping ‘Thanks Giver’ lifts the mood again, with all the hope that Christmas brings. The boys go ‘a capella’ for ‘We Three Kings’ and ‘His Name Medley.’ Vocally, of course, the group are spot-on. Sandwiched between these two songs is the melancholy ditty ‘The Greatest Gift.’ So, some highs, but a few lows on this release and, therefore, a mediocre 5/10 from me.
RIKKI DOOLAN : You. (Good News Music)
There’s a rather strange opening to the album, the title track, with spoken comments followed by an instrumental section. This moves into the recent single, ‘You Turned it Around.’ It’s a poppy sound, with nice harmonies, that speaks of his life before and after meeting Jesus. This theme continues in track 3, ‘You are Holy.’ I must say, at this point, that I am enjoying the overall sound. This particular song has a well-constructed pre chorus and then a guitar solo. How refreshing to hear a guitar solo in a worship song! ‘You Are God Alone’ increases the tempo, while ‘You Taught Us How’ is a reworking of ‘O Happy Day. I do like this arrangement! Worship songs with prominent guitar soloing always interests me as it leads to that thin line between performance and worship. This has that balance and it is done well. The aforementioned ‘You Are God Alone’ is a bouncy, rocky, song which would transfer to most lively worship teams. Rikki provides nice vocals and there’s good harmonies throughout, too. Perhaps the lyrics, at times, are a bit repetitive but, overall, sound and easily singable. I’m still not sure of about the opening 29 second ‘You,’ but there will be a story I am sure. Listening to the album as a whole, I’ve heard enough to me wanting to hear a lot more from Rikki Doolan. 8/10 Noel Donaldson.
CARLI LESSING & MARY OZ : Upside Down Kingdom
Embrace the essence of Christmas as the first guitar notes transport you to the night of the King's humble birth and the heavenly choir in the fields. This collaboration between Carli and Mary is a joyful celebration, not only of Jesus’ birth, but of the hope rising from the humblest of places in God’s salvation story. The musical style of the song begins with a light folk verse, moving into a chorus that has an uptempo, Rend Collective type of beat. I really liked the outro as well. The song slows to a stop as Mary reminds us; “The son of God died for us, to change how we love.” A lovely, new song for Christmas. 8/10.
STILL WORSHIP : Cello Vol. 1. (Integrity Hosanna! Music)
Here’s the latest release in the instrumental series Still Worship. This time, the lead instrument is the cello, played admirably by Brent Milligan. The overall feel of the album is very mellow, and ideal for relaxing to, or meditating. The opening songs include ‘Lord I Need You; 10,000 Reasons, and Everlasting God.’ All three are accompanied by piano phrases, and the sound is spot on. Arrangements are as you would expect, simple, but keeping to the well-known tune of the songs. I found ‘I Could Sing of Your Love Forever’ to be very pleasing to the ear. Likewise, ‘How Deep the Father’s Love,’ which also contains some nice acoustic guitar sound, too. Other tracks include ‘In Christ alone; Here I Am To Worship, and Open the Eyes of My Heart Lord.’ Another well-produced Still Worship release. 7/10.
VINEYARD WORSHIP : This Joy. (Vineyard Worship/Integrity Music)
Recorded live in Chicago. This eclectic mix of new worship songs was written by Vineyard leaders, for the Church. Featuring 9 worship leaders from around the US, this album blends a wide range of influences, from gospel to pop to modern hymns, and is a small taste of the beauty and diversity within the Vineyard movement. Sadly, there was little for me to get excited about, apart from Paul Cullen’s ‘We Come Alive.’ A song with bright guitars at the forefront, this one was a brief high spot on a very ordinary album. ‘King of Heaven’ and ‘The Gospel’ were both, what I would call, plodders. The former, in a contemporary style, while the latter did show some stylish vocals from Tim Brown. ‘This Joy’ is a gospel number, while ‘Padre Nuestro’ is a ballad, mostly sung in Spanish. Alexandria Faison lifts things with he slow burning ’Sing His Name,’ and there’s a touch of modern country about ‘My Soul Depends on You.’ I can’t say that any of the songs were bad, but I found difficult in relating to most. For instance, ‘Every Moment’ consists of some echoing vocals, over some spacious sounds. The lyrics point to what it means to give your life to God. But, at just over six and a half minutes long, it took some concentration to stick with it. As this was a live recording, perhaps it was one of those “you had to be there” albums. 4/10.
CAIN : Jesus Music. (Provident Label Group)
Taylor, Madison and Logan are the sibling trio who make the band CAIN. “Our whole lives the music that inspired us, redirected us, and carried us, was always Jesus music," CAIN collectively shares. "To the artists, the worship leaders, and the choir directors, to the parents singing Jesus music over their kids as they put them to bed, we say thank you. Keep singing Jesus music. It means more than you can ever know!” Rattling from your speakers is the first track called ‘Wings.’ The sound is certainly on the heavier side of modern country, with a song that claims, “I’m going fly with wings like eagles.” Of the title track, the band say; "We make music for Jesus because of the heroes who showed us how. [The song] includes the titles of some of the greatest songs we’ve ever known.” It’s a bouncy track, that has nice laid back bridge, too. ‘Made for Heaven’ races along at break-neck speed, while ‘Windows Down’ features great harmonies and some touching slide guitar. It’s a lovely song, as well! There’s a choppy intro to ‘WWJD.’ It actually sounds like a kids song, as the band sing “What would Jesus Do?” Somehow, though, it’s the catchiest of choruses that really buzzes around your head for hours. Songs seem to whizz by until we get to the emotional ’10 And 2’ which looks at growing up together in Christ, and learning as we go. A slow paced ditty, it’s quite touching. Closing the album is the equally impressive ‘Lifeline.’ Things are certainly moving fast for this band and this new album will bring in many more new fans. 7/10.
NEON TIGERS ft PHILIPPA HANNA : No Sleep. (https://www.instagram.com/neontigersofficial/)
Neon Tigers present thier debut single, "No Sleep," a blend of driving synth lines and ethereal female vocals, nailed to a moody EDM backdrop. Those female vocals are provided by non-other than Phlippa Hanna. I was quite amazed to find out she has already been featured on several drum and bass hits. This track drops in bpm for the verses, and picks up with the chorus. Philippa sings of the promise of new life and God being the answer to it all, amongst other things. I liked the synth sound, which reminded me of the artist Cosmo Moose from his recent album ‘Cosmic Adventures.’ Easy on the ears, and very catchy at the same time. A fine debut from Neon Tigers. 8/10.
SARAH KROGER : Light Has Come. (Integrity Music)
“Light Has Come,” is Sarah’s first-ever Christmas project featuring four worshipful originals and festive classics. The title track is simply lovely, and highlights Sarah’s sweet vocals. The chorus of the song celebrates the birth of Christ in majestic, musical, style. Following, is an equally fragrant rendition of ‘Silent Night.’ Acoustic guitar, piano and string sounds are the perfect accompaniment. ‘Ave (King of Kings)’ is a very pleasant number, while the EP closes with ‘Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” It’s a laid back jazz, rendition that comes across well. While this release doesn’t exactly blow me away, I still found it a pleasurable listen. 7/10.
ADA MENAKAYA : Emerged. (https://www.instagram.com/adamenakaya/?hl=en-gb)
Nigerian gospel singer, Ada, has released this album, which is said to be; Overflowing with heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies. From the opening bars of ‘Help Me Now,’ it’s plain to see that the singer has a strong voice. The song is a slow burning ballad, that bursts into life mid-track, when a choir join in with sumptuous vocals. ‘Still Able’ is another slow song that praises God for His goodness. The theme and tempo carries on with ‘You Are Good’ and ‘Dear Lord,’ with the latter coming in at six and a half minutes. My only complaint about the track is that it becomes quite repetitive. It’s a similar story with ‘Yahweh.’ The song appears to become rather like a spontaneous worship number, with Ada singing over the continuous vocal choir. ‘Idi Omimi’ is sung in what I can only assume is a Nigerian dialect, while ‘Omemma’ I believe to translate as “Good doer.” The style of the songs are pretty consistent in their style, but ‘Overflow’ and ‘Everything Sweet’ were the stand out tracks for me. There was just something extra about them, with the latter being a really sweet sound. On this recording, Ada stands up well with similar top artists coming out of Nigeria, and I can understand why she is so popular. 7/10.
MAC POWELL : Christmas. (Mac Powell Records)
Here’s another festive release. This time, it’s from former Third Day frontman, Mac Powell. 5 tracks on this EP, kicking off with the throwaway ‘Christmas Time Again My Friend.’ It’s a jolly sounding ditty that reminded me of Michael Buble, with lyrics such as; “Silver Bells and Let it snow; Bing Crosby on the radio; Christmas time is here again my friend. “ There’s also mentions of Rudolph and Charlie Brown, as the singer looks at what Christmas means to him now. From there , we move to a jazz gospel number Called ‘I Pray on Christmas.’ It’s a timely reminder that we need to keep praying all year round. ‘Jesus Christ is born’ gets a more uptempo outing, with some nice keyboard sounds adding quality to the song. After, yet another version of “Have Yourself A Merry Christmas,’ the final song is a slow moving number called ‘Living Proof.’
Sung as a praise song, it’s an impassioned cry for all to know Christ in their lives. It’s nice to hear some new festive songs with the unmistakable voice of Mac Powell. 7.10.
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.
JEN HAWLEY : Fragile. (Starsong)
Maryland-based singer-songwriter Jen Hawley's new album Fragile paints musical portraits of grief without losing sight of our hopes and longings. The songs reflect not only Jen's journey through the grieving process, (Her father passed last year) but also the unique stories of her friends, family members and neighbours who have also gone through their own difficult losses. To be perfectly honest, I found this album to be a very hard listen. Jen’s writing is so personal, that the words are almost spoken, rather than sung. She hides nothing about the feelings that she has gone through, and musically, the tunes are very slow paced. Indeed, on ‘Handed Heaven’ I thought that the song was going to stop completely! The music throughout is very simple and sparse - occasionally just fingered piano and light percussion. On ‘Will the Circle Be Broken’ Jenn sings about the arrival of the funeral hearse, to take her loved one away, and the tears cried at the grave side.
By the time we get to ‘Fragile’ it’s post funeral, and there seems real hope for the future in Jen’s voice. ‘Sorrow for a Friend’ is an instrumental piano piece, while the folk tinged ‘Just Last Fall’ depicts the process of grief and trying to work through it. We all deal with grief in many ways, and Jen is no different. Putting her grief into song sounds like it’s her specific way. I could relate to some of her lyrics, especially on ‘Miss You More.’ It’s a look back at anniversaries and special times with a loved one, no longer with us. I think we all do that. Perhaps this album will help some listeners with their grief. The final song gives us all hope. ‘Words and Songs’ tells of finding strength to go on, through the love of God. It’s a touching end to the album. 6/10.
ELEVATION WORSHIP : Echo the Angels. (Elevation Worship Records)
This is Elevation Worship’s first Christmas release, and features ten tracks. Of ‘Hark the Herald Angels Sing’ Chris Brown says this about the recording; “When the angel appeared to the shepherds in the field to tell them that the Saviour had been born, then was joined by other angels singing and worshipping, it must’ve been an incredible sight and moment. I wanted to have a song that captured that triumphant, grand announcement and appearance when heaven opened to celebrate Christ’s birth.” After some strong percussion accompaniment, the song ends rather softly. Tiffany Hudson takes the lead vocals on ‘Breath of Heaven (All of a Sudden). Accordingly, she sings with rather a breathy delivery over some ambient instrumentation. As I look at my notes, after listening to the album for the second time, it’s hard to pick out a highlight. Perhaps Jenna Barrientes’ work on ‘Here Comes Heaven’ is the nearest. At times, through the ethereal sound, I did think that it sounded like the echo of angels. ‘Joy!’ gets a very modern sounding treatment, while ‘Worthy and Wonderful’ just gets a bit repetitive, after an initial good start. Other songs include ‘Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee’ and ‘Welcome to Our World.’ The former features Isaiah Templeton singing tenderly over some distant sounding organ pads, while the latter has the equally gentle vocals of Chris Brown. Overall, I just felt the album was lacking a few sparks to set it apart from being “just another Christmas album.” 5/10.