Casting Crowns
Self-Titled
Beach Street Records

Casting Crowns is the flagship artist for a new company called Beach Street Records. Beach Street was formed by Mark Miller, frontman of Sawyer Brown. This self-titled debut was co-produced by Steven Curtis Chapman and Mark Miller.

The album is not overshadowed by the heavyweights at the helm (Steven and Mark). Casting Crowns debut is instead a heavyweight in-your-face call to arms. The message of the lyrics are eye-openers that challenge the body of Christ to awake from a slumber.

Songs like "What If His People Prayed" pointedly ask questions that could make some feel uncomfortable:

And what would happen if we prayed
For those raised up to lead the way
Then maybe kids in school cold pray
And unborn children see the light of day

"If We Are the Body" speaks of church unity and love for those outside of our comfort zones. Reaching out, healing, teaching, and demonstrating Christ' love.

Jesus paid much too high a price
For us to pick and choose who should come
And we are the body of Christ

Another song I can't relate with but I can see it happening all around is "American Dream." This song plays out a story about a father who is pursuing a professional career believing that he is doing it for the good of his family and self. When in fact his family and spiritual life are crashing in around him.

He use to say, "Who ever dies with the most toys wins"
But if he loses his soul, what has he gained in the end
I'll take a shack on a rock Over a castle in the sand

Don't be afraid to challenge yourself, and most of all don't be offended by such a straight forward message. Casting Crowns doesn't come across as self-righteous and pious. Instead, they humble themselves, and come across as a team of worshipers who want to remind us of the sacrifice God has made for all of us.

With strong lyrics and a fresh sound that's edgy the Casting Crowns and Beach Street Records are off to a good start.

- Ken W.