Tim Hughes – “Love Shine Through”
Mar 23, 2011 CD Reviews
Tim Hughes
“Love Shine Through”
Kingsway
14 tracks @ 64:16
Grade = A
On the release of his fourth CD, Tim Hughes says, “In my walk with God and my expression of worship, I’ve been pushing myself to be more real, daring and honest. I guess these songs are an attempt to articulate that longing for more of God; that belief that He is everything and the desire that in all things His love would shine through.
“People crave community,” Hughes says, “and music needs to have an element of this…I hope this album is a collection of songs that the whole church can sing, but that are honest and vulnerable as well.”
The first single, “Counting on Your Name,” opens with an angelic cacophony. On the lyrics, Hughes says, “The song captures so much of what faith comes down to; that we’re nothing without God. We try to rely on so many things – finances, health, friendship, love, sex, happiness, whatever – but none of these physical things are eternal. Only God is the one we can really depend on. I hope the song captures a sense of desperation, a rawness, a sense of it being all or nothing,”
There’s a good deal of sonic fun on this disk. Martin Smith, late of delirious?, helped produce this record. That influence is felt on the songs “Jesus Saves” and “Wake Up.” The latter was co-written by Stu G. A pinch of the Steve Miller Band sneaks in on “Never Stop Singing.”
Easily one of the top worship records of the year.
- Rob S.
The Hymns Makers Collection
Mar 23, 2011 CD Reviews
The Hymns Makers Collection
Kingsway
4 disks
Grade =B+
Having grown up in the liturgical church, this is a welcome effort. Three of the disks focus on a writer of classic hymns while the fourth is titled “Best Loved Hymns.” I listened to the CDs which feature the songs of Fanny Crosby and John Newton and William Cowper. The third hymn writer featured in this release is Ira D. Sankey. A fourth disk is a compilation.
These hymns are by and large choral arrangements with simple instrumentation. The disks feature excellent fidelity and are mixed well. “Saved by Grace” on the Crosby disk is an exquisite solo, which makes it very easy to follow the lyrics. I wish there were a few more tracks like that one.
The real strength in these records rests in the timeless lyrics. When you mediate on songs such as Crosby’s “Every Day and Every Hour,” and “All the Way My Savior Leads Me,” you realize that these “older” hymns are just as powerful, if not more so, than anything being written today.
- Rob S.
For a full press release click here.
Jesus Calling: Instrumental Songs for Devotion
Mar 23, 2011 CD Reviews
Jesus Calling: Instrumental Songs for Devotion
Acoustic Worship Ensemble
EMI CMG
10 tracks
Grade = A-
For those who enjoy the “smooth sounds” style of music, this release would be perfect for mediation and quite devotional time. This is a companion release to the devotional “Jesus Calling” written by missionary Sarah Young.
The piano-driven arrangements work best on songs that are generally more subdued to begin with, such as “Be Still and Know,” “Thy Word,” and “El Shaddai.”
- Rob S.
Track listing:
1) Here I Am To Worship
2) Made To Worship
3) How Great Is Our God
4) Beautiful One
5) Be Still and Know
6) God Of Wonders
7) El Shaddai
Everlasting God
9) Thy Word
10) We Fall Down
Jesus Calling: Songs Inspired By
Mar 23, 2011 CD Reviews
Jesus Calling: Songs Inspired By
Various Artists
EMI CMG
12 tracks
Grade = B
I’m always a little leery about music tie-ins. This CD has been compiled for the devotional book “Jesus Calling” by Sarah Young.
There are only three new songs here from Luminate, Matthew West, and Robbie Seay Band, while the other tracks are “befitting.” The devotional has Jesus speaking to the reader in the first person; many of the tracks aren’t Jesus speaking to us at all but instead are praise songs. The songs are wonderful but seeing the inspiration then becomes a challenge.
The first radio single from the album, the up-tempo “O Great Love,” has already become the fastest added new single ever from Robbie Seay Band.
“This was a book designed for me to stop and listen – to hear God speak directly to me as I meditated on scripture and truth,” says Robbie Seay. “Having the chance to contribute to an album inspired by the book was an honor for me. ‘O Great Love’ was written after a few weeks of reading and listening each morning.”
Matthew West wrote and recorded the song “Rest” for the project he’s also become a major proponent of this book. “A few years ago, I was recovering from what could possibly have been career ending vocal chord surgery,” says West.
“As part of the recovery process, I was unable to sing or even speak for several weeks. A friend brought me a copy of ‘Jesus Calling,’ and God used it in my life in a major way. Every day it felt as though God was speaking directly to me, and directly to my circumstances. The song ‘Rest,’ is inspired by the book’s daily call to do just that; rest in the presence of a God who longs to spend time with his children.”
- Rob S.
Track listing:
1) Rest – Matthew West
2) O Great Love – Robbie Seay Band
3) I’ll Show You How To Live – Sanctus Real
4) All The Way My Savior Leads Me – Chris Tomlin
5) Carry Me – Audrey Assad
6) Banner of Love – Luminate
7) Jesus Will Meet You There – Steven Curtis Chapman
Healing Is In Your Hands – Christy Nockels
9) God Speaking – Mandisa
10) Never Let Go – David Crowder*Band
11) None But Jesus – Hillsong UNITED
12) Softly and Tenderly – Amy Grant
A Shine of Rainbows
Mar 22, 2011 DVD Reviews
“A Shine of Rainbows”
Fox Home Entertainment
153 Minutes
Grade – B
Set in picturesque Ireland, A Shine of Rainbows is a heartwarming tale of a young orphan boy finding a home. Eight-year-old Tomas has never had much color or love in his life at the orphanage, but all that changes when bright and charming Maire O’Donnell takes him to her home in Corrie Island. Through struggles with Maire’s stern husband Alec, the rescue of a baby seal, and a sudden tragedy, Tomas must learn to overcome the fear in himself to embrace the family he’s always wanted.The film has stunning scenery and surprising talent, especially in John Bell who plays Tomas. The general themes of hope and love throughout make it an appealing film to families. One downside to the entire film that deserves caution is the somewhat cold view of God, ministers, and religion while actions such as sending messages to the deceased through seals and believing rocks to grant wishes are smiled upon.
Despite the slightly vague beliefs throughout the film, however, it was an enjoyable and fun movie that left me smiling.
Elise F.
Mandisa – What If We Were Real
Mar 22, 2011 CD Reviews
Mandisa
What If We Were Real
Sparrow Records
Grade – A+
After releasing three successful albums, and losing an outstanding 100 pounds, Mandisa’s incredible journey continues as she releases her newest record, “What If We Were Real”. The album continues an already-impressive discography with inspiring, uplifting songs paired with Mandisa’s beautiful voice that launched her to the forefront of the Christian music scene.
The album kicks off with “Stronger”, the album’s energetic first single. “Stronger” can’t help but be a radio hit with its insanely catchy melody and positive message. “What If We Were Real” encourages listeners to stop hiding behind their masks and be “real”. Mandisa explores new territory with a bit of a rock flavor, and honestly, she pulls it off really well! “The Truth About Me” is an incredible R&B track, about discovering, and believing in who we are in Christ. Mandisa’s soaring vocals are really showcased well towards the end of the track. Her sparkling personality shines through the fresh, summery pop track “Good Morning”, featuring a cameo by TobyMac!
“Waiting For Tomorrow” is one of the most powerful tracks on the album. God’s incredible love and forgiveness are things we, as humans, have a difficult time believing in. The song is all about claiming God’s promises and watching His power unfold in our lives. “Just Cry” is a gorgeous, very personal piano-driven song. She encourages listeners to come clean and be honest in their walk with God; “Life is hard and days get long — God can handle your honesty.”
“What If We Were Real” is the perfect continuation to Mandisa’s lineup. Her passion and sincerity are clearly seen in each and every track. The album is packed with beautiful melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, wrapped in the encouraging themes of self-discovery and honesty. Mandisa plays with several different sounds and musical styles, throughout the record, so there is something for everyone to enjoy. Overall, “What If We Were Real” is an outstanding release from a beautiful, inspiring lady.
Tom F.
Shawn McDonald – Closer
Mar 13, 2011 CD Reviews
Shawn McDonald
Closer
Sparrow
Grade – A+
Armed with his guitar and heart on fire for God, singer-songwriter Shawn McDonald is back, after nearly three years, with an album of hope and redemption. The record was written during a very difficult season, and McDonald hopes its transparency and honesty will help encourage and inspire listeners in the same way the songs did for him. Although he wrote the majority of the 13 tracks himself, artists Joy Williams and Brandon Heath lent their talents for a few of the songs. Musically, the album has the same acoustic guitar melodies and heartfelt lyrics Shawn McDonald fans know and love, but the album carries a more soulful sound than the some of his previous releases.
“Better Way” kicks the album off with a fun, groovy atmosphere and hummable chorus. “Closer” was the record’s first single, and is a beautiful, passionate declaration of surrender, repeating the line, “I am Yours, You can all of me, anything, everything, I just want to be ‘closer’, throughout the chorus. “Don’t Give Up” is an encouraging reminder to keep fighting when we feel like giving up, while “Eyes Forward” paints a picture of the spiritual battle that takes place daily as the enemy tries to turn us from the road we’re on. “Hope”, penned with singer-songwriter Joy Williams, paints a picture of God’s love through vivid imagery and metaphors. “Mystery” describes God, as being a mystery -something we can never fully understand or answer through clever analogies. “The Space In Between” is a plea for God’s power to replace our own strength in the things we face throughout life and it’s message sums the album up perfectly. “Storms”, the final track on the album, is written as a story, but not in the way many would expect. McDonald narrates the song, allowing listeners to insert their own stories and struggles into it, making it a very personal, prayerful experience, also tying the album off beautifully.
I’ve always loved Shawn McDonald’s music, and “Closer” most definitely does not disappoint. It’s a new chapter in his career as an artist, and more importantly a child of God. I loved the honesty and vulnerability in the album. While he speaks of brokenness, the strong themes of hope and redemption are constantly found, reminding listeners of a loving, merciful God. I know the album will connect with listeners in a very powerful way, as it did with me. I would recommend this album to anyone. It’s a strong album musically and the message is undeniable, making it one of my favorite albums of the year.
Tom F.
Brooke Fraser – Flags
Mar 13, 2011 CD Reviews
Brooke Fraser
Flags
Wood and Bone
Grade – A
New Zealand artist Brooke Fraser, has already made a name for herself in the music industry through her own albums as well as her work with Hillsong. Her new release, Flags follows in the footsteps of her already impressive lineup! Her beautiful, soft voice flows with her artistic lyrics and imagery to weave a unique, inspiring listening experience.
Flags, takes a different musical approach from Brooke’s previous releases. “Something in the Water” is a playful, toe-tapping folk song complete with hand claps and a whistled interlude. With a catchy tune and a lighthearted lyrics, it’s hard not to sing along, setting the album off to an excellent start. “Who Are We Fooling” is a soft piano-driven duet on the healing power of love in a relationship. “Ice On Her Lashes” is a darker, hauntingly beautiful track dealing with grief and the healing that only comes with time. The lower strings beneath Fraser’s high, soft voice create a surreal atmosphere within the song, making it my personal favorite on the album. “Jack Kerouac” is another fun, carefree track with strong rhythmic guitar with a touch of reggae throw in the mix. This track makes me think of summer. “Crows & Locusts” is another dark, haunting track, and the strongest point on the album. With dramatic, vivid imagery of loss and hardship, Fraser tells a story of loss, with a strong message of hope. Her soaring vocals and story-telling skills make this track the highlight of the album. “Flags” ties the album off with a breathtaking message of hope and trust in God, with beautiful strings and Biblical imagery, leaving me wanting more.
Flags is truly a remarkable release from a highly skilled singer and songwriter. Many songs are written in story form, filled with beautiful lyrics and profound imagery. There’s a definite artistic flare throughout the album, both musically and lyrically.
- Tom F.
Brenton Brown – Our God Is Near
Mar 13, 2011 CD Reviews
Brenton Brown
Our God Is Near
Grade – B
South African native Brenton Brown’s latest offerings “Our God Is Near” is an album of contagious, worshipful melodies and is sure to be a hit among fans of artists such as David Crowder or Matt Maher. Perhaps best known for his worship songs “Lord Reign In Me” and “Your Love Is Amazing”, Brown skills as a worship leader and songwriter are showcased well through his new release.
“Our God Is Mercy” sets the stage for the album, already becoming a favorite among church congregations. “Joyful”, the album’s first single, takes a new approach on the timeless hymn “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee”. Brown paints God’s incomprehensible forgiveness in simple terms, making it an easily-accessible track sure to be a hit among youth groups. “Glorious” is my personal favorite track, recognizing the majesty and glory of the King of the universe. “Good News” uses John 3:16 as a major part of the song, bringing a beautiful message of hope.
Brenton Brown’s worshipful music is easily-accessible making him a favorite among churches nation-wide. It’s hard not to sing along to his songs, and his passion for what he does is easily seen throughout this album.
- Tom F.
Michael Milton – “Through The Open Door”
Mar 13, 2011 CD Reviews
Michael Milton
“Through The Open Door”
Grade – B
Michael Milton, a Presbyterian minister and musician has prepared his third studio album “Through the Open Door”. Milton’s passion for what he does is evident through his work, but also through the way he’s distributing his work this time around. He’s stated that 2/3 of the profit from the album will be going towards scholarships for future ministers. “Through the Open Door” has bluegrass, folk tunes filled with ministry-driven lyrics.
“Mississippi Louisiana Line” is a song of the transformation one undergoes when God’s overwhelming forgiveness and mercy overtakes a sinful life and brings healing. Michael Card joins Milton in the track “God Is Calling Faithful Men”, a song encouraging future ministers to answer the Lord’s call for strong leaders. “Through the Open Door”, the title track, paints a picture of what it might be like to walk through the doors of Heaven to meet Jesus for the first time.
Milton has a great talent for conveying deep, spiritual things in an easy-to-understand fashion. His mellow, folk tunes and accessible lyrics will be sure to minister to the hearts and souls of many who hear the album!
- Tom F.
