October 2000

This CD is about faith without works, having child like trust in the Trinity. Which is evident from the circus like sound of "Questions for Heaven" to the chorus of "Smell the Color 9".

The cover art represents all that Chris Rice is about. The bright colors and circus like surroundings portray the "Amusement" of Chris' songs, and the balancing act could easily portray the events in Chris' life. Balancing the marketing of a new CD and the Ministry Chris is committed to are a big factor this time around. With limited involvement in the marketing Chris is risking the loss of wide spread influence.

I personally believe that Chris and Rocketown should be commended for attempting this "balancing" act. Overall "Color 9" is packed with ten great inspirational songs that challenge the mind and at the same time lighten the heart.

-Ken

Again Rocketown steps out of the box and takes a chance on something different. This collection of songs didn't come from somewhere, they came from the hearts of the writers. Now Rocketown gives the writers a chance to sing them for themselves.

The writers; Kennedy, Kirkpatrick, Madeira, and Sprague make an assemblage that is to big to describe. The songs, awards, and lives they have inspired are too many to count. Michael W. Smith, Garth Brooks, Eric Clapton, and Sandi Patty, to name a few, have all benefited from the pens of these writers.

The success of this CD could bring more of these collections in the future, so run out and pick up a copy!

-Ken

...And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.
-Matthew 2:4

...through the voices of women today, the message of the Savior continues to be heard."
-Janice Chaffee

Two brothers on a new label, new to the music world. This group has a lot of vocal talent and a wonderful self-penned lyrics.

Ash brothers (aka Ash Mundae), Chuck and Jeremy, pooled their talents for their self-penned debut album, "Model Citizen." It is interesting to note that the name of their group, Ash Mundae, is derived from two brothers who were born on a Monday.

There is a definite 80s overtone this album with a sound similar to that of Sting interwoven with Christian artist, Chris Rice. Those who would like to escape back to the good ole' days of the 80s will really find enjoyment in this album.

There is a definite theme of hope and God's amazing Grace to this album. Songs to watch out for include "Hope (Never Fade Away)," "In God's Eyes," "Don't Give Up," and "Model Citizen." I'm certain that you will be hearing more from this group in the future.

Randy Travis has a classic country sound that has always been enjoyable. Travis executes some of the great gospel songs with this same style. Travis co-wrote "The Carpenter", and performed it with help from Waylon Jennings and Jessie Colter. To me "The Carpenter" represents Jesus' sacrifice for us, a "ladder" between God and us. Also joining in on the CD is Marty Stewart playing Mandolin on "Don't Ever Sell Your Saddle".

This journey has taken Randy Travis about four years to complete. Travis named several people close to him as the inspiration to do such a project. I believe that overall the CD offers songs of joy as well as inspiration. Notable songs include "Doctor Jesus", "Baptism", and "Amazing Grace".

The debut CD of Tree63 is an astounding Pop-Rock Praise set. Vocalist John Ellis wrote most of the songs and many of the tracks can get fixed into your head easily. Tree63 has a sound that causes compulsory dancing and spontaneous happiness. Parents do not worry, that rock riff background is accompanied by inspiring lyrics. For example "Joy" shouts to the listener to be a "shinning light" for God and speaks of the gift of Grace through Jesus. Interestingly enough one of my favorites is "Worldwide". "Worldwide" is about the digital age and trying to fill our lives with "virtual reality" and not faith. I, of course, believe in a healthy dose of the Internet, but you won't find salvation on line.

You can find out more about Tree63 at their official Web Site: www.tree63.com

R & B gets another shot in the arm with Damita's debut. Although this is a debut CD Damita has a history in R & B. From singing backup for Aretha Franklin and the support of her husband Deitrick Haddon, a Gospel legend. Her background in gospel music and R & B combine to make a unique sound. Damita had her hand in the writing of the majority of this debut. Songs that address the listeners walk with God ("Spirit Inside"), perseverance through faith ("Hold On To Your Faith"), and fidelity ("The Wedding Song"). Ballads like "Calvary" and "If Ever" illustrates Damita's strong faith and emotional contribution to the CD.

For the Parents: Damita offers a superb substitution to many of today's secular R & B artist. Her songs of faith are delivered in a way that your kids will enjoy.

The OC Supertones have a powerful way of delivering a message. The resounding horns and motivating vocals combine to make groovy tunes that have a "happy" sound that is stimulating. Some standouts are "Return of the Revolution" with the Gospel Gangstaz, "What It Comes To" with Toby Mac, "Jury Duty", and "Pandora's Box". The OC Supertones profess a no compromise faith.

Fools are we for thinking we can mess around with sin and stop anytime we want to. -The OC Supertones -From Pandora's Box CD Notes

For the parents: The OC Supertones have been providing quality Christian music for some time now and their message is clear, even when given in Rap. Notes and lyrics are provided with the CD. The OC Supertones are a mix of Rap and Pop Rock, flavored with accompaniment of brass instruments.

"Glo" is a very exciting release, with the Monks of Ampelforth Abbey chanting in the background and the riveting chorus "God You Are My God" sets the CD in motion. Delirious delivers Praise and Worship with a punch of rock and roll. The band also adds a little twist to the CD by improvising during recording. Titled as the "GLO in the dark" tracks there are four endings that were extended during recording and as improvised as you can get in a studio. Of all the improvised tracks Part 04 is the greatest as it follows an awesome tune, "Jesus' Blood", with a strings sonata. Then if you're like me and you have it on loop you go right back to the chant and listen again, and again, and again, and ... well you get the point.

Dream Concert: Delirious, Sonic Flood, and Tree63!

-Ken

Transform
Rebecca St. James
Forefront Records

Ah yes, at the onset of "Transform" the listener is lured into thinking that they are in for the classical Rebecca St. James. Then, the real transformation occurs, "For The Love Of God". This conversion is amazing! It's more of a merger, London Sessions Orchestra, Techno Pop, and the celestial voice of Rebecca. It's enough to give you goose bumps. Many of the tracks contain the transformation theme; "Reborn", "In Me", and "Merciful". "Daunt Worry" has that original Rebecca St. James sound, and is already a hit on the radio waves.

For the parents: Rebecca St. James offers notes on each of the songs on "Transform", which helps to understand her thoughts behind the lyrics. She also provides a scripture verse that relates to the song. Having seen Rebecca in a live performance, I can tell you that she is a great speaker and she has a way of connecting with kids regarding topics that are relevant to them every day.

Need a "pick-me-up" for this hustle and bustle time of year? Then the latest release from the Dove award winning Avalon will do just that! It's a lifting variety of traditional Christmas songs combined with songs that focus on the true meaning of the Season. The group wanted to sing all their favorites and new songs, but could choose only ten songs for the album. The familiar Christmas songs such as, "The First Noel", and "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" were arranged in vibrant medleys with a pop flair. "Winter Wonderland" is full of that big band flavor. The London Orchestra and the London Boys Choir created a powerful sound on "Jesus Born on this Day" written by Mariah Carey. "Don't Save it all for Christmas Day" is a compelling ballad that encourages to give love all the time not just during the Holiday Season.

Avalon's dynamic vocals and inspiring message make this a great CD that will add joy to your soul and give you spring to your step. Don't forget to read inside the impressive cover!

Currently the group is playing a big part on the "Child of Promise" tour. They are also working on the completion of their next release, "Oxygen", due out next February.

Grab your boots and be prepared to dance everyone! The well-known country group, "Lonestar," has released their first Christmas album. Targeted toward their devoted fans as well as the Christian avenue, this brings Christmas in Nashville right to your own home.

This album is adorned with touching melodies and an upbeat tempo, a real country work of art. It is nice to see creativity incorporated into a Christmas album. The song, "Reason for the Season," is a surefire hit. Beautiful! Famed for their hits like "Amazed," let this country Christmas album "amaze" you.

There is no better way to start off a CD than with the Number 1 hit, "Shine." From start to end, this "greatest hits" album is pure gold. A great way to get some of the top songs from the Newsboys, without having to get each and every album previously released. DC Talk's, Toby Mac, loaned his rap-style talent to the Newsboys by joining in on the song, "God Is Not A Secret." The four new songs, "Joy, Who?, Praises, and God Is Not A Secret," are merely an insight of the grand musical journey this band will take in the future.

What a way for this group to give it up to "Him!" Get your copy today!

If you look behind the meaning of the name Carman it must mean "Colossal" because that's what he is. Here are twenty-four of his greatest hits as well as six new songs to make your spirit stir. The title song gives one an idea of what Carman is; huge, unafraid, and battling for God. Listening through the two CD set is like looking into a kaleidoscope. From the solid guitar attack of "Jesus Period" to the softened ballad of "I Promise", with Tammy Trent, Carman delivers a wide variety of musical styles that are pleasurable. Everything from Rock, Rap, and Country-Blues can be found on the collection. Throw into that a few narratives like "A Witches Invitation", "Jericho", and "Satan, Bite the Dust" which are riveting and you have an unforgettable experience. Actually, I felt like my parents were speaking to me and I had better listen!

The "Heart of a Champion" tour has already started and the movie is planned to be released in spring of 2001. The combination of the "Heart of a Champion" CD, tour, movie, and the book is hoped to be a tremendous outreach to a whole new audience of listeners.

Like any soundtrack should, "Left Behind", directly reflects the meaning of the Movie. What makes this one different is the quality of artist who contribute to the collection. Even if you don't see the movie the soundtrack provides a meaningful experience. Michael W. Smith sings "Never Been Unloved" stating that God's love is always there if we are willing to reach for it. Picking up the soundtrack also gives one another chance to hear Reunion's newest artist Joy Williams' exhilarating vocals on "I Believe In You".

Appearing in the movie and on the CD is Rebecca St. James, "Come Quickly Lord". Good thing I have the movie on DVD or I would wear it out, shouting out "there she is, there she is"! Bob Carlisle,"After All", and Kathy Troccoli,"Live For the Lord", offer peaceful ballads.

Whether you have see the movie or not the "Left Behind" soundtrack is an awesome buy. One should always take advantage of such a blending of artist as this. If you would like to know more about the movie or the artist on the CD check out www.leftbehindthemovie.com.

Well known for their folk-acoustic sound, the Call wants to reach past the college arena into the more adult contemporary audience. Although the sound is more contemporary, I still believe they write lyrics that will keep them in touch with the college audience. The CD spins off with the difficulties that surround love and relationships. "The Only One" and "Love Is Different"

Other standouts include John Michael Talbot's "Prepare Ye the Way", "Mistake of My Life", and "What You Want". Danielle Young's vocals shine in "Masquerade" which is about the awe inspiring power of God compared to man. In "Masquerade" the writer, Ed Cash, compares and contrast the city lights in the distance to the power of God's lightening which illuminates everything.

It's hard to say if the college base will follow the deeper meaning and new sound to Caedmon's Call. However, if they continue to perform with the energy they're known for, I believe the "old" fans will find something to like in the new style. As long as Derek keeps getting lost and is inspired to write a classic Caedmon tune like "Ballad Of San Fansisco" they will prevail. :-)
-Ken

Love Has A Name
| Kathy Troccoli
Reunion

Love Has A Name is an easy listening, deep meaning, from the Heart CD. There is a nice variety of light songs ranging from a fun pop sound to a more serious light sounding ballad.

"Parade" which has a more upbeat pop sound, with a tone that sets your toes tapping, and the latin sounding "God Said It". The ballad "All is Well" shares a deep message that God is all and of course "All is Well". Kathy also digs back into the retro rock genre with "I Want to Know What Love Is", a cover of Foreigner's late 80's hit.

Overall Kathy shines through again. Love Has A Name is fun, warm, and easy to listen to, a reflection of her past accomplishments and trials in life.