March 2001

After nearly ten years of recording Phillips, Craig, and Dean now have the opportunity to create a CD that reflects their spiritual gifts, considering all three of these men are worship pastors. Even at a time when it seems like everyone is doing praise and worship Let My Words Be Few stands out. Phillips, Craig, and Dean take six well known praise songs and recreate them in their own style. In addition to that there are four new tracks on this CD written by Phillips, Craig, and Dean that come from their desire to praise God. My personal favorite is "Your Grace Still Amazes Me," a soft reminder of how amazing it is that God’s grace is so much larger than any person can conceive.

To find out more check out more about Phillips, Craig, and Dean and Let My Words Be Few check out the links below.

www.sparrowrecords.com
www.pcdministries.com


-Ken

No Place, So Far
Erin O'Donnell
Word

Erin O'Donnell along with husband Brad have turned recent events in their lives into a beautiful recording. Even though things seemed to be going in the wrong direction the O'Donnell's maintained their faith in God and surrendered to his will. A short time after discovering that they were to be new parents Erin's record label went out of business. In a news release Erin stated, "It was a really scary time… so I started to focus on Quinn because I knew God would take care of the rest." Erin's prayers were answered when Brad started working as an A & R executive with Word and at the same time she signed a recording contract with Word.

Out of their trials and triumphs we have No Place So Far, a lovely sounding declaration of faith. The title illustrates the fact that no matter how things appear there is no place that God cannot reach us. Personal favorites include "Janie's Garden," "No Place So Far," and "Damaged Goods."

-Ken

Now the News
Eli
Forefront Records

Now the News is Eli's third release on Forefront Records. Eli has great depth and creativity in his music. This album exudes Eli's deep compassion for the poor and the homeless. Eli really delves into his joy with guitar and it shines through in his work. God gave him an amazing talent as a musician and it is endearing to hear Eli utilizing that.

Eli has a very distinct voice. Those who enjoy the vocal style of artists like Smalltown Poets and the Newsboys, will enjoy Eli's newest release.

- Bridget

Now
Greg Long
Myrrh Records

Thomas Carlyle once wrote, "Music is well said to be the speech of angels; in fact, nothing among the utterances allowed to man is felt to be so divine. It brings us near to the infinite."

Noted for his personal depth and passionate lyrics, Greg Long has returned to share with us his "speech of angels." Various fans gave testimonies of how Greg Long's past albums really touched their hearts. He has an uncanny ability to share not only his profound love of our Savior, but his deep emotional triumphs.

Greg's newest release titled, "Now," is a welcomed return after a three-year break from his last album. Track one, "Sufficiency of Grace," is spicy and energized! This song has a destiny to hit high on the charts. Other notable songs on this album include the mellow, yet moving "The Waiting," the riveting ballad, "We Dream of a Kingdom," and lyrically deep, "The Sacrifice." A personal favorite is track eight titled, "Help Somebody Cry." Beautiful, just beautiful Greg!

-Bridget

Joyride
Bryan Duncan
Diadem

When someone creates something out of passion its always better. Bryan Duncan has a passion for Soul music, and "Joyride" is the evidence of that.

Not only has Duncan made a joyful return to Soul music, but he has also narrowed the focus of his lyrics. Duncan said, "I don't think I've ever been this emphatic or used Jesus' name more often. I've come to realize that vague allusions haven't been all that effective in encouraging people to consider the things of God."

Musically "Joyride" is a pleasure, and very fitting for a Sunday drive through the Blue Ridge Parkway with the top down, wind blowing, and the music loud. The CD is described as being celebrative and joyful. Two of the best originals on the CD are "I'd Like to Thank You Jesus", which is about letting God know how much we are grateful for everything. Then there is "Clap Your Hands," which is an enthusiastic cry to the Lord who brings joy to our lives.

Duncan covers "The Battle Is the Lord's" with a Blues twist that puts the song right in place with the rest of the CD. Duncan also covers "Maybe I'm Amazed," a mainstream pop song that, performed in the right context, can describe a personal relationship with God.

"Joyride" is an artful expression of faith from Bryan Duncan. Everything from the lyrics to the CD cover set your soul on a pleasing journey. While at the same time, it calls forward praise and glory for God's amazing grace.

-Ken

Conversations
Sara Groves
INOTOF

In 1998 Sara Groves debuted with "Past the Wishing." Her debut quickly became one of Christian music's all-time best-selling independent recordings.

Groves' style of song writing is a reflection of her gift of teaching. Groves stated that during her live shows she likes to tell stories, and give the audience insight into the "deeper meaning" of the song. The songs on "Conversations" are mostly inspired by scripture. "Painting Pictures of Egypt" was inspired by Exodus 16:3. Groves described the song as an expression of "...the way we romanticize the past." Inspired by Deuteronomy 11:26-28,Groves wrote one of the most inspirational songs on the album, "Generations." The song reminds the listener that we are the product of original sin, and what we do will affect generations to come. Sara Groves is an awesome singer songwriter. "This Journey Is My Own" combines all her gifts to produce deep lyrics, great music, and a voice that will melt a glacier.

Groves abilities are evident throughout "Conversations." I could go on describing each song but it would be better if you picked up the CD and discover, for yourself, the charm of Sara Groves.

-Ken

For more info on "Conversations" and Sara Groves visit her official web site. www.saragroves.com

Well Adjusted
Beanbag
Inpop

With the release of their Sophomore Inpop CD Beanbag is on a quest. A quest to reach out to people who do not have a relationship with Christ. Steve Ford, VP, General Manager, of Inpop Records states, "Beanbag is concentrating on the lost and ignored of today's society and reaching them in a way these kids can relate to." The intent of the band is that this album is more personal. Dealing with relationship problems, frustrations in society, and trying to be somebody you are not. The band mates describe the album title as being "ironic," stating that no one is "well adjusted" until we become Christ like in Heaven

Beanbag's live performances have been described as "Volatile," and from the sounds of "Well Adjusted" nothing has changed. Beanbag has a history of playing clubs where the music has to be a bit more aggressive. Two particular tracks, "Limits Of Shunt" and "Army Of Me" certainly contain the energy needed to satisfy any hard rock fan.

Check out their web site at Beanbagonline.com

-Ken

Hit Parade
Audio Adrenaline
Forefront Records

After selling close to two million albums, ten #1 radio singles, a #1 song of the decade, several Dove awards, and three Grammy nominations, a greatest hits album is definitely warranted. It must have been a difficult task to compile ten years of work down to one CD.

Hit Parade contains 15 of Audio Adrenaline's biggest songs. Additionally, the band recorded two new songs for Hit Parade, "Will Not Fade" and "One Like You." Both new tunes reflect the fun rock infused sound that Audio Adrenaline is known for.

There is no doubt that Audio Adrenaline has been reaching people through their music. Even with all the success the band still remains grounded in God. I recall thinking at the end of one of their concerts that for many people it would be hard to turn to the cheering crowd and give all the credit to God.

-Ken