tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-284121422024-03-14T02:37:38.369-07:00Tracy DarlingtonTracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.comBlogger100125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-33965149088912444122018-10-16T12:02:00.001-07:002018-10-16T12:02:52.312-07:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: #009900; font-size: small;">The Heat <span style="color: black;">by Needtobreathe</span></span></strong></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Susan Lloyd</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"NEEDTOBREATHE's
debut disc, Daylight, made me sit up and take notice, but The Heat
made me a fan for life."</strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;"><div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">To say that NeedtoBreathe’s latest effort,<em> The
Heat</em>,
is one of my favorite CD’s of the summer would really be an understatement.
It’s one of my favorite CD’s of the year. This four man band
hailing from my home state of South Carolina has grown by leaps and bounds
over their last CD. Their debut disc, <em>Daylight</em>, made me sit up and take notice,
but The Heat made me a fan for life. Musically and lyrically, the band has
produced a solid effort that hopefully will earn some much deserved critical
acclaim</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Brothers Bear and Bo Rinehart
have done a great job with song writing, and as always, bands who write
their own material seem to earn my respect immediately.
I love the southern rock undertones of stand out songs like “Run Away” and
with lyrics like:</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em>It’s
easy to find potential in the before, but we look the same in the afters…</em></span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">listeners are challenged to think
about what they’re hearing. “Run
Away” actually happens to be my favorite track in the collection and
features an impressive acappella breakdown in the middle of the song that
builds nicely into the final repetition of the chorus. There are layers and
layers of sound on this particular song, and the first time I heard it, I
hit repeat before the song was even over.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The songs are well crafted musically,
and a variety of instruments are brought in to create sounds that are reflective
of the musical tapestry the Rinehart
brothers were exposed to growing up. Subtle southern rock with a tinge of
the blues (The Heat), bold gospel inspired soul (Washed by the Water), big
brass similar to the sounds of the 70’s band Chicago (Movin’ On)
and lilting acoustic (More Time, Second Chances) are all painted beautifully
over a canvas of impressive lyrics. I can’t say enough about the distinct
southern crawl (that’s not a typo… listen to the man sing and
you’ll know what I’m talking about) of Bear Rinehart’s
voice. Honestly, his voice is so well textured and so flexible that it is
arguably the most impressive instrument on the album.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I was most moved by the song “Return”. The lyric reminds me
of the story of the prodigal son, and the plea “return to me” is
repeated in the closing bars of the song over a very sparse instrumentation.
Gorgeous. Equally moving is “Streets of Gold”, a surprisingly
upbeat song about losing someone to a protracted illness. The line,</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em>All
of the time it takes to figure it out could be the moments you can’t
live without</em> is one that anyone who has loved someone with a terminal illness
can fully appreciate. The whole song is underpinned with a strong bass line
and has a very nice percussive break in the first verse.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Another topic tackled is the typical
commitment phobic behavior of the modern male. “Looks like Love” will
earn the favor of all women who <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/heat-review-needtobreathe.htm#" id="PXLINK_1_0_0">hear</a></nobr> it because of this one line;</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em>Our
hearts can only shake when there’s risk that they could break.
Yeah it’s a chance that I will take</em></span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I can hear the sighing now. The
song is a refreshing reminder that some men “get it” where relationships are concerned, don’t
go the way of the world, and can commit to what is right in relationships.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Nestled in the center of the album
on track eight is the stunning “Signature
of the Divine”. There is no question that this is a praise song. It
reminds me of something that the Newsboys might do, and placing it in the
center of the CD I believe is no accident. It has potential to be used in
many churches due to the overt praise centered lyrics, easy chord progression
and readily learned melody line. I definitely plan to find a way to incorporate
it into our church’s contemporary service!</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There are so many other songs
that standout on this album and each track is unique. I had trouble writing
this review, not because there wasn’t
enough say but because there is too much to say! The CD is incredibly rich
and deserves a Dove award nomination this year. I’ll even go so far
as to say that I believe it deserves a Grammy nod. I have the pleasure of
attending a NeedtoBreathe concert in the very near future and I am really
looking forward to hearing these songs performed live. And yes, it’s
true that part of the reason I was initially drawn to this band IS because
they are from tiny Possum Kingdom, South Carolina, but their musical prowess
and attention to lyrics are the reasons I’ll stick around to hear what
they do next. </span></div>
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Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-56083620876918599752018-08-29T12:44:00.001-07:002018-08-29T12:44:42.191-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">
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<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hymned Again <span style="color: black;">by Bart Millard</span></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Dale Lewis</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"...a
<nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/hymned-again-review-bart-millard.htm#" id="PXLINK_1_0_0">diversified</a></nobr> smorgasboard offering the listener New Orleans influenced
horn-driven jazz to Texas blue-rock guitar to bluegrass to... country. "</strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Most of these hymns
on <em>Hymned Again</em> date back to the 1800s and talk about sharing one’s faith during the era when evangelism was
on the rise. Bart states, “These are the songs that were a huge part
of my upbringing.” As a pastor’s kid raised in The Salvation
Army with these powerful hymns, I would agree wholeheartedly!</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Bart Millard, of the band MercyMe,
teams up with producer Brown Bannister as he did with the first release,
<em>Hymned</em>. Millard shares his passionate vocals
with a sweet, supporting line up of studio musicians. <em>Hymned Again</em> is a diversified
smorgasboard offering the listener New Orleans influenced horn-driven jazz
to Texas blue-rock guitar to bluegrass to . . . country. Don’t let
this scare you non-country fans from buying this CD!</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">One of my favorite cuts is “I Stand Amazed” performed as a simple
melody without the instrumentation consuming the powerful lyrics. It was
a needed reprise amongst all the other hymns. Others I liked were “What
a Day That Will Be,” “Victory in Jesus,” and “Leaning
on the Everlasting Arms,” which is showcased in a 1970s funk-soul arrangement.
The horn section has a Denver and the Mile High Orchestra flavor especially
on “What a Day That Will Be.” The clarinet and ukulele share
the spotlight also in these modern day arrangements.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Deep within there is a part of
me longing for the hymns of old to remain untouched — left as originally
performed for no better reason than out of reverence and respect for the
lyrics. And there is part of me that
thoroughly enjoyed these new arrangements, (well, most of them) . . . listening
to the joyful noise while drawing a new appreciation for the message of these
God-ordained lyrics.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Thanks Bart for stepping out again
and reminding us that the songs of the past need to find new life in the
present, (although I would consider deleting
that musical saw in “What a Friend”). I can’t wait to get
to heaven to sing these hymns, in whatever version, to God’s glory!
I might even pick up my trumpet and join in on the worship</span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span> </span></span></div>
Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-69778114546244216532018-08-08T12:29:00.000-07:002018-08-08T12:29:15.447-07:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong><span style="color: #009900;">Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2</span></strong></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by C.J. Darlington</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"</strong></span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">...if
you enjoyed the first installment you’ll probably
enjoy <em>Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2.</em>"</span></strong></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you saw the first <em>Beverly
Hills Chihuahua</em> movie, you’ll have
a good idea what to expect in this straight to DVD sequel. Cute dogs, silly
antics, an outrageous plot, and did we mention cute dogs? Lead pooches
Papi and Chloe have just gotten married and soon have a brood of five little
pups to keep them on their toenails. Dad Papi (voiced perfectly once again
by George Lopez) takes it all in stride and every night, with the best
of intentions, tells his little ones stories of the Chihuahua warriors
of long ago. The only problem is the puppies take the stories literally
and get into all sorts of mischief. Poor Papi ends up in the dog house
more than once for filling the puppies’ heads with grand ideas. </span>
</span></strong></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">But it’s not
the dogs that need saving this time around. The parents of Papi’s
owner Sam are about to be evicted from their beloved home. After several
attempts to make things right with the bank, it's not
looking good. But when a pack of determined Chihuahuas is on your side,
how can you lose? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">With the original grossing
almost 95 million in 2008, it was at first surprising to see the sequel
going
straight to DVD. But with little of
the same star power attached, it makes sense. At least Papi kept his original
voice. Chloe and Delgado did not, though it’s not too distracting
as their new voices are similar enough. However, it was disappointing to
see no human actors reprise their roles from the first film. Susan Blakely
takes over for Jamie Lee Curtis as Aunt Viv, but she only appears briefly
in one or two scenes. Most of the human acting was actually rather wooden,
but there were a few supporting characters who made things interesting,
namely
Elaine
Hendrix as the owner of a snotty French Poodle and the cat loving bank
clerk. Also, Morgan Fairchild does justice to a dog show commentator alongside
French Stewart. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The best part of the movie was seeing cool German Shepherd Delgado again.
The subplot involving his two estranged police dog sons was a nod to every
melodramatic father/son movie ever made, but it actually worked here and
was a touching addition. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">All in all, if you enjoyed the
first installment you’ll probably
enjoy <em>Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2</em>, especially if you’re a dog lover
or a kid. It’s clean entertainment with a good message about love
and family. Just don’t expect too much, and you’ll have an
enjoyable family movie night.</span><br />
<br />
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Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-85598369646913923742018-07-10T13:10:00.001-07:002018-07-10T13:10:23.746-07:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Beautiful You <span style="color: black;">by Jonny Diaz</span></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Caleb Newell</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"</strong></span><span style="color: #990000;"><strong><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Jonny
has put together an intelligent album whose lyrics are of great depth."</span></strong></span><br />
</span></span></span><div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Jonny Diaz went to
college on a baseball scholarship, but God had other plans. Jonny soon
picked up his guitar and the buzz went out nationwide.
Jonny is the fourth of four brothers to go to college on a baseball scholarship,
so you can only image how big a decision it was to go the music route. Matt
Diaz, Jonny’s brother, currently plays for the Atlanta Braves as a
left fielder. Jonny released his debut album in 2003, and has since produced
four albums, the latest being “More Beautiful You”.<br />
<br />
The title track, "More Beautiful You", starts out the album and explores
how most women have low self image. This song states that beauty is what
on the
outside but what/ who is on the inside. This verse says it the best, “So
turn around you’re not too far/ To back away be who you are/ To change
your path go another way/ it’s not too late you can be saved/ If you
feel depressed with past regrets/ The shameful nights hop to forget/ Can
disappear they can all be wash away/ By the one who’s strong can right
you wrongs/ Can rid your fear dry all you tears/ And change the way you look
at this big world/ He will take you dark distorted view/ And with his like
he will show you truth/ and again you’ll see through the eyes of a
little girl.” </span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">“Love like You Loved” is a catchy tune, and a personal prayer
to be more like the Messiah and less like ourselves. “Waiting Room” shows
the condition of the human heart toward prays answered the way we don’t
want them. Jonny probably wrote this from his personal decision to become
a singer instead of a baseball player. “See the Wind” is my favorite
song on the album. It describes how through this life and its hectic uniform,
it tends to drown out God’s every day miracles---for now we can’t
see him but one day we will see the un-seeable.<br />
<br />
Jonny has put together an intelligent album whose lyrics are of great depth,
all songs having been written or co-written by Jonny. This collection of
tracks from Jonny Diaz is a must have. As Theresa Ross said, “Jonny’s
sound is ‘now’”.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span> </span></span></div>
Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-40145133440101478462018-07-10T12:25:00.001-07:002018-07-10T12:25:45.725-07:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Greatest Hits <span style="color: black;">by Avalon</span></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Jennifer Bogart</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"</strong></span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">...a
highly pleasing album that provides not only an enjoyable listening
experience, but one that leads its audience into an interactive state
of worship."</span></strong></span><br />
</span></span></span><div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Over the past thirteen
years Avalon has become a mainstay in CCM. Their blend of pop, dance, and
R&B inflected songs that invariably
bring the honor to God are both infective and musically solid. Newcomers
to the group can’t go in wrong in starting with <em>The Greatest Hits</em>,
a generous sampling of sixteen of their most well known offerings.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Hard-core
Avalon fans already in possession of the groups previous hit-filled compendium
<em>Testify to
Love: The Very Best of Avalon</em> will find a large amount
of overlap between the two discs. As a newcomer to the group myself, each
song is fresh and previously unheard, but long time fans will find only
five tracks difference from the previous collection. In fact, the tracks
that were recorded specifically for <em>The Very Best of Avalon</em> such as “New
Day,” and “Everything to Me” have been taken from that
disc directly into this one.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Still, dedicated fans may be able
to justify the purchase. A new song, “Still
My God,” proves to be a real tearjerker, highlighting God’s unchanging
nature through our trials and challenges. The last four tracks on the disc: “All,” “You
Were There,” “Orphans of God,” and “In Christ Alone” have
been swapped in from previous albums.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">“Orphans of God” is a particularly moving inclusion from Stand – a
symphonic, tender song of reassurance that celebrates God’s unending
grace. “All” is a somewhat more two-dimensional tune, exhibiting
a bounty, R&B influence. “You Were There” is an introspective,
mellow song with a surprisingly forceful chorus.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">“In Christ Alone” draws from the vein that is ever popular amongst
CCM artists – covering traditional hymns with their own distinctive
arrangements. A beautiful rendition, Avalon’s take on the hymn features
heart-plucking harmonies, big, bold vocalizations, and poignant guitar accompaniment
in the simpler sections that bursts into an array of strong percussion back
up during the chorus.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The classics that were previously
included in the last greatest hits collection are clearly appearing again
for a reason. “Testify to Love” is
an addictive headliner that pops into my head throughout the day and demands
to be sung. “Knockin’ On Heavens Door” proves itself as
a perennial favourite on account of it’s chorus that depicts the insistent,
never-ending prayers of a believer confident in her position as a child of
God.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Personally, I could have passed
on “Give It Up” from the oldies
but goodies section of the disc – somewhere between the heavy reliance
on synthesizers and the embellishing “na na na’s” I tune
out. Likewise the dance-style rhythms of “Wonder Why” generally
leave me cold. “New Day” rounds out the trio of tunes that I
wouldn’t have missed if they’d been left out of the compilation.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There are some true Avalon classics
included that make the album. “Take
You At Your Word” is an insanely catchy, upbeat song that catches me
every time and finds me belting out the chorus at full volume. “Can’t
Live a Day” makes me cry more often than not as I’m reminded
of my complete dependence on Jesus, “The Glory” is a story song
that recalls Jesus’ life and sacrifice, and “Adonai” is
a slow song with understated accompaniment that nonetheless a heart-rending
cry to the creator.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I’ll admit that at first listen, the music struck me as somewhat fluffy,
but after repeated listening many of these songs have become woven into my
life. I’ve come to appreciate their theologically sound, yet still
entertaining perspective (not always present in CCM), the variety of represented
moods, and the clear vocal abilities of the group’s performers.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em>Avalon:
The Greatest Hits</em> is indeed
a highly pleasing album that provides not only an enjoyable listening experience,
but one that leads its audience
into an interactive state of worship. I’d be hard pressed to number
the times the songs I initially viewed as simple have led me to tears of
repentance and rejoicing. This resulting emotional response and turning towards
God in a listener should be the highest praise an album can receive.</span></div>
<div align="left">
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Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-89529149565208673382018-06-19T13:56:00.001-07:002018-06-19T13:56:11.276-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">
Joke</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
What do you call a pig that does karate? A pork chop.</div>
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Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-53924053142249385522018-06-19T13:24:00.001-07:002018-06-19T13:24:47.633-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">
Joke</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Why do seagulls fly over the sea? Because if they flew over a bay, they would be bagels.</div>
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Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-31290451081541142732018-06-12T10:49:00.001-07:002018-06-12T10:49:31.530-07:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: #009900; font-size: small;">City of Black and White <span style="color: black;">by Mat Kearney</span></span></strong></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Susan Lloyd</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"Kearney
bares his heart and soul in several songs, writing with an honesty
that is sometimes missing in music that is destined for mainstream
success..."</strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Mat Kearney’s <em>City
of Black and White</em> is the follow up
to this singer-songwriter’s massively successful second album Nothing
Left to Lose, and Kearney fans will be thrilled to find that while he doesn’t
veer too much from his laid-back <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/city-of-black-and-white-review-mat-kearney.htm#" id="PXLINK_1_0_0">punchy</a></nobr> acoustic style, he does bring his
music to the next level. According to the bio on his homepage, Kearney’s
been on the road since NLTL hit the airwaves, and the songs he’s chosen
for <em>City of Black and White</em>’s track listing are a reflection of the
time he’s spent touring.<br />
<br />
Kearney has a knack for soothing a listener with his distinct voice while
at the same time getting the pulse racing with intricate rhythmic patterns. “Fire
and Rain”, the second song on the album line-up is the perfect example
of that kind of musical command. Kearney’s vocals are solid throughout
while the song slowly builds with a pounding percussion line that doesn’t
overpower and steal the spotlight from poignant lyrics.<br />
<br />
It’s easy to forget that a piano is truly a percussive instrument,
but Kearney effectively uses it as such on “Closer to Love” as
the bell-like tones of a piano punctuate the verses. “Closer to Love” also
features a persistent acoustic guitar that isn’t always at the forefront
of the track but peeks out at just the right moments, reminding listeners
that Kearney could perform these songs with just that one instrument and
they would still be solid.<br />
<br />
We hear the comfortable strum of the acoustic open “Lifeline”,
and coupled with Kearney’s easy tenor, the song promises to be one
that has impact. Kearney seems to have mastered the ability to relate to
everyman’s struggle, and the lyrics on “Lifeline” prove
that. Kearney finds common ground with his fellow man during this honest
musical conversation about struggling with circumstances, looking for answers,
and maintaining hope. Lyrically, this is the song I find most appealing on
the album.<br />
<br />
Kearney does a better than average job with lyrics throughout the majority
of the album, but there are times when things seem a little sub-par in the
poetry department. For example in the stripped down ballad-esque “New
York to California” the song moves along beautifully and paints the
picture of the vulnerability that exists when two people are truly in love
with each other. And while Kearney fits the words and images together throughout
the verses and the chorus, things get dicey on the bridge with “<em>la
la la la la la Oh it’s not too far la la la la la la la Oh to where
you are</em>” making that section of the song seem out of place.<br />
<br />
Just two songs later on the track list is the stirring “Annie”.
I love the vibe of the song and there’s something about it that really
feels a lot like something Chris Isaak would write. There’s a drum
backbeat that also whispers of Johnny Cash, but it’s Kearney’s
poetry that really shines on this one. He has such a knack for writing a
song-story, and “Annie” is one of his best.<br />
<br />
Kearney bares his heart and soul in several songs, writing with an honesty
that is sometimes missing in music that is destined for mainstream success,
and the acoustic driven “On and On” is probably the most transparent
song in the collection. It may end up being one of my favorites as I listen
more, and it will be a favorite simply because of the honesty that shines
through it. <br />
<br />
Kearney has definitely put together an impressive album in <em>City of Black
and White</em>, and I hope it receives the airplay it deserves. “Lifeline” can
be a solid hit on Christian AC radio, and I can see songs like “New
York to California”, “City of Black and White” being mainstream
AC hits. The album feels a lot like something Bruce Hornsby would have put
together in the late 80’s, and reaching back into the archives seems
to be a musical trend across all genres of music that is paying off for artists.
It may be Kearney’s vocal similarities to Coldplay’s Chris Martin
that will cause new listeners to sit up and take notice, but anyone who digs
deeper into Kearney’s song catalog will be won over by his style and
consistency. <em>City of Black and White</em> adds to that catalog in a way that makes
Kearney’s body of work more impressive.</span></span> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
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Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-42769609286824449762018-04-23T10:33:00.001-07:002018-04-23T10:33:34.330-07:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: #009900; font-size: small;">The Altar and the Door</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> by
Casting Crowns</span></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Michael Ehret</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"Casting
Crowns comes out of the gate<em> on The Altar and the Door</em> with another
of those 'smack-the-church-upside-the-head' songs they do so well."</strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;"><div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Casting Crowns come
out of the gate on <em>The Altar And The Door</em> with another of those “smack-the-church-upside-the-head” songs
that they do so well. Previous discs have had similar songs, “If We
Are The Body,” from 2003s Casting Crowns and “Does Anybody Hear
Her” from Lifesong in 2005.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This time around,
Mark Hall and the gang smack the church with the disc’s
opening track, “What This World Needs.” And the lyrics are every
bit as sharp and convicting as Casting Crowns has ever written:</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em>What
this world needs is not another sign-waving super saint that’s
better than you / Another ear-pleasing candy man afraid of the truth / Another
prophet in an Armani suit / What this world needs is a Savior who will rescue,
a Spirit who will lead, a Father who will love them in their time of need.</em></span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And then for the church, for Christians who profess to believe in the life,
death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ:</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em>What
this world needs is for us to stop hiding behind our relevance / Blending
in so well that
people can’t see the difference / And it’s the
difference that sets the world free</em></span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This is using the
scalpel of truth to cut out the cancer of complacency in the church. But
Hall is far from done. His earnest, prophetic voice continues
through five more amazing songs, back-to-back: “Every Man,” “Slow
Fade,” first single “East To West,” “The Word Is
Alive,” and the title track.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">In this incredible
suite of songs, Casting Crowns points out that the world is full of normal,
everyday people who are listening, waiting for someone
to speak words of hope (“Every Man”). With the children’s
rhyme, “be careful little eyes what you see,” Hall addresses
the moral failure of fathers in this generation (“Slow Fade”).
But God’s forgiveness is an amazing gift, if only it is accepted (“East
To West”) because God’s word, as Hall writes in the album notes,
is “infallible, inerrant, inspired, and alive” (“The Word
Is Alive”).</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Because of the brokenness
of this world and because of the sinful choices of man, God has provided
the way (“The Altar And The Door”).</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Musically, this is
exactly what you’d expect from Casting Crowns – heartland
rock and roll with power ballads mixed in. Listeners don’t come to
Casting Crowns for platitudes about the beauty of the Christian life. Although
that’s true, too. Hall and company want to have an impact. They want
to move the Church to action. Specifically, to action that more closely fulfills
Jesus’ call on those who claim His name – to go into all of the
world and share the good news and minister to those who are hurting. That’s
all the group wants – and it’s everything.</span></div>
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Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-32219962060357429832018-04-21T11:18:00.001-07:002018-04-21T11:18:44.247-07:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: #009900; font-size: small;">Kingdom of Comfort<span style="color: black;"> by Delirious</span></span></strong></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Susan Lloyd</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"Sonically
fresh and lyrically challenging, the album features thirteen tracks
that leave the listener wanting more…"</strong></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Listening to <em>Kingdom
of Comfort</em> is somewhat of a bittersweet experience, because the latest
offering from the UK band Delirious? was released
shortly before the band announced that 2009 would be the year of its last
tour. That makes KOC the last album of new material that Delirious? will
ever put together. For fans of the enduring UK based band, the announcement
must come as a shock, but they may be comforted by listening to what is arguably
the band’s best album of its career. Sonically fresh and lyrically
challenging, the album features thirteen tracks that leave the listener wanting
more… and knowing that’s all Delirious? has left to offer makes
one want to savor this CD.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The title track “Kingdom of Comfort” is a hard hitting honest
look at the creatures of comfort we have all become. The plea to be saved
from “The kingdom of comfort where I am King” is one we should
all cry out, and the introspective view point of the song speaks volumes
about the transparency of song writers Smith, Garrard, and Thatcher. Musically,
the song has an interesting texture and marries acoustic instrumentation
with experimental percussive sounds in a way that somehow manages to keep
the lyrics pushed to the forefront. Lyrically, the three collaborating band
members who wrote all the tracks on KOC seem to have laid bare their souls
as they dig through their own struggles with materialism.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">“God is Smiling” relies on a distorted guitar hook followed
by an equally distorted bass line to lay the foundation for the more upbeat
and hope laden song. Delirious? brings to mind the styling’s of U2
and the insanely popular Coldplay on this particular track, and haunting
synth work serves to transport the listener to a solid European rock feel.
The track is followed by the raucous “Give What You’ve Got”.
Smith’s vocals seem to mirror Queen’s Freddy Mercury on this
particular track, and the band manages to make the most of an earlier 80’s
rock style that just gets inside your head and makes quite a statement.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Unique, far from manufactured,
and passionate, songs like “Love will
Find a Way”, “Eagle Rider”, and “Wonder” give
full validity to every reviewer who has given kudos to Delirious for the
sheer creativity of its songs. These songs in particular showcase intelligent
lyrics as well as experimental instrumental layering that is seldom heard
in more commercially successful music. Thankfully, even though the band was
accused on several occasions of “selling out” in order to secure
a higher mainstream profile, they truly did not sell out. These songs in
particular explore content that isn’t so comfortable for the listener
to confront, and the boldness of lines like: <br />
<em><br />
“I stare in the eyes of this flesh and bone. I’m a tourist here so
tomorrow I go home. <br />
<br />
</em></span><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I try
to make sense of the things I’ve seen between the poverty and
the five star dream”</span></em></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">are concrete evidence that Delirious? is not as interested in selling a
song but as in serving a Savior.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Another
standout on the track listing is “All God’s Children”.
The rolling synth and stark use of guitar work gives the song a landscape
feel that lends itself well to the worshipful attitude of the song. However,
as stunning as “All God’s Children” is, the real jewel
on this CD is “How Sweet the Name”. I’m not sure I’ve
ever heard a song that treats the name of Jesus with such awe and reverence
and at the same time makes the person of Jesus seem so real and close at
hand. The song begins by going in a more traditional praise chorus direction
and tends to stay there throughout both verses and the initial chorus. But
when Smith’s voice jumps an octave on a choral repeat, the song begins
to take a more dramatic turn that explodes into a soaring compilation of
well woven sound. The climax of the piece showcases all that Delirious is
capable of on a musical level, but somehow it manages to usher the listener
into a holy moment where he is forced to reckon with his own desperate need
for a Savior. </span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There are so many well crafted,
well engineered songs on Delirious?’ last
CD, and there is no question in my mind that “How Sweet the Name” is
the piece de resistance. I’m left to wonder if Delirious has not stopped
their work together long before they should have because of the richness
of the music they’ve put together for this last session in the studio.
But, if Delirious? is going to call it quits, it’s a good thing to
be able to go out on a high note leaving fans with a CD that justifies the
years they’ve followed this impressive, cerebral, and always faithful
band. If you don’t own any music by Delirious, <em>Kingdom of Comfort</em> is
the one Delirious? CD that belongs in your collection. It is a fine example
of how music can be transcendent, timeless, and cerebral without becoming
obtuse and misunderstood. God bless the members of Delirious? as they go
their separate ways. We are grateful for the years this band has spent creating
music that brings us all closer to the One who loves us best.</span></div>
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Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-82143796039079539192018-03-28T13:22:00.001-07:002018-03-28T13:22:25.050-07:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: #009900; font-size: small;">How Can We Be Silent</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> by
Barlowgirl</span></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Darcie Gudger</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"<em>How
Can We Be Silent</em> rocks. Hard. This album will be sure to rise to the
'most played' list in your music player."</strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;"><div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We can’t – be silent, that is, especially about
this incredible new release. Believe me, if you liked BarlowGirl before,
you’ll love them after listening to their new release, <em>How Can
We be Silent</em>.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em>How
Can We Be Silent</em> presents
the trio of sisters at their very best. The lyrics, musical style and diversity
reach a higher plane of maturity than
previous albums BarlowGirl and Another Journal Entry. Styles range from hard
rock (“Million Voices”) to a surprising “One More Round” which
is a funky jazz number complete with the coolest walking bass line. I can’t
help but punch the “back” button on my iPod to replay that track
over and over again.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Lyrically, my favorite song is
cut 2 – “I Believe In Love”.
Most, if not all of us, will walk through long periods of time where we notice
the excruciating absence of God. Ponder these faith-building words for a
minute - I believe in the sun, even when it’s not shining, I believe
in love. Even when I don’t feel it, and I believe in God. Even when
He is silent and I, I believe…</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">What separates BarlowGirl from
the rest of young female vocalists is their understanding of the reality
of walking with Christ. Being a Christian is
hard. Sometimes it downright stinks. Jesus himself says, “In this world
you will have trouble, but take heart! I have overcome the world! (John 16:33).” Barlow
Girl captures the emotions for these seasons offering hope. Their tight vocal
harmonies and deeply textured instrumentation pull the soul of the listener
into the presence of God.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">In “Keep Quiet”, lead vocalist Alyssa challenges us to be bold
in sharing our faith, Jesus, Jesus, why’s your name offensive? Why
are we so scared to tell this world you saved us? When all of our hope, all
the world’s in your name – why are we so scared to say Jesus?
The driving electric guitar and beat help drill the question into our brains
while making it obvious Lauren, Alyssa and Becca aren’t afraid to say
His name.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Most importantly, BarlowGirl practices what they preach. They are great
role models for teens struggling to stay pure and focused on Christ in a
postmodern world. Take time to read their thoughts on their website <a href="http://www.barlowgirl.com/" target="_blank">www.barlowgirl.com</a>.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em>How
Can We Be Silent</em> rocks. Hard.
This album will be sure to rise to the “most
played” list on your music player. </span></div>
</span> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
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Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-41131245602718666072018-03-28T11:55:00.001-07:002018-03-28T11:55:20.747-07:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Beauty Will Rise <span style="color: black;">by Steven Curtis Chapman</span></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Bert Gangl</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><div align="left">
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"</strong></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chapman
opens the depths of his soul, harnesses the grace and strength that have
waited within, and reflects them back to God and his audience."</span></strong></span></div>
<div align="left">
<br /></div>
</span></span></span><div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">At first blush, the
image of Steven Curtis Chapman standing, arms upraised, on a barren mountainside
overlooking the ruins of a village
ravaged by natural disaster might seem an odd – not to mention decidedly
less than photogenic – choice to grace the front cover of his latest
release. Those familiar with Chapman's most recent comings and goings, though,
will quickly realize that perhaps no other picture sums up the last year
and a half of his life more accurately or succinctly. </span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">On May 12, 2008, Chapman and his wife were wrapping up a four-week visit
to China when a 7.9 magnitude earthquake hit the country's Sichuan province,
killing nearly 70,000 people and leaving 4.8 million homeless. Although the
Chapmans were far enough from ground zero not to even feel the quake, they
soon suffered a crushing setback of their own less than two weeks later,
when their youngest daughter, Maria, herself a Chinese adoptee, was killed
in a tragic <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/beauty-will-rise-review-chapman.htm#" id="PXLINK_1_0_0">automobile accident</a></nobr> at their home in Nashville. Chapman returned
to China in July of this year to attend the grand opening of an orphanage
named for his daughter, and performed a concert in the Sichuan province,
where the cover photo was taken.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Not surprisingly, the better portion
of the new project mirrors the inevitable bleakness Chapman and his family
have experienced in the wake of his daughter's
passing. While many an singer places their faster, more rousing material
at the beginning of their records, the somber, nearly percussion-free, album
opener, "Heaven is the Face," is not so much a case of an performer
leaping out of the starting blocks and declaring, "Here I am!" as
it is a snapshot of an artist deep in the midst of contemplation and recollection,
completely oblivious to the outside world. In the title track's lack of a
pronounced verse/chorus/verse structure , one can almost hear the sound of
a soul meandering in search of an emotional anchor point amidst its anguish.
And the absence of layers of studio gloss on the stripped-back, acoustic
guitar-based "Just Have to Wait" and "God Is It True (Trust
Me)" seems only fitting in light of those songs' bleak, emotionally
raw, subject matter.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Given its lo-fi, largely understated
nature, the musical portion of Beauty can tend to fade into the background
at times, coming across as almost an
afterthought. Of course, one can only imagine that, this time out, Chapman
was far less intent on finding the perfect hook and melody than he was on
simply chronicling his own sadness and uncertainty. To that end, he has succeeded
brilliantly. "February 20," which details young Maria's salvation
just before her death (As she prayed, "Jesus, Can I come live with You?"/
We could never have imagined/ She'd be going there so soon), is a spellbinding
mixture of temporal loss and eternal triumph. The likewise engrossing "Our
God Is In Control" and "I Will Trust You" (I don't even want
to breathe right now/ All I want to do is close my eyes/ You're all I've
got) find Chapman piercing his unrelenting heartache with encouraging slivers
of hope. Most impressive of all is the masterfully-penned "Questions" (God/
How could You be so good and strong/ And make a world that can be so painful),
which stands out as arguably the most unflinchingly honest song Chapman has
ever committed to disc. </span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Given that they were penned in
the wake of such unimaginable grief, one can only guess that the songs
on Beauty came to Chapman without much conscious
thought or deliberation. And it is arguably this direct, unaffected approach
that ultimately renders the album his most gripping outing to date. At first
glance, it would seem almost ironic that a release whose subject matter is
so closely tied to one specific event should, at the same time, be Chapman’s
most universally accessible. But, even those who haven’t experienced
the agony of losing a child have surely, at one point or another, longed
violently for an end to their pain, regardless of its source. </span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Unlike so many of his previous
records, which seemed to be composed with one eye inclined to those who
would eventually hear them, the new project
finds Chapman aiming, not for the entertainment of those who will ultimately
hear it, but simply for his own catharsis and eventual healing. While it
isn't his most instrumentally engaging effort, it is, without question, his
most unique and absorbing – a lyrical masterwork through which Chapman
opens the depths of his soul, harnesses the grace and strength that have
waited within, and reflects them back to God and his audience. Suffice it
to say that both parties are certain to be well pleased with the end result.</span><br />
</div>
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Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-87942279433189412552018-03-26T11:33:00.001-07:002018-03-26T11:33:40.589-07:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: #009900; font-size: small;">To the Foundation <span style="color: black;">by Christafari</span></span></strong></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Lori Fox</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"Christafari
hasn't missed a beat ... <em>To The Foundation</em> will please old fans and
new."</strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">After nearly 20 years of making and producing Gospel Reggae,
Christafari hasn't missed a beat. Their new album <em>To The Foundation</em> will
please old fans and new.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">While <em>To
The Foundation</em> doesn't reach the same power and heat that <em>Soul
Fire</em> (1995) had, it rocks just a bit harder than <em>Valley of Decision</em> (1999),
which had an easier, more Caribbean sound. It isn't until <em>Gravity</em> (2003)
was released that Christafari began to reach this matured, grounded sound.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">While I do miss the deep, growling sound vocalist, producer, and founder
<nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/to-the-foundation-review-christafari.htm#" id="PXLINK_1_0_0">Mark</a></nobr> Mohr had, most notably in Soul Fire, the passion that fuels him comes
through all the stronger for the lack of shouted vocals, and for the first
time I've been able to fully appreciate the motivation behind each song.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The song that demonstrates this
best is track 14, “Too Many Cannibals”.
It wasn't until I heard the phrase "it seems the sheep are more dangerous
than the wolves" that the meaning of the song really clicked for me.
As Christians, it's so common to bicker among ourselves, attack each other,
and try to bring each other down. We do more damage to ourselves and each
other than anyone else could ever do. Skillfully, Mark points this out in
such a way that you can't miss it if you actually listen to the words.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">As for the sound, I found “Rooftop” surprisingly danceable despite
the deeper nature of the lyrics, and “Never Give Up” has a nice,
slow groove to it. There are a number of featured artists such as Avion Blackman,
Mr. Lynx, and Ace Winn, among others, that <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/to-the-foundation-review-christafari.htm#" id="PXLINK_2_0_1">lend</a></nobr> each song its own flavor,
while still blending smoothly into one strong album.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">For those who are unfamiliar with
Christafari, but who enjoy reggae as a whole, I noticed some outside influences.
Much of that comes from the featured
artists, but I did notice that “Triumphal Entry” and “Never
Give Up” seemed to have a bit of influence from the Black Eyed Peas.
Or perhaps it's the other way around. Christafari has been highly influential
in the music world for many years and some of the influence may have come
full circle.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">In all, I rate this CD very highly for fans of Christafari. Their music
has evolved over the years, but while I would rate their early work no lower
than <em>To The Foundation</em>, neither would I consider <em>To The Foundation</em> as anything
less than their early albums. If you already like Gospel Reggae, you will
not be disappointed. </span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, Times, serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong><br /></strong> </span></div>
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Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-9423607564718707292018-03-24T12:12:00.001-07:002018-03-24T12:12:32.862-07:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Letting God <span style="color: black;">by Bread of Stone</span></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Caleb Newell</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"This
CD is laced with hard hitting issues we face everyday..."</strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">From having the privilege
of sharing the stage with artists like Petra, DecembeRadio, and Casting
Pearls to Toby Mac, Jars of Clay, and
Chris Tomlin, Bread of Stone (BOS) has captivated audiences everywhere with
astonishing performances as they expand their boundaries. They are infused
with an energy that finds its source in their passion for bringing others
closer to Jesus, and they have a unique sound that’s all their own.
Having released two CDs, they are fine tuning their message and honing in
on their God-given talents. When questioned about their name Bread of Stone,
they stated, “We are merely stones that God turns into bread to feed
the hungry and that without Him, no one can accomplish good in this downfallen
world.” Their new project, <em>Letting Go</em>, is filled with the message of
complete surrender.<br />
<br />
BOS’s foreman and song writer, Ben’s, journey into a deeper relationship
with Jesus as he came to the conclusion that the only way to have true friendship
with Christ was to humble himself, is the basis from which Letting Go is
tailored. “Everyday” is a chance at new life and says that we
can only be made beautiful in Christ. “Letting Go” speaks on
how we as Christians want to have less of ourselves and be consumed by Him.
A declaration, “Somewhere”, is a song of how God is somewhere
out there and that at the end of this journey we’ll see out savior’s
face, be at his side, feel his warm embrace, and we will never be the same
again. “I Want” is a declaration and longing to know the existence
of God, and to be with Him someday. </span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">So many have been persuaded by
the tribulations and lies of this world, states “Life of Truth”, and we need to take them by the hand,
showing them God through our life. “Not My Own” states how this
life goes by so quickly and how the only way we can make a difference is
if we humble ourselves before God and allow Him to guide our life. We can’t
do anything on our own accord to deserve or not deserve God’s love
through anything within ourselves, says Mark through “Never Buy Your
Love”, but it is through God’s grace and mercy and Jesus’ sacrifice
that we can be saved. All we have belongs to God and everything we have should
be used for His glory, states “Obsession”, and God is our only
true obsession, to use His possessions, that have been lent to us, for his
glory. “One More Time” is a plea that God will use us one more
time, even though we have turned our back on Him. “Frozen In Time” is
a call to action, for the hurting and lost people around the world; “So
what/ What are we waiting for/ Can we see the tears that fall down/ Are we
frozen in time.” We want to change our life and ways but we can’t
seem to ever get to that changing point, states “Take My Life”,
a plea for God to take our life as our offering. </span></div>
<div align="left">
<br /></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This CD
is laced with hard hitting issues we face everyday, and praise to Him.
The album is highlighted with unforgettable melodies and genuine lyrics
that speak the truths for life. Through BOS’s ministry/outreach, they
have seen numerous others letting go and coming to Christ.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<br /></div>
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Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-9908877284749517822018-03-22T08:22:00.001-07:002018-03-22T08:22:51.604-07:00<br />
<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Love and War <span style="color: black;">by Barlowgirl</span></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Dale Lewis</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"...a
must-have for all BarlowGirl fans! It is their most musically adventurous
album to date."</strong></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"...a
must-have for all BarlowGirl fans! </strong></span></span></strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Rebecca, Alyssa and Lauren of BarlowGirl present to us an overt
dichotomy: bold and aggressive contrasted with tenderhearted transparency.
They have a warrior-like approach to their music. It is this passionate obedience
reverberating throughout their third release, <em>Love and War</em>.<br />
<br />
At first listen, <em>Love and War</em> appears contradictory . . . but listen a little
closer and you’ll find the songs embodying the hope and love we have
for God and for those who are experiencing unbearable difficulties. <br />
<br />
Alyssa states that, “The time is now to rise up and to get what God
has for us. The time is now to rise up and learn what it means to be loved
by God, to learn what it means to be set apart, to learn what it means to
embrace our destiny and embrace our calling to the extreme. That is the thread
running through all of these songs.” The piano introduction to a couple
of their songs is a perfect way to enter into the richness of the lyrics. <br />
<br />
The sonic sounds of <em>Love and War</em> closely align with earlier BarlowGirl titles
while still remaining true and strong with their lyrical content. The revealing
ballad 'Beautiful Ending', their heartfelt plea in ‘Stay With Me’ and
the Beatles-like ‘Our Worlds Collide’ certainly has hit potential,
although that isn’t important to the three sisters. Six years into
their musical ministry, Lauren can’t imagine making these memories
with anyone else . . .“I’m just so blessed to be able to live
this life with my family.”<br />
<br />
With its haunting piano introduction accented by the staccato of the percussion, “Beautiful
Ending,” is a revealing ballad displaying an emotionally weighted story
as well as the sisters’ gorgeous, harmonizing vocal blend.<br />
<br />
The achingly beautiful ballad “Tears Fall” touches on the very
sensitive subject of abortion, and yet God’s truth is clearly presented
in this emotionally driven song: “ . . . And all our claims to freedom
have become just heavy chains and in the name of rights, we keep filling
nameless graves.” This song is a very poignant call to action and repentance. <br />
<br />
Love and War, produced by friend Otto Price, is a must-have for all BarlowGirl
fans! It is their most musically adventurous album to date. Alyssa states, “We
feel like this is our coming out CD. It’s like something happened to
us that we can’t totally put into words yet, but we’ve grown
up.”</span></span> </strong></span></span></strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></strong></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></strong></span></span> </span></span></div>
Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-1602764210866557102018-03-19T13:30:00.000-07:002018-03-19T13:30:07.922-07:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: #009900; font-size: small;">Beyond Measure</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> by
Jeremy Camp</span></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Katie Hart</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"Each
song sparkles with excellence."<br /> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Jeremy Camp has ranked up an
impressive line of accomplishments in the four years since his label
debut in 2002: five Dove Awards (including
Male Vocalist of the Year twice in a row), his past three studio albums
certified gold, and nine #1 singles. Yet in his latest release shows
his humbleness and gratefulness for where God has brought him. The title
track proclaims, I know that I’ve been given more than beyond measure.
I come alive when I see beyond my fears. I know that I’ve been
given more than earthly treasure. I come alive when I’ve broken
down and given You control.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">As he thanks God for his beautiful
life, he doesn’t mention the
accolades and awards, but his family. After losing his wife to cancer when
he was only 23 (his powerful story of hanging on to faith through loss
spills out in the song “I Still Believe” in Stay), Jeremy married
Adrienne (Adie) Liesching, formerly of Benjamin Gate. They now have two
daughters, and Adie has recently released her own album, <em>Don’t Wait</em>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em>Beyond Measure</em> branches out
past Jeremy’s earlier releases musically.
While each song still has the signature style fans have come to love, with
Beyond Measure he seems to have freed himself to experiment a little more.
The album opens with a hard-hitting song of dedication in “Tonight,” then
mellows out by the end to wrap up with the worshipful “Give You Glory” and
the simple “Give Me Jesus.” The lyrics are as strong as ever:
Sometimes I feel a fight to release the grip and trust that everything
will be alright. It’s been so real to feel the peace that you start
unfolding when I let things go. Jeremy wrote or co-wrote nearly every song,
and Adie adds backing vocals to three of them.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">It’s difficult to choose a favorite song from the mix of catchy
beats and melodic tunes. Each time I settle on one, another reminds me
of its delightful facets. But that’s one of Jeremy Camp’s trademarks – he
doesn’t settle for a couple good singles, then pad the album with
okay fillers. Each song sparkles with excellence, worthy of addition to
any music lover’s collection.</span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-40833206540249772742018-03-15T13:34:00.000-07:002018-03-15T13:34:03.781-07:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Get In, I'm Driving <span style="color: black;">by Ginny Owens</span></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Adrian B.
Martinez</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">"My
suggestion to everyone is to simply turn over your keys to “Get
In, I’m Driving” and let Ginny take you on a drive you
will not soon forget."</span></strong></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></strong></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">With <em>Get
In, I’m Driving</em> Ginny Owens is announcing she
is back, and back with a furor. If you have the fortitude to as she says
in the first cut “Get In”, you will not be disappointed. <br />
This 11-track set released on her new label partner, Soul Stride Records
(part of EMI Gospel Distribution) is a mix of Blues, Pop and the lush Piano
ballads that brought Ginny’s voice to our ears over a decade ago. <br />
<br />
From the sultry piano ballads to the bluesy title track, this set is a reminder
of Ginny’s vocal delivery. Stripping down the Stevie Wonder classic “Higher
Ground” to just her voice and her piano, POWERFUL. It doesn’t
get any better than “Rain”, “Joined At The Heart”,
or “The Song”….OK, I’m a sucker for the ballad. “We
are humbled to be part of a greater story written by the author of miracles
and stars….” She sings in “Joined At The Heart”….” As
this journey unfolds, there is one thing that we know – God has made
it so we are joined at the heart”. <br />
<br />
Describing the experience of creating this CD, Ginny says “…I’ve
just finished my first experience driving a CD project, incorporating my
favorite musical styles in a diverse array of songs…. I joke about
driving a car and try my hand at “driving” my music, but there
is no question who is driving my life. No matter how much I fight for the
wheel, He continues to show me that my journey is not for me to drive—instead
I look to Him to lead and hang on for the ride.”<br />
<br />
My suggestion to everyone is to simply turn over your keys to “Get
In, I’m Driving” and let Ginny take you on a drive you will not
soon forget. </span></span> </span></strong></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></strong></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></strong></span> </span></span></div>
Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-74609659790382914412018-03-15T13:04:00.001-07:002018-03-15T13:04:11.750-07:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: #009900; font-size: small;">Cities</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> by Anberlin</span></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Cory Clubb</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"...their
best and most talented work to date."</strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">It’s time for round three with breakout rockers Anberlin.
For their third and final studio recording with Tooth and Nail Records, they
give us <em>Cities</em>. After such acclaim and positive reviews from their first
two albums, <em>Blue Prints for a Blackmarket</em> and <em>Never Take Friendship
Personal</em>,
there’s a lot of anticipation surrounding <em>Cities</em>. Sometimes though,
living up to the hype can be a hard thing to deliver on. Yet Anberlin does
not fail us; they bring their best and most talented work to date.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Starting off with
a static montage of whining guitar feedback and passing sirens in the first
track “Debut”, the song provides a tingling
transition straight into the explosive single “Godspeed”. From
there each track moves into the next flawlessly. Prominent songs like “Adelaide” and “Reclusion” keep
up Anberlin’s diverse style and sound. Frontman Stephen Christian’s
voice is so versatile it impresses whether he is blending with a melody on “The
Unwinding Cable Car” or yelling out his passion on “A Whisper
and a Clamor”. The final two tracks, “Dismantle. Repair” and “*Fin” are
arranged so well, they titer on epic. Although Anberlin’s lyrics are
hard to decipher, they don’t offend or use distasteful anthems. Most
songs are about relationships loved and lost. Other topics touch on loneliness
and desperation as heard on the track “Hello, Alone”, and calling
on us to rise and move on in “A Whisper and a Clamor”.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">When released, the
album <em>Cities</em> also offered a special edition cd/dvd option that added three
bonus tracks. Although these tracks have been re-released
on the band’s compilation album Lost Songs, they don’t seem to
fit too well with this record. The DVD is a behind the scenes look at the
making of <em>Cities</em> and a rare insight at the members of the band. It shows
what kind of togetherness and hard work it is to put together an rock album.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em>Cities</em> is a driving,
hard hitting album that doesn’t disappoint. Anberlin
does what few bands only dream of on this release. Having signed recently
with Universal Republic Records for their next release in 2008, this reviewer
hopes that Anberlin’s edgy style and musical passion don’t get
deluded into the mainstream merge and ruin such a fantastic band. </span></div>
<div align="left">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span> </span></span></div>
Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-63531489672538632492018-03-14T12:47:00.001-07:002018-03-14T12:47:37.247-07:00<br />
<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: #009900; font-size: small;">Addison Road</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> by Addison
Road</span></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Adrian B.
Martinez</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"...an
enjoyable listen with simple and direct lyrics."</strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This whole album is about that process [of being renewed
and refined by God] of refining but also getting out of our comfort zones
and taking that grace into the world”, says Jenny Simmons, the lone
female member of the band Addison Road, when describing their self-titled
INO Records debut (home to Sara Groves, Mercy Me, Skillet and Connersvine).</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This five-piece band from Texas offers a major label debut with energetic
pop rock compositions, upbeat anthems of encouragement, prayer and a call
to action. Together for 6 six years, Addison Road has paid their dues, including
constant touring and performances at festivals, conferences, and camps, and
a bit of band discord. They have even released two indie albums and an EP
before getting the INO Records deal.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">In
addition to Jenny
Simmons, Addison Road is comprised of Ryan Simmons (Jenny’s
husband) on guitars, keyboards and vocals; lead guitarist/vocalist
Ryan Gregg; bass player Travis Lawrence and on drums Jeff Sutton.
Lyrically
this album explores the themes of Christian life such as finding
your place
in the world and in God’s grace. That theme is never more prominent
than in the hit “All that Matters”.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">With a voice not
unlike that of Amy Lee [Evanescence], Jenny Simmons’ is
at home on the single “Hope Now”. The song is the result of a
turbulent period in the band’s history. They were told that for a band
singing Christian music (which is supposed to inspire hope) they were too
negative. “Hope Now” does have a somber beginning, but I challenge
you to become a listener and let the song take you away as Jenny’s
voice builds to a crescendo beautifully complemented by the harmonies of
the male members of Addison Road as they all sing to God, “…your
love sets me free.”</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You
do not reach
this surprise until Track #4 of this 10- track compilation, and as
a whole “Addison Road” is an enjoyable listen with simple
and direct lyrics. Best served when she is not fighting against the
shouting
match of the instruments, the simplicity of Jenny’s delightful
falsetto
is also given due service on songs “Run” and “What Do I
Know of Holy”. For those fans of Kelly Clarkson and Ashlee Simpson,
Addison Road has created the “pump your fists in the air and repeat
after me” anthem, “It Just Takes One”. This call to action,
which urges listeners to live out their faith to impact the world,
is sure
to be a favorite this festival season.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Addison Road uses
a theory of Plato to further explain their heart's desire: Necessity is,
indeed, the mother of invention. People almost always get creative,
not for the fun of it, but because they need it. The beautiful part of that
scenario is that more often than not, when necessity produces invention,
this result is amazing….or in the case of Addison Road, who put their
heads and hearts together on this creative invention, it is a blessing.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span> </span>
</span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong><br /></strong></span></span>Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-83729721864058672712018-03-08T12:34:00.001-08:002018-03-08T12:34:47.567-08:00<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong></strong></span><span style="color: #990000;"><strong><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em></em><br /></span></strong></span></span>
<br />
<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Need <span style="color: black;">by Todd Agnew</span></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Dale Lewis</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"...</strong></span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">an
inspirational and expressive blend of rock-solid music and profound
lyrics."</span></strong></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I must confess
I’ve heard of Todd Agnew but have never taken the time to listen
to his music until now. With his newest offering, “Need,” four
of the twelve tracks are original songs, while the remaining eight are his
creative covers of those lyrically rich hymns of our past. Although there
seems to be an abundance of artists rearranging hymns nowadays, Todd’s
take is well planned out and filled with worship. With his theme of need,
the message of “less of me, more of Him” was clearly presented.<br />
<br />
From the sweet Memphis blues in "Joy Unspeakable," to the gritty
rock in "Breakable," to the piano driven “The Love of God,” Todd
has breathed new life into many of the hymns we’ve grown to cherish
over the years. I felt I was in the middle of a gospel sing-off with his
rendition of “Deep Love of Jesus,” even though we lost the guitar
solo during the bridge. <br />
<br />
He finishes up this CD with an original worship song
entitled “Jesus, Hope of Glory.” Although I’m not a fan
of repeating lines over and over again in a worship song, this title is heartfelt
praise to the only audience who deserves it. The abrupt ending to the song
was somewhat disconcerting. In a reaffirmation of the need to be silent before
the Almighty, “Written on the Wall,” is a heartfelt <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/need-todd-agnew-review.htm#" id="PXLINK_1_0_0">yearning</a></nobr>
to hear and discern God’s will amidst the world’s deafening noises.
Todd's raspy colored vocals evoke the passion of his heart.<br />
<br />
The powerful worship led first with driving guitars in "Higher Ground," fades
to a conclusion free of any instrumentation and a background of spontaneous
solo expressions from the choir centered on these words of the chorus:<br />
“Lord, Lift me up and let me stand, By faith, of Heaven’s table land.
A higher place than I have found, Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.”<br />
<br />
"Need” is
an inspirational and expressive blend of rock-solid music and profound lyrics.
I was pleasantly surprised by Todd’s delivery
of these time-tested hymns as well as his own original works. He reminds
me vocally of a younger Bob Dylan or Mark Heard, a CCM artist from the early ’80s.
I will definitely listen to his other recordings in order to hear more of
his own songs. </span></span></span></strong></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></span></strong></span></span> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000;"><strong><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em></em><br /></span></strong></span></span>
Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-65152614613104960872018-03-07T11:58:00.001-08:002018-03-07T11:58:21.422-08:00<h1>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> My Paper Heart Deluxe </span></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
<span style="color: black;">by Francesca Battistelli</span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></h1>
<h1>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></h1>
<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Dale Lewis</span></span></h1>
<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></h1>
<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><div align="left">
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"</strong></span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">The
themes of trust, dependence and taking risks are clearly evident
throughout these tracks. A hope-filled, positive vibe permeates the
entire collection."</span></strong></span></div>
<div align="left">
<br /></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Inspired
by legendary jazz greats and contemporaries like John Mayer, Sara Bareilles
and Nicole Nordeman, singer/songwriter Francesca Battistelli pens common
sense, non theology-heavy lyrics and then weaves them into pop, soul-infused
music appealing to <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/my-paper-heart-deluxe-review-francesca-battistelli.htm#" id="PXLINK_2_0_1">listeners</a></nobr> of any age. Her music genre includes jazz,
rock, gospel and lots of R & B. Francesca’s music has also been
featured on several television shows and movies.<br />
<br />
Nominated for 10 Dove awards and a Grammy, her 2008 release, <em>My Paper
Heart</em>,
is now packaged in a Deluxe edition. This new release includes two additional
tracks as well as four dented fender sessions of her favorite titles. These
four songs are more like enjoying her music in a relaxed, acoustic setting,
a coffee house per se rather than a major concert . . . an experience versus
a performance. <br />
<br />
Having grown up in the 70s and 80s, Francesca reminds me of a young Kathy
Troccoli. Francesca matches Kathy in soulful passion, upbeat energy and transparent
authencity. I was hoping for a few more ballads from Francesca. With the
added dented fender sessions, we get a tiny glimpse of Francesca singing
a ballad and how the lyrics can soak deep within the soul.<br />
<br />
On the title track, “My Paper Heart,” Francesca tackles the fragility
of the human heart with the underlying theme being, ‘I am forever safe
in His hands.’ I
believe “Time in Between” <br />
would be an excellent addition to a Good Friday or Easter service for the
simple reminder Jesus’ life was so much more than just Bethlehem and
Calvary.<br />
<br />
The themes of trust, dependence and taking risks are clearly evident throughout
these tracks. A hope-filled, positive vibe permeates the entire collection. <br />
<br />
A message of truth and purpose is more important to this young artist than
awards or an ever increasing collection of top <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/my-paper-heart-deluxe-review-francesca-battistelli.htm#" id="PXLINK_1_0_0">radio</a></nobr> hits. As she notes, “Ultimately,
I want to be an encouragement as an artist and a fellow believer.” <br />
Reviewer <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/my-paper-heart-deluxe-review-francesca-battistelli.htm#" id="PXLINK_4_0_3">favorites</a></nobr> include “Free to Be Me,” “My Paper Heart,” “Beautiful,
Beautiful” and “Time in Between.”<br />
<br />
I don’t think you have to be a Francesca fan to enjoy her music, just
a fellow Christ-follower wanting to join her in celebration and worship of
the Almighty!<br />
<br />
</span></span></span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFCu2XLtG8JniQE7D55lD3JanvemEAHj92P_e6_pRZGbl2yi5BFlyR1a1WNnsNsSOu-JBLuLgBqHHnXse4mXweryexeuQhDXo1o3lbBzA3ElJE9pyeZPwwrKHMCZmc_DXQEywEtQ/s1600/my-paper-heart-deluxe-300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="266" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFCu2XLtG8JniQE7D55lD3JanvemEAHj92P_e6_pRZGbl2yi5BFlyR1a1WNnsNsSOu-JBLuLgBqHHnXse4mXweryexeuQhDXo1o3lbBzA3ElJE9pyeZPwwrKHMCZmc_DXQEywEtQ/s1600/my-paper-heart-deluxe-300.jpg" /></a></span></span></span></strong></span></div>
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</span> </span></span></h1>
Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-20816846777187407302018-03-05T12:07:00.001-08:002018-03-05T12:07:32.357-08:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Counting Stars <span style="color: black;">by Andrew Peterson</span></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Bert Gang</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"...offering
newcomers and dyed-in-the-wool devotees alike an impressive array of
intriguing, sturdily-crafted pieces from one of Christian pop’s
most talented practitioners."</strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;"><div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">James Lipton,
host of the Bravo <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/counting-stars-review-andrew-peterson.htm#" id="PXLINK_2_0_1">cable television</a></nobr> series, <em>Inside the Actors Studio</em>,
once quipped during an interview with John Cusack that, “When
you go to see a John Cusack movie, you know exactly what you’re going
to get.” Far from intimating that Cusack was one-dimensional or less
than thoroughly engaging, Lipton’s remark was actually meant as an
acknowledgement of the consistency and distinctiveness of Cusack’s
imposing body of work. Those most familiar with Andrew Peterson’s <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/counting-stars-review-andrew-peterson.htm#" id="PXLINK_5_0_4">career</a></nobr>
trajectory up to this <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/counting-stars-review-andrew-peterson.htm#" id="PXLINK_1_0_0">point</a></nobr> might well be tempted to apply that same sort
of remark to the critically-heralded performer’s back catalog. Indeed,
from the time of his 1996 debut indie debut, <em>Walk</em>, all the way up
to 2008’s
<em>Resurrection Letters, Volume II</em>, the man who many have dubbed the
heir apparent to Rich Mullins has been faithfully surveying the intersection
where the
folk and pop roads meet, with equally winning results.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Fortunately for those in the fan
base, Peterson’s latest work serves
up yet another welcome slice of that which his truest devotees are hankering
for. The winning album opener, “Many Roads,” marries an absolutely
engrossing melody line to a consummately-woven instrumental texture that
is, at once, both lilting and haunting. Likewise, the buoyant cadence of “Dancing
in the Minefields” ought to be at absolute odds with its distinctly
sober-minded thesis on the inherent challenges of married life – and
yet, somehow, its disparate halves fit together flawlessly. The sparseness
of the beautiful piano-based “Isle of Skye” works perfectly to
heighten its inspiring sense of majesty. And the country-inflected minor-keyed
tones of “In The Night My Hope Lives On” run in reverse time
through essential ‘80s-era Mellencamp releases like Scarecrow and The
Lonesome Jubilee all the way back to the enthralling traditional folk well
from which Peterson seems to draw from so effortlessly.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">His sparkling
musical acumen notwithstanding, it is Peterson’s lyrical
skills that truly set him apart from the majority of his peers. Like
each of the projects that have come before it, <em>Stars</em> shows him to be a songwriter
of near-unparalleled literacy and insight. “The Magic Hour” (“Come
walk the cedar stand/ Over the broken dam/ Sit on the bench at the bend in
the trail again”) paints a picture of razor-sharp clarity and heart-warming
poignancy. “Many Roads” highlights his uncanny ability to bounce
between self-effacing humor (“If you traveled all this way/ Then I
will do my best to play/ My biggest hits/ That don't exist”) and gut-level
honesty (“I cast out all these lines/ So afraid that I will find/ That
I am all alone”) in virtually the same breath. And “In the Night
My Hope Lives On” manages the seemingly impossible feat of recounting
the old, familiar, stories of the Red Sea, Elisha’s battle and the
prodigal son in such a way that most <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/counting-stars-review-andrew-peterson.htm#" id="PXLINK_3_0_2">listeners</a></nobr> will feel as if they’re
hearing them for the very first time.<br />
<br />
On the rarest of occasions, Peterson’s lyrics teeter on the verge
of becoming overly precious or self-referential. And just as a fair portion
of efforts like <em>The Far Country</em> and <em>Behold The Lamb Of God</em> tended to be
somewhat musically undistinguished, cuts such as “Fool with a Fancy
Guitar” and “Planting Trees” from <em>Stars</em> lack the near-instant
memorability that informs his most well-constructed compositions. In Peterson’s
defense, the tracks on the new record are never less than impeccably performed.
And his aforementioned way with words goes a great distance toward compensating
for the occasional musical misstep. Those who’ve heard Peterson’s
previous releases and found that they could take them or leave them aren’t
likely to be brought into the fold by what they hear on the latest outing.
And his 2000 major-label debut, <em>Carried Along</em>, still remains the most ideal
jumping-in point for the uninitiated. Taken on its own merit, however,
<em>Counting Stars</em> fares quite nicely, indeed – offering newcomers and
dyed-in-the-wool devotees alike an impressive array of intriguing, sturdily-crafted
pieces from one of Christian pop’s most talented practitioners.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEbe1UI_1nzttqwLvbGVti7jrQlLKE2LpsKNiz51njNoYu3beKmLR2t3kx7ciYq6HAEZj4B-w5Y3on_vpvvb89yz9k5KU2P_W-7puHBRShsz4Av0w4WgmevRJ9DUq9Y_IJLUHo0g/s1600/counting-stars-300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="296" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEbe1UI_1nzttqwLvbGVti7jrQlLKE2LpsKNiz51njNoYu3beKmLR2t3kx7ciYq6HAEZj4B-w5Y3on_vpvvb89yz9k5KU2P_W-7puHBRShsz4Av0w4WgmevRJ9DUq9Y_IJLUHo0g/s1600/counting-stars-300.jpg" /></a></div>
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</span> </strong></span></span>l</span></span></div>
Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-88385959498775894582018-02-27T11:55:00.001-08:002018-02-27T11:55:58.121-08:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rock What You Got <span style="color: black;">by Superchick</span></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Dale Lewis</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"It's
pure fun leaning towards the 80's sound ... the guys of Superchick
[are] getting a chance to rock what they got ... Big Time!"</strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;"><div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you need a CD to crank up in the car or in your iPod as
you sweat and get <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/rock-what-you-got-review-superchick.htm#" id="PXLINK_5_0_4">healthy</a></nobr>, then <em>Rock What You Got</em> is one to get!</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Superchic(k)’s newest CD begins with an anthem encouraging the listener
not to compare themselves to others--to just be who they are in the title
cut, “Rock What You Got!” And the vocal work on one of the ballads, "Breathe," is
outstanding, with an estimated sixteen harmonies layered in the song!</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Melodically and rhythmically the
rocker anthem-type songs exhort, encourage and challenge the status quo.
The brief introduction of scientific laboratory
dialogue to set up “Alive” <br />
was brilliantly creative and makes it one of my favorite songs.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The overall message of Superchic(k)
continues to be overtly positive. There are only a few disappointments.
At times, the songs seem to be cut from the
same template. Also, “God” and “Jesus” fail to appear
in any of the lyrics, (though the lyrics of “Hold” implies God
or Jesus in “I need your hand to hold, To hold me from the edge, The
edge I’m sliding over slow.”) The word pictures in their lyrics
are vivid and imaginative yet seem to lack substantial depth. The repetition,
at times, hurts the impact of the lyrics ("Rock what you Got” or "I'm
alive” or "Hey, Hey, Hey" or . . . you get the point.)</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The band's musicianship shines
throughout this album. The combination of the synthesizer work, as well
as the electronic production energizes most
of the tracks. It’s pure fun leaning towards the '80s sound, which
seems to be making a comeback <br />
of sorts.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Dave Ghazarian's exploding guitar on the last track is superb. <br />
It helps bring the album full circle with the guys of Superchic(k) getting
a chance to rock what they got . . . Big-Time!</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I became an interested fan of
Superchic(k) after <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/rock-what-you-got-review-superchick.htm#" id="PXLINK_4_0_3">hearing</a></nobr> their song “We
Live” on WOW Hits 2007. Even though their targeted audience is teens
and young adults, this fan of the ‘80s will continue to <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/rock-what-you-got-review-superchick.htm#" id="PXLINK_1_0_0">listen</a></nobr> and
rock with them.</span></div>
</span> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi20z9wsOTeOV8ArnseJM7NFkqyUwnpSf1uyOBp3pG7uxOqxetqE4wuf1uZOhfzM_ILYg9SJfWe5ETJAspBjGSEU4OewI4A7rojb5VRr0SBg3NfmB_Kh3Lvg7BvEKlSOuxZE9HRgw/s1600/rock-what-you-got-300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi20z9wsOTeOV8ArnseJM7NFkqyUwnpSf1uyOBp3pG7uxOqxetqE4wuf1uZOhfzM_ILYg9SJfWe5ETJAspBjGSEU4OewI4A7rojb5VRr0SBg3NfmB_Kh3Lvg7BvEKlSOuxZE9HRgw/s1600/rock-what-you-got-300.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span> </span></span></div>
Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-56191874319418199782018-02-27T11:28:00.003-08:002018-02-27T11:28:58.680-08:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: #009900; font-size: small;">Article One</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> by Article
One</span></span></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span>Reviewed by Tracy Darlington</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"...an
ambitious <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/article-one-review.htm#" id="PXLINK_4_0_4">effort</a></nobr> by three talented musicians."<br /> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Award-winning musicians Nathan and Matt Piche grew up in a musical household,
playing piano and violin respectively around the age of 5. It was a no-brainer
decision for them to leave school and make music full-time. They bring
to the Christian music scene their classical instrumental skills and
pop leanings, creating a unique blend of FFH-meets-Billy-Joel-meets-Bono
style.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">On this self-titled debut album, I really enjoyed the strings
underpinning the other instruments. The rich cello in the beginning of “In No
Time At All” tells you this isn’t just another garage band.
These guys have talent, and all the songs on the album were written by
Nathan himself. Dave De Smit adds to their signature sound with his drums
and vocals. A little more experience will bring even more depth to their
catchy tunes, but this is still a solid first offering by a band you’re
sure to hear more from in the coming years.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">“So Many Ways to Say Good-by” and “Run (Shattered and
Twisted)” are the two stand-out tracks—the type of songs you
want to <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/article-one-review.htm#" id="PXLINK_1_0_0">listen</a></nobr> over and over. Truly a Billy Joel-esque ballad, “So
Many” is the only cut to really showcase Nathan’s piano playing.
It started out being a song about Nathan’s girlfriend and ended up
being about a friend passing away. “Run” excels with the most
interesting guitar work and vocal harmonies on the album. Written about
people whose dreams are shattered, the lyrics are particularly poignant:
<em>It’s not a matter of opinion and it matters that the plane went
down when your dreams took <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/article-one-review.htm#" id="PXLINK_2_0_1">flight</a></nobr>.</em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Newsboys’ Peter Furler, Wes Campbell, and Dale Bray founded Inpop
Records to discover new artists with meaningful music. The name Inpop is
derived from INternational POP artists, and Canadians Article One are a
welcome addition to a label that has already signed the likes of Superchic[k],
Mat Kearney, and Foolish Things. Dale Bray says, “Article One’s
prominent use of violin in every song makes their sound strictly their
own. If you like the pop sensibilities of groups like The Fray, you will
love Article One.”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em>Article One</em> is an ambitious effort by three talented musicians.
Though they’re not reinventing the wheel here, the <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/article-one-review.htm#" id="PXLINK_3_0_2">wheels</a></nobr> they’re
spinning on are sure to take them far.</span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28412142.post-23856573495807451612018-02-21T13:11:00.001-08:002018-02-21T13:11:38.891-08:00<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: #009900; font-size: small;">Even Now</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> by
Foolish Things</span></span></span></h1>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reviewed by Cory Clubb</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>"Lyrically,
these guys don’t hold back. The originality and heart-on-their-sleeve
style shows their astounding enthusiasm for Christ and their music."</strong></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;"><div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I have always had an affinity for underdog bands out there.
The bands that maybe not everybody has heard of, the ones who have that raw
hardworking talent that goes overlooked. This is something that I believe
indie rockers Foolish Things have as a group. Their latest album release
<em>Even Now</em> provides proficient evidence of that fact. Like most, I had never
heard of the band until I visited their Myspace page and listened to a few
clips of their music and did some research on their history as a band. Foolish
Things has been playing and ministering for ten years as a band, starting
off as worship leaders for their youth group. Now, they travel the nation
spreading the word of Jesus using the diverse musical gifts God has given
them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Their first album,<em> Let’s Not Forget the Story</em>, was released with critical
acclaim. Even Now is their sophomore effort. The first cut on Even Now, “Shooting
in the Dark” paves the road with heavy hitting guitars and boom’n
beats. The next track, ”Who’d You Put in Charge”, doesn’t
slow down the momentum and becomes a catchy stand out anthem about the choices
we make in life and how we are effected by them. The title track, “Even
Now” reaches a spiritual status that gets your heart beating and tingles
your soul as if it is speaking directly to you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Foolish Things bring a variety
of sounds to <em>Even Now</em> that displays the band’s
diversity as heard on tracks “Fight” and “Love Atmosphere” which
give the band a different sound. Yet a certain downfall they seem to have
in this release is their will to keep the <nobr style="font-size: inherit;"><a class="pxInta" href="http://titletrakk.com/album-cd-reviews/even-now-review-foolish-things.htm#" id="PXLINK_1_0_0">listen</a></nobr> focused and fresh. Their
sound seems to be a bit jostled and unsure. Tracks like “Love Chained
Me Here” and “Keep Us Together” aren’t bad songs--they
just seem to slip through the cracks and don’t hold up well on this
album. Other tunes such as “Hold On To What Is Easy” do pick
up the pace of interest, but lose their footing and place within the album.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Lyrically, these guys don’t
hold back. The originality and heart-on-their-sleeve-style shows their
astounding enthusiasm for Christ and their music.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The first thing I recognized on
this record is the band’s straight-forward
message and openness. They are not worried what others may think. They don’t
skirt around with mysterious lyrics. They just put it out there; it’s
what gives Foolish Things their “raw” element.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I am new to the tunes of Foolish Things and am pleasantly surprised at their
abounding talent. They sound like a cross between fellow artists Rush of
Fools and Downhere with a dash of U2 thrown in, a sound that has been heard
before. <em>Even Now</em> is a good release, but Foolish Things seems to still be
growing and looking for their place as far as a band and a unique sound.</span></div>
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Tracy Darlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01696859051373837592noreply@blogger.com0