Sweet and Lynch – Only To Rise
Mar 24, 2015 CD Reviews
Sweet and Lynch
Only To Rise
Frontiers Music Srl
Together, Michael Sweet (Stryper) and George Lynch (Lynch Mob, ex Dokken), have organized an all-star lineup super-group along with bassist James Lomenzo (ex Megadeath, White Lion, Black Label Society) and drummer Brian Tichy (ex Whitesnake).
While with the backing of Tichy and Lomenzo is important, the signature sounds seem to come more from Sweet’s background with a little bit of extra guitar flare from Lynch.
“Only to Rise” is a fairly straight up rock album influenced from the great days of hair-metal and arena-rock, my two favorite genres.
While it is not overtly a Christian album, the subject matter is not completely devoid of spiritual undertones. Take for instance the positive tones of, “Rescue Me,” “Time Will Tell,” and “Recover.” It’s also on “Recover” where Sweet his that “sweet” spot on the vocals and Lynch rips it up on the guitar. My personal favorite is “Hero-Zero.” To me it speaks of a lack of manly maturity that is so prevalent these days.
The only downside is that I think “Only to Rise” will be very much a niche type of project. Those that are familiar with the line-up will appreciate the new music, but in some ways it may be too dated for new listeners. There are plenty of plenty of materials available to make your own choice though. I highly suggest checking out the official website for videos and more on “Only to Rise.”
– Ken W.
Danen Kane – “Flesh and Soul”
Mar 19, 2015 CD Reviews
Danen Kane
“Flesh and Soul”
10 tracks 39:15
Grade = A
Wisconsin native Danen Kane releases one of his best records.
The opening track “The Song That Sets Us Free” should break through on Christian radio. The musical style, a mix of acoustic and rock, fits Danen’s style.
Oh his web site Danen says, “There is a battle between flesh and spirit, a tension of living in our brokenness and our bodies and yet very much desiring God in every single moment. It’s a daily battle for the brand-new Christian or the Christian of 40 or 50 years. This record is about embracing the journey of sanctification and encouraging myself and encouraging others that if you’re not in the best spot, or if you’re struggling or feel like you’ve taken a step back, to keep fighting and keep wrestling with that.”
All original compositions, the CD closes with a lovely rendition of the traditional hymn “Come Thou Font of Every Blessing.”
– Rob S.
Jared Anderson – “Where I Am Right Now”
Mar 19, 2015 CD Reviews
Jared Anderson
“Where I Am Right Now”
Centricity
5 tracks @ 18:18
Grade = A-
Jared Anderson has put together some excellent new songs. The title tracks notes that God is always with us, even when life is messed up. I also enjoyed the doo whop a cappella “Sweet Salvation.”
Jared says, I’ve come to realize that a genre of music exists because a lifestyle exists. Our ears respond to our values. To be a disciple of Jesus is the highest job description anyone will ever have. I pray that my music will expand people’s imagination about God.”
A five-song EP will be available on-line while a 14 track CD will only be available at Anderson’s concerts.
– Rob S.
