Summer 2000

What a perfect CD to start my inaugural web site with. Since being saved in the spring of 2000, I have looked toward Christian music as a guide. On this CD are many of the performers that have reached me, and I’m sure many other new Christians. The entire message behind Roaring Lambs has been a motivation for this web site. Oh yeah, did I forget to mention that the CD is full of remarkable tunes?

-Ken

ZOEGirl, Kristin Swinford, Alisa Girard, and Chrissy Conway release their debut CD. All songs were wrote and co-worte by the three friends. This trio all come from different backgrounds and have come together with one purpose: To reach and minister to people trough music in hopes that their lives will be changed. The main audience ZOEGirl connects with is the preteen through pre-college age.

Every song on this CD conveys a strong belief in God and His enduring faithfulness, especially in times of need. There are songs that aim at those who are searching in this world for something to fill the emptiness inside; even songs that touch on weaknesses in moments of temptation. From it's contagious danceable rhythms to the sparkled R & B, ZOEGirl will keep your feet movin' and lift you up, and it's a great workout CD for those heart-pumpin' aerobics!

-Ellen

The newest member of Rocketown, Ginny Owens, has gone above and beyond the call of duty with her debut album. "Without Condition" is absolutely wonderful. The album is titled as a reflection upon God's grace and how it is given "without condition."

The top song on this album is definitely the Sarah McLachlin-like-style song titled, "Free." Other key songs on the album include "If You Want Me To," "Without Condition." Another interesting song is "I Am Nothing," an interpretation of 1 Corinthians 13.

Ginny has this uncanny ability to truly put her heart into her music. The songs chosen for this album really accentuate her jazzy-like style. Overall, there is a pleasant accompaniment of the piano and nice texture via percussion.

Ginny Owens exudes natural talent. Several of her songs have potential success in the secular music industry, as well as in Christian music. She has a gift and I look forward to seeing it flourish throughout her career. I highly recommend this album.

-Bridget

This is a great rock alternative album with a clear message. From "Hold On" to "Do You Know Him", the listener is poised with the question, do I believe? But hey, even without listening to every word and analyzing it, you can’t miss with The Real Me.

-Ken

Clear has a fun filled folk rock sound, with the enchanting voice of Alison Ogren and the wide diversity of instrumental backup, which provides a listening experience that’s pleasing to the ears. This enhanced CD comes with exciting videos of the band behind the scenes. Check out their web site at www.clearmusic.org.

-Ken

Center makes me want to turn down the lights and reflect on the day. The tid bits of information Michelle offers, on each song, help reflect on the meaning of the song and relate it to your faith. Overall, it’s a relaxing experience perfect for the home or office.

-Ken

When I heard Nicole singing at Godstock this year I could not wait to have her music in my hands. This self-titled CD is an awesome collection of R&B tunes with a twist of Rock -n- Roll. I would, however, advise not listening to "Redeemer" while driving. It gives me the urge to close my eyes and sing along with the chorus. Not a good idea when your behind the wheel.

-Ken

I have to say that the first time I listened to this compilation of Petra hits I was not completely satisfied. There was much anticipation when I listed to "Beyond Belief" and "This Means War". But after a listen or two I started to feel more comfortable with the somewhat "unplugged" version. For office listening I find this compilation very relaxing and uplifting. Over all I found that the CD grew on me and once again Petra has proved everlasting.

-Ken

The recent release of Skillet’s Invincible marks an exciting change in the history of the band. With a new line up, the band continues to put out hard-hitting rock with a message. Starting with "Best Kept Secret", I find myself moving to the beat and highly motivated. A visit to the band’s web site (www.skillet.org) proved to be interesting as well. The use of Shockwave makes the experience comparable to their music.

-Ken

Much has been said about Third Day’s new praise CD and everything you have heard is true. This is an awesome collection of praise tunes, with interjections of live performances. Third Day is a high energy group with an ability to reach many.

-Ken

Maple Room is, by no surprise, loaded with thought provoking songs. Well-known songwriter and backup Wayne Kirkpatrick has finally released a solo project. Songs like, "Blame It On Your Mother" and "Love Feeds Love", touch on the emotional vein of the world today.

-Ken

I can only say one bad thing about 38 Acres' debut, "It's too short!". There are four great songs on this initial release that give a cross section of the band. From the fun rockin' tune "Superstar" to the rock ballad "Simple Things". The sound is exciting and fun. Check out their web page at www.38acres.homepage.com and see if there in your area.

-Ken

Self-penned, with the exception of Paul Simon's "Bridge Over Troubled Water," this debut album for Riley Armstrong is simply marvelous. Refreshingly upbeat and innovative, Armstrong's album is pleasantly flavored for fun songs intertwined with more serious songs. Amstrong's lyrics take us on walk through nature, reminding us of the beauty of nature and its Creator. Vocally, Riley Armstrong has been compared to the likes of Stephen Curtis Chapman. I look forward to future albums from this aspiring young artist. Delve into this album everyone, it is well worth it!

-Bridget

Although "Viva" is largely upbeat and full of guitar and drums the title track hits hard with a softer tone. A strong ballad suggesting that we can change the world starting today. Also hitting hard is "Your Escape", challenging the moral values that are accepted by the "general" public. Lightening up the mood is a rockin' version of "Nothing but the Blood". Be sure to hang on through the last track. Hidden at the end of the CD is about 20 minuets of funny out takes and phone calls.

Strong in the faith, strong in the music department. This is what first comes to mind when one hears Jeni's music. Her lyrics are deep, so is her faith.

Jeni Varnadeau brings a distinctly different style and sound to Christian music. It is said that she prides herself on that. Her third and most recent release, "Tracing His Hand," is yet another fine example of her beautiful, yet unique style. On this album, she sounds a bit like Natalie Merchant, Sheryl Crow, and Alanis Morissette woven together.

"Tracing His Hand" features catchy melodies intertwined with uplifting harmonies, a "feel good" album. Top song picks include: "Tracing Your Hand," "Remind Me," and "Be Holy." Get this cd, you will have no regrets!

This debut album for, "Salvador," is sure to go off the charts. This Latin-influenced praise and worship album is nothing short of remarkable. Those who enjoy the creative sounds of bands like "Burlap to Cashmere," will absolutely love this CD.

With the tutelage of famed producer, Monroe Jones, Salvador has successfully fused pop, Latin, and overtones of punk all into one album. Powerful lyrics and up-tempo guitar riff lead one to want to worship the Lord each and every day, all day! God truly has a plan for this talented group. The group is as on fire as their music! Watch for this fire in a store near you. A must have album!

This is a marvelous compilation of some of Christian music's greatest artists. This album features great diversity in regard to the contributing artists which include the infamous Aaron Neville, Maire Brennan (one of the founders of Celtic music), Cindy Morgan (4 Dove Awards), Jaci Velasquez, Rachel Lampa, and Burlap to Cashmere. Musical styles vary from Euro-rock (Gabriel's Harp) and harmonious ballads to Latin-infused pop (Salvador).

This project was done for World Youth Day 2000, which was staged in August in Rome, Italy. World Youth Day 2000 is symbolic of the Apostle Paul calling for unity among God's people, whether they are Catholic, Protestant, and Lutheran. Unity of His people whether or not they speak English, Italian, French, or Spanish.

The album, "One," is a musical harmony of unity of all musical styles, themes, and backgrounds. The official theme song of World Youth Day 2000, Emmanuel, is an eloquent song that leaves a lasting impression. The ballad by Maire Brennan and Booley (from the group Belfast), "Peace Has Broken Out", is emotionally riveting! This ballad is symbolic of the disagreements between the Catholics and Protestants that have been battled out for many, many years in their homeland (Ireland). A personal favorite is the ballad with Aaron Neville and the young diva, Rachael Lampa, titled "There is Still a Dream." This ballad has serious contention for a Dove Award in 2001.

In light of the serious issues that are addressed by the various artists and songs on this album, it is well worth tracking it down and ensuring that it is a part of your personal collection.

For those who would like more information on World Youth Day, please point your browsers toward: http://www.worldyouthday.com/