Sara Groves – Invisible Empires
Oct 26, 2011 CD Reviews
Sara Groves
Invisible Empires
Grade – A+
Sara Groves captured the hearts and minds of listeners with her last studio album, “Fireflies and Songs”. Her poetic writings, deep, profound ideas, and beautiful melodies have overflowed into her latest creative endeavor, “Invisible Empires”. The record comes straight from the heart and its evident through each song. Sara takes listeners on a journey into her own life, sharing her hopes, dreams, and life lessons.
“Miracle” opens with a conversational tone as Sara invites listeners to discover the mysteries and miracles of God’s undying love with her. “Let’s feel what we cannot feel, know what we cannot know, heal where we couldn’t heal” paints a vivid picture of the powerful things God’s love can do in our lives. It’s a beautiful song lyrically and sonically, serving as an excellent introduction to her conversational album.
“I’ll Wait” is a powerful track filled with vivid imagery and heavy piano accompaniment. Sara’s artistry is demonstrated excellently in this heartfelt track about trust.
Recognizing that without God, we have nothing, she confesses, “I can plant a seed but I can’t bring the rain. I’ll wait for You now more than ever.” It’s a track I can relate to well and I imagine many people will be able to identify with Sara through it.
“Scientists in Japan” is a very interesting track. It took me by surprise when I first heard it. With lines such as “eyes wide open and your jaw on the floor, you see science fiction ain’t fiction no more”, Sara takes a look at the rapidly changing world around her and all the amazing (and sometimes bizarre) advances in technology. “Scientists” is a very catchy and thought-provoking song and I love it.
I had high hopes for this album, especially after listening to “Fireflies and Songs” for hours on end. The album had met all my expectations and more by the half-way mark. Sara Groves is an artist in the truest sense. Her lyrics are sheer poetry, and the melodies she creates are beautiful and I found myself able to identify with her in nearly every track. The album in its entirety, feels like a conversation with an old friend. I left refreshed, inspired, and unable to get those catchy songs out of my head. Another excellent album from Sara Groves.
- Tom F
Relient K Is For Karaoke
Oct 26, 2011 CD Reviews
Relient K
Is For Karaoke
Grade – A-
It’s been almost two years since Relient K released their latest full-length album Forget and Not Slow Down, so when the band announced a covr album, many fans were leery. The fourteen-track K Is For Karaoke, however, has come as a pleasant surprise and is one of fall’s most enjoyable releases.
The album kicks off with Cindy Lauper’s “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” complete with fast-paced guitars and the band’s traditional quirky energy. It segues into Justin Bieber’s “Baby”, which was a risky song choice that in the end worked well.
Next up is “One Headlight” originally by The Wallflowers. As one of the album’s strong points, the song both stays close to the original and adds a twist of punk. Chicago’s “You’re the Inspiration” was a common song to hear at Relient K’s earliest shows, but a cover was never recorded until now.
Similarly, the fun and fast cover of “The Distance” by Cake has been a standby at shows for years and is a perfect addition to the album. Third Eye Blind’s “Motorcycle Drive By” is another high point on the album and rivals if not surpasses the original.
“Doctor Worm” originally by They Might Be Giants is a quirky and highly catchy cover that perfectly matches Relient K’s more nonsensical side (and even features a solo by bassist John Warne).
From there the album goes a bit downhill both in song choice and sound until the final track – and extremely good cover of the untouchable “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” by Tears For Fears.
The album is packaged as either two separate EPs or a full-length album. The first EP is aimed towards a younger, more pop-oriented audience with a wide range of sounds, while it seems the second is more geared towards fans of 90s rock. It should be noted that none of the covered tracks deal with spirituality at all, but the band kept to generally clean songs lyric-wise, save two reference apiece to wine and cigarettes.
The album is nowhere near the caliber the band is capable of in their own original music, but for a cover album, Relient K definitely did a good job. I would recommend the alubm to longtime fans of the and, or to fans of the original songs themselves. For new listeners, however, K Is For Karaoke may seem like just another forgettable release.
- Elise F.
Deas Vail
Oct 26, 2011 CD Reviews
Deas Vail
Self-Titled
Grade – A+
Indie band Deas Vail (translated: “God’s humble servant”) has been on the Christian music radar since their 2009 release Birds & Cages – a breakthrough album in the genre. The group is back again with a collection of poetic lyrics, complex harmonies, and airy guitars that make Deas Vail sound more like an extention of Birds & Cages than its sequel.
The first song “Desire” features a contrasting back-chorus by lead singer Wes Blaylock’s wife Laura. The lyrics about discovering love for the first time segue nicely into one of the two singles from the album, “Sixteen”. The second single “Summer Forgets Me” is two songs later and bookends the summer romance comparing the end of the relationship with the transition of summer to winter.
The next track “Twoers” reaches into Deas Vail’s traditionally mysterious lyrics of hope and longing for more than the superficial beauty of our world. “Bad Dreams” is a beautifully catchy tune that highlights Blaylock’s impressive vocal range. “Common Sense” is a new direction for the band with an acoustic driven sound that, although different than the other songs, fits perfectly with the album as a whole.
“The Right Mistakes” brings the energy back up and is sung to a lost lover, giving them hope for healing and a second chance. The lyrics could easily be viewed alternatively as God’s plea to come away and experience His grace.
“Meeting In Doorways” closes the album with a hopeful look at a breakup as it mirrors the situation to the fall, with the coming of another winter to erase the memories and bring the beauty of a new spring.
Complete with a three-minute instrumental piece “Meaning of a Word”, Deas Vail is more than the average indie album. The light backdrops layered beneath soft vocals and the abstractly-realistic descriptions of love and hope all work together to make the album seem more a work of artistry than most releases this fall.
As a huge fan of Birds & Cages, I was afraid Deas Vail would be too different; though it is different in an intangible way, I was thoroughly impressed with the album from start to finish.
- Elise F.
“Get It On: What It Means to Lead the Way”
Oct 24, 2011 Book Reviews
Get It On:
What It Means to Lead the Way
Keni Thomas
BH Publishing Group
I recall very well the events of the battle of Mogadishu, and what would later be known most famously as the “Black Hawk Down” battle. At the time, I was serving in the Army National Guard and had recently deployed to Desert Storm. I remember sitting in shock as I watched the video streaming across the TV and wondering what in the world were even doing in this place. My thoughts were a clear indication of my lack of knowledge of the situation that would subsequently be enlightened through the book and movie of the same title.
The situation in Mogadishu was complicated, the battle was intense, and the men were courageous. That is where Keni Thomas’ new book comes in to the story. Keni was a part of the special operations team that was deployed to Mogadishu. His book chronicles the events of that battle along side an analysis on leadership from his perspective.
Keni uses examples of leadership from his fellow soldiers and correlates these characteristics with biblical examples of leadership. I love how he melds the two together to bring the character of God’s word to life. One of my favorite quotes from the book is in the introduction when Keni purports that the definition of leadership does not say anything about rank, seniority, tenure, or hierarchy etc., and I quote, “Remember, it’s never the title or the position that defines a great leader. It is the example you set” (p. 5). It is with this introduction that Keni also sets the biblical tone of the book relating to the courageous leadership of the apostle Paul.
No offense, but “Get It On” is a man’s book. Meaning that it comes from a man’s perspective and it is told in a way that a man would most likely be drawn to. There is a small amount of military jargon and some fairly graphic details that the faint of heart would not prefer. However, I strongly believe that today’s men need to heed the lessons of leadership that Keni writes about. Men of the church in particular, need to step up and lead in a Godly manner. “Get it On” reinforces this idea; with its inclusion of spiritual warfare, and the call from Ephesians to put on the full amour of God, “Get It On” is as much a call-to-arms as it is a biography.
Keni Thomas is now a country artist and speaker, through which he takes his message of leadership to places he never imagined. This too is another fundamental part of Keni’s life story. It was not chance that put Keni in the midst of such a frightening and life-threatening situation. It was not simply for nothing that Keni lost close friends in the same battle. It was for a distinct purpose as Keni discovered during much soul searching. After reading the novel, I believe that he is doing a respectable job sharing his testimony and he is bringing honor to those who fought and perished in the battle of Mogadishu as well.
Ken W.
http://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/books/products.asp?p=9781433672743
https://www.facebook.com/kenithomas
The Revolution – Get Back Up Again EP
Oct 18, 2011 CD Reviews
The Revolution
Get Back Up Again EP
Grade – B
The Revolution is a pop-punk band who formed in Kansas in 2008. Get Back Up Again EP is their first EP, and was released on September 24, 2011.
Although the Get Back Up Again EP has just three songs, it still has a sound that’s worth listening to. Their songs “Hello Katie” and “Get Back Up Again” are awesome rock out songs. Both of the songs have lyrics relating to their belief in God. Their third song, “Reflection Of You”, is a beautiful pop-punk version of a worship song. It has powerful lyrics, and a slower tempo.
Get Back Up Again EP combines the best of both worlds; guitar solos and drums mixed with the lead singers voice and their love for God. This band is definitely one to watch as they progress!
Kristi L.
https://www.facebook.com/therevolutionrock
Benjah – The Breakup
Oct 18, 2011 CD Reviews
Benjah
The Breakup
Grade – A+
220 Entertainment/ JahMen Music Group
Benjah is a Grammy Nominated and Dove Award winning producer/writer. He was one of the original Group 1 Crew members, and since then has recorded with quite a few artists. In fact his second album, Introducing: Lov’d Ones, was a collaboration with Dillavou and hit number 2 on the iTunes Reggae Charts.
The Breakup is Benjah’s second solo album. The theme of the album seems to be about breaking up from our sinful nature to get closer to God. It is uplifting and I think everyone could find something they really appreciate in it.
It doesn’t become monotone, the reggae and hip hop infused into the songs creates a grand mix. Tracks like “Walkin Out” and “Keep Ridin” are songs that make you want to roll down your car windows and relax. His songs “Orphan” and “On Grace I Stand” have slower tempos, but still a good listen. The Breakup has a powerful and has groovin’ sound.
We all need that music that we can just put on repeat. Benjah delivered that. He receives a fist pump to the air for that!
Kristi L.
Braille – Native Lungs
Oct 18, 2011 CD Reviews
Braille
Native Lungs
Humble Beast
Grade – A
Braille is a rapper on a mission. Hailing from Portland, he has lived his life for God and music.
On his seventh album, Native Lungs, Braille decided to stick to his roots. “I understand God’s grace better than I did on my previous records.” said Braille “My self righteousness has been stripped away and I find myself wholly dependent on Jesus Christ.” Native Lungs is a hard hitting album, and Braille is not afraid to boldly share what he believes.
The lyricism Braille brings forth is a work of art. The music does not overpower his voice or take away from the lyrics. The beat backs up the rhymes, with some great bass, forming a full sound. All in all, Native Lungs is for the underground and raw rap lovers.
Braille asks for no payment for his albums or concerts. If you want some of Braille’s music and other Christian rappers like him, you can download CDs for free at humblebeast.com
Kristi L.
No Other Name – “The Other Side”
Oct 12, 2011 CD Reviews
No Other Name
“The Other Side”
Curb Records
10 @ 40:58
Grade = A
No Other Name received a Dove Award nomination for Best New Artist without the benefit of having released a CD. Their debut has arrived. For those who enjoy vocal harmonies, such as FFH, Avalon or Phillips, Craig and Dean, will enjoy this record.
Group member Laura Allen says, “I would never say that music can take the place of preaching God’s word, but at the same time people will listen to a song where they might not listen to a sermon. Music is clearly a language that can communicate to everybody, and we hope this album will further our goal to reach as many people as possible with the gospel of Christ.”
Several of the songs list a Scripture-based inspiration, something I always appreciate. “Christ Arose” is an a-cappella version of an older hymn. “Lead You to the Cross” is the first single.
- Rob S.
http://www.no-other-name.com/
Micah Stampley – One Voice
Oct 7, 2011 CD Reviews
Micah Stampley
One Voice
Interface/Music World Gospel
Grade – B
Micah Stampley, one of gospel music’s finest voices, is set to release his fifth album, “One Voice”. Micah’s newest project showcases his talent and strong vocals through a collection of diverse worship songs.
“Heaven On Earth” is an energetic worship anthem that sets the album off on a strong note. This was my personal favorite track and I can see it becoming a congregational favorite. “Overcome and Worthy” is a cover of a beautiful, heartfelt ballad and is another standout track.
“One Voice” is a call to worship for people of every nation and background. Micah experiments with several different musical styles through the tracks, but maintains a strong, inspiring message all the while. Each song demonstrates Micah’s beautiful voice and incredible range, making for a great listen!
- Tom F.
JJ Heller – Deeper
Oct 7, 2011 CD Reviews
JJ Heller
Deeper
New Day
Grade – A
The newest album from JJ Heller is actually not so new, however, it is one that will define who she is as a wife, mother, and woman of faith. The album is a mix of songs that were written prior to, but re-worked for, her debut “When I’m With You,” and some prior unreleased materials, and lastly a few brand new songs just for this release. The earlier material was to be released as an acoustic CD, but was re-worked, as I mentioned earlier, into the more pop-polished “When I’m With You.”
The more acoustic style is a fitting style and it gives the music a more reflective feeling. While I cannot say that I connect in the same way, not being a mother and all that, I do have young children, including a toddler less than a year old, so I can relate to the opening track “I Get To Be The One.” I find this song, like many others, to be uplifting and peaceful. The overall feel of the album, with its acoustic guitar base and JJ’s wispy vocals, is incredibly heartwarming.
I had the opportunity to meet JJ Heller this past summer at one of her last shows. She undoubtedly was feeling the un-comfortableness of being in her last trimester of pregnancy, but you would have never known with her bright and cheery personality. That warmth and friendliness was conveyed from the stage as well and it was a real pleasure to see how her and husband Dave interact through their music ministry.
Check out http://www.jjheller.com/ for more info on “Deeper” and keep an eye out for upcoming tour dates.
- Ken W.
