The Beautiful Letdown (Our Version) – Switchfoot
****
Although Switchfoot has long been one of my favorite bands, I haven’t really enjoyed their past three releases (Covers (EP), interrobang, and this is our Christmas album). To celebrate the twentieth anniversary of their breakthrough album The Beautiful Letdown, the band has completely re-recorded the album and released it as The Beautiful Letdown (Our Version). The band’s fourth studio album was released February 25, 2003 and has sold over three million copies. It features the popular songs “Meant to Live” and “Dare You to Move”.
This is not like U2 reimagining their songs on their recent Songs of Surrender album. There are not major changes to the songs here. There are a few minor lyric changes on “Gone”: “Al Pacino’s cash” is now “Al Capone’s cash“, “Lexus cages” is now “Tesla cages“, and “my high school sweets” is now “my high school sweethearts.”
This re-recording sounds great with a clean mix, and these songs remind me of why Switchfoot became one of my favorite bands in the first place.
The celebrate the anniversary of the album the band will be playing the album in its entirety for the first time on their current tour. For more information go here.
Fragments – Time Out of Mind Sessions 1996-1997 The Bootleg Series Vol. 17 Deluxe Edition by Bob Dylan
****
The latest edition of Bob Dylan’s acclaimed Bootleg Series gives us a deep dive on his 1997 midcareer masterpiece, Time Out of Mind. The record, Dylan’s thirtieth studio album, picked up three Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, in 1998. Time Out of Mind was also the last album Dylan made with a producer, in this case Daniel Lanois.
The Deluxe edition contains sixty songs, clocking in at more than six hours. It follows the evolution of songs written for the album, from the previously unreleased 1996 Teatro sessions through live versions from 1998-2001. It begins with a 2022 remix of the original album by Michael Brauer. Rare outtakes and alternate versions of songs written for the album include four original Dylan compositions – “Dreamin’ of You,” “Red River Shore,” “Mississippi” (later re-recorded for Love and Theft in 2001) and “Marchin’ to the City” – not included on the original 1997 album. A fifth unreleased performance is Dylan’s interpretation of “The Water is Wide,” a traditional folk song of Scottish origin. Twelve songs included here were previously available on The Bootleg Series Vol. 8: Tell Tale Signs.
I enjoyed hearing the alternate versions of the songs from Time Out of Mind, some of which were very different from the version released on the 1997 album.
This release will be enjoyed by Dylan fans. All of the alternate versions/outtakes may be a bit much for some. For those, I highly recommend the remix of the original album by Michael Brauer.
Sing! Christ Our Hope in Life and Death. Live at the Getty Worship Music Conference – Keith & Kristyn Getty and Friends
****
This excellent live album is from the 2022 Sing! Getty Worship Conference, which had a theme of “Christ Our Hope in Life and Death”. The twelve songs were pulled from a wonderful conference that took place at the Gaylord Opryland Convention Center and the Grand Ole Opry over three days last September in Nashville. (Read my Reflections from the conference here).
In addition to Keith & Kristyn Getty and their incredible band, this album features Blessing Offor, Shane and Shane, CityAlight, Skye Peterson, Matt Papa, Matt Boswell, Bob Kauflin, Jordan Kauflin, Sandra McCracken, Joni Eareckson Tada, Matt Merker, Kirk Whalum and others.
It had to be hard to pick just a few songs among the many highlights from the conference. In addition to enjoying this album, I look forward to more music from the 2022 conference being released in the coming months.
Here’s a few brief comments about each song:
The Lord Almighty Reigns –This song was written by Keith & Kristyn Getty, Matt Boswell and Matt Papa, and performed by Keith & Kristyn Getty and Blessing Offor.
Rejoice – This song was written by Keith & Kristyn Getty, Ben Shive, Skye Peterson and Bryan Fowler, and was performed by Keith & Kristyn Getty and Shane and Shane.
Only a Holy God/Holy, Holy, Holy – “Only a Holy God” was written by Michael Farren, Jonny Robinson, Dustin Smith and Rich Thompson, and performed by CityAlight. “Holy, Holy, Holy” was written by Reginald Heber.
Love Still Bids You Welcome – This song was written by Ben Shive and Skye Peterson and performed by Skye Peterson.
Come Christians Join to Sing – This song was written by Christian H. Bateman, arranged by Zach White, and performed by Keith & Kristyn Getty.
The King in All His Beauty – This song was written and performed by Matt Papa and Matt Boswell.
Speak O Lord – This song was written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend and performed by Keith & Kristyn Getty and Shane and Shane.
Behold Our God – This song was written by Jonathan Baird, Meghan Baird, Ryan Baird and Stephen Altrogge and performed by Bob Kauflin and Jordan Kauflin.
Lord Have Mercy (For What We Have Done) – This song was written and performed by Matt Papa and Matt Boswell, and features Sandra McCracken.
I Stand Amazed (How Marvelous) – This song was written by Charles H. Gabriel and performed by Joni Eareckson Tada.
He Will Hold Me Fast (Prayer for Peace) – This song was written by Matt Merker and Ada Habershon, and performed by Keith & Kristyn Getty, Joni Eareckson Tada, Elizabeth Klimchuck, Milena Kabodko and Matt Merker
Crossing the Pond/Total Praise – “Crossing the Pond” is an instrumental performed by Kirk Whalum and the Getty band. “Total Praise” was written by Richard Smallwood.
HOPE – NF
****
HOPE is thirty-one-year-old NF’s (Nathan Feuerstein) fifth album, and first since 2021’s CLOUDS (THE MIXTAPE). NF has built a loyal following that has earned him over 30 billion global streams on music platforms.
Themes on the excellent new album include taking the reins of his life, staying true to himself, faith, overcoming odds, relationships (his mother, wife, child, and a failed relationship), being a lonely soul, being at the top of his game, and running from darkness and depression. There are two guest artists on the album – Cordae and Julie Michaels.
Here are a few brief comments about each song:
HOPE – This song, which was the lead single for the album, was written by NF and Tommee Profitt. It was produced by NF, Profitt and Jeff Sojka. The hard-hitting song features keys, strings, bass, and percussion. He addresses dreaming big, regret, growing pains, his son, his former self and ends by saying that he is taking the reins of his life. Watch the video for “HOPE”.
Key lyric:
I’m a prime example of what happens when you choose to not accept defeat and face your demons.
MOTTO – This song was written and produced by NF and Tommee Profitt. The song features keys, strings, drums, and a memorable chorus. He addresses industry expectations but would rather stay true to himself than chase “success” in the music industry.
Key lyric:
You heard the sayin’, “If it ain’t broke
Don’t fix it,” that’s my motto.
CAREFUL – This hard-hitting song was written by NF, Cordae and David Garcia and produced by NF and Garcia. The song features Cordae and a bass beat. NF and Cordae trade verses about overcoming odds, protecting their family, feeling blessed and taking risks.
Key lyric:
I was talkin’ to God ’bout what’s real or what’s not
All He said was, “Remain faithful.”
MAMA – This song was written and produced by NF, Tommee Profitt and Saint X. In this song, NF addresses his mother who died from drug abuse when he was young. He prays that she has found peace in heaven, and he wants her to know that he loves her. The mid-tempo song features keys and drums.
Key lyric:
Is He standin’ in front of you so you can look at His face?
When you talk to Him, does He talk back?
You ever have conversations about what you regret?
Or did it all go away once you got there?
HAPPY – This song was written by NF and Tommee Profitt and produced by NF, Profitt and Jeff Sojka. The song is a painfully honest prayer, with NF indicating that it has been a few years since he has talked to God. He’s a lonely soul and knows he needs help, but he just can’t imagine who he’d been if he was happy. The music is upbeat, in contrast to the lyrics, and has a pop element, with strings, keys, drums and a memorable chorus.
Key lyric:
Hanging by a thread’s how I live
I don’t know why, but I feel more comfortable.
PANDEMONIUM – This song was written by NF and Tommee Profitt and produced by NF, Profitt and Jeff Sojka. This hard-hitting song features electronic percussion.
His confidence in his music is at the highest level. He’s successful and blessed.
Key lyric:
What’s the latest trend?
I don’t have a clue, I don’t follow them
They just follow me, keep ’em on the edge
Keep ’em on they toes, keep ’em wonderin’
SUFFICE – This song was written and produced by NF, Tommie Profitt and Saint X. The song features drums and keys. He’s better than ever. It didn’t happen overnight, and you shouldn’t bet against him. Life is a gift, and he wants to live it to the fullest while he can.
Key lyric:
Mediocre, that just won’t suffice
GONE – This song was written by NF, Tommee Profitt and Julia Michaels and produced by NF and Profitt. The slower paced song features Julia Michaels. The song about a failed relationship features excellent vocals. The song features keys, and drums.
Key lyric:
I pray, someday
You find yourself
Somehow, someway
With someone else
BULLET – This song was written by NF, Tommee Profitt and Saint X, and produced by NF, Profitt, Saint X and Jeff Sojka. The song is dedicated to NF’s wife, Bridgette Doremus. He assures her that he would do anything for her, even taking a bullet for her. The mid-tempo joyful song features drums and keys.
Key lyric:
I would take a bullet, give my life in a second if it came down to it
Sacrifice anything to see the light in your eyes, I swear I’d do it
TURN MY BACK – This song was written and produced by NF, Saint X and David Garcia. The song features keys and drums. He doesn’t need anybody’s help. He’s at the top of his game. It’s God’s plan. Got a problem with him, take it up with God.
Key lyric:
Need grace, need love, need God, need faith
MISTAKE – This intimate song was written and produced by NF and Tommee Profitt. The song features keys and strings. He admits that he’s made mistakes, and has qualities he’s not proud of, but he’s trying his best.
Key lyric:
Mistake, might’ve made some
Can’t argue with that, but I ain’t one
LET EM PRAY – This hard-hitting song was written by NF, Tommee Profitt and Saint X. The song was produced by NF, Profitt, Saint X and Jeff Sojka. The song features synth and drums. The song is about others praying for his downfall.
Key lyric:
Life is precious, life is treacherous
Life is filled with dead-end roads
Keep on pushin’, keep on healin’
See you prayin’ on my downfall
Go on, keep on prayin’, God ain’t listenin’ to you
RUNNING – This song was written and produced by NF and David Garcia. The song has NF addressing his darkness. The song features acoustic guitar, which later builds with synth and drums. He no longer wants to continue carrying the weight of his depression and darkness. There’s happiness on the horizon.
Key lyric:
I love you to death, but I
Can’t spend the rest of my
Life in this darkness, I’m
Done
Favorite Songs
HOPE
MOTTO
MAMA
HAPPY
MISTAKE
Songs of Surrender – U2
***
U2’s first album since 2017’s Songs of Experience reimagines forty songs from the band’s catalog (only 1981’s October and 2009’s No Line on the Horizon have no songs represented here). The album, which runs nearly three hours, is connected to Bono’s excellent 2022 memoir Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story (read my review of that book here), whose forty chapters are titled after U2 songs. The new album has a different selection of songs, curated by The Edge, with twelve of the songs differing from the Bono book chapters.
The album was The Edge’s COVID lockdown project. He is the album’s primary producer, with a few others, notably Bob Ezrin, assisting. The Edge compiled the songs and the project is arranged into individual band member volumes. The Edge, who also handles lead vocals on four songs, has stated that Songs of Surrender was made with the awareness that most people listen to their music through earbuds now.
The songs really are reimagined, they are not just unplugged versions. In the liner notes, The Edge writes “Once we surrendered our reverence for the original version, each song started to open up to a new authentic voice of this time. Some of the songs feature rewritten lyrics. For example, “Walk On” is written in light of the Ukraine war. “Pride (In the Name of Love)”, replaces “One man betrayed by a kiss”, with “One boy never will be kissed”. The song arrangements are mostly intimate and acoustic, frequently replacing Edge’s electric guitars with quiet keyboards. The Edge, playing numerous instruments, Bono’s voice and the lyrics are in the forefront here. Many of the tracks feature no rhythm section at all, leaving bassist Adam Clayton and drummer Larry Mullen Jr. to apparently sit them out.
This is an ambitious project for the band, which has continued with their original four members since 1976. These new versions of both well-known songs and more obscure ones may initially be hard for long-time fans to hear. Some songs fare better than others in their reimagined state. I encourage you to give them a chance. It may be unlikely that the new versions will replace the original, but some may very well stand on their own. And a new album, titled Songs of Ascent, is reportedly in the works.
Favorite songs
Every Breaking Wave
Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses
Get Out Of Your Own Way
Red Hill Mining Town
Vertigo
Ordinary Love
Invisible
Song for Someone
Cedarwood Road
I Will Follow
40
My Ideal: A Tribute to Chet Baker Sings – Amos Lee
*** ½
I’ve been a fan of Amos Lee’s music since he opened a local concert for Bob Dylan back in 2007, and I got to meet him briefly in the lobby during intermission. This new 16-song collection, Lee’s ninth studio album, and the follow-up to his earlier 2022 album, the excellent Dreamland, pays tribute to his musical hero and his deep jazz roots.
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lee lost two of his mentors—Bill Withers and John Prine. During this period, Lee turned to the album Chet Baker Sings for comfort. My Ideal is his tribute to that music and the meaning it held for him: a song-for-song cover of Chet Baker’s 1954 original, which in 2001 received the Grammy Hall of Fame Award. Lee considers Baker to be his lifelong musical hero, crediting him with changing his life and trajectory as an artist.
The tribute album, which is beautifully performed and produced, features Lee with pianist and trumpeter David Streim, bassist Madison Rast, and drummer Anwar Marshall, and is intended to remind Lee’s fans of the early days of his career playing as an artist on jazz label Blue Note Records. Lee gets to show off his incredibly vocals on this album. At times the combo reminds me of jazz pianist Vince Guaraldi’s A Charlie Brown Christmas (and that’s a compliment, as I love that album).
I was not previously familiar with Baker’s music. It is rare that another artist would cover a complete album by another artist. The album will most likely not be a big seller, but it is done with excellence and hopefully will expand Lee’s audience.
Here is the track list for My Ideal:
That Old Feeling
It’s Always You
Like Someone In Love
My Ideal
I’ve Never Been In Love Before
My Buddy
But Not For Me
Time After Time
I Get Along Without You Very Well
My Funny Valentine (For Oskar and Eli)
There Will Never Be Another You
The Thrill Is Gone
I Fall In Love Too Easily
Look For The Silver Lining
Everything Happens To Me
I’m Old Fashioned
Bellsburg: The Songs of Rich Mullins – Various Artists
****
Rich Mullins went home to be with the Lord following an accident near Lostant, Illinois on I-39 on September 19, 1997, on the way to a benefit concert in Wichita, Kansas, where he lived. Mitch McVicker was also in the vehicle, and though badly injured, he would survive. To commemorate the 25th year of Mullins’ homegoing, a new double-length album of his songs has been released. The album (and future documentary) was recorded in the living room of Mullins’ old house in Bellsburg, Tennessee, where he often crafted songs on the same piano that his parents acquired by trading for a cow from the family farm. Each of the 16 new folk/acoustic interpretations of recordings are by artists who were greatly impacted by the original versions. Each of the artists featured in the project has a personal connection with Mullins or has been deeply influenced by his music. Each side of the project ends with an original, never commercially released demo from Mullins.
The 18-track album was recorded with sparse arrangements, in some cases one voice and one instrument, so that the energy and passion of each artist (and Mullins’ lyrics) are out front. You will also occasionally hear some banter from the artists. The album was produced by Chris Hoisington, Andrew Greer served as co-producer, executive producer, Evan Sieling was co-producer and mixing, Anthony Hoisington was executive producer, Dave Trout was supervising producer, and Connie Hawk and David McCracken were special coordinators.
Among the many artists on the album are Andrew Peterson, Ashley Cleveland, Amy Grant, Kevin Max, Ben Shive, Mitch McVicker, Jimmy Abegg, Sara Groves and Audrey Assad.
I really enjoyed listening to this project. Some of the songs are well known while others are not.
Here is the tracklist for the project:
Hello Old Friends – Andrew Peterson, featuring Andy Gullabhorn and Ben Shive
You Did Not Have a Home – Kevin Max, featuring Mitch McVicker
Both Feet on the Ground – Ashley Cleveland
Heaven is Waiting – Brothers McClurg
Sparrow Watcher – Amy Grant, Cindy Morgan and Andrew Greer, featuring Tommy Sims
If I Stand – Steve Cudworth
I See You – Audrey Assad
Sometimes by Step – Iam Zumback, featuring Ron Block
Hold Me Jesus – Sara Groves, featuring Bonnie Keen and Andrew Greer
Whitewater – Rich Mullins
Here in America – Jason Gray, featuring Kipper Gray and Jimmy Abegg
My Deliverer – Mitch McVicker
Calling Our Your Name – Andrew Osenga and Taylor Leonhardt
Bound to Come Some Trouble – Steven McWhirter and Jason Clayborn
Hard to Get – David Mullins, featuring Jonathan Mullins
Whitewater – Carolyn Arends
We Are Not As Strong As We Think We Are – Derek Webb
Holy Pretenders – Rich Mullins
Watch the trailer for the project here.
The Stories I Tell Myself – Matt Maher
****
I was introduced to Matt Maher’s music when he opened for TobyMac several years ago. I’ve enjoyed his music ever since. This collection of songs, that were mostly written during the pandemic, celebrate friendship with God and other people. The album, which features a variety of musical genres, was recorded in a house owned by Marty Stuart. There are several collaborations, and a few of the songs have two versions, one of which was recorded live.
Here are a few brief comments about each song, several of which were released in advance of the official album release:
The Lord’s Prayer (It’s Yours) – This joyful adaptation of the Lord’s Prayer was written by Maher, Bryan Fowler and Jacob Sooter and produced by Fowler, Sooter and Brian Elmquist. The song features organ, handclaps, drums, guitars, bass, and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Give us this day, our daily bread
Forgive us, forgive us
As we forgive the ones who sin against us, forgive them
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us
From the evil one
Let Your Kingdom come
Bigger Table – This song was written by Maher, Bryan Fowler and Jacob Sooter and produced by Fowler, Sooter and Brian Elmquist. The song features piano, drums, bass, guitar, handclaps, and backing vocals. God’s love has a bigger table and there is a place for you.
Key lyric:
A house for the hungry
A well for the thirsty
Where all saints come together
Shoulder to shoulder
A welcome for the traveler
New wine for the vineyard
In all things, God is able
Love has a bigger table
In the Room – This song was written by Maher, Jane Williams, Chris Brown, and Mia Fieldes. It was produced by Jacob Sooter and Brian Elmquist and features Chris Brown of Elevation Worship on vocals. The powerful song features guitar, piano, drums, bass, backing vocals and a brief guitar solo. The song references Luke 5: So tear off the roof, lower me down, whatever it takes to get me to You.
Key lyric:
And I just wanna be in the room
Wanna be in the room when You move
And I’m not leavin’
Not leavin’ ’til You do
Leaning – This song was written by Maher, Lizzie Morgan, Brian Elmquist and Jacob Sooter, based on E.A. Hoffman’s 1887 hymn “Leaning on the Everlasting Arms”. It was produced by Elmquist and Sooter and features Lizzie Morgan on vocals. The song features piano, guitar, bass, drums, and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
What a fellowship
What a joy divine
What a priceless gift
God, I’m Yours, and You are mine
Let my restless soul
Be still and know
I am leanin’ on Your everlasting arms
Burning Heart of God – This worship song was written by Maher, Jacob Sooter, Brian Elmquist and Nate Moore. It was produced by Sooter and Elmquist. The song features synth, keys, piano, guitar, bass, drums, and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Love like fire, all-consuming
From the beginning, without an end
My desire is my offering
And I’ll never be the same in the burning heart of God
The Stories I Tell Myself – The album’s title song was written by Maher, for King & Country’s Luke Smallbone and Joel Smallbone, and Jacob Sooter. It was produced by Jacob Sooter and Brian Elmquist. The song features synth, keys, bass, drums, and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
When I think about Jesus
He never faced a battle that He couldn’t win
And all I ever needed, I found in Him
And He made a way through the wilderness
From glory to glory, He is my story
Better Off Broken – This song was written by Maher, Paul Mabury and Ryan Ellis. The song was produced by Jacob Sooter and Brian Elmquist, and features Ryan Ellis on lead vocals. The song, which slows down the pace, features bass, guitar, synth, piano, and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Love came crashin’ in, oh, bombs away
Blowin’ up my world
From the fallout, I can say
I’m better off broken
I did all I could to run away
But now I’m givin’ up
If it’s the only way I stay
I’m better off broken
The Answer Is Yes – This song, which has a live gospel music feel, was written by Maher, Brian Elmquist, Jacob Sooter and Thad Cockrell. It was produced by Elmquist and Sooter. The song, which is about turning to God when we don’t know where else to turn, features guitar, piano, and a gospel choir.
Key lyric:
You’ve seen me through good times (Yes)
You’ve held me through pain (Yes)
You’ve heard all my questions
The answer’s the same
The Way You Love Me – This joyful song about God’s love, was written by Maher, Ethan Hulse and Ran Jackson and produced by Jacob Sooter and Brian Elmquist. The song features drums, a choir, bass, organ, guitar and piano.
Key lyric:
Oh, how can it be? Makes me want to sing
Every day I’m amazed at the way You love me
‘Cause I’ve finally found what it’s all about
Gotta say, I’m amazed at the way You love me
In the Room (Live) – This extended live version features Ben Fuller and Ellie Holcomb.
Burning Heart of God (Live) – This live version features Nate Moore.
Leaning (Live) – This extended live version features Lizzie Morgan.
Common Ground (Live) – This song about brothers and sisters standing together, was written by Maher and Anne Wilson. It was produced by Jacob Sooter and Brian Elmquist and features Dee Wilson on vocals. The song features piano, organ and some excellent vocals.
Key lyric:
Tear down the walls between us
Make way for love to heal us
Show us the way of Jesus
Where He is found in common ground, yeah
Inheritance (Live) – This worship about Jesus being our inheritance, was written by Maher, Dameon Aranda, JT Murrell, and Mia Feldes. The song was produced by Jacob Sooter and Brian Elmquist. The song features guitar, piano, bass, drums, and backing vocals. Jesus is our inheritance that we don’t deserve.
Key lyric:
You don’t withhold a thing
You were the offering
I don’t deserve it, doesn’t make sense
What an inheritance, yeah
The Time Is Now – This song was written by Maher, Brian Elmquist and Greg Lwinski. It was produced by Jacob Sooter and Brian Elmquist. The song features guitar, bass, organ, piano, drums, and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
If we are the lessons we’re learnin’
If everyone’s someone worth savin’
Then the time is now
One Heart at a Time – This upbeat song was written by Maher and Brian Elmquist and was produced by Elmquist and Jacob Sooter. The song features piano, guitar, bass, drums and backing vocals. If you lose your way, remember that love moves at the speed of forgiveness one heart at a time.
Key lyrics:
I wanna hear you talk
Even if we don’t agree
My Old Friend – This song was written by Maher and Drew Holcomb and was produced by Brian Elmquist and Jacob Sooter. The song features Drew Holcomb on vocals, guitar, bass, and percussion. Holcomb’s and Maher’s voices blend well.
Key lyric:
Time stands still
Whenever I see you once again
I always will
Hold onto the memories, my old friend
Wedding Ring – This love song was written by Maher, Emily Weisband, Bernie Herms, and Jacob Sooter. The song was produced by Sooter and Brian Elmquist. The song features guitar, backing vocals, bass, and drums.
Key lyric:
Said I did, and I do
I always will, still willin’ to
Say I’m sorry for the times I should
When you’re lettin’ go and holdin’ everything
The magic in a wedding ring
I Wanna Feel Again – This melancholy song was written by Maher and Taylor Leonhardt. It was produced by Brian Elmquist and Jacob Sooter, and features Taylor Leonhardt on vocals. His heart is a heavy stone and his mind is a lonesome road. The song features guitar and a guitar solo. Maher’s and Leonhardt’s voices blend well.
Key lyric:
So open up the floodgates
Let it all come rushin’ in
Oh, I, I just wanna feel again
I just wanna feel again
Only Good Will Grow – This song was written by Maher and Brian Elmquist. The song is produced by Elmquist and Jacob Sooter and features Elmquist on vocals. Maher and Elmquist sing this song in excellent harmony. The song features guitar, drums, bass and a guitar solo. The title of the song relates to the house the album was recorded in, which is owned by Marty Stuart, and was one time between houses owned by Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison. After Orbison’s house burned down, killing two of his children, Cash bought an orchard next door and promised him that only good will grow there.
Key lyric:
Only light will shine on this sacred garden
Every season new life, death has long departed
Plant you a tree, roots have wings
Favorite songs:
In the Room
Leaning
The Stories I Tell Myself
Common Ground (Live)
Inheritance (Live)
Only Good Will Grow
Live from Bridgestone Arena – NEEDTOBREATHE
****
NEEDTOBREATHE recently released a surprise concert film (and accompanying audio version), of their October 29, 2021 concert at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. I say surprise, because we saw them on their Into the Mystery Acoustic Tour in Peoria just eleven days before this project was released, and the band made no mention of this impending release.
NEEDTOBREATHE is an excellent, high energy live band. This is the band’s fourth live album, and second in two years. The twenty-five songs here span their career. Highlights include “Carry Me”, featuring Jon Foreman of Switchfoot and “I Will Remember” featuring Carrie Underwood.
If you are not familiar with NEEDTOBREATHE, this would serve as an excellent introduction to the band.
Watch the entire concert film here.
Dreamland (Deluxe Edition) – Amos Lee
*** ½
Amos Lee’s Dreamland was one of my favorite albums of 2022. Here’s my review of the album.
Lee has released a Deluxe Edition of Dreamland, featuring four new songs and two acoustic versions of songs from Dreamland.
Here’s a few brief comments about each song on the Deluxe Edition:
Beeline – This song is about driving away fast from the sirens. There is only broken glass behind them. The song features synth, finger snaps, backing vocals, drums, and bass.
Key lyrics:
But there’s only broken glass
Behind us, so keep going fast
So fast, we’re set to the sky
Gameshow – This R&B flavored song features Lee singing in a falsetto, guitar, synth, drums, bass and keys. The song is about a girl living a superficial Instagram life.
Key lyrics:
But I ain’t playing games
And I ain’t on your gameshow all my life
I Won’t Let Go – This beautiful and encouraging song features synth, keys, bass, drums, strings and guitar. He has her back and won’t let her go.
Key lyrics:
I hope you know
That I won’t let you go
Shine – This upbeat love song features strings, bass, drums, guitar, percussion and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
I love the way you shine, shine, shine, shine, shine, shine
Worry No More (Acoustic) – Lee has said that this song is about walking out into the city listening to music, and disappearing into the crowd.
Key lyrics:
Worry no more
Oh, worry no more
There’s an open door for you
See the Light (Acoustic) – This song has a gospel flavor both musically and lyrically.
Key lyrics:
When I fall off the map and disappear without a trace
Even when I can’t breathe in
And I’m falling out of line
Everybody ’round me says that everything gonna be alright
Favorite songs:
I Won’t Let Her Go
Shine
Stand (Deluxe Edition) – Newsboys
***
The Newsboys have released a Deluxe Edition of their 2021 album Stand (you can read my review of the original album here). The Deluxe Edition includes three previously unreleased songs and two new versions of songs included on the original album.
Here are a few comments about each of the new songs:
King Of Kings – This cover of a song by Hillsong Worship was written by Brook Ligertwood, Scott Ligertwood and Jason Ingram. The song was produced by Seth Mosley and features Bart Millard of MercyMe. The song features guitar, bass, drums, keys, and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Praise the Father, praise the Son
Praise the Spirit, three in one
God of glory, Majesty
Praise forever to the King of Kings
Stand – This song, which was included on the original album was written by Michael Tait, Ben Glover and Jeff Sojka. It was produced by Sojka and Glover and features TobyMac. The song is about who we will be when trouble comes calling for us. This version of the song retains the original song’s production with TobyMac’s vocals in the bridge instead of Tait’s.
Key lyric:
I’m gonna stand in a world that’s breaking
Stand for a truth unchangin’
I’m not ashamed, I’ve considered the cost
I’ll stand right here at the foot of the cross
And stand
Jesus Did – This song about Jesus setting us free, was written by Michael Tait, Micah Kuiper and Juan Otero and produced by Kuiper. The song features piano, drums, cello, guitar, bass, and vocals from Kuiper.
Key lyric:
Nobody else could’ve reached for me
Could’ve pulled me out, could’ve set me free
Hallelujah, Jesus did
All Things Are Possible – This song was written by Michael Tait, Micah Kuiper, Bryan Fowler and AJ Pruis and produced by Carter Frodge. The song features strings, cello, bass, backing vocals and drums.
Key lyric:
For all my days, I will sing it
With all my heart, I believe it
All things, all things
All things are possible
I Still Believe You’re Good (Acoustic) – This song was written by Michael Tait, Micah Kuiper and AJ Pruis and produced by Kuiper. This is a remix of the song included on the original album. The song features keys, acoustic guitar, drums and backing vocals from Pruis.
Key lyric:
Even in the valley, I still believe
You’re good
Favorite songs:
Jesus Did
All Things Are Possible
I Still Believe You’re Good (Acoustic)
Always – Chris Tomlin
****
Following up his 2020 album Chris Tomlin & Friends, in which he partnered with country music artists, Tomlin is back with Always, doing what he does best, writing and singing worship songs for the church, though a few of the songs do have a country music feel to them. I have long enjoyed Tomlin’s music, and I really like this new album. It is one of my favorite albums of 2022.
Here are a few brief comments about each of the thirteen songs on the album:
Yahweh (No One) – This song was written by Chandler Moore, Jason Ingram, Chris Brown, Steven Furtick and Tomlin, and produced by Jeff Sojka and Ben Glover. The song is a cover of Elevation Worship’s “No One” and features Chris Brown of Elevation Worship on vocals. The upbeat song highlights the first commandment “You shall have no other gods before me.” (Exodus 20:3), and the third commandment “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.” (Exodus 20:7). A good opener.
Key lyrics:
There will be no other God before You
There is no one above You, no one beside You
And nobody like You
Always – This song was written by Ben Glover, Daniel Carson, Jeff Sojka, Jess Cates, and Tomlin, and produced by Glover and Sojka. The song about our everlasting God, features acoustic guitar, piano, drums, bass, backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
The Lord is faithful, yesterday, now, and always
Strongholds – This upbeat song about our freedom in Christ was written by Ed Cash, Louie Giglio and Tomlin, and produced by Cash. The song features drums, bass, guitar, and keys. All obstacles are coming down by the blood of the Lamb.
Key lyrics:
Jesus is undefeated, the battle is the Lord’s
Shout it out, every stronghold must come down
Holy Forever – This song of worship to Jesus was written by Phil Wickham, Jenn Johnson, Jason Ingram, Brian Johnson, and Tomlin. It was produced by Jonathan Smith. The song features a choir, keys, guitar, drums and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Your name is the highest
Your name is the greatest
Your name stands above them all
All thrones and dominions
All powers and positions
Your name stands above them all
O Lord You’re Beautiful – This is a beautiful version of the classic song written by Keith Green. It was produced by Ben Glover and Jeff Sojka, and features Steffany Gretzinger on vocals. The song features piano and strings.
Key lyrics:
O Lord, You’re beautiful
Your face is all I seek
And when Your eyes are on this child
Your grace abounds to me
The Answer – This song about Jesus was written by Josh Kear, Charles Kelley, Ben West, and Dave Haywood (of Lady A). The easygoing song, which has a country music flavor, and would have fit nicely on Chris Tomlin & Friends, was produced by West and Haywood. The song features keys, drums, guitar, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Who is gonna love me all my life
Who is gonna never leave my side
Who is gonna be the heartbeat of everything I do
The answer is always You
Always You
Great Forgiver – This mid-tempo song about Jesus as our great forgiver, was written by Bear Rinehart (of NEEDTOBREATHE), Ben Glover, Jeff Sojka and Tomlin, and produced by Glover and Sojka. The song features drums, keys, guitar, handclaps and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
‘Cause You are the great, great forgiver
Nobody else gonna take my trouble
Nobody else gonna take my shame
I Believe in Jesus – This worship song confessing Jesus as our Savior and Lord, was written by Mitch Wong, Ben Fielding, and Tomlin, and produced by Ben Glover and Jeff Sojka. The song, which gently builds, features piano, bass, backing vocals, strings, and drums.
Key lyrics:
I believe in Jesus
He is the Son of God
He died and rose to save my soul
I confess that He is Lord
I See You – This song of praise was written by Bryan Fowler, Jonas Myrin and Tomlin and produced by Fowler. The mid-tempo song features Brandon Lake on vocals. The song features keys, drums, bass, guitar, backing vocals and a memorable chorus.
Key lyrics:
I see You in the morning light
I feel You in the fire by night
I hear You say, “Child, I am with you
Everything will be alright.”
Father Of Lights – This song was written by Ben Glover, Jeff Sojka, Steven Furtick, Jason Ingram, and Tomlin, and produced by Glover and Sojka. The song, which has a country music feel, is based on James 1:17, and features guitar, bass, drums, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Every good thing in my life
Comes down from the Father of lights
It comes down from the Father, down from the Father
Down from the Father of lights
History – This song about thankfulness and gratitude for the goodness and faithfulness of God, was written by Jess Cates, Cody Carnes and Tomlin and was produced by Jonathan Smith. The song features guitar, handclaps, drums, bass, backing vocals, and a memorable chorus.
Key lyrics:
I’ve got so much history of how good You are
You’ve been the guiding light in me right through the dark
Whatever giants I may face, I don’t have to be afraid
‘Cause I’ve got so much history of how good You are
All In All – This song was written by Corey Crowder, Tyler Hubbard (of Florida Georgia Line), Jason Ingram and Tomlin and was produced by Ben Glover and Jeff Sojka. The worship song to Jesus, slowly builds and features piano, guitar, bass, drums, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Where would I be now without Your love
Precious Love – This song was written by Ben Cantelon, Sam McCabe and Tomlin and was produced by Jonathan Smith. The song, which takes us through the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, features piano, guitar, drums, bass, and backing vocals. An excellent song for congregational singing.
Key lyrics:
Oh, the precious love of Jesus
Oh, the fount of grace divine
Flowing as a mighty river
Washing sinners in its tide
There will never be another
In whose name we are redeemed
Oh, the precious love of Jesus
Pouring out for you and me
Favorite songs:
Yahweh (No One)
Always
Holy Forever
I Believe in Jesus
Father of Lights
Precious Love
Still – Steven Curtis Chapman
***
Still is Steven Curtis Chapman’s first all new full-length release since 2016’s Worship and Believe. The new album features twelve new songs of hope and encouragement from the most awarded artist in Christian music history. In his 35-year career, the soon to be 60-year-old Chapman, has won 5 Grammy Awards, 59 Dove Awards, had 49 number 1 songs, while selling more than 11 million albums with 10 RIAA-Certified Platinum and Gold albums. Still is a solid addition to Chapman’s catalog as he works with respected producers Bryan Fowler, Micah Kuiper and Ben Shive.
Below are a few comments about each song:
Welcome Back to Wonder – This short song was written by Chapman and Dave Barnes and produced by Chapman, Bryan Fowler and Micah Kuiper. The song features keys, guitar, backing vocals, bass, and drums. The song is about experiencing the majesty of the world God has created.
Key lyric:
With every beat of my heart, I hear You callin’
“Welcome back, welcome back to wonder”
Still – This song was written by Chapman, Micah Kuiper and Bryan Fowler and produced by Fowler. The song features guitar, drums, bass, piano, and backing vocals. The song is about trusting God wherever our journey takes us because He is faithful.
Key lyric:
Still, I’m gonna praise
The Only One who always stays the same
Oh, I know He is good, I know He is faithful
Still
Don’t Lose Heart – This upbeat song was written by Chapman, Micah Kuiper and Bryan Fowler and produced by Kuiper and Fowler. The song features guitar, bass, drums, and backing vocals. The song is about walking through the valley with a friend. It was inspired by Chapman’s own journey through the valley of grief and loss that he and his family have traveled.
Key lyric:
Let me walk with you through this valley
And tell you all that I’ve learned to be true
I’m Alive – This upbeat song was written by Chapman and Tom Douglas, and produced by Chapman, Micah Kuiper and Bryan Fowler. The song features guitar, bass, drums, keys, and backing vocals. The song is about embracing the fear, pain and tears of life knowing a day is coming when the tears will all be gone.
Key lyric:
I wanna taste every tear that falls
I wanna face every fear that calls my name
I’m gonna stand and say I’m alive
Kindness – This song, about living with a heart of kindness, was written by Chapman, Bryan Fowler, Ethan Hulse and Micah Kuiper, and was produced by Chapman, Fowler and Kuiper. The song, which gently builds, features guitar, keys, drums, bass and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
So when they stand and tell the stories
Of who we are and what we’ve done
Of a thousand things that we could leave behind us
If they say just one word, well, let that word be kindness
Running After You – This song, about God’s amazing love, was written by Chapman and Brent Milligan, and was produced Chapman, Milligan, Ben Shive, Caleb Chapman and Will Chapman. The song features drums, bass, keys, backing vocals and a memorable chorus.
Key lyric:
And once you’ve been captured by the Father’s heart
You can finally rest in knowin’
His love is never gonna let you go
Unfixables – This upbeat song, about living between these ruins that we don’t understand and the future restoration, was written by Chapman, Jacob Sooter and Micah Kuiper, and was produced by Chapman, Kuiper and Bryan Fowler. The song features guitar, backing vocals, drums, bass and a memorable chorus.
Key lyric:
I’m gonna trust You with all these unfixables
Until the day when I finally see the way
You make masterpieces out of these unfixables
Love Now – This song, a reminder about loving now because we don’t know how much time we have, was written by Chapman, Bryan Fowler, Micah Kuiper and Mary Chapman, and was produced by Chapman, Fowler and Kuiper. The song features piano, guitar, bass, drums, and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
And we’re reminded again, only the Father knows when
He’s gonna call His children home
Where Else Could I Go – This song was written by Chapman, Caleb Chapman and Will Chapman and was produced by Chapman, Caleb Chapman, Brent Milligan, Will Chapman and Ben Shive. The song, which echoes John 6:68 when Peter told Jesus “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life”, features piano, guitar, keys, bass, drums, and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Where else could I go?
All my hope is in You and You alone
A Desperate Benediction (Peace On Earth) – This song, a prayer for peace, was written by Chapman and Tom Douglas, and produced by Chapman, Brent Milligan and Ben Shive. The song features piano, keys, bass, guitar and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
We’re all brothers and sister cryin’ to the Father
For peace on Earth
Living Color – This song, about Chapman’s best friend in seventh grade Carlton who had a good heart, was written by Chapman and was produced by Chapman, Brent Milligan and Ben Shive. The song features piano and strings.
Key lyric:
And his skin was dark, and my skin was light
But all we saw was a friend in each other’s eyes
And our blood ran red in both our hearts
And we were lookin’ at the world in living color
Trying To Get Back Home – This song was written by Chapman and Ben Shive, and was produced by Chapman, Shive, Brent Milligan, Caleb Chapman and Will Chapman. The song, about our journey to get home to heaven, features guitar, strings, and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
So be kind to yourself and everyone else
On this long and windin’ road
And don’t you believe it if you start feelin’ alone
We’re all just tryin’ to get back home
Favorite songs:
Still
Don’t Lose Heart
Running After You
Unfixables
Where Else Could I Go
Revolver (Super Deluxe) – Beatles
****
Giles Martin, son of the Beatles long-time producer Sir George Martin, continues his work of overseeing the re-release of special edition Beatles albums. He started with Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band in 2017, The Beatles (White Album) in 2018, Abbey Road in 2019 and Let it Be in 2021. Now comes the re-release of the Beatles 1966 groundbreaking album Revolver. The release is available in a variety of configurations. I listened to the Super Deluxe edition which contains 63 songs.
The original Revolver album had 14 songs, though in the U.S. it had only 11 songs, as “I’m Only Sleeping”, “And Your Bird Can Sing”, and “Doctor Robert” were included on the Yesterday and Today album. The album was recorded between early April and the end of June 1966. John Lennon and Ringo Starr were 25 years old, while Paul McCartney and George Harrison were only 23 at the time.
Revolver was very different from its predecessor, 1965’s Rubber Soul. Revolver is experimental, fueled by the band’s drug use and increasing use of studio effects.
The Super Deluxe edition features the original album in a new 2022 stereo mix, as well as a mono mix, alternate takes of all songs except “Good Day Sunshine”, and early demos. In addition, the two-sided single “Paperback Writer”/“Rain”, recorded during these sessions, but not included on the album, is included in stereo and mono mixes.
Just like Peter Jackson’s 2021 excellent documentary The Beatles: Get Back allowed us to watch how McCartney’s song “Get Back” developed, on this project we get to hear how songs like “Yellow Submarine”, “And Your Bird Can Sing”, “Tomorrow Never Knows”, Got to Get You Into My Life” and “Love You To” evolve significantly into the versions that we are so familiar with.
Sandra McCracken is a singer-songwriter and hymn writer from Nashville, Tennessee. A prolific recording artist, McCracken has produced 14 solo albums over two decades. Her best selling release, Psalms (2015) received critical acclaim, followed by God’s Highway (2017) which made the top 50 on Billboard Heatseekers chart without a major label. She has had songs featured in TV, including ‘Ten Thousand Angels’ on ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy and has over 15 million streams. Blending the old and new, Sandra has also shown a unique ability to recast sacred scripture texts into theologically rich yet accessible songs. Her thoughtful lyrics and gospel melodies in songs like “We Will Feast In The House Of Zion,” “Steadfast” and “Thy Mercy My God” have become staple anthems in churches across the U.S. As a published writer, she contributes a regular column in Christianity Today and released her first book “Send Out Your Light” in September 2021. She has released three full-length albums in 2022. Here are reviews of each of them:
November Songs – Shadowlands
****
Shadowlands consists of singer/songwriter Sandra McCracken, Brett Taylor, Director of Worship Arts at West End Community Church in Nashville, and acclaimed songwriter Luke Laird, who has written more than twenty number one Billboard singles. The title of the EP comes from the fact that the songs were written in November, 2021. The songs are written and produced by the band. All lead vocals are by Sandra McCracken, with the exception of “Quiet Mind”, on which Brett Taylor sings lead. The mostly acoustic songs feature excellent musicianship, songwriting and performance. This is one of my favorite releases of the year. I hope that there is a full-length follow-up to this EP.
Here are a few comments about each song:
Saving Me – This song features, drum, piano, acoustic guitar, backing vocals. bass, and a guitar solo. The song touches on forgiveness, grace and seeing Jesus face to face.
Key lyrics:
Finally free to struggle
‘Stead of struggling to be free
Let My Heart Be Moved – This was the first of the songs to be written by McCracken, Taylor and Laird. The song features percussion, backing vocals, guitar, bass and piano. In times of doubt, fear, unbelief and burdens sing this prayer.
Key lyrics:
Let my heart be moved
Draw me close and let make me new.
Healer of the broken
Keep my eyes wide open
To see you
Quiet Mind – This was the last song written for the project. The lead vocals are handled by Brett Taylor. The song features guitar, backing vocals, beautiful harmonies, drums, and bass. It is a prayer asking for the Lord to give a quiet mind and the peace to be still and know.
Key lyrics:
Tonight, give me a quiet mind
Hold Together – This was the first single from the project. McCracken described the song as a snapshot of real life right along with real theology. The song is based on Colossians 1:17: “And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” It features piano, guitar, bass, backing vocals, and drums.
Key lyrics:
Before all things
Through Him all things
Were created and belong to him forever
For by Him
All things for him we sing
In Him all things hold together
Hear You – This song features guitar, piano, bass, backing vocals, and drums.
Everyone is telling her what she needs to do, where to go, and what to say, but what she needs to is hear God’s voice.
Key lyrics:
I need to hear Your voice
Song for the Waiting – McCracken has said that this song is a lament, a lullaby. It weaves together a shared love for old hymns and folk music inflections into a new melody. It’s a song for when we are holding and waiting, a song to keep you company when you are waiting for the morning to break. This song features piano, percussion, bass, and backing vocals. The song samples the 1887 hymn “Leaning on the Everlasting Arms” by E.A. Hoffman.
Key lyrics:
You are the song in the night
Like bells on a hill still ringing
You are the song in the night
I cannot keep from singing
Favorite Songs:
All!
Listen to November Songs here.
Light in the Canyon – Sandra McCracken
****
Light in the Canyon is Sandra McCracken’s 17th album and is the follow-up to her early 2022 covers album Carry Each Other. The excellent new album was recorded on a weekend retreat in the Texas hill country at Laity Lodge. She reimagines with a jazz sound, some of her songs that span two decades of songwriting as well as including a new song. McCracken is accompanied by musicians John Pattiucci, Jon Cowherd, James McAlister, Andrew Osenga and John Raymond, as well as background singers. I especially enjoyed the outstanding piano work by Cowherd.
McCracken tells us that this is a collection of gospel songs, songs of truth and hope in an age of uncertainty. They are songs that help us remember what we believe, like light in a valley. They are also songs that correspond with her recent book, Send Out Your Light: The Illuminating Power of Scripture and Song.
Here are a few brief comments about each song:
Send Out Your Light – This song was written by McCracken and is based on Psalm 43. The song features, piano, horns, backing vocals, and drums. A great opening song.
Key lyrics:
Send out Your light and Your truth
Let them lead me
Bring me to Your holy hill
To Your dwelling
Then I will go to the alter of God
To God my exceeding joy
Then I will praise You with all my heart
Oh my joy, my joy
I Will Sing – This song of worship was written by McCracken and Leslie Jordan. The song features drums, piano, bass, and guitar.
Key lyrics:
With my mouth
I will tell of Your faithfulness
I’ll declare, Lord, Your covenant
With my life
Trinity Song – This song about the Father, Son and Holy Spirit was written by McCracken. The song features piano, guitar and horns.
Key lyrics:
Holy Father, Son and Spirit
Holy Communion, Three in One
Holy Father, Son and Spirit
Holy Communion, Three in One
Thy Mercy, My God – The lyrics to this song were written by John Stocker, and the music by McCracken. The beautiful worship song has McCracken accompanied by piano.
Key lyrics:
All praise to the Spirit, His whisper divine
Seals mercy and pardon, and righteousness mine
We Will Feast In The House Of Zion – This song was written by McCracken and Joshua David Moore. The song features piano, bass, light percussion, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
We will feast in the house of Zion
We will sing with our hearts restored
He has done great things, we will say together
We will feast and weep no more
Hold To God’s Unchanging Hand – This song was written by Jennie Wilson in 1906. The song features bass, guitar, piano and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Hold to God’s unchanging hand,
Hold to God’s unchanging hand;
Build your hopes on things eternal,
Hold to God’s unchanging hand
Call Upon Him – This song about prayer was written by McCracken, Rachael Lampa and Trillia Newbell. The song features drums, guitar, piano, bass and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Call upon Him, call upon Him
There is power in the Name
Call upon Him, call upon Him
There is power in the Name
Have Mercy – This song, a prayer, was written by McCracken and Thad Cockrell. The song features piano, drums, guitar, and bass.
Key lyrics:
Have mercy on us
Have mercy on us, O Lord
Christ Is The Life Of The World – This worship song was written by Sandra McCracken. The song features piano, light percussion and guitar, horns and some excellent bass.
Key lyrics:
Let us lift up, lift our hearts,
It is good to lift our hearts to the Lord
Until He Comes Again – This new song, which features Andrew Osenga, is about remembering what the Lord has done for us as we celebrate the Lord’s Supper and long for His return. The song features piano, bass, drums, guitar, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
By this we remember in love
As we gather with bread and wine
We remember until He comes again
Favorite songs
Send Out Your Light
I Will Sing
Thy Mercy, My God
We Will Feast in the House of Zion
Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand
Carry Each Other – Sandra McCracken
***
I was introduced to singer/songwriter Sandra McCracken over the past few years when I saw her perform at the Gospel Coalition National Conference and Sing! conferences. Carry Each Other, her follow-up to 2020’s excellent Patient Kingdom (my favorite album that year), has her covering eleven songs that have meant a lot to her.
About the album, McCracken has said:
“We are each carried by certain songs through pivotal moments of our lives. Alongside my love for songwriting and old hymns, I’m so excited to share this collection of songs written by some of the modern, musical truth-tellers who have carried me through some of my own life-seasons. I hope these recordings will shine light as you listen, reminding you of some of the songs that have carried you, too.”
The album was produced by Tyler Chester, and features McCracken’s excellent vocals accompanied by piano, acoustic guitar, bass, drums, synth, backing vocals, and strings. I’m not generally a fan of a covers album, such as Switchfoot’s 2020 album Covers, and though I most likely won’t listen to this one as much as Patient Kingdom, I was glad to hear McCracken’s interpretation of these songs, some of which I knew and some I didn’t.
Here is the track list:
One – This song was written by Bono, The Edge, Larry Mullen Jr., Adam Clayton and recorded by U2.
Only Love Can Break Your Heart – This song was written and recorded by Neil Young.
Most of the Time – This song was written and recorded by Bob Dylan.
Everybody Hurts – This song was written Mike Mills, Michael Stipe, Peter Buck, Bill Berry and recorded by R.E.M.
Heart of a Girl – This song was written by Brandon Flowers, Dave Keuning, Mark Stoermer, Ronnie Vannucci Jr., Daniel Lanois and recorded by The Killers.
Anthem – This song was written and recorded by Leonard Cohen.
Fairest of the Seasons – This song was written by Nico, Jackson Browne, Gregory Copeland and recorded by Nico.
Weather with You – This song was written by Neil Finn, Tim Finn and recorded by Crowded House.
It Ain’t Me, Babe – This song was written and recorded by Bob Dylan.
You Can Never Hold Back Spring – This song was written Tom Waits, Kathleen Brennan and recorded by Tom Waits.
What’ll I Do – This song was written by Irving Berlin and recorded by many artists including Frank Sinatra and Bob Dylan.
Christ Our Hope in Life and Death – Keith and Kristyn Getty
****
Keith and Kristyn Getty follow-up their 2021 album Confessio – Irish American Roots with Christ Our Hope in Life and Death, their first major collection of new hymns since 2016’s Facing A Task Unfinished. The new album, one of my favorites of 2022, features guest artists such as Michael W. Smith, Skye Peterson, Matt Boswell and Matt Papa, and Rend Collective.
Below are a few comments about each of the songs:
Christ Our Hope in Life and Death (Radio Mix) – This song was written by Keith Getty, Matt Boswell, Jordan Kauflin, Matt Merker and Matt Papa. It was produced by Bryan Fowler and features Michael W. Smith on vocals. Inspired by the first question of the Heidelberg Catechism, this is one of our best modern hymns. The song features backing vocals, drums, bass, piano, guitar, and strings.
Key lyrics:
O sing hallelujah!
Our hope springs eternal;
O sing hallelujah!
Now and ever we confess
Christ our hope in life and death
Rejoice – This joyful song was written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty, Ben Shive, Skye Peterson and Bryan Fowler. It was produced by Shive and Fowler and features Rend Collective on vocals. The song was written out of a desire to answer the question, “How do we find opening songs that are energetic, full of joy, but rich in the Bible?” The song puts Paul’s encouragement in Philippians 4:4 into song: “Rejoice in the Lord now and always, sing it again we rejoice.” The song features drums, backing vocals, guitar, bass, and guitar.
Key lyrics:
With each breath He’s given, praise the Lord
In these times we live in, we will praise the Lord
Throughout every season, I am sure
We have every reason to praise the Lord
The Lord Almighty Reigns – This song was written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty, Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. It was produced by Ben Shive and Bryan Fowler. The song features piano, bass, drums, guitar and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Certain of that day
Christ we will proclaim
Oh, that more would share the prize
Salvation in His name
Take Shelter – This song was written by Skye Peterson, Kristyn Getty and Ben Shive and produced by Shive. The song features Skye Peterson on vocals, piano, keys, guitar, bass, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
And I’ll take shelter
Take shelter
In the loving arms of God
On Jordan’s Stormy Banks – This hymn was written by 18th century London pastor Samuel Stennett and Christopher Miner, and produced by Ben Shive. The song features guitar, drums, bass, backing vocals, and a nice guitar solo.
Key lyrics:
When shall I reach that happy place
And be forever blessed?
When shall I see my Father’s face
And in His bosom rest?
Beautiful and Greatly Loved – This lullaby was written by Kristyn Getty and Jordyn Shellhart and introduced at the 2022 Sing! Conference. The song was produced by Ben Shive, and features guitar, strings, piano, drums, organ, bass, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
You are beautiful and greatly loved
Though the flower may fade
Your worth will never age
The breath of heaven from above
Flows through the both of us
Singing over us
You are greatly loved
Press On – This song was written by Kristyn Getty and Ben Shive and produced by Shive. The song features piano, drums, bass, organ, vocals by the Getty Girls, and a nice organ solo.
Key lyrics:
Press on all you saints
Press on till the end
Christ with us, ever with us
Until He comes again
Christ is All in All – This gospel flavored song, which debuted at the 2021 Sing! Conference, and was included on the live conference album, was written by Kristyn Getty, Ben Shive and Dwan Hill and produced by Shive. The song features guitar, organ, drums, backing vocals, bass and a nice organ solo.
Key lyrics:
Sons and daughters of the King
Rise up and sing
That Christ is all in all
Christ The True and Better – This song was written by Keith Getty, Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. It was produced by Ben Shive. The song initially appeared on Almost Home: The Hymns of Matt Boswell and Matt Papa Vol. 2, and is one that we have recently been singing in our church. The song features guitar, piano, bass, strings, backing vocals and some excellent drums.
Key lyrics:
He who makes the many righteous
Brings us back to life again
Dying, He reversed the curse, then
Rising, crushed the serpent’s head
If It Had Not Been for the Lord – This song was written by Kristyn Getty, Matt Boswell and Matt Papa, and produced by Ben Shive. The song features piano, bass, guitar, drums, and vocals from Matt Boswell and Matt Papa.
Key lyrics:
Our hope our help from age to age the same
Our God our rock most worthy to be praised
From this mount of grace our grateful hearts will say evermore
If it had not been for the Lord
Christ Our Hope in Life and Death – This is an alternate version of the title track, produced by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty and Nathan Nockels.
Favorite Songs
Christ Our Hope in Life and Death (Radio Mix)
Rejoice
The Lord Almighty Reigns
On Jordan’s Stormy Banks
Christ is All in All
Christ the True and Better
If It Had Not Been for the Lord
Together for the Gospel Live V – Matt Merker
****
This album features 19 classic and modern hymns sung at the final Together for the Gospel Conference at the Kentucky International Convention Center in Louisville in April, 2022. The hymns are led by modern hymn writer Matt Merker. It is a wonderful worship experience listening to Merker, on piano, lead ten thousand voices. The songs range from newer hymns such as “Christ Our Hope in Life and Death”, “Yet Not I But Christ in Me”, and “His Mercy is More” to older hymns such as “The King of Love (Psalm 23)”, “Crown Him With Many Crowns”, and “Rejoice the Lord is King”.
New Creation (Deluxe Version) – Mac Powell
****
Mac Powell (former lead singer of Third Day) has long been a favorite of mine. His 2021 album was one of my favorites last year. Here is my review of the album. Powell has now released a Deluxe Version of the album, which features two new songs and live versions of “Be Praised”, “River of Life”, “Love is the Reason” and “New Creation”, which were previously available on an EP.
Here is information on the two new songs:
You Are – This upbeat worship song was written by Hank Bentley, Jeff Pardo and Powell. The song features acoustic and electric guitar, drums, bass and hand claps, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
You are the way that I wanna be going
You are the truth I wanna know
You are the life that I wanna be living
Everywhere that I go
Jesus, You’re the answer
Savior and Friend – This song about the love of Jesus was written by Ethan Hulse, Jonathan Smith and Powell. The song features acoustic guitar, piano, backing vocals and drums.
Key lyrics:
Oh, how sweet it is
To be given a love without end
Just to know and live in your goodness
Jesus my savior and friend
There is One Gospel (Deluxe Edition) – CityAlight
****
There is One Gospel is a collection of new music for congregational worship by CityAlight, a music ministry from St. Paul’s church in Sydney, Australia. I recently got to see CityAlight for the first time at the 2022 Sing! Getty Music Worship Conference in Nashville, one of many highlights from the conference.
In a session at the conference entitled “Behind the Songs Live with CityAlight,” I learned that they intentionally write simple folk melodies, which might even sound familiar to us, to go along with their biblically informed lyrics. It is not unusual for them to take six months to write a song, as each song goes through several reviews.
Here are a few comments about each song on this excellent new album:
Every Step – This song was written by James Ferguson and Ian Lewis. The song features piano, drums, bass, guitar and backing vocals. The song is about trusting in Christ with every step we take.
Key lyrics:
For all of my days I will live for your glory
Running with courage and faith
The prize of my journey, the joy of salvation
To meet my King face to face
There is One Gospel – This song was written by Jonny Robinson and Rich Thompson. The song features piano, guitar, bass, drums, and backing vocals. The song is about the one Gospel on which we stand.
Key lyrics:
And when in glory still I will sing
Of this old story that rescued me
Praise to the Savior, the King of life
I stand in the Gospel of Jesus Christ
On That Day – This song was written by Scott Lavender, Jonny Robinson, Rich Thompson, Nigel Hendroff and Michael Farren. The song features piano, bass, guitar, drums and backing vocals. The song is about the resurrection day.
Key lyrics:
On that day we will see you shining brighter than the sun
On that day we will know you as we lift our voice as one
Till that day we will praise you for your never-ending grace
And we will keep on singing on that glorious day
Psalm 42 (I Will Praise Him Again) – This song was written by Jonny Robinson and Tiarne Tranter. This song, based on Psalm 42, was written after Tranter suffered a miscarriage. The beautiful song features piano, acoustic guitar, drums and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Why, my soul, are you downcast?
Why are you troubled within?
For I will hope in my Savior, my God
And will praise Him, yet praise Him again
This is the Day – This joyful song was written by Jonny Robinson, Rich Thompson and Tiarne Tranter. The song is based on Psalm 118:24. The song features guitar, drums, backing vocals and keys.
Key lyrics:
This is the day that the Lord has made
We will rejoice as we lift His name
This is the day that the Lord has made
Come and rejoice, we will rejoice and be glad in it
Known and Loved – This song was written by Tiarne Tranter, Jaywan Maxwell and Fiona Aghajanian. The song, about being known and loved by Jesus, features piano, guitar, bass, keys, drums and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
I come to Jesus, lay down my weakness
No need for hiding, here in His light
This truth I treasure, my peace forever
Is being known and loved by Him
Your Will Be Done – This song was written by Rich Thompson and Jonny Robinson. The song, based on Jesus’ prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane in Luke 22:42, features piano, guitar, bass, drums, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
And in this Name we overcome
For You shall see us safely home
Now as your church
We lift our voice and pray
Father, not my will but Yours be done
There is Hope – This song was written by Niki Shepherd and Paris Robertson. The song features piano, bass, drums, guitar, backing vocals and strings.
The song is about Jesus, our hope forever.
Key lyrics:
Jesus Christ my hope forever
Hope unlike the world can bring
Your steadfast love beyond all measure
There is hope in Christ my king
Bonus Tracks:
The Night Song – This beautiful song about Jesus, who has saved us from the darkness, was written by Colin Buchanan, Jonny Robinson and Rich Thompson, and features Buchanan. The song features piano, guitar, strings and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
All this day Your hand has held me
God of Heaven, by my side
Thank you, Father, for Your goodness
You will hold me through the night
It Was Finished Upon That Cross – This song, about the cross of Christ (John 19:30), was written by Jonny Robinson, Rich Thompson, and Nigel Hendroff. The song features piano, guitar, drums, bass, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Death was once my great opponent
Fear once had a hold on me
But the Son who died to save us
Rose that we would be free indeed!
Jesus Strong and Kind – This song was written by Jonny Robinson, Rich Thompson, Michael Farren and Colin Buchanan and features Buchanan. The song features keys, piano, bass, drums, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
For the Lord is good and faithful
He will keep us day and night
We can always run to Jesus
Jesus, strong and kind
Favorite Songs
All
Life After Death – TobyMac
****
Life After Death is 57-year-old TobyMac’s eighth studio album, and his first since 2018’s The Elements and the 2019 death of his 21-year-old son Truett from an accidental drug overdose. The 15-song album is the best I have heard this year.
Eight of the fifteen songs were released prior to the official album release date. The songs, which date from 2020’s “21 Years” and “I’m Sorry (a lament)”, include themes of loss, lament, hope, racial equality, the goodness of God, relationships, living for Christ and rest. Toby has said that there is life after death, and that the album chronicles the journey he has been on over the last two years. And somehow, through it all, he has experienced the goodness of God.
There are several collaborations on the album, including with Blessing Offor, Tauren Wells, Sheryl Crow, Zach Williams, and former DC Talk bandmates Michael Tait, and Kevin Max. Musically, the songs feature excellent, catchy melodies and beats, and the production is top notch. In other words, exactly what you would expect from a TobyMac album.
Below are a few comments about each song:
Help Is On The Way (Maybe Midnight) – This song was written and produced by Micah Kuiper and Toby, and features Jon Reddick, Gabe Real, Michael Cochran, and Kuiper on backing vocals. The upbeat song was released in February 2021 and was a hit on Christian radio. This was the first song of hope that Toby wrote after the death of Truett. A great start to the album and it was the opening song on his recent tour.
Key lyric:
It may be midnight or mid-day
He’s never early, never late
He gonna stand by what He claimed
I lived enough life to say…
Help is on the way
The Goodness – This joyful song was written by Kyle Williams, Gabe Real, Bryan Fowler and Toby. It was produced by Fowler, Williams and Toby, and features vocals from Blessing Offor, and backing vocals from Fowler, Williams, Real and Ryan Stevenson. Through the good and the bad and the ugly, he can still see the sunshine above him.
Key lyric:
Everywhere that I go
You keep showin’ up
Lord, You make me wanna shout it, oh
You’re the goodness in my life
Deeper – This song was written and produced by Micah Kuiper and Toby, and features Tauren Wells on vocals. The song features bass, percussion, and backing vocals. He wants to go deeper. He is tired of surface level conversations and friendships.
Key lyric:
Deeper, I wanna go deeper
I’m gettin’ tired of the surface
Show Up Choose Love – This song about racial unity, was written by Jon Reddick, Tommy Sims, Janice Gaines, Micah Kuiper, Benji Cowart, Tony Wood and Toby. The song was produced by Kuiper, Reddick and Toby, and features Worship Pastor Jon Reddick on vocals. The song features keys, bass, drums, and a choir. Sometimes the next right thing is all you can do.
Key lyric:
We’ve come a long way
Been through some dark days
We seen some things change
And we shall overcome
Promised Land (Collab OG) – This song was written by Adam Agee and Toby and produced by Micah Kuiper and Toby. This is an alternate version of the “Promised Land” radio single and features Sheryl Crow on vocals. The song features guitar, bass, drums, and backing vocals. Toby and Crow’s voices blend well. The song claims that in the midst of his grief, God is still his Promised Land.
Key lyric:
Through all these seasons
I’m still believin’
You’re my promised land
In all my grievin’
I’m still believin’
You’re my promised land
Everything About You – This song was written by Marlee, Jon Reddick and Toby, and produced by Bryan Fowler, Kyle Williams, and Toby. The song features Toby’s daughter Marlee on vocals in this heartfelt song about missing Truett. The song features a live orchestra (strings and horns), drums, bass, keys, and organ.
Key lyric:
I miss everything about you
I just miss bein’ around you
Outta sight, outta mind
Don’t add up, not this time
It’s the cold truth
I miss everything
Life On It – This hard-driving song was written by Bryan Fowler, Saint X, Reske, Ging, and Toby. The song is produced by Fowler, Saint X, Micah Kuiper, and Toby and features Sarah Reeves on vocals. The song features, keys, guitar, drums, horns, and a rap by Toby. He’d rather live for something than to die for nothing.
Key lyric:
From the blessings poured out to me losin’ my son
You’re my way and my truth, I’m a disciple of You
Through the highs and the lows, my heart will always stay true
They could put me in chains, they could lock me away
They would slay me in vain, I will always remain
Faithfully – This song was written by Kyle Williams and Toby, and produced by Micah Kuiper, Williams, and Toby. The song features horns, bass, strings, guitar and backing vocals. He may never be the same man, but he’s a man who still believes.
Key lyric:
‘Cause when my world broke into pieces
You were there faithfully
When I cried out to You, Jesus
You made a way for me
Cornerstone – This upbeat worship song, which has a bit of a classic rock sound, was written and produced by Micah Kuiper, Bryan Fowler and Toby, and features Zach Williams on vocals. The song features drums, guitar, bass, and backing vocals and samples some of the 1834 hymn “My Hope is Built on Nothing Less” by Edward Mote.
Key lyric:
You’re the only Rock that I could ever stand on
You’re the only one for me
Found – This upbeat praise song was written by Lydia Lubben, Dave Lubben, Mutiat Isola and Toby and produced by Dave Lubben and Toby. The song features Terrian and Wande and Terrian. The song features keys, piano, guitar, drums, and backing vocals. He once was lost, but now he’s forever His.
Key lyric:
All I am is because of You
All I’ll be is because of You
All I was is lost
But now I’m found
Fire’s Burnin’ – This upbeat worship song was written and produced by Micah Kuiper, Bryan Fowler and Toby, and features Cory Asbury on vocals. The song features guitar, bass, drums, backing vocals and a memorable chorus.
Key lyric:
I put it all on the table
You’re the one that I choose
You got my whole heart, Lord
This fire’s burnin’ for You
Space – This song about relationships was written and produced by Dave Lubben and Toby, and features DC Talk bandmates Michael Tait and Kevin Max on vocals. The song features keys, drums, percussion, guitar, bass and backing vocals, and could be about the space that has grown in the relationship between the three. The song includes a bit of 1 Corinthians 13. It is great to hear their three voices together again.
Key lyric:
How can we start to erase?
How can we start to erase this space between us?
21 Years – This powerful song was written by Bryan Fowler, Blake NeeSmith, and Toby in 2020, as a tribute to Toby’s son Truett, a song Toby never wanted to write. The song was produced by Fowler and Toby. The song features keys and strings.
Key lyric:
Well until this show is over
And you run into my arms
God has you in Heaven
But I have you in my heart
I’m Sorry – This song was written by and produced by Tommee Proffit and Toby. The song laments our falling short of what Jesus asks of us as His church in Matthew 5, 6 and 7. The song ends Toby reciting the Beatitudes. The song features keys, drums, a choir and a passionate vocal by Toby.
Key lyric:
Wake us up, wake us up, wake us up, Lord
Wake us up, wake us up, wake us up
Rest – This short ending song was written and produced by Dave Lubben and Toby, and features Terrian and Gabe Real on vocals. The song features keys, strings, guitar, and backing vocals. This song about the Sabbath includes each artist sharing a Bible verse about the topic.
Key lyric:
Fall into the arms of God and rest your weary head
Just rest
Favorite songs:
Help Is On The Way (Maybe Midnight)
The Goodness
Promised Land (Collab OG)
Life On It
Faithfully
Found
Fire’s Burnin’
Space
21 Years
I’m Sorry (a lament)
Worship Forever – Michael W. Smith
***
Michael W. Smith’s best-selling album is Worship, which was released on September 11, 2001, the day our nation was attacked. As a way to honor the tragic September 11 anniversary, Smith has released a reimagined version of the album. Worship Forever was recorded in front of a live audience in Nashville in July with a full symphony orchestra, choir and guest appearances by Amy Grant, Matt Redman, and Tauren Wells.
Smith adds a few newer songs to the track list including “Surrounded/Waymaker” and the new studio recording, the piano and orchestra driven “Sing Again.” Below is the chorus for “Sing Again”:
This lonely heart will sing again
These barren lungs will breathe again
Through suffering we’re stronger
In the palm of His hand
Like a beacon in the night
Hope illuminates the sky
Reaching for each other
And as we carry on
We are keepers of the light
The project is very well done, though Smith performs the songs a bit slower with the orchestra than he did on the original album.
Here is the track list for Worship Forever:
Forever
Heart of Worship (featuring Matt Redman)
Draw Me Close
Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus
Open the Eyes of My Heart
Above All
Breathe
Let It Rain
Agnus Dei (featuring Amy Grant)
Awesome God
More Love, More Power (featuring Tauren Wells)
Surrounded/Waymaker (not on original album)
Forever (reprise)
Sing Again (new song)
What Are We Waiting For? for KING & COUNTRY
***
The Australian duo for KING & COUNTRY, comprised of brothers Joel Smallbone and Luke Smallbone, follow up their 2018 album Burn the Ships and their 2020 Christmas album A Drummer Boy Christmas with What Are We Waiting For? Their fifth studio album features their distinctive sound of bass, drums and strong vocals. Themes on the album include being the same in different ways, letting go of mistakes we’ve made, God loving us as we are, racial unity, holding on till the pain ends, parents, commitment in marriage, differences, and worship.
Below are a few brief comments about each song:
Relate – This song was the first single from the album and was written by Joel Smallbone, Luke Smallbone, Josh Kerr and Tayla Parx, and produced by Kerr, Tedd T and for KING & COUNTRY. The song, which reached number one on Christian radio, features keys, bass, drums, and backing vocals, and tells us that we don’t know what it’s like to be one another but by the grace of God we’ll see each other’s heart.
Key lyric:
I don’t know what it’s like to be you
You don’t know what it’s like to be me
What if we’re all the same in different kinds of ways
Can you, can you relate?
Broken Halos – This song was written by Josh Kerr, Mick Coogan, Joel Smallbone and Luke Smallbone, produced by Kerr, Tedd T and for KING & COUNTRY. The song features synth, keys, drums, bass, and backing vocals. We can take our mistakes and let them go because we all wear broken halos.
Key lyric:
Don’t you dare, don’t you dare
Don’t you hang your head
Love Me Like I Am – This song was written Michael Pollack, Josh Kerr, Luke Smallbone and Joel Smallbone, and produced by Jeff Sojka, Kerr and for KING & COUNTRY. The song features keys, bass, drums and backing vocals. The song could be addressing horizontal or vertical love.
Key lyric:
It’s amazing that You can
Love me like I am
And even when I can’t
You still love me as I am
Unity – This song was written Tony Williams, Federico Vindver, Josh Kerr, Luke Smallbone and Joel Smallbone, and produce by Vindver, Kerr and for KING & COUNTRY. The song about racial unity features Dante Bowe on vocals, keys, bass, drums, and a choir.
Key lyric:
Save us from this madness
Heal us from this sadness
Lead us to what matters
Closer to You
For God Is With Us – This song was written by Joel Smallbone, Luke Smallbone, Jordan Reynolds and Josh Kerr, and produced by Aqualung, Kerr, Tedd T, Benjamin Backus and for KING & COUNTRY. The song features guitar, keys, bass, drums and backing vocals. The song about Jesus addresses his birth, crucifixion and present reign.
Key lyric:
Can you feel the hope that’s rushin’ in?
Can you hear the song that’s echoin’?
Join with the choir as we sing
This is where love truly begins
Hold On Pain Ends – This song was written by Luke Smallbone, Joel Smallbone, Jordan Reynolds and Josh Kerr, and produced by Kerr, Benjamin Backus, Tedd T and for KING & COUNTRY. The song about holding on until pain ends features bass, drums, bass and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
When it’s hard to say amen
And it doesn’t go as planned
When it’s more than you can stand
You can hold onto me then
Unsung Hero – This song was written by Seth Mosley, Luke Smallbone, Joel Smallbone, and Federico Vindver, and produced by Vindver, Mosley and for KING & COUNTRY. The tender song about mothers and fathers, features strings, backing vocals, and guitar.
Key lyric:
You’re an unsung hero, so I’ll sing this song for you
Harmony – This short song was written by Federico Vindver, Aqualung, Seth Mosley, Luke Smallbone and Joel Smallbone, and produced by Mosely, Vindver and for KING & COUNTRY. The song features Sleeping at Last, keys, strings and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Just the way that you taught us
Sing our songs, our melodies
In harmony
Shy – This song was written by Josh Kerr, Luke Smallbone, Joel Smallbone and Taylor Hill, and produced by Tedd T, Kerr and for KING & COUNTRY. The song features bass, drums, and backing vocals. The song addresses not being shy about our faith, despite the fear.
Key lyric:
When the world is trying to cut me up
And the fear is running through my mind
You won’t see me backing down
I’m not gonna be shy
Together – This song was written by Joel Smallbone, Luke Smallbone, Josh Kerr, Kirk Franklin, Ran Jackson and Ricky Jackson, and produced by Kerr, Federico Vindver and Benjamin Backus. Kirk Franklin and Tori Kelly are featured on vocals. This song was released in May, 2020 and was a number one song on Christian radio. It was previously released on the Burn the Ships Deluxe Edition: Remixes and Collaborations album. The song is about how together with our differences, we are bolder, braver and stronger.
Key lyric:
If you’re lookin’ for hope tonight, raise your hand
If you feelin’ alone and don’t understand
If you’re fightin’ in the fight of your life, then stand
We’re gonna make it through this hand-in-hand
Seasons – This love song was written by Michelle Buzz, Josh Kerr, Luke Smallbone and Joel Smallbone, and produced by Tedd T, Kerr and for KING & COUNTRY. The song features keys, backing vocals, bass and drums.
Key lyric:
On the day that I met you
You knew that I knew
When I said that I choose you
You know I still do
Cheering You On – This song was written by Josh Kerr, Jordan Reynolds, Luke Smallbone, and Joel Smallbone, and produced by Kerr and for KING & COUNTRY. The song features synth, drums, keys, bass, and backing vocals. The song is about cheering on a friend who is going through a difficult time.
Key lyric:
I’ll be cheering you on when no one else will
I’ll be cheering you on as you run your race
Benediction – This beautiful worship song was written by Nicolas Balachandran, Ricky Jackson, Ran Jackson, Josh Kerr, Luke Smallbone and Joel Smallbone and produced by Kerr. The song features organ,
Key lyric:
With all my mind
With all my strength
I want to be just like You
In all my days
In all my ways
I want to be just like You
Favorite songs:
Relate
Together
Benediction
Milk & Honey Tour: Austin City Limits Live – Crowder
***
Crowder released his excellent Milk & Honey album in June, 2021. It was one of my favorite albums last year. A deluxe edition was released in March, 2022, containing a few new songs and mixes. Now, a live album Milk & Honey Tour: Austin City Limits has been released. Crowder is an excellent live performer, and the songs featured here – all but “How Great Thou Art: by Chidima and “Child of God”, are from the Milk & Honey album – are high energy and worshipful.
What’s It Gonna Take? by Van Morrison
*** ½
This is Van Morrison’s 43rd studio album, following 2021’s Latest Record Project Vol. 1. See my review of that album here. With the fourteen new songs here, Morrison has now released an amazing forty-two songs over the past year.
The album cover features a couple running away from the city on puppet strings with “Wake Up” in the background. Many of the songs on the album are about Morrison’s reaction to the COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions. I write this review from the perspective of living in a state that had some of the strongest COVID restrictions in the U.S. I’m also writing from the perspective of someone who nearly lost his brother to the virus.
My wife and I saw Morrison in concert two weeks before this album’s release. His voice is still an incredible instrument at age 76, as he leads his incredible band, showcased on this album. Morrison did not perform any of the songs on this new album in the concert.
Although some may disagree with some of the lyrics on the album, few will disagree that Morrison and his band deliver excellent performances here. Themes on the album are the impact of the COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions (depression, misery and strife), the need to fight back, freedom, government lies, the media/fake news, free speech and celebrity
Dangerous – This upbeat song is about Morrison’s feud with Robin Swann, the Northern Ireland Minister of Health, who last fall filed a defamation lawsuit against Morrison. The song showcases the band, featuring Richard Dunn on Hammond organ and Seth Lakeman on fiddle.
Key lyric:
Somebody said I was dangerous
I said something bad, and it must’ve been good
Somebody said I was dangerous
I must be getting close to the truth
What’s It Gonna Take? – This upbeat song asks what’s it gonna take for people to wake up, or be broken. He addresses politicians, singing that the lockdown is making us crazy and freedom is a God given right. The song features hand claps, background vocals, trumpet by Crawford Bell, and Hammond organ by Richard Dunn.
Key lyrics:
What’s it gonna take for you to wake up?
What’s it gonna take for you to break?
Fighting Back Is the New Normal – This upbeat song is driven by the Hammond organ by Richard Dunn, piano by Stuart McElroy, drums by Collin Griffin and background vocals by Jolene O’Hara. He sings that fighting back is essential, we’ve gotta stop sitting on the fence.
Key lyrics:
Fighting back is the new normal
Gotta take a tip from the French
Fodder for the Masses – This song is about fake news that fills us with fear so that we will follow their rules. If you don’t accept it, you’re accused of being a conspiracy theorist. The song is driven by bass from Pete Hurley, piano from Stuart McElroy, backing vocals from Jolene O’Hara and Dana Masters and Hammond organ from Richard Dunn.
Key lyrics:
Fill you up with fake news for their masters
They know exactly just what they’re after
Get you to submit, get you to quit
If you don’t follow, follow all the rules like a fool
Can’t Go On This Way – This song, which has a slower pace, is about not being able to go on under the lockdowns (no holidays, travel abroad, etc.) and the lying by the government. The song features Richard Dunn on Hammond organ and Mike Barkley on trumpet.
Key lyrics:
Everyone is just sad
But not sad enough
To start getting mad
Sometimes It’s Just Blah Blah Blah – This mid-tempo song is about the lockdowns, restrictions and government lying. The song features Morrison on sax and Richard Dunn on Hammond organ, and ends with Beach Boys like vocals.
Key lyrics:
How do you like the new normal?
Tell me, how is that goin’ for you?
How did you overcome the restrictions?
How do you handle the news?
Money From America – On this blues song, he sings that there’s no such thing as free money. There’s no more Economic forum. He sings that Prince Charles, Mark Zuckerberg and Bill Gates are staring at the gates from Hell. The song features bass from Pete Hurley, guitar from Dave Keary, Hammond organ from Richard Dunn, and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Don’t need no government telling me
Telling me my business
Got to tell them
Tell them to go away, go away
Not Seeking Approval – On this song, Morrison sings that his name is muck and he’s run out of luck. He sings that they want to enslave the population. You have to comply to even exist as experts run your life, causing misery and strife. But for them it’s just business as usual, they’re not seeking our approval. The song features bass by Pete Hurley, Hammond organ by Richard Dunn, drums from Colin Griffin and backing vocals by Dana Masters.
Key lyrics:
You think it’s about a virus, yes, it is
Well, it’s me and you against us
Damage and Recovery – This mid-tempo song with a memorable chorus, asks how long this can go this time. They tried it on for size and took our rights before our eyes. The lockdown brought this misery, now it’s damage and recovery. This song features piano by John McCullough, saxophone by Morrison, drums by Eamon Ferris, backing vocals by Kelly Smiley,
Key lyrics:
In our so-called free society
Is freedom just a memory?
Nervous Breakdown – This song has Morrison, as band leader, beginning the song by bringing the different aspects into the song (“First we start with the drums, then the bass….”). He asks “Is it any wonder at this time, not much is working for me?” The song features drums by Colin Griffin, bass by Pete Hurley, piano by Stuart McElroy, Hammond organ by Richard Dunn, Paul O’Reilly on saxophone, Mike Barkley on trumpet, and Jolene O’Hara and Kelly Smiley on backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
When you’re not allowed free expression
Or to follow your obsession
Showed you’re not essential, it’s a crime
Against humanity
Is it any wonder at this time?
Not much is working for me
Absolutely Positively the Most – On this song, which has a Ray Charles/gospel sound, Morrison sings that he is a preacher and teacher. He’s the master of his own soul. With his joy and freedom, where does he belong but God? When he sings “Pick your own salvation”, it reminds me of his song “Precious Time” from the Back on Top album, when he sings that it doesn’t matter to which God you pray. It’s unclear who the “He” is as he sings “He’s absolutely positively the most”. The song features an excellent Hammond organ solo by Richard Dunn, drums by Colin Griffin, bass by Pete Hurley, and backing vocals by Dana Masters and Kelly Smiley.
Key lyrics:
But restriction is a sin
It cannot win if we’re not free
Be ourselves, the wisest men say
Freedom is two-edged sword
I Ain’t No Celebrity – This song, which has a country feel, Morrison sings that he’s no celebrity, playing music is enough for him. The song features backing vocals by Dana Masters and Jolene O’Hara, Hammond organ by Richard Dunn, drums by Colin Griffin and piano by Stuart McElroy.
Key lyrics:
I ain’t no celebrity
Playing music is enough for me
Stage Name – This song is about stage names for celebrities. The song features Hammond organ by Richard Dunn, piano by Stuart McElroy, and backing vocals by Dana Masters.
Key lyric:
It’s a stage name
Not a real name
Could be a nicknam
Or a make-it-stick name
Fear and Self-Loathing in Las Vegas – This song has Morrison going through the day preparing for an evening show that night in Las Vegas. The song features an excellent saxophone solo by Morrison, bass by Pete Hurley, drums by Colin Griffin, and Hammond organ by Richard Dunn,
Key lyrics:
Step right up
Step right up now
Ain’t you glad you made it here tonight?
Tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight
Pretending – This song finds Morrison pretending his life is not in ruins and that he’s not depressed. The song features John McCullough on piano, Richard Dunn on Hammond organ, Mike Barkley on trumpet, and Jolene O’Hara on backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Pretending makes the world go round
People love it when you wear that mask
Favorite Songs
Dangerous
Damage and Recovery
Nervous Breakdown
Absolutely Positively the Most
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas
Pretending
New Creation – Mac Powell
****
I’ve long enjoyed Mac Powell’s music, mostly from his time as lead singer of four-time Grammy winners Third Day. I also enjoyed his 2019 album Back Again with Mac Powell and the Family Reunion. In fact, my wife Tammy and I saw Powell with his band the Family Reunion in November 2019, which was the last concert we saw before concerts were shut down due to the pandemic.
Me and Mac
Powell has also released two country music solo albums, but this is his first solo album of Christian music, and it’s a good one. He brings his distinctive baritone voice – one of the best in music – to these songs with a bit of a country/southern flavor. The album is produced by Jonathan Smith, Hank Bentley, Jeff Pardo, Seth Mosely, Colby Wedgeworth, and Ed Cash. Powell co-wrote each song, collaborating with Jonathan Smith, Ethan Hulse, Seth Mosley, Jeff Pardo, Brenton Brown, Hank Bentley, Matt Maher, Benji Cowart, Casey Beathard and Tommy Iceland.
Below are a few comments about each song:
River of Life – This upbeat anthem features organ, hand claps, backing vocals, guitar, bass and drums. There is healing in the river of life.
Key lyrics:
Brothers, sisters, come on down to that river
Guaranteed you’ll never be the same
There’s a fountain flowing from the heart of the Savior
Bring your sins and all your guilty stains
Let that river of life wash it all away
New Creation – This joyful song tells how God changed Powell (2 Corinthians 5:17). The song features backing vocals, hand claps, guitar, bass and drums.
Key lyrics:
You brought me blessings out of tragedy
You turned my old song into a symphony
And with your Spirit living inside of me
I’m a new creation
I’m a new creation
Love is the Reason – In this song, which Powell has said is his favorite on the album, Powell looks at three situations (his mom taking him to church, his brother fighting in the war, and Jesus dying for our sins), and says love was the reason for all three. The song features guitar, percussion, piano, organ, bass and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Love is the reason, love is the reason
Oh, love is the reason that I go
Standing up for what I believe in
That’s where my heart is leading
And love is the reason that I go
Be Praised – This song is about the name of the Lord being praised. The song features piano, bass, drums and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
From the rising of the sun
To going down of the same
Let the name of the Lord be praised
Both now and forever more
All of heaven and earth proclaim
The name of the Lord be praised
1991 – This joyful song is about Powell being saved in 1991 at the age of 18. The song features guitar, drums, organ, hand claps, bass, piano, backing vocals and keys.
Key lyric:
By April 21st, 1991 I was worn out
tired from all the miles that I had run
Saw an old church and walked right in
Same old truth but it felt new then
On April 21st, 1991
The Center of It All – This song features guitar, drums, organ, piano, and bass. The song is about how from the beginning to the ending of Scripture Jesus is the center of it all.
Key lyrics:
From the beginning to the ending, You’re the center of it all
It’s for You and it’s from You, You and You alone
The Author of our story, let it all be for Your glory
From the beginning to the ending, You’re the center of it all
Joy of the Lord – This upbeat song about the joy of the Lord, based on Psalm 118:14, features keys, guitar, drums, bass, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
The joy of the Lord is my strength and my song
That sweet melody in my soul all day long
No matter what comes I’ll just keep going on
Cause’ the joy of the Lord is my strength and my song
Jesus You Are – The song about Jesus being whatever we need, features piano, hand claps, organ, backing vocals, and drums.
Key lyrics:
When I need rescue
You are my ransom
When I need shelter
You are my home
When I am weak Lord
You’re what I reach for
Lord I believe, whatever I need, Jesus you are
Everlasting Arms – This song about the everlasting arms of God, samples “Leaning on the Everlasting Arms” by Anthony J. Showalter and Elisha Hoffman. The song features piano, organ, backing vocals, guitar, bass, drums,
Key lyrics:
In the morning I am met with Your mercy
In the evening I am wrapped in Your love
There’s no end to Your reach
There’s no place I’d rather be
I’m leaning on Your everlasting arms
Baptized – This song about being baptized, features Matt Maher on vocals, and piano, guitar, bass, drums, and backing vocals. The song references the hymn “Nothing But the Blood of Jesus” by Robert Lowry.
Key lyrics:
Tell me how deep and wide is the love of Jesus
My soul will testify to the water’s edges
I’ve been born again
Had to die to find new life
In the water, in the fire
I’ve been baptized
All of the songs are strong musically and lyrically. My favorites are:
River of Life
Be Praised
1991
Everlasting Arms
Baptized
Sing! In Christ Alone. Live at the Getty Music Worship Conference – Keith & Kristyn Getty and Friends
****
This is the fifth live album that Keith & Kristyn Getty have released from their annual Sing! conferences (one for each conference). I always enjoy these albums as they bring back special memories from attending the conference. Sing! In Christ Alone was recorded at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville in September 2021. The sixteen songs on the album feature artists such as Keith & Kristyn Getty, Matt Boswell and Matt Papa, Dana Masters, Laura Story, Chris Tomlin, Sandra McCracken, Jubilant Sykes, Bill Gaither, Buddy Greene, CityAlight and more.
Below is the album track list:
Psalm 150 (Praise the Lord) – This song was written and performed by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa.
Come Thou Almighty King – This song was written by Felice De Giardini, and arranged by Tommy Bailey, Sarah Gehri, Nathan Mickle and Tom Yarbrough. The lead vocal is performed by Tommy Bailey.
Amazing Grace – The lyrics of this song were written by John Newton. The lead vocals are performed by Kristyn Getty and Dana Masters, with saxophone from Kirk Whalum.
Christ is All in All. This new song, which debuted at the conference, was written by Kristyn Getty, Ben Shive and Dwan Hill. The lead vocal is performed by Kristyn Getty.
All Hail the King of Heaven This song was written and performed by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa.
Speak O Lord – This song was written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend. The lead vocal is performed by Laura Story.
His Mercy is More – This song was written and performed by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa, and features Shane and Shane.
Pass the Promise – This new song, which debuted at the conference, was written and performed by Kristyn Getty and Sandra McCracken.
Almost Home – This song was written by Matt Boswell, Matt Papa and Lauren Papa and performed by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa, and features Shane and Shane.
Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child – This traditional African-American spiritual was sung by Jubilant Sykes.
Is He Worthy – This song was written by Andrew Peterson and Ben Shive and sung by Chris Tomlin.
Because He Lives – This song was written by Bill Gaither and Gloria Gaither. Bill Gaither leads the audience in singing the song, accompanied by Keith Getty on piano and Buddy Greene on harmonica.
It Was Finished Upon That Cross – This song was written by Rich Thompson, Jonny Robinson and Nigel Hendroff, and performed by CityAlight.
Kristus Yang Indah (The Beautiful Christ) – This song was written and performed by Stefanie Limanputri.
Él Me Sostendrá (He Will Hold Me Fast) – This song was written by Matt Merker and performed in Spanish by Iglesia Bautista Ozama church.
In Christ Alone – This song was written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend, and sung by Kristyn Getty and Travis Cottrell.
Milk & Honey Deluxe Edition – Crowder
****
Crowder’s album Milk & Honey was one of my favorites of 2021. Here’s my review of the album. Now, a Deluxe edition of the album has been released, with six new tracks. They are:
King – which features Maverick City Gospel Choir. The one new song on the expanded edition.
Milk & Honey – a remix from Paradis.
God Really Loves Us – which was recorded live with Chidima at the 2022 Passion Conference.
In the House – radio version.
In the House – acoustic version.
In the House – recorded live at Austin City Limits.
I enjoyed the additional songs, but really see no reason for releasing three additional versions of “In the House”, Crowder’s latest single.
Favorite songs on Deluxe Edition:
King
God Really Loves Us
Stomping Ground – Dion
****
I first became interested in Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Dion (DiMucci), now 82, when he recorded five Contemporary Christian Music albums between 1980 and 1986. I’ve enjoyed his music ever since.
Dion follows up his 2020 album Blues with Friends (one of my favorites that year), with Stomping Ground, a blues album that again finds him collaborating with music greats with whom he shares mutual admiration. Most of the album’s fourteen songs were written by Dion and his songwriting partner Mike Aquilina. The sole non-original is “Red House,” the Jimi Hendrix song that has become a blues standard.
The album was produced by Wayne Hood with Dion, and features guests Boz Scaggs, Mark Knopfler, Eric Clapton, Peter Frampton, Patti Scialfa, Bruce Springsteen, Billy F Gibbons, Keb’ Mo’, Sonny Landreth, Joe Menza, Mike Menza, Marcia Ball, Jimmy Vivino, Rickie Lee Jones, Wayne Wood, Joe Bonamassa, and G.E. Smith. The liner notes were written by Pete Townshend.
The track listing for Stomping Ground is:
- Take It Back with Joe Bonamassa
- Hey Diddle Diddle with G.E. Smith
- Dancing Girl with Mark Knopfler
- If You Wanna Rock n’ Roll with Eric Clapton
- There Was a Time with Peter Frampton
- Cryin’ Shame with Sonny Landreth
- The Night Is Young with Joe Menza & Wayne Hood
- That’s What the Doctor Said with Steve Conn
- My Stomping Ground with Billy Gibbons
- Angel In the Alleyways with Patti Scialfa and Bruce Springsteen
- I’ve Got to Get to You with Boz Scaggs and Joe and Mike Menza
- Red House with Keb’ Mo’
- I Got My Eyes on You Baby with Marcia Ball and Jimmy Vivino
- I’ve Been Watching with Rickie Lee Jones and Wayne Hood
I thoroughly enjoyed this album and the talents the collaborators brought to these songs. My favorite songs were:
- If You Wanna Rock n’ Roll with Eric Clapton
- That’s What the Doctor Said with Steve Conn
- My Stomping Ground with Billy Gibbons
- Angel in The Alleyways with Patti Scialfa and Bruce Springsteen
- I’ve Got To Get To You with Boz Scaggs and Joe and Mike Menza
The End – Trip Lee
****
The End is the multi-talented (pastor, conference speaker, author, rapper), Trip Lee’s first new album since 2016’s The Waiting Room. Lee has said that the title symbolizes coming to the end of ourselves, where one door closes so another can open. Themes on the album include Lee’s return to music after six years, dealing with illness for fifteen years, Christ being better than riches, Heaven, divisions in our society, fame, things he wishes were different in the world, having nothing left to prove, love for his wife and new life in Christ.
Here are a few brief comments about each song:
Let Go – This song was written and produced by Lee. Most of the vocals on this song are handled by Chastity (Chazz). Lee sings only the fourth verse.
Key lyric:
Lord, grab my soul
Lose my hold on things that hold me back
Right Out the Gate – This hard-hitting song was written and produced by Mashell and Lee. Some thought he had left music, but he’s back, still on his game.
Key lyric:
Thought he was gone, I think He back
He ain’t wait long, on the attack
Still unashamed, you know it’s facts
You Got It – This hard-hitting song, which was originally released on Reach Records Summer Twenty-One release, was written and produced by Mashell and Lee. Where else can he go? Riches don’t satisfy. Christ has the words of eternal life (John 6:68).
Key lyric:
But I know, all them others leave us in the cold
I don’t wanna gain the world and lose my soul
Homecoming – This song was written by Mashell and Lee and produced by Mashell and Juice Bangers. The song is about going home to Heaven. The list of his sins is a mile long but the bill is paid for.
Key lyric:
When I’m gone, who cares if I’m known
I’m just headed home
Witness This song was written by Wande, WHATUPRG, Lee, Mashell and Juice Bangers. It was produced by Lee, Juice Bangers and Mashell and features Wande and WHATUPRG. God is his witness. He has nothing to prove.
Key lyric:
Your expectations, that’s yours to own
No borders, out here tryna please the Lord alone
Put Your Weapon Down – This hard-driving song was written and produced by Lee and 1995 (Producer) and features 1K Phew. The song addresses the divisions in society, where all we seem to do is pick sides and criticize.
Key lyric:
We know what we hate
And we know what we ain’t
But if he call us saints
What kind of picture do we paint?
All Mine – This mid-tempo song was written by Mashell and Lee, produced by Mashell and features Taylor Hill. Here Lee addresses fame. He’s been out there living like it’s all his.
Key lyric:
The whole world is my stage
I’m allergic to the small time
I been out here living like it’s all mine
Supernatural – This song was written and produced by Juice Bangers, Lee and Mashell. The song addresses some of the things Lee wishes were different in the world, some serious (racism, violence, politics, church corruption), and some not so serious (Dr. Pepper) and the solution being the Lord.
Key lyric:
If I have to, we can skip the hassle
Show you what them facts do
They say he a natural
But we need supernatural, we need supernatural
The way He acts do it seem so supernatural?
End of Me (Interlude) – This short song was written and produced by Lee and features Chastity (Chazz) on vocals.
Key lyric:
The end of me may taste bittersweet
But that’s where You tend to be
Dreamin – This slow rap was written and produced by Lee, Enzo Gran and 1995 (Producer). The song features keys and Lee vulnerably addressing the illness that he has battled for years, repeated doctor visits and prescriptions that don’t work.
Key lyric:
Cause what good is a dream, if it don’t submit to the king?
It’s all his anyway, I’ll let him do his thing
Call It Life – This song was written and produced by Lee, 1995 (Producer) and Enzo Gran. It’s a musically interesting song. Once he saw the light, that’s all he likes. Loving God isn’t going to blend with loving money or the world in the end.
Key lyric:
Was blind to His wonder, Stevie
He’s the key to life, He lead me
Wake Up – This hard-driving song was written by 1995 (Producer), Enzo Gran, Lee and KB, and produced by 1995 (Producer), Enzo Gran and Lee. The song features KB, and is the first time Lee and KB have collaborated since 2013’s “The Saints”.
Key lyric:
They talk jewelry, but I’m talking about the Judge now
Before the Lord touch down, hands up, boy, wake up
Stone – This hard-driving song was written by Lee, Mashell and Juice Bangers and produced by Mashell and Juice Bangers. The song includes snippets of sermons from Pastor E.K. Bailey. The song is about Earth not being our home but we still having work to do.
Key lyric:
Can’t kick my feet up ’cause I ain’t home
You can tell ’em put that in stone
Know It – This easy-going love song to Lee’s wife was written and produced by 1995 (Producer), Enzo Gran and Lee and features an infectious chorus.
Key lyric:
Oh, girl, could there be anyone like you in this world? I doubt it
Everybody wanna brag ’bout the bag, talkin’ ’bout a good thing, I found it
Always at your pace how your run your race, putting in that mileage
I don’t know if you know it, I just want you to know it
Gave It Up – This slow rap was written and produced by Lee and Mashell, and features Desi Raines on the chorus and bridge. The song is about Lee’s new life in Christ.
Key lyric:
Lost it to find it
Gave it to gain it
Gave it up to get it back
I get it back
Favorite songs
Right Out the Gate
You’ve Got It
Homecoming
Supernatural
Wake Up
Stone
Dreamland – Amos Lee
*** ½
I’ve been a fan of Amos Lee’s music since seeing him open for Bob Dylan in 2007. Dreamland is Lee’s eighth album and the follow-up to 2018’s My New Moon. The album sound quality is great, thanks to producer Leggy Langdon. The eleven songs feature Lee’s excellent vocals, and a variety of musical styles, including acoustic ballads, gospel and R&B.
Lee has said “I’ve had a lot of episodes with anxiety in my life and now I feel much more equipped to handle them, partly because my family and friends have always been so supportive of me. Over the course of my life, I’ve come to understand that music is my bridge to other people. I have no idea what the waters are like below that bridge—it might be lava for all I know—but music allows me to float over the whole thing and connect.”
Here are a few comments about each song:
Dreamland – In Dreamland, nothing’s ever what it seems. When he feels it tearing him down, that’s when he hears his angel’s calls. He is reaching out for someone (God? a woman?) but they just listen to him scream. This song features piano, guitar, bass, drums, and synth.
Key lyrics:
But I, I’m not afraid to dream
Even when I can’t stop shaking
Even when my heart is breaking
And I, I’m not afraid to dream
Even when I can’t stop falling
Even when the light calling
Worry No More – This song, the first to be released from the album, was written prior to the pandemic. Lee has said that it is about walking out into the city listening to music, and disappearing into the crowd, The uplifting song features, finger snaps, bass, backing vocals, drums and piano.
Key lyrics:
Worry no more
Oh, worry no more
There’s an open door for you
How You Run – This song, written to a fighter, features guitar, bass, drums and backing vocals. The lyrics do get a bit repetitive, though musically the song is excellent, especially the guitar.
Key lyrics:
Pretty baby
Who will save you
Who will you know?
Not your mother
Not your father
A firefight breaks out in the fog
Into The Clearing – This features guitar, keys, bass, and drums. Regrets have been taking a toll on him. He wants to burn up and disappear into the clearing.
Key lyrics:
I can be free again
Into the clearing
Hold You – This song features guitar, synth, bass, and drums. She doesn’t need to be fixed as she isn’t broken. He doesn’t want to cause her any pain. As she fights through, he will be standing with her.
Key lyrics:
There is a shelter
A sweet little shack
Want to sit with me?
Wait peacefully for the storm to pass
Beauty beneath me
Beauty above me
I want you to reach me, want you to teach me how I can love you
See The Light – This song has a gospel flavor both musically and lyrically. It features synth, keys, guitar, backing vocals, bass, and handclaps.
Key lyrics:
When I fall off the map and disappear without a trace
Even when I can’t breathe in
And I’m falling out of line
Everybody ’round me says that everything gonna be alright
It’s Real – This song features synth, bass, drums, and piano. His love is real even when she wants to walk away.
Key lyrics:
And if you want me, I’d fall at your feet
Seeing Ghosts – This song features piano, bass, and drums. He’s seeing ghosts everywhere. They disappear in the light. He’s not scared.
Key lyrics:
From where you stand
From where you see me
Am I a mystery?
Part of your history?
Shoulda Known Better – This song features a falsetto vocal, guitar, backing vocals, bass, and handclap.
Key lyrics:
I shoulda known better but I didn’t guess
I shoulda known better but I got no regrets
Clean – This song features guitar, bass, handclap, backing vocals
Nothing can come between them except for his demons, which won’t leave his side. Will she wait for him?
Key lyrics:
Will you wait, will you wait
Will you wait for me?
Invisible Oceans – This song features acoustic guitar, bass, synth and drums. Lee sings that in invisible oceans, we get so carried away.
Key lyrics:
It’s unbearable that I can’t lift the weight of her world
And I guess it was delusional to think ever could
Best songs:
Dreamland
Worry No More
Hold You
See the Light
Shoulda Known Better
Get Back: The Rooftop Performance
****
Over Thanksgiving weekend 2021, Disney+ released Peter Jackson’s The Beatles Get Back. See my review here. In addition, there were special remix editions of the Beatles 1970 album Let It Be. Now, for the first time, the complete recording of the Beatles final concert appearance, recorded January 30, 1969 on top of the band’s Apple Corps headquarters in Central London, has been released on streaming sites as Get Back: The Rooftop Performance. Running a little more than thirty-eight minutes, the concert includes new stereo and Dolby Atmos mixes by Giles Martin (son of Beatles producer George Martin), and Sam Okell, consists of ten tracks – “Get Back” (three versions), “Don’t Let Me Down” (two versions), “I’ve Got a Feeling” (two versions), “Dig a Pony”, “One After 909”, and a brief instrumental “God Save the Queen”. Three of the songs from the rooftop performance made it on to the original Let It Be album – “I’ve Got a Feeling,” “Dig a Pony,” and “One After 909.”
A film version of the rooftop concert was shown in select IMAX theatres January 30, and will be available on Blu-Ray and DVD.
Stand – Newsboys
***
I really enjoyed Newsboys UNITED, featuring former band members Peter Furler and Phil Joel. With Stand, the Newsboys move on with members Michael Tait, Duncan Phillips, Jeff Frankenstein, and Jody Davis. The ten songs here give you what you exactly what would expect from the band – clean production, relatively short songs (the album clocks in at just 33 minutes), catchy hooks, backing vocals and simplistic, but encouraging lyrics.
Themes on the album include God not giving up on us and always coming through for us, Jesus doing the unexpected, believing God in difficult times, standing for God when trouble comes calling for us, not fearing, the blessings in our lives, and never being too far from a forgiving God.
Here are a few brief comments about each song:
Magnetic – This upbeat song was written by Michael Tait, AJ Pruis, Bryan Fowler and Micah Kuiper. It was produced by Kuiper, Pruis and Tedd T. The song features guitar, drums, bass, percussion, and backing vocals. The song is about how God will never give up on us.
Key lyrics:
But every time I’m in that fight
Your love keeps pullin’ me back, pullin’ me back
It’s magnetic
Ain’t It Like Jesus – This reggae influenced song was written by Michael Tait, Micah Kuiper, Juan Otero, Michael Cochren and Tedd T. It was produced by Tedd T. The song features guitar, bass, horns, backing vocals and drums. The song is about how Jesus will always do the unexpected.
Key lyrics:
Ain’t it like Jesus
To flip the situation?
Ain’t it like Jesus?
Zero limitations
I Still Believe You’re Good – This song was written by Michael Tait, AJ Pruis, Bryan Fowler and Micah Kuiper. It was produced by Kuiper and Fowler. The song features keys, guitar, bass, drums, and backing vocals. Michael Tait has said that this song is really the whole COVID-19 story wrapped up in melody.
Key lyrics:
Even in the valley, I still believe
You’re good
Stand – This anthem was written by Michael Tait, Jeff Sojka and Ben Glover. It was produced by Sojka and Glover. The song features keys, guitar, bass, drums and backing vocals. The song is about who we will be when trouble comes calling for us. This will be a good song for Christian radio.
Key lyrics:
I’m gonna stand in a world that’s breaking
Stand for a truth unchangin’
I’m not ashamed, I’ve considered the cost
I’ll stand right here at the foot of the cross
And stand
Clean – This song was written by Michael Tait, Jonathan Smith, Bryan Fowler, Michael Cockren and Tedd T. It was produced by Tedd T and Fowler. The song features percussion, bass, keys, drums, and backing vocals. The song addresses how people perceive us and how we want to be perceived.
Key lyrics:
God, You’re strong when I am weak
I need Your grace to help me to see
That I’m not longer a slave to me
I’ve been washed, I’ve been set free
Won’t Be Afraid – This anthem about not fearing was written by Michael Tait, Be Calhoun and Tedd T. It was produced by Calhoun and Tedd T. The song features guitar, percussion, bass, keys, backing vocals, drums and a catchy chorus.
Key lyrics:
When I walk through the fires of life, I
Won’t be afraid, no, won’t be afraid, no
Come Through – This song about God coming through for us written by Michael Tait, Micah Kuiper, Bryan Fowler, Michael Cochren and Tedd T. It was produced by Tedd T and Kuiper. The song references Romans 8:28, and features guitar, bass, drums, keys and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
You always come through
You have not forsaken me
You are working all things for my good
Even when I cannot see
I know You always come through
For me
Blessings on Blessings – This upbeat song about all of the blessings in our lives was written by Michael Tait, Ethan Hulse and Jeff Pardo. It was produced by Kuiper, Tedd T and Pardo. The song features keys, organ, handclap, guitar, bass drums, backing vocals, and a catchy chorus.
Key lyrics:
I’ve got blessings on blessings
Written all over my life
Even when things are goin’ wrong
I got so much goin’ right
There’s a song in my soul
And there’s breathe inside o’ my lungs
So many things to thank You for
How could I just choose one?
No Doubt – This song was written by Michael Tait, AJ Pruis, Micah Kuiper and Bryan Fowler. It was produced by Micah Kuiper. The song is about how Jesus is the only one. The song features guitar, bass, drums and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
There’s no doubt
You are the only who has never let me down
Never Too Far Away – This song was written by Michael Tait, Bryan Fowler, Matt Lott and Dave Stovall. It was produced by Fowler. The song, which builds at the chorus, features keys, percussion, guitar, bass, drums and backing vocals.
The song tells us that no matter what we may have done, we’re never too far away from a forgiving God.
Key lyrics:
When everything falls apart
You’re still in the arms of amazing’ grace
You’re never too far away
Best songs:
Ain’t It Like Jesus
I Still Believe You’re Good
Won’t Be Afraid
Blessings on Blessings
Roll Tape: Live from Melody League Studios – Jon Foreman
****
2021 was a busy year for Jon Foreman. Roll Tape: Live from Melody League Studios follows the February release of his solo album Departures (four of the twelve songs included here are from Departures), and the August release of Switchfoot’s album interrobang, followed by a tour with NEEDTOBREATHE. Foreman has described Roll Tape, which has an “unplugged” feeling, and some of which may have come from his livestreams, as his attempt to make a live album, his first, in a year when there was essentially no live music due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
I enjoyed this new live solo release from Foreman, as I did his Departures, interestingly much more than I enjoyed interrobang from Switchfoot.
Below are a few comments about each song:
Terminal – This song, originally released on The Wonderlands: Sunlight, was written by Foreman. The song, which builds gently, features guitar, some excellent cello, bass, backing vocals, and drums.
Key lyric:
We are, we are the living souls
With terminal hearts, terminal parts
Flickering like candles, shimmering like candles
We’re fatally flawed, we’re fatally flawed
Jesus, I Have My Doubts – This song, originally released on Departures, was written by Foreman. He has stated that this is a song that steps into the ring with God. It is Foreman asking the big questions at the end of a long, difficult season. It’s his honest attempt to sing into his doubts. The song features harmonica, guitar and cello. He’s been singing broken songs looking for the light for so long, but the pain goes on and on. Can God reach him in the silence?
Key lyric:
Jesus, feels like the worlds in pieces
I’m sure You’ve got Your reasons
But I have my doubts
Jesus, I have my doubts
Side By Side – This song, originally released on Departures, was written by Foreman. The easy-going love song features Madison Cunningham. The song features acoustic guitar and bass. Foreman’s and Cunningham’s voices blend well. They are as different as snowflakes, but side by side they start to melt into something wonderful. Foreman has said that the song is an attempt to sing out the truth against a backdrop of his fears and doubts.
Key lyric:
Oh, the irony, friends and enemies
We’ll all be buried side-by-side
A Place Called Earth – This song, originally released on Departures, was written by Jon Foreman, Tim Foreman and Lauren Daigle. The song features guitar, piano, bass and light percussion.
Key lyric:
Oh, how I long for Heaven in a place called Earth
Where every son and daughter would know their worth
Where all the streets resound with thunderous joy
Southbound Train – This song, which samples Johnny Cash’s “Folsom Prison Blues”, was originally released on Fall, was written by Foreman. The song features guitar, harmonica and cello.
Key lyric:
So, I’m looking out the window
And I’m drifting off to sleep
With my face pressed up against the pane
With the rhythm of my heart
And the ringing in my ears
It’s the rhythm of the southbound train
Red and Gold – This song, originally released on Departures, was written by Foreman. The song was inspired as Foreman was on a hill in San Diego watching the sun go down and the car lights on the freeway below. The city glows, the traffic and rushing, of thirsty souls, hungry for meaning and love. The song features drums, bass, harmonica, guitar, and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
So, hold your faith, you’re not alone here
Stay your pace, you’re almost home
We’re on our way, we’re on our way home
Resurrect Me – This rocker, originally released on Summer, was written by Foreman. The song features bass and guitar, harmonica, and an excellent vocal.
Key lyric:
Father Time steals our days, like a thief
There’s no price that I wouldn’t pay to get some relief
I’ve become an empty shell
Of a man I don’t like so well
I am a living, breathing hell
Come on and resurrect me
The Cure for Pain – This song, originally released on Fall, was written by Foreman. The song features guitar, cello, bass and drums.
Key lyric:
And heaven knows, heaven knows
I tried to find a cure for the pain
Oh my Lord, to suffer like You do
It would be a lie to run away
Only Hope – This song, originally released on Switchfoot’s album New Way to Be Human, was written by Foreman. The song features cello, guitar, bass and drums.
Key lyric:
So, I lay my head back down
And I lift my hands and pray to be only Yours
I pray to be only Yours
I know now You’re my only hope
Inheritance – This love song, originally released on The Wonderlands: Dawn, was written by Foreman. The song features guitar, bass, keys, and drums.
Key lyric:
Your heart is a work of art
I wanna be rich in memories not money
Our love is our inheritance honey
Your Love is Strong – This song, which samples the Lord’s Prayer, originally released on Spring, was written by Foreman. The song features guitar, keys, bass, backing vocals, and light percussion.
Key lyric:
Two things You told me
That You are strong and You love me
It Is Well With My Soul – This hymn was written by Horatio Spafford and Philip Bliss. Foreman sings the song accompanied by acoustic guitar.
Key lyric:
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul.
A Place Called Earth – This version of the song was recorded live at the Ryman Auditorium and features Lauren Daigle on vocals. The song features guitar, backing vocals and bass.
Best songs:
Jesus, I Have My Doubts
Southbound Train
Resurrect Me
A Place Called Earth (Live from the Ryman Auditorium)
Never Land II – Andy Mineo
****
Andy Mineo, who has also released a number of EPs, returns with his fourth full-length album, and first album of all-new material since 2017’s Andy Mineo and Wordsplayed Present Magic & Bird. It is a follow-up to 2014’s Never Land EP, which featured the gold record “You Can’t Stop Me”. The album includes brief narration from Mineo’s mother Fran, who died in 2018. The album features honest and vulnerable lyrics, excellent beats and collaborations. Themes on the album include relationships (with people and God), things he’s not going to do and things he’s trying to do, that life is hard but it could be worse, and priorities. It’s my favorite release of Mineo’s since 2015’s Uncomfortable.
Below are a few comments about each song:
Am I… – This song was written by Mineo, Hadar Adora, GAWVI, James Douglas and BEAM. It was produced by GAWVI and BEAM. The song features guitar and backing vocals as he makes references to some of his previous releases.
Key lyric:
The key is to find beauty inside of the tragedy
…Falling? – This song was written by Mineo, Hadar Adora, GAWVI, James Douglas and BEAM. It was produced by GAWVI and BEAM. The song features bass, percussion and backing vocals. He asks whether he’s falling from the sky, or falling in God’s hand. Is it a disguise or is it in God’s plan?
Key lyric:
And my pronoun is just “that guy”
Been About It – This song was written by Mineo, Lecrae, SAK PASE and NOT KLYDE. It was produced by Mineo and SAK PASE and features Lecrae. The song features bass and percussion.
Key lyric:
How you never had COVID, you still got no taste?
You Know the Drill – This song was written by Mineo, Enzo Gran, Juice Bangers, Delgis Mustafa, and Wordsplayed. It was produced by Gran and Bangers, and features Wordsplayed, who reunites with Mineo from their 2017 album Andy Mineo and Wordsplayed Present Magic & Bird. The song features a heavy bass beat and percussion. They make several pop culture references and hint that they will drop a second volume of Magic & Bird with no prior announcement.
Key lyric:
God made me, I’m a one of one
Working On It – This song was written by Mineo, Rickie Tice, Alex Goose, Kaydence, Taylor Hill and Chandler Moore. It was produced by Alex Goose and Taylor Hill and features Moore and Hill. The song features a heavy bass beat, percussion, and backing vocals. The song is about working on things in our relationships.
Key lyric:
At least you know I’m always inconsistent
Nobody’s Coming – This song was written by Mineo, Lonestarmuzik, Noah NorTH, S1, Jameil Aossey, and Hulvey. It was produced by Aossey, NorTH, Lonestarmuzik and S1. The song features guitar, bass, percussion, and an emotional vocal from Mineo.
Key lyric:
What if we’re the ones that we’re waiting on?
Remind Me – This song was written by Mineo, Zac Lawson and JVKE. It was produced by JVKE and Lawson and features JVKE. The song features guitar, bass and percussion. The song is about problems in a relationship.
Key lyric:
Sometimes I forget your love
Forget your touch
Yeah, you got, you got, you gotta remind me
Not Gon’ Do – This song was written by Mineo, Joseph Solomon, Taylor Hill, Britton Rauscher, Conor Back and Aayana Smith. It was produced by Mineo and Hill, and features Solomon. The song features keys, bass, percussion and backing vocals. He talks about all the things he’s not going to do.
Key lyric:
I won’t apologize for being who I am
It Could Be Worse – This song was written by Mineo and A.G. It was produced by A.G. The song features keys, bass and percussion. Life is hard, he thanks God, because it could be worse.
Key lyric:
Look at what happened to Cosby, man
Look at what happened to Ravi, damn
Now trying to make sure that it’s not me man
Priorities – This song was written by Mineo, BigBreeze, Hulvey, Zac Lawson and JVKE. It was produced by JVKE and Lawson and features BigBreeze. The song features a heavy bass beat.
Key lyric:
I need God in my life, yeah
‘Cause we don’t be talking enough
I give a call when I’m stuck
Not when I’m all the way up
I think He calling my bluff
I said I don’t got no time for him
We make the time for the things that we love
You tell me what are your priorities
Trying – This song was written by Mineo, Ryan Lott, Dave James and Thad Cockrell. It was produced by Mineo and James. This song has Mineo talking and rapping over bass, guitar, keys and percussion as the song builds. He addresses a number of different areas in his life in which he is trying.
Key lyric:
All my life all I ever did was try
Cross My Heart – This song was written by Mineo, Dizzycleanface, James Reese, Justin Peroff, Keith “Baby Wonder”, Duplessis, Dave Hamelin, Ink and ALDAE. It was produced by Hamelin, Dizzycleanface, Ace Harris and Soul Surplus, and features Ink. The song features drums, guitar and keys.
Key lyric:
What if we didn’t panic but instead we took advantage
Of the time that we got right now
Coming in Hot – This song was written by Mineo, Lecrae, Wordsplayed, SAK PASE, Marlon Montgomery, Brian Taylor, Ace Harris and Beleaf. It was produced by SAK PASE and features Lecrae. The song was originally released on Reach Records Summer Eighteen, and was recently certified gold. The song features bass and percussion.
Key lyric:
First, nobody wanna listen
Now, everybody pay attention
Now, everybody pay a fee
Best songs:
Working On It
Nobody’s Coming
It Could Be Worse
Coming in Hot
Confessio: Irish American Roots – Keith & Kristyn Getty
****
The latest album by Keith & Kristyn Getty is a diary of hymns and songs that underscore the Gettys’ Irish American journey. In 2020, the Gettys spent ten months in Ireland, tracing their journey back to Northern Ireland and the Scots-Irish-American roots of their hymn writing. The album features guest artists such as Sandra McCracken, Alison Krauss, Dana Masters and Kirk Whalum, and a mix of new original songs, new arrangements of well-known hymns, and a remixed version of their most popular modern hymn “In Christ Alone”. It is beautifully produced by Ben Shive. The Gettys ended up recording enough songs for two albums, so they plan to follow up this album with another album Christ Our Hope In Life And Death, in the summer of 2022.
Below are a few comments about each song on Confessio: Irish American Roots:
Confessio – This song, inspired by the prayer of St. Patrick, was written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty, Fionán de Barra and Matt Papa. The song features the incredible Getty band, including acoustic guitar, violin, bass, drums, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
We go homeward
Christ, be with us as we go
We go homeward
Christ, be with us on the road
This Is My Father’s World – This song was written by Maltbie D. Babcock. The arrangement is by Keith Getty, Fionán de Barra and Ben Shive. This beautiful arrangement features acoustic guitar, violin, bass, light percussion, strings, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
This is my Father’s world,
And to my listening ears
All nature sings, and round me rings
The music of the spheres.
When I Survey the Wondrous Cross – This song was written by Isaac Watts (words) and Lowell Mason (music). This beautiful arrangement features horns, strings, acoustic guitar, backing vocals, and piano.
Key lyrics:
When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died
My richest gain I count but loss
And pour contempt on all my pride
Pass the Promise – This song, inspired by Hannah’s song, was written by Kristyn Getty and Sandra McCracken and features Sandra McCracken on vocals. The song features drums, violin and a memorable chorus. It’s my favorite song on the album.
Key lyrics:
Pass the promise
To our sons and daughters
God most high, God our Father
We bear witness
Amazing Grace – This song was written by John Newton and was recorded in Keith Getty’s friend’s fish and chips shack in Ireland. The beautiful arrangement features Keith Getty on piano, Dana Masters and Kristyn Getty on vocals and Kirk Whalum on saxophone.
Key lyrics:
When we’ve been there ten thousand years,
Bright shining as the sun,
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we first begun.
Come Thou Almighty King – This song was written by Felice De Giardini. The arrangement was by Tommy Bailey, Sarah Gehri, Nathan Mickle and Tom Yarbrough and features the Getty Girls. The song features violin, backing vocals, Irish instruments, and some excellent acoustic guitar.
Key lyrics:
To the great one in three
Eternal praises be
Hence – evermore!
Death where now is the sting
Crown Him the King of Kings
We to eternity
Love and adore!
And Are You Sleeping? – This song was written by Malcolm Guite and Kristyn Getty. The song features acoustic guitar, violin, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
And she has risen from her bed
And held her arms out wide
And touched his wounded hands and heart
And gone to be his bride
Waulking Song/All My Heart Rejoices (Song of Anna) – This song was written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty and Sandra McCracken and features Sandra McCracken on vocals. The song about Anna (Luke 2), includes reference to Psalm 34:18, and features acoustic guitar, violin, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
And all my heart rejoices, rejoices
As angels lift their voices to proclaim
Praise be to God
Redemption resounds
Till all the earth
Rejoices, rejoices
It Is Well With Me Soul – This song was written by Horatio Spafford (words), Philip Bliss (music). The beautiful arrangement by Keith Getty builds powerfully toward the end, and is featured in the film Sabina: Tortured for Christ, the Nazi Years, features violin, piano, strings, and choir.
Key lyrics:
And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound and the Lord shall descend;
Even so, it is well with my soul
How Can I Keep from Singing? – This song was written by Keith Getty and Fionán de Barra. This song features acoustic guitar, Irish instruments, piano and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
No storm can shake my inmost calm
While to that refuge, clinging
Since Christ is Lord of heaven and earth
How can I keep from singing?
Be Thou My Vision – This Traditional Irish hymn was arranged by Keith Getty, Ben Shive and Fionán de Barra. The song features Irish instruments, strings, piano, drums, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
High King of heaven, my victory won
May I reach heaven’s joys, O bright heaven’s sun
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall
Still be my vision, O ruler of all
Farewell to Ballymoney – This instrumental was written by Keith Getty, Ben Shive and Fionán de Barra. The song features the incredible Getty band. If you have never seen them in concert, you are missing a treat.
In Christ Alone – This song was written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend and features Alison Krauss. The song is a remixed version of a song that appeared on the 2012 album Hymns for the Christian Life. The song, which builds powerfully, features acoustic guitar, Irish instruments, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
And as He stands in victory,
Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me;
For I am His and He is mine—
Bought with the precious blood of Christ.
I enjoyed each of these songs. My favorites were:
Confessio
Pass the Promise
Amazing Grace
It is Well With My Soul
How Can I Keep From Singing?
Farewell to Ballymoney
January Flower Deluxe Edition by Mat Kearney
****
Mat Kearney returns with January Flower, his sixth studio album, and first since 2018’s CRAZYTALK. The new songs are primarily relationship driven acoustic songs with a beat. His sprinkles in references to his faith throughout the album.
I really enjoyed this album. Below are a few comments about each song:
Powerless – This song was written by Kearney and Eli Teplin and produced by Robert Marvin. The song begins with acoustic guitar and then adds percussion and backing vocals. The song references beginning to work on the album in the desert when they encountered record rainfall. It is about losing control and being powerless.
Can’t Look Back – This mid-tempo song was written by Kearney and Trent Dabbs, and produced by Kearney and Robert Marvin. The song, about a relationship, features guitar, keys, drums, backing vocals and a memorable chorus. There’s no future in the past and you can’t look back.
Grand Canyon – This song, about a distance in a relationship, was written by Kearney and Eli Teplin, and produced by Kearney, Robert Marvin, Teplin and Gabe Simon. The song features synth, guitar, percussion, keys and bass.
Pontiac – This song was written by Kearney, Robert Marvin, Eli Teplin, Ruslan Rov and Rob Resnick, and produced by Marvin, Teplin, Rov. The upbeat song features keys, percussion, and has Kearney looking back on their relationship driving in her Pontiac.
They Don’t Know – This song is about what it takes to keep a relationship together (faith, a love that comes from above, etc.). She is his heart. The song features acoustic guitar, percussion and keys.
Anywhere With You – This love song was written by Kearney, Robert Marvin, Eli Teplin and Trent Dabbs, and produced by Marvin. The song features a good beat and memorable chorus driven by guitar, synth and percussion.
Say It Now – This song, about falling in love, was written by Kearney, Eli Teplin and Trent Dabbs, and produced by Robert Marvin, Teplin and Ruslan Lov. The song features keys, backing vocals, bass and percussion.
Stuck in the Moment – This song finds Kearney looking back on a love that has moved on, though he can get caught in the moment, just for a moment. The song features acoustic and electric guitar and percussion.
I Don’t Really Care – This upbeat song features keys, hand claps and percussion. He wishes that they could just watch the sunset, and not their phones and worrying about how they compare with others.
Running In Circles – This upbeat song features percussion, keys, hand claps, a memorable chorus and a good beat. He can’t get any peace. She has him running in circles. He’s tired of waiting.
Boulder – This song is about a coffee shop in Nashville, now closed, when Kearney would bring his child as a newborn. The song features acoustic guitar, backing vocals and bass. You can’t stop a boulder when it starts.
Blame – He was the one to blame, he was the one who changed and lost his way. He knows that that Lord forgives him but it doesn’t make what he did right. The song features acoustic guitar, bass and percussion.
Something Beautiful – This is a beautiful acoustic love song. Way back when, they knew their love could be something beautiful
Deluxe Edition:
Odds – This upbeat song was written by written by Kearney, Micheal Pollack and Zach Skelton. It was produced by Robert Marvin and Skelton. The song features drums, guitar, bass and saxophone. If he had listened to the odds, he would have never made it through. Instead, he left it up to God, watched the mountain move and met her.
Save Me – This upbeat song was written by Kearney, Jason Lehning, Josh Crosby and Robert Marvin. It was produced by Marvin. The song features guitar, drums, bass and organ. This song could be about either human or divine love, as the lyrics include elements of both.
Still the One – This love song was written by Kearney, Eli Teplin and Robert Marvin. It was produced by Marvin. The song features guitar, backing vocals, bass, keys and light percussion. He wants to know that he is still the one.
Best songs:
Grand Canyon
Can’t Look Back
Pontiac
They Don’t Know
Blame
Something Beautiful
Odds
Save Me
Let It Be – Super Deluxe Edition – Beatles
****
The Beatles Let It Be album has had a long and complicated history. The album was originally begun on January 2, 1969, as Get Back, a “back to their roots” effort, as the band had not toured since August 29, 1966. I remember listening to a bootleg version of some of the songs as a pre-teen at a friend’s house. Eventually, the tapes would sit unreleased, as the band would go on to record Abbey Road, one of their best albums, just a few weeks after the Let It Be sessions concluded.
The band first turned the Get Back tapes over to engineer Glyn Johns for him to put together a mix for release. Beatles John Lennon, George Harrison and Ringo Starr didn’t like the results, so they turned the tapes over to Phil Spector, whose version was the one originally released as Let It Be on May 8, 1970, the band’s final album to be released (though Abbey Road was the last to be recorded). Paul McCartney never liked the version that was released, and in 2003 led the effort that was to be called Let It Be…. Naked.
Giles Martin, as he did with Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, The Beatles White Album) and Abbey Road, has done the work to release a 50th anniversary re-release of Let It Be. Included on the Super Deluxe edition is a 2021 mix of the original Phil Spector produced album, the Glyn Johns tracks, along with alternate takes, demos and outtakes, songs that would appear on Abbey Road and a few songs that would end up on Beatles solo albums – “Gimme Some Truth” from John Lennon, “Teddy Boy” from Paul McCartney, and “All Things Must Pass” from George Harrison.
The Let It Be sessions, which lasted just three weeks, culminated with a live rooftop concert which was included in the documentary film Let It Be that was released. I remember going to that film with my Dad. A new three-part, six-hour film called The Beatles: Get Back, directed by Lord of the Rings director Peter Jackson, will stream on Disney+ beginning November 25.
Change the World (EP) – Ringo Starr
***
Former Beatle Ringo Starr recently stated that he would no longer be releasing full-length albums, but instead would be releasing EPs. His latest EP is “Change the World”, which features four songs, and was recorded at his home studio. Here are a few comments about each song:
Let’s Change the World – This song was written by Joseph Williams and Steve Lukather (Toto), and produced by Starr. The song features horns, drums, piano, guitar, and female backing vocals. This is a positive and upbeat song that features familiar Starr themes of peace, love and singing. Christians know however that only Christ can change individuals and thus the world.
Just That Way – This song was written and produced by Bruce Sugar and Starr. It is a mid-tempo reggae flavored song that features drums, keyboards, horns, guitar, female backing vocals and organ. The song tells us that sometimes life and love is just that way.
Coming Undone – This song was written by Linda Perry, and produced by Starr, Bruce Sugar and Linda Perry. The song features Trombone Shorty. It is a likeable easy-going toe tapper about coming undone that features guitar, drums, horns, and backing vocals.
Rock Around the Clock – This song was written by Jimmy DeKnight and Max Freedman and produced by Bruce Sugar and Starr. The song was a number one hit for Bill Haley & His Comets in 1954. The fun song features drums, piano backing vocals, and guitar by Joe Walsh. This is the best song on the EP. Watch the music video featuring Joe Walsh.
Best songs:
Coming Undone
Rock Around the Clock
Emmanuel: Christmas Songs of Worship – Chris Tomlin
*** ½
Chris Tomlin releases his fifth Christmas Songs of Worship project. His Christmas Songs of Worship series includes Miracle Of Love: Christmas Songs of Worship EP released in 2020, Christmas Day: Christmas Songs of Worship EP from 2019, 2015’s Adore: Christmas Songs of Worship, and the gold-certified Glory In The Highest: Christmas Songs of Worship from 2009. The new 12-song project, which includes four songs previously released on the above-mentioned EPs, was produced by Ed Cash and includes new songs as well as reimagined Christmas classics. The album has Tomlin collaborating with CeCe Winans, We the Kingdom, Matt Redman, and Blessing Offor.
Below are a few comments about each song:
Emmanuel God With Us – This song was written by Chris Tomlin and Jason Ingram. The song opens with Tomlin singing over piano. It then gently builds with drums, bass, guitar and backing vocals towards a joyful chorus.
Key lyric:
Emmanuel, God with us
Emmanuel, King Jesus
The Savior of the world is born
Emmanuel, God with us
Emmanuel, King Jesus
The Savior of the world is born
Christmas Day – This previously released song was written by Ed Cash, Scott Cash, Franni Cash, Martin Cash and Andrew Bergthold. The joyful song features drums, guitar, and excellent vocals from Tomlin and We The Kingdom. Classic Tomlin, this song would be a good one for congregational singing.
Key lyric:
Sing all you people
The Lord almighty reigns
Sing every creature of God
Come bless His name
For He is good, for He is good
He was born to conquer the grave
Light of the world
The reason for Christmas Day
All The World Awaits (Hosanna) – This previously released praise song about the coming of the Savior was written by Tomlin, Jason Ingram and Matt Maher. The song begins with guitar and gently builds with piano, drums and backing vocals. The song is inspired by Matthew 21:9 and Isaiah 9:6.
Key lyric:
Hail the heaven born Prince of Peace
Hail the Son of righteousness
Light and life to all He brings
Glory to the newborn king
Hallelujah – This joyful song features The Voice contestant Blessing Offor, who sang “Tin Roof” on Tomlin’s Chris Tomlin and Friends album. Offor sings over piano, bass, drums, organ and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
That’s what the angels cried
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Precious little child
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Sound of the angel’s joy
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Little baby boy
I Heard The Bells on Christmas Day – This Christmas carol, which was based on a poem by poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, includes a new chorus. Tomlin sings over piano, organ, bass, drums and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
I heard them ringing
I heard them ringing
All across the earth
I heard them ringing
The bells remember
They ring forever
Unto us a child is born a savior
Our savior
His Name is Wonderful – This previously released song was written by Tomlin and Ed Cash, and includes a chorus taken from Isaiah 9:6. The song begins with Tomlin singing over piano, and then builds with drums, strings and choir.
Key lyric:
Come and adore Him
On bended knee
He came to ransom
Someone like me
O Come, O Come Emmanuel – This Christmas carol was translated in 1861 by John Mason Neale. The song starts quietly and gently builds featuring guitar, backing vocals and some nice drums.
Key lyric:
Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, Israel
Hope of Israel – This previously released song was written by Tomlin, Ben Fielding, Jason Ingram and Reuben Morgan. The song begins with Tomlin singing over piano, then builds gently with strings and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
God is with us
Christ our Savior
Jesus our Emmanuel
He shall reign our King forever
The hope of Israel
O Holy Night – This Christmas carol was based on a poem that was set to music by Adolphe Adam. The song features a powerful vocal by CeCe Winans singing over guitar, piano, drums, bass, and choir.
Key lyric:
God with us, Emmanuel
O night, O night divine
Crown Him (Christmas) – This song was originally written by Matthew Bridges and Godfrey Thring, and includes some new lyrics. The song features vocals by Matt Redman, piano, backing vocals, guitar, drums and bass.
Key lyric:
Crowned by their royal gifts
Gold, frankincense and myrrh
Wise men approach this manager throne
With honors from afar
Behold the Son of God
And bow down in this place
The Prince of Peace has come to us
O crown Him with your praise
O Little Town of Bethlehem – This song was written by Phillip Brooks. The song features piano, strings, backing vocals and drums.
Key lyric:
We hear the Christmas angels
The great glad tidings tell
O come to us, abide with us
Our Lord Emmanuel
Crown Him (reprise) – This short ending song features vocals by Matt Redman, strings and a choir.
Key lyric:
Not a throne of gold, but a manger throne
See His humility
Not a crown of gold, but a crown of thorns
See His humility
Best songs:
Emmanuel God With Us
Hallelujah
O Holy Night
Crown Him (Christmas)
Interrobang – Switchfoot
** ½
interrobang is Switchfoot’s 12th studio album and the follow-up to 2019’s Native Tongue album and 2020’s forgettable Covers EP. It was produced by Tony Berg. The album’s title comes from a punctuation mark ‽ designed for use especially at the end of an exclamatory rhetorical question.
This is a serious album and features an experimental late 1960’s era pop sound, the familiar Switchfoot guitar sound and good backing vocals. The band stated that the album is unlike anything they’ve ever made before, and I agree with that. I give the band credit for not resting on their laurels, but instead pushing themselves. I found the music fresh, but some of the lyrics are vague to the point of being hard to determine the message/meaning, and there is minimal explicit Christian content, perhaps making it difficult to get the songs played on Christian radio. Although Switchfoot is one of my favorite bands, this is not one of my favorite albums by them, and probably one that I won’t revisit much in the future. Themes on the album include questions, love, looking for truth and light, disagreeing, being wrong and learning things the hard way.
Below are a few comments about each song:
beloved – This song about looking for truth and light was written by Jon Foreman, Tim Foreman and Tony Berg. The song features keyboards, drums, guitar, bass, backing vocals and a Beatle sounding chorus. If he could open his eyes, would the truth be what would set him free. He can’t find the truth in the news or his social media feed.
Key lyrics:
I’m still looking for the truth
But I can’t seem to find it in the news
Maybe I’ll start singing like the blues, maybe
lost ‘cause – This song was written by Jon Foreman and Tim Foreman. The song features a driving beat, led by guitar, drums and bass. The guitar work on this song stands out and reminds me of The Edge from U2.
Key lyrics:
Are we a lost cause?
Are we just lost ’cause
We won’t be the future we refuse to see?
fluorescent – This song was written by Jon Foreman. The song opens with guitar and cello and then breaks out with a heavy rock drum, bass, keyboards and backing vocals. Foreman sings about being a moth outside a window, beating his wings against the front porch light. It’s a call to a woman he’s dreaming of, and his wings can’t sustain him too much longer. He wonders how long it will be until his florescent girl is his.
Key lyrics:
We are always separate, always near
if i were you – This song was written by Jon Foreman and Tim Foreman. The upbeat song is driven by a fast bass beat and drums, with guitar, keyboards and backing vocals. There are references to being 2020 enemies, Twitter, fear, and disagreeing.
Key lyrics:
If I were you
And you were me
Would we still be doomed
To disagree?
the bones of us – This song was written by Jon Foreman and Tim Foreman. The ballad has Foreman reflecting on a relationship. The song features guitar, keyboards, bass, light percussion, backing vocals and a memorable chorus.
Key lyrics:
Our heart’s like a flood
That washes us new
I’m fighting for us
But most of all, for you
splinter – This rocker was written by Jon Foreman and Tim Foreman. The song features a driving beat led by drums, guitar and bass. It also features backing vocals and keyboards. It’s only illusions. Who can take the broken splinters from his head?
Key lyrics:
My mind is at war
I lie awake in bed
Like a splinter in my hand
Like a splinter in my head
i need you (to be wrong) – This mid-tempo song, which was started a decade ago, was written by Jon Foreman and Tim Foreman. The song features guitar, bass, drums, keyboards and backing vocals. Often times we need the other to be wrong, but we find out that we were both wrong.
Key lyrics:
All along we both were wrong
I need you
the hard way – This upbeat song was written by Jon Foreman and Tim Foreman. The song features guitar, backing vocals, bass, drums. He always learns things the hard way.
Key lyrics:
Maybe there’s no such thing as a rewind
There’s no way to go back in time
I learn best from the replay
I always learn things the hard way
wolves – This song was written by Jon Foreman. Musically, this song is unlike any other on the album. The song features cello, bass, drums and backing vocals. All of his world is a collision and spin. It’s my least favorite song on the album.
Key lyrics:
All of my world’s a collision and spin
Hope is a war that we’re already in
backwards in time – This mid-tempo love song was written by Jon Foreman and Tim Foreman. The song features guitar, bass, drums, Sgt. Pepper type sound effects, vocals from Tim Foreman and backing vocals. The song is about going back in time to give a relationship one more try.
Key lyrics:
If we could go back, would we take the same path?
If we knew what we know?
electricity – This love song was written by Jon Foreman. The song features guitar, drums, backing vocals and Sgt. Pepper type sound effects.
Key lyrics:
Come on, hang up and hang out
Best songs:
beloved
lost ‘cause
the bones of us
splinter
if i were you
the hard way
Almost Home: The Hymns of Matt Boswell and Matt Papa Volume 2
****
This is the second album of hymns from Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. Their first album, His Mercy is More: The Hymns of Matt Boswell and Matt Papa, was my favorite album of 2019. This new album may well end up being my favorite for 2021.
I was introduced to “the Matts” at the Getty Worship Sing! conferences in 2018. Some of the songs on this album, all of which were written for congregational singing, were introduced at prior Sing! conferences. The album was produced by Ben Shive. Here is a short “Behind the Scenes” video about the album.
Below are a few comments about each song:
Psalm 150 (Praise the Lord) – This song was introduced at the 2020 Sing! conference and highlighted at the 2021 Sing! conference. It was written by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. The song features piano, guitar, strings, drums, bass and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Praise the Lord
Praise the Lord
Sing His greatness
All creation
Praise the Lord
Raise your voice
Your heights and all your depths
From furthest east to west
Let everything that has breath
Praise the Lord
All Hail the King of Heaven – This song was written by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. The song features piano, drums, bass, strings, and choir.
Key lyric:
All hail the king of heaven,
Now join with all creation,
Let endless praises crown his name
All hail the king of heaven.
Almost Home – This song was written by Matt Boswell, Matt Papa and Lauren Papa and highlighted at the 2021 Sing! conference. This song features piano, bass, strings, choir and some excellent drums.
Key lyric:
We’re almost home
So press on toward that blessed shore
O praise the Lord
We’re almost home
Lovingkindness – This song was written by Matt Boswell, Matt Papa and Matt Redman, and was introduced at the 2020 Sing! conference. This song features bass, guitar, drums and choir.
Key lyric:
A life laid down to rescue us
With arms outstretched upon the cross
The greatest Gift there ever was
Of lovingkindness
Your lovingkindness
Christ Our Hope in Life and Death – This wonderful modern worship hymn was written by Keith Getty, Matt Boswell, Jordan Kauflin, Matt Merker and Matt Papa, and was first released in 2020. The song features drums, bass, piano, organ, strings and choir.
Key lyric:
O sing hallelujah!
Our hope springs eternal;
O sing hallelujah!
Now and ever we confess
Christ our hope in life and death.
The Everlasting Love of God – This song was written by Matt Boswell, Matt Papa and Matt Redman, and was introduced at the 2020 Sing! conference. The song features piano, strings, drums, bass, and choir.
Key lyric:
O, the everlasting love of God,
It shall ever be my song
So immense and free; more than life to me!
The everlasting love of God
Unto the Almighty – This song was written by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. The song features guitar, drums, bass, piano, strings and choir.
Key lyric:
All blessing, all honor, and glory
To him who is worthy
All praises unto the almighty
Christ the True and Better – This song was written by Matt Boswell, Keith Getty, and Matt Papa, and was introduced at the 2020 Sing! conference. The song features piano, bass, strings, organ, drum and choir.
Key lyric:
Amen, amen
From beginning to end
Christ the story
His the glory
Alleluia, amen
With Simple Faith – This song was written by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. The song features piano, choir, bass and percussion.
Key lyric:
Only trust him
Only trust him
Turn to Jesus now
He will save you
He will save you
With simple faith and childlike trust
Promises – This song was written by Matt Boswell, Matt Papa, Jonny Robinson, and Rich Thompson. The song features drums, bass, guitar, piano, organ and choir.
Key lyric:
You are faithful to your promises
We will trust in what the cross has said
Through the ages, hallelujah you are
Faithful to your promises
O Give Thanks – This song was written by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. The song features drums, organ, bass, piano and choir.
Key lyric:
O give thanks to God forever
for all he’s done for all he’s given
for every grace, bring every praise
to the giver of all, give thanks
O Worship the Risen Christ – This song was written by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. The song features piano, bass, drums and choir.
Key lyric:
O praise the One, the Risen Christ
The name of names, the Lord of Life
Let songs of joy now fill the skies
He lives, he lives
O Worship the Risen Christ
Forever Jesus – This song was written by Matt Papa and Stuart Townend and was introduced at the 2019 Sing! conference. The song features, piano, organ, drums, bass, strings and choir.
Key lyric:
When I meet His gaze, I will sing my praise
To the King, “forever Jesus”
All my sorrows past, I am home at last
With my King, “forever Jesus!”
Almost Home (Acoustic) – This is an acoustic version of the title song, written by Matt Boswell, Matt Papa and Lauren Papa.
All of the songs are excellent. Here are my favorites:
Psalm 150 (Praise the Lord)
All Hail the King of Heaven
Almost Home
Lovingkindness
Christ Our Hope in Life and Death
The Everlasting Love of God
Christ the True and Better
Promises
Forever Jesus
Springtime In New York: The Bootleg Series Vol.16 1980-1985 – Bob Dylan
****
The latest volume in Bob Dylan’s Bootleg Series looks a period of his career (1980 – 1985) that is not generally considered to be one of his strongest. But this collection shows that there was a lot of excellent music created during that period, even if some of these songs didn’t appear on official albums – at least not in these versions – and that makes this an essential collection for any Dylan fan.
Springtime in New York comes in a few different configurations. I listened to the 25-song version edition, which consists of previously unreleased outtakes, alternate takes, an alternate mix, rehearsal recordings and a live performance. The deluxe five-CD edition includes 57 Dylan recordings, 54 of them which have been previously unreleased in any format.
Springtime in New York draws from sessions from 1981’s Shot of Love, 1983’s Infidels (one of my favorite Dylan albums co-produced by Dylan and Dire Strait’s Mark Knopfler), and 1985’s Empire Burlesque, and it makes each of those records more fascinating than some have given them credit for. Other songs from the Shot of Love period were included on 2017’s Trouble No More: The Bootleg Series Vol. 13/1979-1981, which I highly recommend.
I enjoyed listening to these songs, some of which are now more than four decades old. Some of the outtakes or alternate take versions sound better than the versions that were officially released on these albums.
My Favorites:
Blind Willie McTell (Take 5, Infidels Outtake)
Too Late (Band version, Infidels Outtake)
Foot of Pride (Infidels Outtake)
Someone’s Got a Hold of My Heart (Infidels Outtake)
Enough is Enough (Live)
Tight Connection to My Heart (Has Anyone Seen My Love) (Empire Burlesque Alternate Mix)
Clean Cut Kid (Empire Burlesque Outtake)
New Danville Girl (Empire Burlesque Outtake, early version of Brownsville Girl)
Dark Eyes (Empire Burlesque Alternative Take)
Latest Record Project Volume I by Van Morrison
***
Van Morrison has been very outspoken about the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions in the UK. He released a few songs specifically about that which do not appear on this ambitious 28-song, two-hour plus collection that was recorded during the lockdown.
Latest Record Project Volume I, Morrison’s 42nd studio album has been blasted by critics – The Guardian gave it a one-star (out of five) review, for example – but the more I listened to this album, the more I enjoyed it. The 75-year-old Morrison is in fine form, as is his excellent band, as they play songs that fall into the genres of blues, R&B, jazz and soul. Morrison produced the album and wrote or co-wrote all of the songs unless noted below.
Morrison plays piano, guitar and sax, and is joined by Richard Dunn on Hammond organ, Dave Keary on guitars and banjo, Stuart McIlroy on piano, Pete Hurley on bass, Colin Griffin on drums and percussion, and a vocal trio of Dana Masters, Crawford Bell and Kelly Smiley; with some tracks featuring Jim Mullen on guitar, Gavin Scott on bass, Paul Moran on the organ and Mez Clough and Teena Lyle on vocals.
Below are a few brief comments about each song, along with a list of my favorites from the album:
Latest Record Project – This song has Morrison asking if people are listening to his new music, not his older, familiar songs. The song features call and response backing vocals and organ.
Where Have All the Rebels Gone? – This song has Morrison asking where all the rebels in rock and roll have gone. Where they really all that tough, or was it just a PR stunt? The upbeat song features organ, piano, guitar, drums, and backing vocals. A newer version of this song called “The Rebels” was recorded with Eric Clapton singing lead under the name “Slow Hand and Van”.
Psychoanalysts’ Ball – This song is about someone who needs psychological help to function. The song has a slower pace with light percussion, organ, guitar solo, chimes, piano and backing vocals.
No Good Deed Goes Unpunished – This song is about an ungrateful woman, perhaps Morrison’s wife who he was divorced from in 2018. He’s given her a million Euro, but she said that wasn’t enough. The song features organ, drums and keys.
Tried to Do the Right Thing – This song is about Morrison being conned in business. He tried to do the right thing for his baby but it all went wrong. The song features light percussion, piano, bass, a guitar solo and backing vocals.
The Long Con – In this blues song, Morrison says that he is a targeted individual who has to get to the bottom of who is pulling the strings. The song showcases the band and features drums, guitar, harmonica, organ, piano and backing vocals.
Thank God for the Blues – He was born to sing the blues, and he’s singing for the people who feel the same way that he does. This excellent blues song features bass, organ, drums, guitar, backing vocals and piano. A highlight.
Big Lie – This song features Chris Farlowe on vocals. He was king for a day but someone stole his crown. It was all a big lie. The song features guitar, drums, organ, bass and drums.
A Few Bars Early – He was a few bars early, but then he got it right. This blues song showcases the band and features organ, bass, drums, guitar and piano.
It Hurts Me Too – This blues song was written by Elmore James. When things go wrong, he knows it ain’t right and it hurts him too. The song features organ, drums, bass, backing vocals and harmonica.
Only a Song – It’s only a song, not set it stone. It’s only a poem and it could change in the long run. It’s what he said then just to make it rhyme. The upbeat song features saxophone, drums, organ and backing vocals.
Diabolic Pressure – Pleasing people gets you nowhere. He’s not gonna work for them anymore. He’s gonna work for himself. The band excels on this song, featuring piano, guitar, drums, bass, horns, piano, backing vocals and saxophone.
Deadbeat Saturday Night – This song might refer to the lockdown period when there was no work and no shows for musicians, it’s just another deadbeat Saturday night. The defiant song features drums, guitar, backing vocals, saxophone, organ and piano.
Blue Funk – He’s in a blue funk listening to the TV junk and mainstream media junk. He can’t believe how far we’ve sunk. He needs to pull himself out of the mire, lift himself a little higher and get out of this blue funk. The song features drums, bass, guitar, organ, backing vocals and saxophone.
Double Agent – This cryptic song is about a double agent, and when the lines start to blur strange things occur. The song references rock and rock roll, M15, compromise and drinking the Kool Aid. The song features drums, organ, guitar and bass.
Double Bind – This song could refer to the government during the lockdown. Mind control keeps you in line. You need to try to think outside the blind leading the blind and break the double binds. The slow groove song is driven by a bass beat, and features guitar, drums and an organ solo.
Love Should Come With A Warning – This song was written with Don Black. Love should come with warning. It can break your heart. One minute you’re falling in love and the next you’re falling apart. The song features organ, drums, guitar and backing vocals.
Breaking The Spell – On this upbeat and optimistic song he is trying to break the spell of the bright shiny objects. He’s in the country down by the river on a Sunday morning. He’s moving up to a higher plane. The song features backing vocals, drums, organ and piano.
Up County Down – In this upbeat song, he sings that he has been around, from the heart of Texas to L.A.’s Whiskey-A-Go-Go in L.A. in 1966 with his band Them when the Doors were opening. He might as well be in the County Down, a county in Northern Ireland, where the healing waters flow. The song features saxophone, organ, bass, drums, banjo and backing vocals.
Duper’s Delight – In this song, he sings of lies and double-crossing. The duper’s delight is a giveaway smile. The ballad features piano, organ, drums, bass and guitar.
My Time After a While – This song could be about Morrison’s second wife, who he was divorced from in 2018. It’s her time now, but it’s gonna be his time after a while. She got away with everything, but one of these days she’s gonna get caught. He just wants to see his darling children smile. The upbeat song features organ, drums, piano, guitar, saxophone and backing vocals.
He’s Not the Kingpin – He’s not the kingpin, he’s just a fall guy. He was used by the media for their agenda. This could be another reference to the lockdown. The song features organ, bass, backing vocals and drums.
Mistaken Identity – This song was written with Don Black. You thought you knew him, but you were wrong. There’s more to him than his music. You think that you can read him, but you can’t. The easy-going song features backing vocals, guitar, percussion, organ, bass and drums.
Stop Bitching, Do Something – In this rant, he sings that you’ve gotta put up or shut up and do something. The system, perhaps referring to the government during the lockdown, tells you that you are obsolete and non-essential. The repetitive song features guitar, bass, organ, drums, backing vocals and saxophone.
Western Man – This song could be about the government during the lockdown. Western man has no plan. He was complacent and stopped believing in himself. While he was dreaming, others were scheming, doing deals behind his back. Now, caretakers have taken over the main building. Lunatics have taken over the farm and there are clandestine meetings in the forest. Things are not going back to the way it was. The song features banjo, organ, guitar, drums and bass.
They Own the Media – Morrison has clarified on Twitter that the “they” in this song is Boris Johnson’s UK government. They control the narrative. They perpetuate the myth and keep on telling lies. The song features organ, drums, guitar, bass and saxophone.
Why Are You on Facebook? – In this song he asks why those who are on Facebook need second-hand friends and why do they really care who’s trending (which actually refers to Twitter, not Facebook). He says to get a life, because it must be empty and sad. The repetitive song features organ, bass, drums, backing vocals.
Jealousy – In this easy-going song he sings that the things they say about him is just plain jealousy. Is it because he is good at his job and he’s not a slave to the system? The song features piano, organ, drums, backing vocals and saxophone.
Best Songs
Where Have All The Rebels Gone?
Thank God for the Blues
It Hurts Me Too
Only a Song
Diabolic Pressure
Deadbeat Saturday Night
Love Should Come With a Warning
Breaking the Spell
My Time After a While
Jealousy
Into the Mystery – NEEDTOBREATHE
****
Into the Mystery is NEEDTOBREATHE’s eighth full-length studio album. It debuted at #1 on the iTunes “Top Albums” charts upon release, and is one of my top albums of 2021 thus far.
During the pandemic, the band recorded the album over a three-week period at a historic house turned recording studio in Columbia, Tennessee with co-producer and engineer Konrad Snyder, and special guests. Into the Mystery follows closely 2020’s Out of Body and 2021’s Live from the Woods Vol. 2.
Themes from Bear Rinehart’s lyrics include reflecting back, longing to be loved, being easier on yourself, God’s love for us and taking chances.
Below are brief comments about each song:
What I’m Here For – This autobiographical song has Bear looking back to his teens and twenties. A theme is being easier on yourself. The song features acoustic guitar, backing vocals, drums, bass, keys and strings.
Key lyric:
I don’t need silver linings
I don’t need so much more
I just need room to be wrong sometimes
That’s all I’m hoping for
Into the Mystery – This song features acoustic guitar, backing vocals, electric guitar, bass, drums and organ. The song is about longing to hear that one is loved, be it a human love or supernatural love.
Key lyric:
‘Cause I just wanna be loved by you
I cannot resist the need to hear you say it
Whatever you do, I will be there
Son, I will follow you anywhere
Sunshine – The band has said life is going to occasionally lead to disappointment and some very sobering mistakes. This is a song about being kind to yourself. The song features organ, drums, guitar, bass, and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
I, I wanna see you running through the field sometimes
I wanna see your eyes looking up through your hands to the sky
Tell ’em we feel alright, we’re living in sunshine
Carry Me – This song was written by Bear Rinehart and Jon Foreman. This is a campfire song about wanting God to carry us from the river’s mouth, to the mountain peak, through the great divide and the valley deep features Jon Foreman of Switchfoot. The song features acoustic guitar, drums, keys, piano and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
All the ashes and scars they fail
They pale in comparison to yours
I Am Yours – This song about God’s love for us features the band’s original drummer Joe Stillwell. The song features synth, guitar, banjo, backing vocals, drums, bass, drums and keys.
Key lyrics:
If I had to write a story
Of the greatest love in time
I would have to sing of you
Chances – This beautiful song about taking chances was written by Bear Rinehart. Rinehart woke up early one day while the band was recording the album and he wrote this song, which the band recorded that day. The acoustic guitar driven song features backing vocals, piano, strings, and electric guitar.
Key lyric:
It’s always hard to find the courage to start dancing
But I am determined to take my chances
But peace can be hard to find in all this misunderstanding
I am determined to take my chances
Sittin’ in the Backseat – This song has Rinehart reflecting back on his family’s red 1986 Chevette, and remembering how free and fun it felt to sit in the car and look at the stars as they were riding down the road. The song, which features a memorable chorus, features guitar, keys, bass and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
We were young and we were undefeated
Give Me a Chance – This was a live take in the studio, and features Joe Stillman on drums. It’s a fun “jingle jangle rock song”. The song features guitar, tambourine, backing vocals, drums, piano, hand claps, organ and a few guitar solos.
Key lyrics:
Give me a chance to be your man, baby
Don’t Throw All The Good Things Away – This song was written by Bear Rinehart and Natalie Hemby, and features Hemby. Rinehart has said that it’s easy to get caught up in what we’re doing and forget about relationships. Most of the time he looks back on those decisions with regret, so this song was a reminder of that. The song features acoustic guitar, keys, strings, bass and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Don’t spit on the grave while your family weeps
Don’t throw all the good things away
Innocence – This is about Rinehart’s grandmother. The song features piano, drums, bass, guitar and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
I wanna rest
My weary bones on your providence
I wanna find somewhere that I can
Recover my innocence
I Wanna Remember – This song was written by Bear Rinehart and features Carrie Underwood. The song features keys, acoustic and electric guitar, drums, piano and backing vocals. The band has said that it is about life’s fleetingness, and is a nostalgic song that takes you back to the moments you never want to forget.
Key lyric:
I wanna memorize you, wanna stay here forever
‘Cause I, I
I take a picture in my mind so we’re always together
‘Cause I, I wanna remember
West Texas Wind – This song reflects back on when the band was first touring in a van and would drive across the country. As the band went through Amarillo, it would be windy on the interstates, and they would literally see tractor trailers blown over on the side of the road. The song has Rinehart reflecting on the good life he has led. Yes, he’s made mistakes and hurt those he loves. He needs God again and is ready to let the world go. The song features piano, guitar, backing vocals, bass, organ and drums.
Key lyric:
I’m running to you like a west Texas wind
Singing God I need you, oh, how I need you
God I need you again
Best Songs
What I’m Here For
Sunshine
I Wanna Remember
Carry Me
I Am Yours
Chances
West Texas Wind
Psalms, Hymns and Spiritual Songs, Vol. 1 – Shane and Shane
****
I was introduced to the worship duo Shane and Shane (Shane Barnard and Shane Everett) at the 2018 Getty worship conference Sing! For the entire time that I have followed them, the duo has released projects covering hymns and modern worship songs. Their last album of original material was 2015’s Psalms Vol. 2. Psalms, Hymns and Spiritual Songs, Vol. 1 is a welcome return to original material, and it’s one of my favorite releases of 2021 thus far. The thirteen modern hymns are consistently excellent. It was hard to pick my favorites.
The album’s title comes from Colossians 3:16: Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
Here are a few brief comments about each song:
Psalm 42 (Loudest Praise) – This song was written by Shane Barnard and Bryan Fowler. The song, which starts slow and builds, features acoustic guitar, backing vocals, drums, bass and organ.
Key lyrics:
Come thou fount of living water
Tune my heart to bless Your Name
Streams of trouble never ceasing
Call for songs of loudest praise
My Portion – This song was written by Shane Barnard, Bryan Fowler and Grayson Kessenich. Our heart and flesh may fail, but Jesus is our portion. The song, which gently builds, features strings, piano, guitar, bass and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Yet no thought so precious
So full of joy to me
Is this Thou art my portion
And shalt forever be
Psalm 90 (Satisfy Us with Your Love) – This song was written by Shane Barnard. The song is a prayer, which builds powerfully, features piano, backing vocals, organ, guitar, bass, drums and a choir.
Key lyrics:
When the sun comes up, satisfy us
Before the day has passed us by
Before our hearts forget all Your goodness
Satisfy us with Your Love
Hallelujah, Christ Will Come Again – This song was written by Shane Barnard, Robbie Seay and James Tealy. The song features guitar, backing vocals, organ, drums, bass, and builds powerfully with a choir. The chorus uses the “Memorial Acclamation”.
Key lyrics:
Christ has died
Christ is risen
Hallelujah, Christ will come again
Psalm 8 (How Majestic Is Your Name) – This song was written by Shane Barnard. The song, which builds powerfully, features keys, piano, guitar, backing vocals, bass and a choir.
Key lyrics:
So we’ll sing of Your name
Live our lives for Your greatness, oh God
And Your glory and honor
Only There – This song was written by Shane Barnard, Bryan Fowler and Grayson Kessenich. The song, which builds powerfully, features keys, piano, backing vocals, guitar, bass, drums and choir.
Key lyrics:
Only there, only there
Love and mercy flow for me
Only there, only there
Can I find my rest in Thee
Song in the Night – This song was written by Shane Barnard and Adam Westlake. The song features bass, drums, keys, guitar and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
I will cling to the lover of my soul
Letting go of the rudder in the storm
I will call on the name of the Lord
You’re my song in the night
Oh, Jesus Christ
Psalm 84 (I’m Home) – This song was written by Shane Barnard, Jimmy Needham and Bryan Fowler. The song, which builds powerfully, features keys, piano, backing vocals, guitar, bass, drums and a choir.
Key lyrics:
When I sit at Your table
I am right where I belong
In the doorway of my Father’s house
I’m home
How Awesome Is Your Love – This song was written by Shane Barnard and Grayson Kessenich. This joyful song features acoustic guitar, drums, bass and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Your love, Your love
How deep, oh, how wide
And oh, my soul is satisfied
Your love, Your love
Is better than life
Living Water – This upbeat song was written by Shane Barnard and Bryan Fowler. The song features drums, guitar, backing vocals and a choir. We can never have too much of God’s love.
Key lyrics:
Living water
Deep within me
Saturate my soul
Like a river
Break the levee
Let it overflow
Greatest Love I’ve Ever Known – This song was written by Shane Barnard and Bryan Fowler. The song features keys, bass, acoustic and electric guitar, drums, and backing vocals. The song samples Isaac Watts’ hymn “Alas, and Did My Savior Bleed”.
Key lyrics:
With open arms
Upon the cross
You paid it all
At the highest cost
You gave Your life
To save my soul
Oh Jesus, You’re the great love I’ve ever known
Steadfast Love – This song was written by Shane Bernard and Robbie Seay. The song features keys, acoustic guitar, backing vocals, bass, strings, drums and piano.
Key lyrics:
Your steadfast love never ceases
Your goodness God
Calling me to rest
Your mercy just when I need it
How great is Your faithfulness
Your Nearness – This song was written by Shane Barnard and Bryan Fowler. The song features acoustic and guitar, keys, bass, organ, drums and backing vocals. The song concludes with a nice instrumental section.
Key lyrics:
Your nearness
Oh, Your nearness
Is my good
Best songs
Psalm 42 (Loudest Praise)
Psalm 90 (Satisfy Us with Your Love)
Psalm 8 (How Majestic Is Your Name)
Only There
How Awesome is Your Love
Living Water
Steadfast Love
Watch the album release livestream from July 23, beginning at the 6:12 mark.
S
ing! Global (Live At The Getty Music Worship Conference) [Deluxe Edition] – Keith and Kristyn Getty and Friends
****
This new Deluxe Edition of the album from the 2020 Sing! Global Getty Music Conference includes five songs not on the original edition. You can read my review of the original release here.
Here are a few brief comments about the five new songs:
Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me – This song was written by Michael Farren, Jonny Robinson and Rich Thompson and performed by CityAlight. The song features piano, backing vocals, drums, guitar, bass, and a choir.
Key lyrics:
To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus
All the glory evermore to Him
When the race is complete, still my lips shall repeat:
Yet not I, but through Christ in me!
His Mercy is More – This song was written by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa, and performed by Keith and Kristyn Getty and the Getty Girls. The song features drums, bass, guitar, strings, backing vocals and a choir.
Key lyrics:
Praise the Lord!
His mercy is more.
Stronger than darkness; new every morn;
Our sins, they are many, His mercy is more.
There is Hope (There is Hope) – This beautiful song was written by Mark Edwards and Stuart Townend, and performed by Keith and Kristyn Getty. The song features violin, drums, bass, piano and a choir.
Key lyrics:
My highest calling and my deepest joy
To make His will my home
Revive Us Again – This song was written by William MacKay and John Husband and performed by Keith and Kristyn Getty and the Getty Girls. The song features piano, backing vocals, drums, violin, bass and a choir.
Key lyrics:
Hallelujah! Thine the glory.
Hallelujah! Amen.
Hallelujah! Thine the glory.
Revive us again.
Crown Him With Many Crowns – This song was written by Matthew Bridges and Godfrey Thring, and performed by Keith and Kristyn Getty. The song features violin, drums, piano, bass, and a choir.
Key lyrics:
Awake, my soul, and sing
Of him who died for thee,
And hail him as thy matchless king
Through all eternity.
Best songs
All
Live in Denver – TobyMac
*** ½
TobyMac, who is currently charting with his single “Help Is On The Way (Maybe Midnight)” has released a new live album Live in Denver. The project features 15 songs from his Hits Deep early 2020 Tour, and includes collaborations with Terrian, Aaron Cole, Cochren & Co. and Ryan Stevenson. This follows his 2016 live album Hits Deep Live. Live in Denver is currently only available in a digital format. A CD/DVD version will be released September 10.
The track list focuses heavily on later career songs, including “21 Years”, the 2020 song he wrote after son Truett died, 8 from 2018’s The Elements, 3 from 2015’s This is Not a Test, and 2 from 2012’s Eye on It. He also includes “Lose My Soul” from Portable Sounds.
The complete track list and the album the song was originally on, is below:
I just need U. – The Elements
Everything – The Elements
Love Broke Thru – This is Not a Test
21 Years – Single
See The Light – The Elements
Move (Keep Walkin’) – This is Not a Test
Lose My Soul (featuring Terrian) – Portable Sounds
The Elements – The Elements
Hello Future – The Elements
Til The Day I Die – This is Not a Test
Starts With Me (featuring Aaron Cole) – The Elements
Overflow – The Elements
Edge Of My Seat (featuring Cochren & Co.) – The Elements
Me Without You – Eye on It
Speak Life (featuring Ryan Stevenson) – Eye on It
TobyMac’s The Theatre Tour will stop in Peoria at the Peoria Civic Center Theatre on November 13. Some tickets still remain. To purchase tickets, go here.
The Work Tapes EP – Wilder Woods
***
Bear Rinehart, the lead singer of NEEDTOBREATHE is Wilder Woods. The name comes from his two sons Wilder and Woods. During the pandemic, he wrote between 70-80 songs. Five of the songs are included on The Work Tapes EP, and more are planned to be released. Rinehart, who possesses one of the most distinctive and powerful voices in music, has been busy with NEEDTOBREATHE, as well as adding vocals to songs from Chris Tomlin, Carrie Underwood and We the Kingdom. He wrote, recorded and produced the The Work Tapes at his home studio. The EP is a follow-up to his 2019 solo debut Wilder Woods.
Themes on the project include change, love, fear, sin and getting better.
Below are a few comments about each of the songs:
Long Night Coming – This upbeat song features guitar, backing vocals, light drums and keys. He needs a change. He needs to get back on the road and play music, because that’s where his soul is uplifted.
Key lyric:
I wanna sing in a crowd of people I’ve never met before
It makes me love and remember what I’m working for
Sink Our Love Now – This passionate song features acoustic and electric guitar, bass, keys, and backing vocals. Their love may not be what it once was, but they have persevered and are committed to each other. As long as they are together, they’ll be able to figure it out.
Key lyric:
If the ship’s still floating, you can figure it out
It’s gonna take a lot more to sink our love now
Heavenly Light – This song features keys, percussion, backing vocals, guitar and bass. It is a song for his wife. She is his heavenly light.
Key lyric:
Baby I could die with you by my side
I could do so many wrongs by you’d make them right.
What Are You Afraid Of? – This song features acoustic guitar, keys, and backing vocals. It is a tender song written for his wife about helping her with her fears.
Key lyric:
Trying to be the right kind of lover and friend
So, won’t you let me and Jesus carry your troubles again?
Man Made Weather – This song features keys, acoustic guitar, percussion, backing vocals and guitar. This song finds Rinehart reflecting as a father on the times we are living in. The song addresses sin such as crime and hate. It’s not a foregone conclusion that we’re going to be fine, but he has hope that we can get better.
Key lyric:
I know we can be better
Gotta find some way to get better
There’s a cloud hanging over our kids
And its man-made, man-made weather
Best songs:
Long Night Coming
Man Made Weather
Canyon – Ellie Holcomb
****
I first heard Ellie Holcomb on the song “Elizabeth”, a song she wrote with Kristyn Getty and included on the 2017 album Sing! – An Irish Christmas: Live at the Grand Ole Opry House. Watch a live performance of the song here.
I was attracted to this album by a tweet from NEEDTOBREATHE indicating that lead singer Bear Rinehart had teamed up with Holcomb for “Sweet Ever After”. I’m glad I checked out the album, as it’s one of my favorites of 2020.
The album was inspired by a trip Holcomb took to the Grand Canyon last summer. She has said that the songs, born out of a season of a lot of personal and global (COVID-19, racial tension, tornado, etc.) loss, feel like a soundtrack to healing and hope. Canyon, produced by Cason Colley, is Holcomb’s follow-up to her 2017 Red Sea Road album. She wrote or co-wrote all of the songs. Her father, Christian music veteran Brown Bannister served as executive producer.
Here are a few brief comments about each song:
I Don’t Want To Miss It – This upbeat song was written by Thad Cockrell, Cason Cooley and Ellie Holcomb. The song features drums, bass, piano, backing vocals, and banjo. She doesn’t want to miss God’s voice and touch.
Key lyrics:
I don’t want to miss a thing
So I climbed up in a sycamore tree
‘Cause I don’t want to miss a thing
And I don’t want to miss it
I don’t want to miss a thing
I don’t want to miss the melody
That You’ve been singing over me
Canyon – This hopeful song was written by Thad Cockrell, Cason Cooley and Ellie Holcomb. The song features, banjo, backing vocals, drums, piano and bass. She found the Lord in the desert. Holcomb has said that this song, and the album, is about a deeper sorrow and a higher hope. There’s a river running through her deepest sorrow and pain. There’s a river running through every dream that never came true.
Key lyrics:
I walked into the desert and I found You
You set a table for me in the presence of my enemies
To share with my enemies
No longer my enemies
Color – This song was written by Bear Rinehart and Ellie Holcomb. Holcomb sings of stone-cold lonely nights when she built her house on sand. She thought the truth was black and white, but now sees it is made of color. The song, which builds powerfully, features keys, finger snaps, bass, guitar, drums and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
In the broken sanctuary light
I’m surrendered, I am hypnotized
I can see You even though I’m blind
This world is made of color
Bridge – This song was written by Jordan Reynolds, Ellie Reynolds, Ellie Holcomb, Carly Bannister and Alexandria Mowry. The song features piano, guitar, bass, drums and backing vocals. The song is about racial reconciliation, rebuilding what has been broken, repentance and forgiveness.
Key lyrics:
I wanna listen, I wanna repent
It’s time to rebuild what’s been broken
Teach me to love, help me learn to forgive
And when hate melts it down, we’ll rebuild it again
Paradox – This song was written by Natalie Hemby and Ellie Holcomb and features Hemby. She thought see would see God clearly from the top of the world, but now that she is in the valley looking up God has never felt so close. The song features piano, keys, backing vocals, bass and drums.
Key lyrics:
And now I’m in a valley, looking up
You have never felt so close
Canyons all around me, stars above
Meet me in the depths below
Where the lost is found
Where the broken is crowned
Where the souls rise up
From the ground
You got me in the valley, looking up
Brand New Day – This song was written by Jeremiah Dunlap, Matt Wertz and Ellie Holcomb. We all fall down and get banged up. There’s a storm, but you’ve not going under. It’s a brand-new day. I really enjoyed the musical arrangement on this song, featuring guitar, hand claps, bass and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Mercy new, don’t miss the way it shines
It’s a brand-new day
Sweet Ever After – This song was written by Bear Rinehart and Ellie Holcomb, and features Rinehart of NEEDTOBREATHE. The song references the tornado that struck Nashville in March, 2020, and features banjo, bass, backing vocals, drums. The sun is coming up on the stairway to Heaven in the sweet ever after.
Key lyrics:
Got a lot of bad days still coming our way
But a sweet ever after
Wind and waves breaking over our walls
But the ship, it don’t shatter
Stronger – This song was written by Nicole Witt, Ellie Holcomb and Christa Wells. The encouraging song is about being stronger than your fear. It features piano, drums, guitar and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Go fly away my dear, up to the golden sun
Don’t build your home right here, you were made for love
Worry whispers lies but let the truth be clear
You are stronger, love, you are stronger than your fear
Mine – This song was written by Ellie Holcomb and features Drew Holcomb. It’s a beautiful piano and strings driven song for their children.
Key lyrics:
Before I held you, I knew I loved you
Before I saw you, I was sold out for you
I was writing lullabies
Before I ever heard your cry
I’ve been here the whole time
You always have, you always will be mine
I Will Carry You – This song was written by Ben Glover and Ellie Holcomb. The song could be addressed to a friend who is tired, hurting and full of anxiety. It features piano, guitar, banjo, drums, and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
I will carry you
Through your darkest night
When you’re terrified
I will carry you
When the waters rise
When your hope runs dry
I will carry you
Gold – This song was written by Ellie Holcomb and features Carly Bannister. It sounds like a love song to Holcomb’s husband Drew, as she sings that she learned to sing so she could sing right next to him. The song features acoustic guitar, pedal steel guitar and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
You are wonderful, you are kind
You are patient, you are humble, and you are wise
You don’t see it with your own eyes
But you are gold to me and I love the way you shine
Constellations – This song was written by David Leonard (Christian), Ellie Holcomb and Jon Guerra. The piano driven song features a passionate vocal from Holcomb as she cries out to God to promise her that she is not alone.
Key lyrics:
‘Cause out here in the dark
Underneath a canopy of stars
Constellations falling from Your heart
They tell me that I’m not alone
‘Cause honestly, I’m so alone
But promise me I’m not alone
Best Songs
All
Chris Tomlin & Friends: Summer EP
***
Chris Tomlin follows up his successful 2020 album Chris Tomlin & Friends with this new EP featuring three new songs, as well as two previously released songs from the Chris Tomlin and Friends album. The EP is produced by Corey Crowder. If you already have the full-length album, you’ll want to check out the three new songs.
Below are a few brief comments about each song:
Good To Be Loved – This song about God’s love was written by Tyler Hubbard Chris Tomlin, Corey Crowder and Blessing Offor, and features Hubbard. God’s mercy is new every morning (Lamentations 3:22), is never ending, goes from east to west (Psalm 103:12), and is deep and wide (Ephesians 3:18). The song features piano, bass, drums, organ and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
It don’t run out
It’s never-ending
It goes as far
As the east is from the west
Talk To Him – This song about prayer was written by Chris Tomlin, Russell Dickerson, Tyler Hubbard, Corey Crowder and Ashley Gorley, and features Dickerson, who was formerly Tomlin’s guitar tech on the road for three years.
The song features guitar, bass, drums and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Just talk to the One who created the Heavens and Earth, yeah
He’s always there waiting and always will be
Yeah, He made you, He knows you
He loves you, He’s for you
He already knows what you need, so just
Talk to Him, talk to Him, talk to Him
Love People – This song about loving each other was written by Chris Tomlin, Tyler Hubbard, Corey Crowder, Dave Barnes, and features Jimmie Allen. Love doesn’t see color, and underneath the surface we’re all the same. The song includes a part of 1 Corinthians 13. The song features piano, bass, drums and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
We didn’t all come up the same way
But we’re all in need of the same grace
Thank You Lord – This song was written by Tomlin, Thomas Rhett, Tyler Hubbard, Corey Crowder and David Garcia, and features Florida Georgia Line and Thomas Rhett. Tomlin has said that to have a life of gratitude and thank God for all things – good and hard – that are around us, was a major theme of the Chris Tomlin and Friends album. The verses have a country music feel, and the bridge is more worship music, featuring Tomlin. This is a feel-good, sing along song that features hand claps, backing vocals, guitar and drums.
Key lyric:
Praise up, eyes closed
One thing I know
I just wanna thank You Lord, thank you Lord
Sing – This song was written by Tomlin, Corey Crowder, Brian Kelley, Tyler Hubbard and Cary Barlowe, and features Russell Dickerson and Florida Georgia Line. The easy-going song about singing about God’s love features guitar, hand claps, backing vocals, drums and a memorable chorus.
Key lyric:
You make me wanna sing about Your love
Make me wanna tell the whole world what You’ve done
How You’ve turned my life around, I was lost but now I’m found
You’re the song stuck inside my head all day
Yeah, You make me wanna sing, sing
Sing all about You
Yeah, You make me wanna sing
Sing! Global: Live at the Getty Music Conference – Keith and Kristyn Getty and Friends
****
The latest album from Keith and Kristyn Getty’s Sing! Getty Music Conferences was recorded live at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville and around the world. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the conference was held online, rather than live in Nashville as in past years. The nineteen tracks feature a mix of new and old songs, and artists including Keith and Kristyn Getty, Matt Boswell, Matt Papa, CityAlight, Steven Curtis Chapman, Shane & Shane, Matt Redman, Sandra McCracken and others. I most enjoyed the new songs “Christ Our Hope in Life and Death”, “Lovingkindness”, “Psalm 150”, “The Everlasting Love of God”, “Christ the True and Better” as well as Sandra McCracken’s “We Will Feast in the House of Zion”, featuring H.B. Charles Jr.
Below are a few comments about each song:
Christ Our Hope in Life and Death – This song was written by Keith Getty, Matt Boswell, Jordan Kauflin, Matt Merker and Matt Papa, and features Matt Boswell, Matt Papa, Jordan Kauflin and Matt Merker. It was my top song of 2020.
Psalm 150 (Praise the Lord) – This song was written by and features Matt Boswell and Matt Papa.
Habla, Oh Dios (Speak O Lord) – This song was written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend. It features Iglesia Bautista Ozama singing “Speak O Lord” in Spanish.
Lovingkindness – This song was written by and features Matt Boswell, Matt Papa, and Matt Redman.
Psalm 121 (I Lift My Eyes) – This song was written by Kristyn Getty, Jordan Kauflin, Matt Merker, and Matt Papa, and features Jordan Kauflin and Matt Merker.
The Lord Is in His Holy Temple – This song was written by Kristyn Getty and Ben Shive, and was included on the 2020 album Evensong: Hymns And Lullabies At The Close Of Day.
Yesu – This song was written by Kwagala Price and Sidney Kalanje, and features the African Children’s Choir.
My Worth Is Not in What I Own (At the Cross) – This song was written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty and Graham Kendrick, and features We are Messengers.
Every Promise of Your Word – This song was written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend, and features the Getty Girls.
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God – This hymn was written by Martin Luther, and features Tommy Bailey.
Lift High the Name of Jesus – This song was written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty, Ed Cash and Fionan De Barra, and features the Getty Girls.
The Everlasting Love of God – This song was written by and features Matt Boswell and Matt Papa and Matt Redman, and features Matt Boswell and Matt Papa.
Christ the True and Better – This song was written by Matt Boswell, Keith Getty, and Matt Papa, and features Matt Boswell and Matt Papa.
Across the Lands – This song was written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend. Speak O Lord – This song was written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend, and features Shane and Shane and Blair Linne.
Grace – This song was written by Niki Shepherd, Jonny Robinson and Rich Thompson, and features CityAlight.
Great is Thy Faithfulness/My Redeemer Is Faithful and True – “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” was written by Thomas Chisholm and William M. Runyan. “My Redeemer Is Faithful and True” was written by Steven Curtis Chapman and James Isaac Elliott. The song features Steven Curtis Chapman and John Piper.
There Is a Higher Throne – This song was written by Keith and Kristyn Getty.
We Will Feast in the House of Zion – This song was written by Sandra McCracken and Joshua Moore, and features Sandra McCracken and H.B. Charles Jr.
Sing! Global 2021 will be held online and in person in Nashville September 12-15. See here for more information and to register.
Zoom In (EP) – Ringo Starr
** ½
The music of the Beatles was very important to me in my childhood, and I’ve continued to enjoy the group’s music, as well as their solo albums, ever since. It’s hard to believe that the band broke up 51 years ago in April, 1970.
Ringo Starr, along with Paul McCartney are the two living members of the band. Starr, who is now 80 years old, has said that his 2019 album What’s My Name, will be his final full-length album. In the future, he will only release EPs. Zoom In is a five-song EP, recorded at Starr’s home studio during the 2020 pandemic lockdown. The five songs include familiar themes from Starr’s music – good times, memories, friends, encouragement, peace and love. Zoom In will be enjoyed by Beatles and Ringo fans.
Here are a few brief comments about each song:
Here’s to the Nights – This song was written by Diane Warren and produced by Ringo and Bruce Sugar. The song features a number of guest artists on backing vocals, including fellow Beatle Paul McCartney, Joe Walsh and Sheryl Crow. This is a sentimental song about memories, mistakes and friends. The song features guitar from Steve Lukather of Toto, who is also a member of Ringo’s touring All-Starr Band.
Key lyric:
Here’s to the nights we won’t remember
With the friends we won’t forget
May we think of them forever
As the days that were the best
Zoom In, Zoom Out – This catchy song was written by Jeff Silbar and Robert Joe Turley III, and produced by Ringo and Bruce Sugar. It’s one of the better songs that Ringo has made over the past several albums and the best song on this new release. Watch the video for the song here. It’s about getting a new perspective. Everything is possible. Love is what it’s all about. The song features drums, bass, piano, guitar and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
If we could only see through each other’s eyes
Imagine what could happen (Imagine what could happen)
Teach Me to Tango – This song was written by Ringo, Grant Michaels and Sam Hollander, and produced by Michaels and Hollander. The feel-good song has a nice beat driven by drums, horns, guitar, backing vocals and throw away lyrics. It’s about living it up until you get what you want.
Key lyric:
Just hitch a ride with your favorite drummer
Pay no mind where we end up
Waiting for the Tide to Turn – This reggae flavored song was written and produced by Ringo and Bruce Sugar. The song is about the power of music to help you during difficult times as you are waiting for things to get better. The song features drums, horns, keys, guitar and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
There is light at the end of the tunnel
There is hope with the rising sun
Not Enough Love in the World – This easy-going song was written by Steve Lukather and Joseph Williams and produced by Ringo and Bruce Sugar. The song returns to peace and love, familiar themes in Ringo’s music. He references having to stay inside during the pandemic lockdown, and offers encouragement not to give up and close your heart. The song features drums, horns, a guitar solo, and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Every night
I pray for some kinder time
Do we figure it out in time?
The time’s coming soon
Best songs
Here’s to the Nights
Zoom In, Zoom Out
Milk & Honey by Crowder
****
Milk & Honey is Crowder’s fourth studio album, and his follow-up to 2018’s I Know a Ghost. Crowder has written that the title Milk & Honey is about promise. The album is a celebration of the future we are marching towards together and a prayer that each of us can live in this promise in the here and now. It features a variety of musical genres, though less of the swamp rock and bluegrass that his previous albums have included. Several of the songs are about Jesus and will soon find themselves into worship services. This is one of my top albums of 2020 thus far.
Below are a few comments about each song:
Good God Almighty – This song was written by Jeff Sojka, Ben Glover and Crowder, and produced by Sojka and Glover. The song has charted high on Christian radio. Crowder describes this song as some good old-fashioned group singing, people singing in harmony. An excellent opening song.
Key lyrics:
Good God almighty, I hope You’ll find me
Praising Your name no matter what comes
‘Cause I know where I’d be without Your mercy
So I keep praising Your name at the top of my lungs
In the House – This song about the church was written by Jeff Sojka, Ben Glover and Crowder, and produced by Sojka and Glover. The song features banjo, drums, bass, backing vocals and hand claps.
Key lyrics:
Doesn’t matter if you’re rich, you’re poor, whoever you are
This is where we all find grace
He Is – This song about Jesus was written by Hank Bentley, Jeff Pardo and Crowder, and produced by Bentley and Pardo. The song, which builds throughout, features piano, acoustic guitar, bass, banjo, drums and backing vocals. This would be an excellent song to sing in a worship service.
Key lyrics:
He is hope for the hopeless, rest for the weary
Help for the hurting, He is, He is
Mending the broken, bearing the burdens
All that you’re needing, He is
Milk & Honey – This song was written by Seth Philpott, Hank Bentley and Crowder, and produced by Zach Paradis and Bentley. This song is about heading to the Promised Land. The upbeat song features Crowder’s swamp rock sound, banjo, hand claps, percussion and bass.
Key lyrics:
Choirs will be singing, saints on bended knee
Angels will be dancing, we will all be free
God in all His glory as far as you can see
It’s like every day is Sunday in the land of milk and honey
Higher Power – This song is written by Solomon Olds, Rebecca Olds, Jeff Sojka, Crowder, Hulvey and Ben Glover, and is produced by Glover, Sojka and Solomon Olds. This song about the power of God’s gathered people, features Hulvey on vocals. The high energy song is driven by guitar, drums, bass, a heavy beat and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Higher power
We stronger, we louder
Put your robe on we the choir
We champions, throw the flowers
Sweet Jesus – This song was written by Solomon Olds, Rebecca Olds, Jeff Sojka, Crowder and Ben Glover, and produced by Glover and Sojka. The song features, guitar, finger snaps, bass, drums and the excellent backing vocals of Maverick City Music.
Key lyrics:
Say His name, say His name
The name above all names
God Really Loves Us – This song was written by Jeff Sojka, Crowder, Dante Bowe and Ben Glover, and produced by Glover and Sojka. The song features Dante Bowe and Maverick City Music. The song is driven by piano and builds beautifully with the backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Hallelujah
We are not alone
God really loves us
Who’s Gonna Stop The King – This worship song was written by Jordan Sapp, Jeff Sojka, Crowder, Colby Wedgeworth and Ben Glover and produced by Glover and Sojka. The song begins with hand claps, and builds, with bass, percussion and backing vocals. No one is going to stop the King.
Key lyrics:
Praise Him, praise Him
Praise the everlasting King
Better Than Sunshine – This song was written by Jeff Sojka, Crowder and Ben Glover and produced by Glover and Sojka. The song about Jesus features acoustic guitar, percussion, bass and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
My Savior is better
My Jesus is better
His love is forever
Glory, Glory (God Is Able) – This gospel song was written by Ed Cash and Crowder and produced by Ben Glover and Jeff Sojka. The toe-tapping song, which may remind you of “Will The Circle Be Unbroken?” in parts, features piano, bass, percussion, backing vocals and banjo.
Key lyrics:
I feel better
So much better
Since I laid my burden down
Hallelujah For Every Broken Heart – This song was written by Ed Cash, Crowder and Bear Rinehart of NEEDTOBREATHE, and produced by Ben Glover and Jeff Sojka. Jesus uses all of the pain and hurt in our lives. The song features bass, piano, hand claps and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
Hallelujah for a broken heart
Hallelujah when I’m falling apart
There’s a sun rising when the sky is dark
I’m singing, hallelujah for a broken heart
The Anchor – This song was written by Tommee Profitt and Crowder and produced by Profitt. The song, about Jesus, features piano, a passionate vocal and builds powerfully with a chorus.
Key lyrics:
He is the anchor
He is the anchor of my soul
Best songs
Good God Almighty
He Is
Milk & Honey
Sweet Jesus
God Really Loves Us
Glory, Glory (God is Able)
The Anchor
Leftover Feelings – John Hiatt with the Jerry Douglas Band
****
I’m been a fan of the now 68-year-old singer-songwriter John Hiatt’s music since his 1987 album Bring the Family. Leftover Feelings is his follow-up to 2018’s The Eclipse Sessions. The new album, one of my favorites of 2021, is a collaboration with the Jerry Douglas Band. It was produced by Douglas and recorded at the historic RCA Studio B in Nashville. Hiatt is joined by multi-instrumentalist Douglas (dobro, lap steel guitar, etc.), Daniel Kimbro on bass, Mike Seal on guitar, Christian Sedelmeyer on violin and Carmela Ramsey on vocals. They chose to record without drums to keep expressive Hiatt’s voice and lyrics in the spotlight. The album features a bluegrass and country rock sound and features a number of Hiatt’s story songs along with a few introspective songs.
Here are a few brief comments about each song:
Long Black Electric Cadillac – The opener is an upbeat song about his long black electric Cadillac. She goes a thousand miles on a charge. He’s heading out west to see his girl and will only have to stop twice. The band is fantastic on this song, giving you a taste of what is to come on the album.
Mississippi Phone Booth – This is a bluesy song about being at a Mississippi phone booth in the middle of the night. He’s somewhere close to Jackson and needs Memphis on the line.
The Music is Hot – This song has a bluegrass feel to it. It’s a sentimental song about a time in the past. The transistor radio is on playing Waylon Jennings (who recorded in Studio B) and Merle Haggard, and the sheets are drying on the line. The song features backing vocals and a memorable chorus.
All the Lilacs in Ohio – This song was originally recorded on Hiatt’s 2001 album The Tiki Bar is Open. It’s about a girl he met briefly in New York City and shared a taxi ride with. This is a more restrained version than the original, and it’s an excellent showcase for the band, with a nice solo, and features some backing vocals.
I’m in Ashville – On this acoustic track, he’s in Ashville and he’s sorry for having dropped the ball and thrown in the towel on a relationship. He’s sorry for leaving her behind. He’s on a road he never traveled to a place he’s never been. From these leftover feelings a vision of her comes up again.
Light of the Burning Sun – This acoustic song is about Hiatt’s brother who shot himself when Hiatt was 11 years old after gambling away his father’s company’s payroll.
Key lyric:
The message was sent
The task was done
Prayers offered up in the night
Faced the light of the burning sun
Little Goodnight – This upbeat song features Mike Seal’s electric guitar and backing vocals. It’s about a little baby girl named Little Goodnight who wouldn’t sleep at night, keeping her parents from sleeping.
Buddy Boy – This acoustic song features a passionate vocal from Hiatt and strings arranged by Christian Sedelmeyer. It features a nice acoustic guitar solo mid-song. Buddy Boy needs to stop his ramblin’ and come home and sleep in his own bed.
Changes in My Mind – This is a beautifully written and performed acoustic song, with the band allowing Hiatt’s tender vocals to be front and center. He has regrets of not being the man he and she both hoped he would be.
Keen Rambler – This is an upbeat song about a rambler who walks all over town from the morning until the sun goes down. The band is allowed to stretch out on this song, which will sound great in concert as Hiatt and the Jerry Douglas Band plan to tour together.
Sweet Dream – The closing song is another story song about a girl he once had a relationship with. It’s an acoustic track that has a nice instrumental break mid-song. The upbeat music contrasts with the sadness of the lyrics. They were a long time together and he has kept her memory near. In his mind he goes there for a little while until his sweet dream disappears.
Favorite songs:
Long Black Electric Cadillac
Mississippi Phone Booth
All the Lilacs in Ohio
Changes in My Mind
Keen Rambler
Sweet Dream
Fogerty’s Factory (Expanded Edition) – John Fogerty
*** ½
I’m a longtime fan of John Fogerty’ music, both as the leader of Creedence Clearwater Revival and as a solo artist. Fogerty’s Factory has Fogerty with a new backup band – sons Shane (a regular member of his touring band), Tyler and daughter Kelsy. The twelve-track project is comprised of five Creedence songs (“Proud Mary”, “Fortunate Son”, “Bad Moon Rising”, etc.) five Fogerty solo songs (“Centerfield”, “Hot Rod Heart”, etc.), in addition to two covers – Steve Goodman’s “City of New Orleans”, which was made popular by Arlo Guthrie, and Bill Wither’s “Lean on Me”, the latter of which is preceded by a few brief comments Fogerty about racism, which he says is not intended to be political, but about human rights, empathy and compassion. The title and cover of the album are a nod to Creedence’s classic 1970 Cosmo’s Factory album, with the cover photography done by Fogerty’s brother Bob, who shot the original cover for Cosmo’s Factory fifty years ago.
The idea for the project was inspired by Fogerty’s wife and manager Julie. The COVID-19 pandemic project is intended to be fun and innocent, and began as informal, lockdown-inspired jams in the family’s Southern California home in the spring, and later grew to a series of weekly performances on YouTube, an EP released in May, 2020, and now this full-length album. Fogerty stated that they didn’t have a drummer, but Shane developed a bass style that’s somewhat percussive, and Kelsy also played some snare drum. He said that the spirit of the project was to be fun, and to sound like a jam.
“Centerfield” was recorded in center field at an empty Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Fogerty’s 75th birthday on May 28, 2020. Watch the video of the performance here.
Departures – Jon Forman
****This is the first solo album for the multi-talented leader of Switchfoot, after releasing multiple EPs, the latest being 2015’s four EP collection The Wonderlands. The album features 12 new songs all of which were written or co-written by Foreman. He also produced or co-produced each song. The mostly acoustic songs feature excellent musicianship, and I particularly liked his use of strings.
Foreman has said that this is an album “born out of the turmoil and desperation of the last year, (and this year, too). It’s an album that’s born from the journey, not the destination.” This is an excellent album with themes such as doubt, fears, lessons learned, thanksgiving, love, loss, and those things that really matter. I’ve always enjoyed Foreman’s solo work, and feel that this is his strongest release to date.
Below are a few comments about each song:
The Ocean Beyond The Sea – This opening song is somewhat different musically from what we normally get from Foreman, and it’s actually my least favorite on a very strong album. The song builds as he sings softly about forests, valleys and highways. The song features some excellent strings.
Key lyric:
Beyond the tyrant
Beyond the sirens
Beyond the silence
I heard a whisper
As soft as thunder
As cold as fire
By the ocean beyond the sea
Education – This is an upbeat song, with a good drum beat, guitar, horns and backing vocals. Foreman has said that the lessons that have stuck with him most in life have been the ones that have cost him pain, time and loss. He sings that the scars are teachers that you’re never gonna forget. Love is the hardest lesson you have to learn.
Key lyric:
Most things worth doing in this life
Are gonna kill you in the end
And the things worth fighting for
Are the things that you can’t defend
Side By Side – This easy-going love song features Madison Cunningham. The song features acoustic guitar and bass. Foreman’s and Cunningham’s voices blend well.
They are as different as snowflakes, but side by side they start to melt into something wonderful. Foreman has said that the song is an attempt to sing out the truth against a backdrop of his fears and doubts.
Key lyric:
Oh, the irony, friends and enemies
We’ll all be buried side-by-side
A Place Called Earth – This song was written by Jon Foreman, Tim Foreman and Lauren Daigle. Daigle sings the third verse, and her and Foreman’s voices blend well on the chorus. He longs for Heaven on a place called Earth, where every son and daughter will know their worth. The song features piano, strings, drums, bass and acoustic guitar.
Key lyric:
Oh, how I long for Heaven in a place called Earth
Where every son and daughter would know their worth
Where all the streets resound with thunderous joy
Red And Gold – This song features acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass, drums, strings and backing vocals. The song was inspired as Foreman was on a hill in San Diego watching the sun go down and the car lights on the freeway below. The city glows, the traffic and rushing, of thirsty souls, hungry for meaning and love.
Key lyric:
So, hold your faith, you’re not alone here
Stay your pace, you’re almost home
We’re on our way, we’re on our way home
Jesus, I Have My Doubts – Foreman has said that this is a song that steps into the ring with God. It is him asking the big questions at the end of a long, difficult season. It’s his honest attempt to sing into his doubts. The song features acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass, strings and light percussion. He’s been singing broken songs looking for the light for so long, but the pain goes on and on. Can God reach him in the silence?
Key lyric:
Jesus, feels like the world’s in pieces
I’m sure You’ve got Your reasons
But I have my doubts
Jesus, I have my doubts
Thanks Be To God – This worship song of thanksgiving features strings, synth, drums, acoustic guitar, piano and bass. He loves the truth and has seen the light, but there is still sin (shadow) alive inside (Romans 7).
Key lyric:
Christ, Christ alone come and set me free
Thanks be to God who delivers me
The Gift – The beautiful song features acoustic guitar and strings. Our lives go through change, and love is what remains (1 Corinthians 13). The question is whether we will recognize the gift before it’s gone.
Key lyric:
May the wind that blows the hardest bring you home
Weight Of The World – This song addresses his doubt as he asks where God is now. He doesn’t understand how these difficult times fit into God’s plans. The song features acoustic guitar, light percussion, bass and some excellent strings.
Key lyric:
I’ve been waiting for
Your capable hands to come down
I’ve been praying for
Your capable hands to come down and turn this around
Your capable hands
Could carry the weight of the world
Love Is The Rebel Song – After a short opening, this musically upbeat song features acoustic guitar, backing vocals, strings and drums. Even if hate is the loudest song, he refuses to sing along. In a world at war love is the rebel song.
Key lyric:
Sing to me a melody for the ones who will never win
Songs of dreamers In-betweeners the ones that will never fit in
Where the wars go on and on
Love is the rebel song
The Valley Of The Shadow Of Planned Obsolescence – On this song, Foreman is feeling disposable and old. He’s looking back at old girlfriends, friends, social media, his music CD’s, and the Internet, the things he used to prize. He encourages us to focus on the things that will last (relationships), singing What would we do if we finally saw the light? If we dropped this accursed pride could we make amends? The song features cello, horns, acoustic guitar, whistle and a stringed instrument.
Key lyric:
On the day my heart beat dies
I want to be with you
The rest is just pretend
Just make believe
Last Words – This song seems to be about a friend who died in the COVID-19 pandemic, as the song begins and ends with ambulance sirens. None of the words he heard made sense of his friend leaving. The song features acoustic guitar, synth, backing vocals, light percussion and bass.
Key lyric:
Your last words to me were keep breathing
So I’m breathing in the breath you left behind
Best Songs
Education
A Place Called Earth
Jesus, I Have My Doubts
The Gift
Weight of the World
Love is the Rebel Song
The Valley of the Shadow of Planned Obsolescence
Evensong (Deluxe/An Evening at Hidden Trace Farm) – Keith and Kristyn Getty
****
Keith and Kristyn Getty released Evensong: Hymns and Lullabies at the Close of Day in October, 2020. See my review of that album here. Also, watch the video Sanctify the Night: The Story of Evensong.
This new release includes the 13 songs from the original album, as well as newly released tracks in a deluxe expanded edition that includes fresh, live audio from the Hidden Trace Farms filming sessions. Watch the Evensong Deluxe videos here. The new edition includes 10 live versions of songs from the album and 2 new songs – “Christ Our Hope in Life and Death” (my top song of 2020), and a new arrangement of “Be Still My Soul/He Will Hold Me Fast” – in my opinion the highlight among the new recordings here – which features a choir and some beautiful muted horns.
All of the songs on this new deluxe edition contain wonderful lyrics and are beautifully performed.
All That You Can’t Leave Behind – U2 (20th Anniversary Super Deluxe Edition)
****
I have a long, and complicated, relationship with U2. From the Christian content on War the brilliance of The Joshua Tree and through Achtung Baby, U2 was my favorite band. I saw them in concert for the first time on their Zoo TV tour – a concert that I really looked forward to – and was completely turned off. I skipped their Zooropa and Pop albums, and was pretty much done with them. In October 2000, they released All That You Can’t Leave Behind. Pete, a team member of mine, ran over and bought the album over lunch. I didn’t plan to purchase it, but he let me borrow it that night. The U2 I loved was back.
I saw two shows on their tour supporting the album – one before the 9/11 tragedy and one after, two very different shows. The album would go on to win seven Grammy Awards, including record of the year and best rock album.
U2 has released four studio albums in the past 20 years, all good but not great. This was their last great album. Some of their political views (pro-abortion, for example), of the past few years has again soured me on the band. Like I said, my relationship with the band is complicated.
Twenty years to the day of its original release, the band released a 20th Anniversary Edition of the album in multiple formats. The “Super Deluxe” audio edition includes 51 songs, including the unreleased “The Ground Beneath Her Feet”, a previously released (on video) Boston concert, B-sides, outtakes and remixes. The original album has been remastered and sounds great. I’m generally not a fan of remixes, and four dances remixes of “Elevation” seems excessive. Still, I would recommend this for fans off U2’s music.
Freedom (EP) – Justin Bieber
*** ½
Justin Bieber released this surprise six-song EP on Easter, just two weeks after he had released his latest album, the chart-topping Justice. The project, which includes several collaborations, features lyrics clearly affirming Bieber’s faith and trust in Jesus as his savior. My only criticism, and it’s a minor one, is that the energy falls off a bit with the final three songs, after opening with three upbeat songs.
Here are a few brief comments about each song:
Freedom – This song was written by Bieber, BEAM, Boi-1da, Jordan Douglas, Don Mills and Vinylz. It was produced by CVRE, Boi-1da, Vinylz and Mills, and features BEAM. This song about the freedom of salvation has a beat driven by bass and percussion.
Key lyric:
Children, you are forgiven
Ain’t nothin’ you could do for you to change that
And everythin’ you did, He erased that
Yeah, He took it all and threw it in the wasteland
All She Wrote – This song was written by Bieber, Brandon Love, Boi-1da, Leigh Elliot, Sean Momberger, Gerald Levert, Chandler Moore and Vinylz. It was produced by Momberger, Lee Major, Boi-1da and Vinylz, and features Moore and Love. The song samples “It’s Your Turn” by Levert. It is about turning our lives over to Jesus. We can’t save ourselves. We need a savior.
Key lyric:
I keep failin’ myself, I need somethin’ new
So I lay my life down, I give it all to You
We’re in This Together – This song was written by Bieber, Paimon Jahanbin, Nima Jahanbin, Isaiah Johnson, Federico Vindver and Angel Lopez. It was produced by Lopez, Vindver, DJ Alizay and Wallis Lane. This song features bass and percussion. Bieber tells his story, from playing drums at two, to making a million by seventeen. He had everything that people strive for. When everything hit the fan, God was with him and is the reason he is still standing. The song, which includes some brief adult language (a clean version is available), ends with a prayer.
Key lyric:
Gave His life upon the cross to wash our sins away
Where You Go, I Follow – This song was written by Bieber, David Bowden, Judah Smith, Jonathan Gateretse, O’necean Gordon, Tarik Henry, Lenard Ishmael and Luig Majr Tiano. The song was produced GOATSMANS, and features Smith, Chandler Moore and Pink Sweat$. The song, which features guitar, bass and percussion, is about following Jesus, who rose on the third day, beating death once and for all. The song ends with a spoken piece by pastor Judah Smith.
Key lyric:
Where You go, I follow
You’re with me every step of the way
Where Do I Fit In – This song was written by Bieber, Tori Kelly, Tarik Henry, O’necean Gordon, Luigi Majr Tiano, Lenard Ishmael, Judah Smith, Jonathan Gateretse and Chandler Moore. The song was produced by GOATSMANS, and features Smith, Moore and Kelly. The beautiful song has a slow pace driven by keys, and is about trusting God during times of fear and our darkest days. The song ends with a spoken piece by pastor Judah Smith.
Key lyric:
But then you remind me that you’re holding me tight
You say the past is behind me and it’ll be alright
Afraid to Say – This song was written by Bieber and Julian McGuire. It was produced by Bieber and JulesTheWulf, and features Lauren Walters. The song features acoustic guitar and piano, speaks of cancel culture, wondering if we have the room to make mistakes, or are we judged for everything we say. The song ends with a spoken piece by Lauren Walters.
Key lyric:
We can’t write people off
God never writes us off
Best songs:
Freedom
All She Wrote
We’re in This Together
Where You Go, I Follow
Live from the Woods, Vol. 2 – NEEDTOBREATHE
****
NEEDTOBREATHE follows their previous live albums – 2015’s Live from the Woods and 2018’s Acoustic Live Vol. 1 – with Live from the Woods Vol. 2, recorded outdoors March 12-14 at The Caverns in Pelham, Tennessee. This is their first live project since founding member Bo Reinhart left the band, the band now consisting of vocalist/guitarist Bear Rinehart, bassist Seth Bolt and keyboardist Josh Lovelace. The songs on this collection focus on the band’s most recent album, with 8 of the 17 tracks coming from the band’s August 2020 album Out of Body, which the band didn’t get to tour behind because of the pandemic. Three songs come from their 2009 album The Outsiders, 2 from 2014’s Rivers in the Wasteland, and one from 2016’s Hard Love, 2018’s EP Forever on Your Side, 2011’s The Reckoning and 2007’s The Heat.
NEEDTOBREATHE has always been known as an excellent high energy live band, and they prove it again on Live from the Woods Vol. 2. It’s obvious that they are energized to be performing in front of a live audience again. I enjoyed every song on this album, which features more than an hour and a half of music. Highlights for me included a blistering version of “Prisoner” from their 2009 album The Outsiders, “Who Am I” from 2020’s Out of Body, “Feet, Don’t Fail Me Now” from 2014’s Rivers in the Wasteland, the rarely played “Garden” from The Outsiders, “Brother” from Rivers in the Wasteland, and the unplugged Encore Medley: “Something Beautiful” from The Outsiders, “White Fences” from 2011’s The Reckoning, and “Washed by the Water” from 2007’s The Heat, with the audience singing along.
My Savior – Carrie Underwood
****
My Savior is the long awaited first gospel album by seven-time Grammy winner, country artist superstar Carrie Underwood, and her eighth studio album overall. The album, a companion to her 2020 Christmas album My Gift, features thirteen gospel hymns that Underwood grew up singing in a very small Free Will Baptist church in her hometown of Checotah, Oklahoma. I believe that this album of hymns may have the same long-lasting impact of fellow country artist Alan Jackson’s hymns projects.
Underwood sticks to traditional arrangement on these hymns, which I appreciate, beginning with a harmonica driven instrumental version of “Jesus Loves Me”. CeCe Winans joins her on “Great is Thy Faithfulness”, Bear Rinehart of NEEDTOBREATHE provides backing vocals on “Nothing But The Blood of Jesus” and Buddy Greene plays harmonica on the opening instrumental “Jesus Loves Me”, “Blessed Assurance” and “Amazing Grace”. Underwood co-produced the album with David Garcia.
I really enjoyed this album of traditional hymns, featuring Underwood’s powerful voice. Highlights for me included the harmonica from Buddy Greene on the instrumental opener “Jesus Loves Me”, “Great is Thy Faithfulness”, an upbeat country version of “Victory in Jesus”, “How Great Thou Art”, and a powerful “The Old Rugged Cross”.
Here is the complete song listing for the album.
Jesus Loves Me
Nothing But The Blood of Jesus
Blessed Assurance
Just As I Am
Victory in Jesus
Great Is Thy Faithfulness
O How I Love Jesus
How Great Thou Art
Because He Lives
The Old Rugged Cross
I Surrender All
Softly and Tenderly
Amazing Grace
Feared by Hell – Social Club Misfits
***
Shortly after the release of Feared by Hell, Social Club Misfits (Fern and Marty), won the Dove Award for Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year for Mood//Doom, which had actually been released as two separate EPs during 2019. Feared by Hell, a strong album, features a number of guest artists and musical genres, such as Latin, Contemporary Christian and Hip-Hop. Themes on the album include Jesus, family, being yourself, trust in God, fun and the love of a wife.
Below are a few comments about each song:
Act of God – This song was written by Fern, nobigdyl., and Marty. It was produced by DJ Pez, Dirty Rice and Marty and features nobigdyl. This mid-tempo song about thankfulness recognizes that God has brought him through so much, and he doesn’t deserve it.
Key lyric:
Looking at my life, it’s an act of God
Never thought I would make it this far
Is That Okay? – This song was written by Marty and Fern and produced by Jimmy James and Marty. The song features an infectious beat, with keys, bass, percussion, hand-claps, horns, and some excellent guitar. The song has a good message about being yourself. Being different is a superpower. He’s always being himself, and has no time to be anyone else, and God blesses him for who he is.
Key lyric:
I know I’ll never be picture perfect
But can I be myself, is that okay?
Conmigo – This love song was written by Fern, Marty and Jay Kalyl. It was produced by Sam Ash. The song features Kalyl and Ash. Some of this song is sung in Spanish. The title translates to “With Me” in English.
To the Top – This song was written by Fern, Foure and Marty and was produced by Juice Bangers and Dirty Rice. The song features 1K Phew. The song features an excellent beat driven by bass and percussion. The only direction is up. Every day they are making history.
Key lyric:
When there was nowhere to go
You redirected my feet
God on My Side – This song was written by Ty Brasel, Fern and Marty. It was produced by Juice Bangers and Marty, and features Ty Brasel. The song about trust in God, features a mid-tempo beat, with bass, percussion and hand-claps.
Key lyric:
Yeah, I know who to call when I need help
Savior – This song was written by Fern and Marty and produced by Tommee Profitt. This prayer about Jesus being Savior, and His life for ours being the payoff, features Jeremy Camp. The song features acoustic guitar, drums, bass, backing vocals, hand-claps.
Key lyric:
Eternally grateful
When I needed you most, you came through
Luau – This song was written by Fern and Marty and produced by Marty. The song features Hulvey. This song has an easy-going beat, featuring guitar, bass, and percussion. The song is about a summer day hanging with friends by the pool.
Key lyric:
Go and call your friends, I hope summer never ends
Night Glow – This song was written by Marty and produced by Ray Rock. This easy-going song has a beat driven by drums and bass. His faith was tested, but he never wavered. His only friend was Jesus, the night glow when he didn’t have hope.
Key lyric:
You look inside
My God lives there
I might fall down
But can’t stay there
Young Gunz – This song was written by Fern, Evan Craft and Marty. It was produced by Sam Ash and Juice Bangers and features DAViES. The song features an infectious chorus sung by DAViES, as well as guitar, keys, hand-clap and percussion. The song is about Social Club Misfits being young gunz, who have a fire in their soul, are running wild lifting Jesus high.
Key lyric:
Every L I took, that’s a lesson that I needed
And every time I win, I give them something to believe in
One day we gon’ look back and say that it was Jesus
I Need You – This love song was written by Fern and Marty and produced by Marty. The song features a dance beat, with bass, percussion and keys.
Somos Familia – This song about always being able to count on family was written by Andy Alemany, Sam Ash, Evan Craft and Marty. It was produced by Ash and features Blanca. Some of the song is sung in Spanish. The song’s title in English means “We are Family”. The upbeat song features guitar and drums.
Key lyric:
My Lord, I just wanna tell the world looking for remedies
None of it will work unless love is inside the recipe
Without You – This song was written by Fern, Marty and Colby Wedgeworth. It was produced by Dirty Rice and features Riley Clemmons. The up-tempo song features bass and percussion. God is the anchor of his life. He’s lived too many days far from God. There’s no way he’s ever going back to that life.
Key lyric:
Without You
I’m just a house of cards ’bout to fall down
Best songs:
Act of God
Is That Okay?
Savior
Young Gunz
Without You
Let There Be Wonder (Acoustic) EP – Matt Redman
****
Matt Redman released Let There Be Wonder, one of my favorite albums of 2020, in January, before the COVID-19 pandemic swept the world. He recently released this six-song EP Let There Be Wonder (Acoustic), featuring five songs from that album, plus his classic “Blessed Be Your Name”. What holds all of these stripped-down songs together is that they are all about Jesus, and praising his wonderful name.
Even if you are familiar with these songs, I think you’ll enjoy these new versions. What really stood out for me was the use of strings on these songs. The EP was produced by Steve Marcia, who had the idea to use a string quartet as a signature sound for this project. Recorded during the lockdown, we hear four different string players who recorded themselves in four different locations, with beautiful results. I also enjoyed the backing vocals.
Below are a few comments about each song:
Let There Be Wonder (Intro) – The EP begins with the chorus of “Let There Be Wonder”, written by Redman, Joshua Silverberg, Jacob Sooter and Corey Voss. The brief song features keys and strings.
Key lyric:
Let there be wonder, let there be wonder in this place
Let there be worship, let there be worship for Your name
Come Holy Spirit, how we need Your fire again
Let there be wonder, let there be wonder
We Praise You – This song was written by Redman, Brandon Lake, Brian Johnson and Phil Wickham. The song, about praising the Lord, features acoustic guitar, strings, piano and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
We’ll see You break down every wall
We’ll watch the giants fall
Fear cannot survive when we praise You
The God of breakthroughs on our side
Forever lift Him high
With all creation cry, ‘God, we praise You’
Oh, we praise You
All Praise (Sing Praise) – This song was written by Redman, Andi Rozier and Jason Ingram. The song features piano, acoustic guitar, strings, and some wonderful backing vocals. God’s amazing grace far exceeds our past mistakes. God brought us back to life again and we will rise with Jesus from the grave. He is coming soon. His promises all come true and He deserves all praise.
Key lyric:
Your name, Your name always
Jesus, You alone deserve all praise
Upon Him – This song was written by Redman, Andi Rozier and Jon Guerra. The song features acoustic guitar, piano, and backing vocals. There is no greater name than Jesus. One day every knee will bow and every heart confess (Philippians 2:10-11).
Key lyric:
Christ has died, we are forgiven
And Christ alive, we are the risen
And He shall come again
Praise the King, praise the King
Jesus Your Name – This song was written by Redman, Lindsey Sweet, Joshua Silverberg and Jacob Sooter. The song features backing vocals, piano, acoustic guitar, strings, and is about Jesus’s wonderful name.
Key lyric:
Jesus Your name, when the whole world shakes
Jesus Your name, I will ever praise
My battle cry every night and day
I’ll sing Your name over everything
I’ll sing Your name over everything
Blessed Be Your Name – This song was written by Beth and Matt Redman a few weeks after the tragedy of September 11, 2000, when they were in California for the start of a sabbatical break. The Redmans have said that this is “a song born out of the whole of life – a realization that we will all face seasons of pain or unease. And in these seasons, we will need to find our voice before God. The Church (and indeed the world) needs it songs of lament.” This version of the song has a slower pace than usual, and features strings, piano, acoustic guitar, backing vocals.
Key lyric:
You give and take away
You give and take away
My heart will choose to say
Lord, blessed be Your name
Best songs
All
Letter to You – Bruce Springsteen
*** ½
I’ve been a long-time fan of Springsteen’s music, though not his politics. The first of his albums that I bought new was 1978’s excellent Darkness on the Edge of Town. I fondly remember humming songs from that album – “Prove it All Night”, “Badlands”, etc. – as I was walking through an office building doing an end of night inspection as the manager of a cleaning crew while going to college.
Letter to You is the 71-year-old Springsteen’s twentieth studio album, and first with the E Street Band (Roy Bittan, Nils Lofgren, Patti Scialfa, Garry Tallent, Stevie Van Zandt, Max Weinberg, Charlie Giordano and Jake Clemons), since 2014’s High Hopes. The album was produced by Ron Aniello and assisted by Springsteen.
Springsteen wrote all of the songs, most of which were written in April 2019. Three of the songs “Janey Needs a Shooter”, “If I Was a Priest” and “Song for Orphans” date back to the early 1970’s. The album was recorded live in just five days at Springsteen’s home studio with very minimal overdubs.
This is a very personal album. Themes include loss of friends, relationships, looking back, the power of music, and spirituality.
Springsteen fans will, as I did, enjoy the familiar sounds of the E Street Band on this album, bringing back memories of previous songs or concerts that you may have experienced in the past. The album is good, and solid throughout, making it one of the better releases of 2020, but it lacks any really great songs, which to me keeps it from being among Springsteen’s all-time best releases.
Below are a few comments about each song:
One Minute You’re Here – Springsteen has stated that the album was influenced by the loss of close friends and former band members, such as E-Street Band members Clarence Clemons and Danny Federici. This subdued opener is about how friends and loved ones are seemingly here one minute and gone the next. The song features Springsteen backed by acoustic guitar, before being joined by organ, piano and light percussion.
Key lyric:
I lay my penny down on the rails
As the summer wind sings its last song
Letter to You – This was the first song released from the album and has a true E-Street Band feel to it with guitars, organ and drums starting the song. There is a nice break featuring guitar and organ mid-song. The song features some excellent drum work by Weinberg. The song has Springsteen addressing his listeners about his music (his letter).
Key lyric:
Things I found out through hard times and good
I wrote ’em all out in ink and blood
Dug deep in my soul and signed my name true
And sent it in my letter to you
Burnin’ Train – This rocker opens with guitar and drums and features a few blistering guitar solos. The song is about a relationship, perhaps with his wife Patti.
Key lyric:
I wanted you to heal me
But instead you set me on fire
Janey Needs a Shooter – Springsteen wrote this nearly seven-minute story song in 1972, but could not release it due to a pending lawsuit. The song opens with drums and organ and shows off the genius of the E Street Band, including harmonica and backing vocals. This one will sound great in concert.
Key lyric:
Janey needs a shooter now
A shooter man who knows her style
The way that I know her style
Last Man Standing – With the death of George Theiss in 2018, Springsteen became the only living member of his first band the Castiles. He is the last man standing. The song, dedicated to Theiss, begins with Springsteen singing over acoustic guitar before the band kicks in on verse three. The song features some excellent sax work from Clemons.
Key lyric:
Rock of ages lift me somehow
Somewhere high and hard and loud
Somewhere deep into the heart of the crowd
The Power of Prayer – This song, which has nothing to do with prayer, again features some excellent sax work from Clemons and piano from Bittan. The song opens with piano, before Weinberg’s drums leads the rest of the band in.
Key lyric:
I’m reaching for heaven, we’ll make it there
Darling, it’s just the power of prayer
House of a Thousand Guitars – On an album surprisingly free of political commentary, Springsteen takes a shot at Donald Trump, singing:
The criminal crown has stolen the throne,
He steals what he can never own.
This mid-tempo song is about the healing power of music. The song features piano, and a guitar solo.
Key lyric:
So, wake and shake off your troubles, my friend
We’ll go where the music never ends
Rainmaker – The song is about a charlatan who promises to bring rain to drought-stricken farmers. But it’s also about our modern-day politicians. The song features a memorable chorus.
Key lyric:
Sometimes folks need to believe in something so bad, so bad, so bad
They’ll hire a rainmaker
If I Was the Priest – This story song was one of the songs Springsteen performed at his 1972 Columbia Records audition, but had never recorded until now. Springsteen has often included Christian imagery in his songs. In his autobiography he stated that he came to realize that once you’re a Catholic, you’re always a Catholic. This song includes Catholic, along with the old West imagery. The song begins with acoustic guitar before the full band joining in. In this song, Jesus is the sheriff and the Virgin Mary runs the Holy Grail saloon.
Key lyric:
There’s still too many outlaws trying to work the same line
Ghosts – This rocker, along with “Last Man Standing” is dedicated to George Theiss. It pays tribute to those bandmates that Springsteen has lost. The E Street Band really shines on this song.
Key lyric:
Count the band in then kick into overdrive
By the end of the set we leave no one alive
Song for Orphans – This song was written in 1971 and features Springsteen on harmonica. It’s hard to tell what the meaning of this song, with its wordy verses, means. It’s my least favorite song on the album.
Key lyric:
Well sons they search for fathers, but the fathers are all gone
The lost souls search for saviors, but saviors don’t last long
I’ll See You in My Dreams – This song opens with acoustic guitar, piano and organ before the full band kicks in, including a guitar and organ solo mid-song. Springsteen sings about those that he has lost and indicates that death is not the end because he’ll see them in his dreams.
Key lyric:
And though you’re gone and my heart’s been empty it seems
I’ll see you in my dreams
Best songs:
Letter to You
Burnin’ Train
Janey Needs a Shooter
Ghosts
I’ll See You in My Dreams
Skin and Wind – Charlie Peacock
****
I’ve appreciated Charlie Peacock’s music for many years, dating back to his late-night concerts at the Cornerstone Festival when it was held outside of the Chicago area, and his West Coast Diaries releases in the late 1980’s. The multi-talented (artist, producer, author) Peacock writes all of the songs on Skin and Wind, his fourteenth vocal album, and the follow-up to 2019’s Lil’ Willie. In addition, he produces the album, handles lead vocals, and plays multiple instruments (piano, Rhodes and Wurlitzer electric piano, drums, bass, acoustic and electric guitar and percussion). Backing him are son Sam Ashworth (acoustic guitar and background vocals), Ruby Amanfu (background vocals), Bridget Ashworth (background vocals), Jerry McPherson (electric and acoustic guitars and ukulele), Andy Leftwich (fiddle and mandolin) and Dan Dugmore (pedal and lap steel). The album cover is a 1986 photo of Peacock backstage at the Filmore Auditorium in San Francisco.
I thoroughly enjoyed this outstanding album, which features excellence in vocals (Peacock’s voice is still an incredible instrument), production, musicianship and poetical lyrics. Here are a few comments about each of the ten songs:
Skin and Wind is a Mind Bend – This beautiful and lyrically rich song is driven by acoustic guitar, light percussion and backing vocals. It begins with references to rain: A rainstorm of righteousness is dripping from the ceiling, yet do not fix that leak it’s all we have to quench the thirst of the need to be known, the need to be heard. He sings Let’s see where the water goes, and then brings in the wind: There is a wind an untitled wind, a friend to every color of skin. A great opening song.
Key lyric:
I say to myself, don’t you dare ever think
What you see will always be
As it is even now in the summer of ‘20
When you’ve still got more than plenty
Call It Destiny – This song features acoustic and electric guitar, piano, backing vocals, and Sam Ashworth on drums. The song is about a life of contentment. He has no more lust for spinning plates. Every day is a homily.
Key lyric:
There’s no reason to think this season
Is anything but a gift, not a battle hard won
Sing It Blue – This song is driven by acoustic guitar, and features backing vocals, Jeff King on electric guitar and Sam Ashworth on drums and bass. Peacock sings that we should all do our part to be a heart that beats in time with the truth.
Key lyric:
Too many beaten down
Ignored or written off
What happened to the gold
In the rule, did it stop?
Waiting is the Plan – This song features acoustic and electric guitar, bass, and backing vocals. This is a song about supporting someone who is waiting. They are angry. Waiting is not the easiest thing to do, but it’s the plan.
Key lyric:
I’ll be standing on the shore
Waiting to see some history
Watching the sun set in the west
Hoping to God for the best
And waiting, oh waiting
Waiting is the plan
Even When You’re Not – This is a love song that is different musically from the previous songs on the album. It is driven by a bass beat, with backing vocals, guitar, organ and drums.
Key lyric:
There’s nothing that could ever break apart
What we got when you’re near to me
Even when you’re not
Is There Anything – This is a love song that has a country music feel, featuring drums, guitar, organ, backing vocals, and Matt Slocum (Sixpence None the Richer) on cello.
Key lyric:
I’ll wrap my heart around you baby
You wrap your heart around me too
Let’s be the answer to the question
Is there anything that love cannot do?
Never Be Another One – This is a love song, with a good beat driven by acoustic guitar, and featuring backing vocals. She has other lovers lining up, but needs to keep in mind that they once had a good time and there is no reason they can’t have another one.
Key lyric:
There will never be another one who can open my door, so wide
24 Hour Parade – This song features acoustic guitar, bass, drums, backing vocals and cello. This day is another 24-hour parade of everything he believes. You can always be ready to be anything you need to be, or need to do or say, come what may.
Key lyric:
I see the lion on the prowl
I drop a knee and say a prayer
Come Light, true Truth
One Life, in You
The Captain – This upbeat song features piano, backing vocals, Mark Hill on bass, Steve Brewster on drums, Jeff Taylor on accordion and whistle, and Bryan Sutton on acoustic guitar. He keeps a close watch on how fast he’s sinking, but he still rises and prays thy will be done as he navigates the lane between sadness and delight. An excellent vocal from Peacock.
Key lyric:
I’ve got the least amount of time that I’ve ever had
My heart is full, my mind is quick
My body wants to lay it down
I’m a riddle, I’m a puzzle, I’m a quandary all around
I’m the Captain of a ship that’s going down
Faith, Hope & Love – This song is a prayer, and features acoustic and electric guitar, Mark Hill on bass and Nir Z on drums. He is waiting for the helping hand of love to lift him up and put him down on solid ground.
Key lyric:
I am down on my knees
Right where I need to be
There’ll be time enough to do
All I’ve dreamed of
But right now what I really need
Is faith, hope and love
Best songs:
Skin and Wind is a Mind Bend
The Captain
Faith, Hope & Love
Until We Meet Again (Live Unplugged) – Mat Kearney
****
Until We Meet Again features songs from Kearney’s second acoustic tour, his winter 2020 Revisited tour. These songs were recorded in January and February, just before the COVID-19 shutdown. Many of the songs are from early in his career, with five of the eleven songs from his 2011 album Young Love and three from his 2009 album City of Black and White. Most of the songs, are about love and relationships, with other themes including encouragement and trust in God.
If you are not familiar with Kearney’s music, this would be an excellent project to check out. Below are a few brief comments about each song:
Fire and Rain – This song was written by Robert Marvin and Kearney and originally appeared on the 2009 album City of Black and White. They may not be together anymore, but his love for her will not fade. The song features acoustic guitar, drums, bass, and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
My love will not fade
Through the fire and rain
Kings & Queens – This song was written by Judah Akers, David Garcia and Kearney, and originally appeared on the 2018 album CRAZYTALK. The song features acoustic guitar, bass, percussion, backing vocals and an infectious chorus. Kearney has said that the song is about how there are moments when you can be doing well commercially, but feel totally worthless, and also moments when no one cares about your music but you feel fulfilled. The latter is what the song is about.
Key lyric:
Richer than Solomon with you by my side
We’ll be kings and queens in our mind
Count on Me – This song was written by Jason Lehning, Robert Marvin and Kearney and originally appeared on the 2011 album Young Love. The song features some excellent acoustic guitar, backing vocals, bass and drums. In this song he tells her that he loves her and that she can trust him.
Key lyric:
When your number’s called
Back’s against the wall
Pick you up when you fall
Be there when you call
Learning to Love Again – This song was written by Kearney and originally appeared on the Young Love album. The song features acoustic guitar, bass, piano, drums, backing vocals. The Young Love album, and likely this song, were inspired by conversations Kearney had with passengers as he worked as a cab driver in Nashville.
Key lyric:
Hey brother, we’re all learning to love again
Closer to Love – This song was written by Robert Marvin, Josiah Bell and Kearney and originally appeared on the City of Black and White album. The song features acoustic guitar, bass, percussion and piano. We are all just one phone call from bad news that drives us to our knees in prayer. The song is about love, strength and hope.
Key lyric:
Oh, it’s your light
Oh, it’s your way
Pull me out of the dark
Just to show me the way
City of Black and White – This song was written by Michael Logan and Kearney and originally appeared on the City of Black and White album. The song features acoustic guitar, piano, bass, light percussion and backing vocals. This love song tells how she opened his eyes. He wants her to stay.
Key lyric:
I don’t want to wait until tomorrow
To tell you how I’d feel the rest of my life
Sooner or Later – This song was written by Josh Crosby, Robert Crosby, Robert Marvin, Jason Lehning, Nate Campany and Kearney, and originally appeared on the Young Love album. The encouraging song features percussion, bass, acoustic guitar and some excellent backing vocals. Though times are difficult he assures her that sooner or later they’ll get there.
Key lyric:
Baby, it’s like we’re walking on a wire thru the fear
Take my hand, we’ll get there
Air I Breathe – This song was written by Seth Mosley and Kearney and originally appeared on the 2015 album Just Kids. The song features acoustic guitar, bass, percussion, and backing vocals. Kearney has said that the song is about his journey battling perfectionism, being in control, and ultimately his trust in God.
Key lyric:
You are the air I breathe
You are the song I bleed
You are the war that I can’t win
This is my white flag in the wind
Every word You speak
Is the air I breathe
Ships in the Night – This song was written by Jason Lehning, Josh Crosby, Robert Marvin and Kearney and originally appeared on the Young Love album. The rap/pop song features acoustic guitar, drums, percussion, backing vocals and some excellent piano. This is a song about a relationship in which they avoid their problems, instead wasting their time trying to prove who is right.
Key lyric:
And if it all goes crashing into the sea
If it’s just you and me
Trying to find the light
Like ships in the night
Hey Mama – This song was written by Kearney and originally appeared on the Young Love album. The upbeat song features, drums, acoustic guitar, bass, backing vocals and audience participation. This love song seems to tell the story of Kearney and his wife meeting and falling in love.
Key lyric:
Hey lover, don’t want no other
Finger for my ring
Nothing Left to Lose – This song was written by Kearney and originally appeared on the 2006 album Nothing Left to Lose. This song is about his move from Oregon to Nashville, where he would pursue his calling as a singer-songwriter. The song features acoustic guitar, bass, backing vocals and piano.
Key lyric:
And here we go, there’s nothing left to choose
And here we go, there’s nothing left to lose
Best songs:
Kings & Queens
Air I Breathe
Hey Mama
Nothing Left to Lose
Out of Body – NEEDTOBREATHE
****
Out of Body is NEEDTOBREATHE’s seventh studio album, and first since 2016’s Hard Love. The album debuted at #1 on iTunes Top Albums chart. It is also the band’s first album as a trio – Bear Rinehart (lead vocals, guitar, piano, harmonica), Seth Bolt (backing vocals, bass, percussion), and Josh Lovelace (backing vocals, piano, organ), following the departure of founding member Bo Rinehart. The album was recorded in Nashville with producers Cason Cooley and Jeremy Lutito. Five of the eleven songs were released in advance of the full album release.
The band has said that the album is about their journey toward their true selves. This is a strong album, one of my favorites of 2020. As you would expect, the lyrics are vulnerable, and the musicianship and production are excellent. Below are a few comments about each song:
Mercy Shore – This song was written by Bear Rinehart and Tyler Burkum. It features piano, organ, pedal guitar, banjo, bass, drums, backing vocals and a memorable chorus. His arms are tired and weary, and his wounds are on full display. There’s no place he feels safe. He’s lost in the waves that crush him. He’s been battling a broken heart, but one day he’ll wash up on mercy’s shore.
Key lyric:
I see the light but never find the surface
I don’t know if I can swim no more
White knuckles and wild horses
One day we’ll wash up on mercy’s shore
Alive – This song was written by Seth Bolt, Josh Lovelace, Bo Rinehart and Bear Rinehart. This joyful song is upbeat musically, and features organ, piano, bass, guitar, backing vocals and some excellent drums. Someday his body is going to come to a rest, but for now, he wants to chase a vision like he’s running downhill.
Key lyric:
These hills take longer than we think to get down
So I’ll get used to living with my feet off the ground
Hang On – The song, along with “Seasons” were the first to be released by the band as a trio. The song was written by Bear Rinehart, Bo Rinehart, Daniel Tashian and Ian Fitchuk. The band has said that the song is about the feeling you get when good things in life happen for the first time, and remembering the bravery and vulnerability it took to be present in those moments. The song is upbeat musically, and features keys, drums, guitar and backing vocals.
Key lyric: So hang on to the light in your eyes and the feelings
Survival – This was the third song released from the album, and was recorded during the pandemic. The song was written by Cason Cooley, Jeremy Lutito, Josh Lovelace and Bear Rinehart. It has an older NEEDTOBREATHE rock and roll feel to it, and features Drew and Ellie Holcomb on vocals. The song opens with acoustic guitar, and then adds drums, backing vocals, keys and electric guitar.
Key lyric:
I am a man in need of
A constant revival
Jesus, come quickly
I need You for my survival
Child Again – This song was written by Cason Cooley, Emily Weisband, Jeremy Lutito and Bear Rinehart. It features synth, guitar, backing vocals, bass and keys.
The song is a prayer. God is his hope and innocence. He is free like a river and a child again.
Key lyric:
I wanna hear your voice
In the rain and wind
I wanna know it’s safe to be
A child again
Out of Body – This song was written by Cason Cooley, Jeremy Lutito and Bear Rinehart. The song has a good beat, and features piano, guitar, children’s choir, bass, drums and backing vocals. He prays for God to take him out of his body and mind. He wants to know how God made him and be given God’s mystical eye.
Key lyric:
I wanna see my world in a new light
I wanna drift through the fields where the moonlight’s bright
I wanna lose myself in the full of light
I wanna know how it looks from the other side
Who Am I – This was the fourth song released from the album. The song was written by Jordan Reynolds and Thomas Rhett. Bear Rinehart has said that it is a song about the fight to accept, embrace, and trust that the greatest love requires nothing in return. The song works equally well from the perspective of divine and human love. The song features keys, backing vocals, drums, guitar and a passionate lead vocal.
Key lyric:
I push You away, still You won’t let go
You grow Your roses on my barren soul
Banks – This was the fifth song released from the album. It was written by Bo Rinehart, Trent Dabbs and Bear Rinehart. The band indicated that it is a song about the women in their lives. The song is their way of saying that they support them, and that there’s nothing more beautiful than watching them effortlessly become the very thing they were made to be. The song features acoustic guitar, backing vocals, bass and drums.
Key lyric:
I wanna hold you close but never hold you back
I’ll be the banks for your river
Riding High – This song was written by Cason Cooley, Josh Lovelace, Bo Rinehart, Seth Bolt, Trent Dabbs and Bear Rinehart. The song has a driving modern country music beat, beginning with acoustic guitar before going into a full band sound, with excellent harmonies, vocals, drums, guitar, organ, and piano. He’s been living on the tip of his tongue and by the roll of the dice. If it’s going to be done, it’s going to be tonight. They might go out trying, but they’ll go out riding high.
Key lyric:
Bad decisions, they don’t feel bad at the time
Consequences, they don’t always fit the crime
Bottom of a Heartbreak – This song was written by Chloe Gasparini, Jayson DeZuzio, Neil Ormandy and Bear Rinehart. The song, which builds powerfully, features a passionate vocal, piano, percussion, bass, backing vocals. He’s feeling trapped with no escape. He wants to be well and to change, and needs a lot of time and a little space.
Key lyric:
There’s nowhere to hide
Where you feel safe
At the bottom of a heartbreak
Seasons – This song was released with “Hang On”, as the first songs from the new album. It was written by Bear Rinehart, Bo Rinehart, Josh Lovelace and Seth Bolt.
It was inspired by the story of close friends who went through tough time with fertility and adoption struggles. The song features bass, excellent vocal harmonies, mandolin, drums and keys.
Key lyric:
We won’t be here forever
Just a moment then we’re through
We can’t be shifting with the sands
Like seasons always do
Best songs:
Hang On
Survival
Who Am I
Banks
Child Again
Riding High
Seasons
Precious Memories Collection – Alan Jackson
****
This collection of Alan Jackson’s traditional gospels songs includes his two previous gospel albums 2006’s Precious Memories and 2013’s Precious Memories: Vol. II, along with two additional songs – “It’s All About Him” (inspired by his wife’s book of the same title) and “That’s the Way” (which he sang to his wife at their wedding), for a total of 28 songs and nearly an hour and a half of music. The songs feature Jackson’s smooth country vocals over a stripped-down backing consisting primarily of piano, acoustic guitar, light drums and backing vocals. The songs include such favorites as “Amazing Grace”, “How Great Thou Art”, “Blessed Assurance”, “Softly and Tenderly”, “The Old Rugged Cross” and many more. This collection will be a joy for those who love the great old hymns of the faith.
McCartney III – Paul McCartney
*** ½
Former Beatle, 78-year-old Paul McCartney, follows up his chart-topping 2018 album Egypt Station with McCartney III, his eighteenth solo album, and the third in his series of recorded at home McCartney albums. The new album, recorded at his Sussex estate in the spring during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, follows 1970’s McCartney (“Maybe I’m Amazed”), which was released as the Beatles were breaking up and McCartney II (Coming Up”), released in 1980 as Wings was breaking up. The new album is a pleasing eclectic collection (acoustic, rock, pop) of eleven songs which you will appreciate more with each repeated listening. McCartney wrote all of the songs, plays almost all of the instruments (“Slidin’” being the only exception), handles all vocals and produced the album (with the exception of “Slidin’”, which he co-produced with Egypt Station producer Greg Kurstin). I’ve been enjoying Sir Paul’s music for 56 years, and thoroughly enjoyed this new release.
Below are a few comments about each of the songs:
Long Tailed Winter Bird – McCartney featured a few instrumental tracks. This mostly instrumental opener, featuring some outstanding acoustic guitar, along with bass, drums and brass sounds, is a highlight.
Find My Way – This upbeat pop song features guitar, drums, and harpsichord. McCartney uses a falsetto at times as he sings that he can help you out and be your guide. He can help you reach the love you feel inside. The song has a false ending and concludes with some Sgt. Pepperish sound effects. Here is the music video for the song.
Pretty Boys – This song is about male models, objects of desire, posing for photographers. The song could be semi-autobiographical, as McCartney has been posing in front of photographers for more than a half century. The song features acoustic guitar, guitar, bass, drums and backing vocals.
Women and Wives – This ballad features piano, bass and light drums. He gives advice to husbands, wives, lovers and parents, indicating that what we do with our lives seems to matter to others. as some of them may follow roads that we run down.
Lavatory Lil’ – This short rocker, which could have fit nicely on side two of Abbey Road, features some excellent guitar, drums, bass and backing vocals. You’ve got to look out for Lavatory Lil. You think she’s being friendly, but she’s looking for a Bentley. She’s acting like a starlet, but she’s looking like a harlot, as she’s slowly heading over the hill. The song will sound great in concert.
Deep Deep Feeling – This eight-minute plus experimental song features bass, drums, piano, guitar, backing vocals and at times a falsetto vocal. He sings of the deep deep pain of feeling when you love someone so much. The song goes on too long, and has a false ending.
Slidin’ – This is a “Helter Skelter” like rocker, with throwaway lyrics, featuring guitar, bass and drums. I enjoyed the “Come Together” sound at the break mid-way through the song. The song may be an outtake from the Egypt Station sessions as it is co-produced by Greg Kurstin, and features touring band members Rusty Anderson on guitar and Abe Laboriel Jr. on drums. This is another song that will sound good in concert.
The Kiss of Venus – This song was inspired by a book McCartney read about the constellations and the stars and orbits of Venus. He used phrases from the book for the song. The song features a falsetto vocal over acoustic guitar and harpsichord.
Seize the Day – This song features, guitar, piano and drums, backing vocals.
It’s a Wings-like pop song with positive lyrics about love, being kind and seizing the day.
Deep Down – This mid-tempo song features brass sounds, bass, drums, piano, acoustic guitar, harmonium and backing vocals. The song is excellent vocally and musically, but has throwaway lyrics.
Winter Bird/When Winter Comes – “When Winter Comes” is an unreleased song from the early 1990’s, which was produced by George Martin. “Winter Bird” opens with the excellent guitar from “Long Tailed Winter Bird” and then moves into the acoustic guitar driven “When Winter Comes” as he sings about being on his farm, a song that would fit well on his 1971 album Ram.
Best Songs
Long Tailed Winter Bird
Find My Way
Lavatory Lil
Seize the Day
Deep Down
Winter Bird/When Winter Comes
Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming (EP) – Fernando Ortega
****
This surprise (I didn’t find out about it until after Christmas), four song Christmas EP is Fernando Ortega’s first new music release since his 2017 album The Crucifixion of Jesus. The songs are beautifully performed with Ortega backed by piano and cello. Listed below is brief information about each of the songs on the EP, along with videos of Ortega performing them:
Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming – This is a 15th century German Christmas carol, which was translated by Theodore Baker.
In the Bleak Midwinter – This Christmas carol was written by Christina Rossetti (words) in 1872, and Gustav Holst (music) in 1906.
See Amid the Winter’s Snow – This hymn was written by Edward Caswall (words) in 1858 and Sir John Goss (music) in 1871.
Gloria – This song uses lyrics from what is known as the “Gloria Patri”.
His Glory Alone – KB
***
This is KB’s fourth studio album, his first album since 2017’s Today We Rebel (see my review here), and also his first since leaving Reach Records. The new album features God-centered lyrics, samples from several worship songs, and contains themes including praise and worship, being a father, and race.
Below are a few comments about each song:
Let it Reign – This song was written by Tee-Wyla, Michael Farren, Cardec Drums, Bizzle and KB. It was produced by Tee-Wyla and Drums. The song features Bizzle, and begins with a sample of Michael W. Smith’s song “Let it Rain”. The song then moves into a hard-driving beat as he calls for Yahweh to reign over all.
Key lyric: Your throne won’t end, Your crown won’t move
Lil Boy – This song was written by Cardec Drums and KB and produced by Drums. The hard-hitting song is about the example KB wants to set for his two sons. He wants them to be men of character and integrity.
Key lyric: God got a plan, stand up and act like a man
10K – This song was written by Jonas Myrin, Quinten Coblentz, Matt Redman, Wes Writer and KB. It was produced by Coblentz and Writer. This is a worship song that is based on Matt Redman’s song “10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)”.
Key lyric:
I got a God don’t change with the seasons
Ten thousand reasons I can believe in
This is Life – This song was written by Michael Fatkin, Benjamin Hastings, Cardec Drums, Quinten Coblentz, Joel Houston, Wes Writer and KB. It was produced by Drums, Coblentz and Writer. The song samples Hillsong UNITED’s worship song “So Will I (10 Billion X)” The song is about our life praising God, just as the stars, mountains and oceans do.
Key lyric: ‘Cause if everything exists to lift You high, so will I
Armies – This song was written by Wes Writer, Scott Cash, Mashell, Ed Cash, Chris Tomlin and KB. It was produced by Mashell. The song, in which KB expresses his confidence in the Lord to fight his battles, is hard-driving, and features backing vocals. The song samples Chris Tomlin’s “Whom Shall I Fear (The God of Angel Armies)”
Key lyric:
When you come to handle me
There’s another hand on me.
Masterpiece – This piano-driven song was written by Quinten Coblentz and KB and produced by Coblentz. It is a song for KB’s newborn daughter. She is a masterpiece. The song builds with backing vocals.
Key lyric:
There’s nothin’ that you have to be
Already, you’re a masterpiece
Libre – This Latin influenced song was written by Wes Writer, Cardec Drums, Tommy Royale and KB. It was produced by Drums and features Royale. The song is about KB’s freedom in Christ.
Yes Song – This worship song was written by Jonathan Smith, Mia Fieldes, Eddie Hoagland, Jason Cornet, Swoope, Cardec Drums, Tee-Wyla and KB. It was produced by Drums and Tee-Wyla. The song samples “Yes I Will” by Vertical Worship and features Eddie Hoagland. The song begins with piano and builds with backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Hand in my face, I can’t see
I have nothing left to bring
Dark Skin – This song was written by Cardec Drums and KB. It was produced by Drums and features Black Violin. This song addresses racism, and the incidents involving George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery. Jesus is the answer. If we do what he commands and humble our pride, God can mend us. The song begins with piano, and builds with percussion, bass and horns.
Key lyric: Ain’t no left or right side in heaven
We Right Here – This song was written by Cardec Drums, Quinten Coblentz, Wes Writer and KB. It was produced by Drums, Coblentz and Writer. It is a hard-driving song that is a rally cry for millennial-aged Christians. The song samples “KIDZ” by Andy Mineo and Wordsplayed.
Key lyric:
They say millennials are leavin’ God
I just smiled, like you really need to see the squad
Loyal Til the End – This song was written by Cardec Drums, DJ Pez, Jon Keith and KB. It was produced by Drums and Pez and features Jon Keith. It’s a hard-driving song about his loyalty to his friends that features some nice percussion.
Key lyric:
All of my dawgs defiant
Loyal ‘til the end
The Name – This worship song about exalting the name of the Lord, was written by Cardec Drums, Quinten Coblentz, Wes Writer, Koryn Hawthorne and KB. It was produced by Drums, Coblentz and Writer and features Hawthorne. The song features an instrumental break mid-song and some nice drums and vocals from Coblentz and Hawthorne.
Key lyric:
All my heavy chains gettin’ broken
And my weary heart’s given hope
Come exalt Your Name
Si Cancion – This is the Spanish language version of “Yes Song” and features Blanca and Musiko.
Best Songs
10K
Yes Song
The Name
Patient Kingdom – Sandra McCracken
****
I have to admit that I’m a late-comer to Sandra McCracken, being introduced to her music at the 2018 Gospel Coalition National Conference and the last few Getty Music Sing! Conferences. I also really enjoyed her 2019 Christmas album, one of my favorites of last year.
This new album of worship songs features 9 new songs, and a reimagined hymn, all written or co-written by McCracken. The album, which was produced by Ben Shive and Tyler Chester, was recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic, with friends collaborating and recording across four states.
Patient Kingdom is an excellent album, which I’m sure will end up high on my “Best” list for 2020.
Below are a few comments about each song:
I Will Sing – This song about singing about the Lord’s great love (Psalm 89:1), has an easy going pace, and features piano, light bass and light drums, acoustic guitar and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
I will sing of the Lord’s great love forever
I will sing of the Lord’s good love
You Are With Me– This song features piano, drums, acoustic guitar and backing vocals. Our hearts may be heavy and tired in this valley. Sorrow may last for a night, but in the morning, the joy of the Lord breaks in with the light, and we know that He is with us.
Key lyric:
You walk beside me, through darkest valleys
I know You are with me
You Are The Word – This song has a nice play on the word “Word”. We can trust God’s word (His promises) in the pain as the Lord, the Word (John 1:1), will make all of this work for our good (Romans 8:28). He was broken, buried and raised, and we give him praise. McCracken’s vocals have an echo effect, and are backed by light acoustic guitar, backing vocals, and light drums.
Key lyric:
You gave me Your word
You gave me Your word
You are The Word
On High Places – This song features some nice drum work, acoustic guitar, and backing vocals. Fear has been an old friend, solitude has been a teacher of the truth, and peace has been a steady covering.
Key lyric:
On high places, here we go
We will rise, we will rise
And pass through shadows, take it slow
I Am One – This worship song features drums, acoustic guitar, piano, a guitar solo, and Citizens on backing vocals, and would be a good one to sing in a worship service.
Key lyric:
I am one with You in Light
I am one with You in Fire
I am one with You in Love
I am one with You in Glory
Lay My Worry Down – This song features guitar, drums, and backing vocals. We are confident that we can take our anxious fears and turn them over to our Father, resting in His mercy.
Key lyric:
Dark is the night, deep is Your love
Great is my need, You are enough
Thirst No More – This song about the living water that only Jesus provides (John 4:10), features acoustic guitar, drums, backing vocals, and piano.
Key lyric:
Thirst no more, thirst no more
Thirst no more, come and drink
Patient Kingdom – This beautiful song features acoustic guitar, backing vocals, and light drums. In the midst of the chaos, slow us down Lord and let love do its work.
Key lyric:
Let my soul rise up to meet You
As the day rises to the sun
Let my soul rise up to meet You
Let that patient kingdom come
Into The Harbor – This song features light drums, organ, acoustic guitar and backing vocals. In our trouble we cried out and the Lord heard us. He has provided the safety we have been longing for.
Key lyric:
Into the harbor You guide us, O Lord
Into the safety are Thy distant shore
Be Still My Soul– This song is a new version of the hymn written by Jean Sibelius, with a new bridge added by McCracken. The song features organ, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, drums, and some nice backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Be still, my soul, the Lord is on thy side;
bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
leave to thy God to order and provide;
in every change He faithful will remain.
Best songs:
All
Over the Rainbow: The American Standard EP – James Taylor
*** ½
This EP includes three songs recorded during James Taylor’s American Standard album sessions, but not included on the original album. Read my review of American Standard – one of my favorite albums of 2020 – here.
Here are a few brief comments about each song.
I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face – This song was written by Frederick Loewe and Alan Jay Lerner. It was included in the 1956 musical My Fair Lady. The cast recording of My Fair Lady was one of Taylor’s parent’s favorite records. The song features strings, bass and acoustic guitar.
Never Never Land – This song was written by Jule Styne, Betty Comden and Adolph Green. It was included in the 1954 musical Peter Pan, starring Mary Martin. The cast album was a favorite from the Taylor family record collection. The song features acoustic guitar, bass and light percussion.
Over the Rainbow – This song was written by Harold Arlen and Yip Harburg. It was included in the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz. Taylor’s solo guitar version of the song includes Yip Yarburg’s original introductory verse, which is rare.
A Drummer Boy Christmas – for King & Country
***
Australian duo for King & Country, comprised of brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone, follow their best-selling 2018 album Burn the Ships with their first full-length Christmas album, based around their popular version of “Little Drummer Boy”. The album is comprised mostly of well-known Christmas carols, opening and closing with verses from “In The Bleak Midwinter”. There are two new songs included – “Heavenly Hosts”, and “The Carol of Joseph (I Believe In You)”. Bear Rinehart of NEEDTOBREATHE guests on “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” and country singer Gabby Barrett guests on “Go Tell It On The Mountain”.
The duo brings their signature high energy sound to these songs. In addition, the album includes two monologues, which fit in well with the album. A Drummer Boy Christmas was produced by Tedd Tjornhom and for King & Country, and co-produced by Benjamin Backus, with Matt Hales handling executive production.
A Drummer Boy Christmas would be a good addition to your Christmas music collection. Below are a few comments about the two new songs on the album:
Heavenly Hosts – This joyful song was written by Benjamin Backus, Joel Smallbone, Luke Smallbone, Aqualung, Tedd T and Tony Wood. The song starts with piano and then builds with bass, strings, drums and choir. The song is about when the angels met the shepherds in Luke 2.
The Carol Of Joseph (I Believe In You) – This song was written by Joel Smallbone, Luke Smallbone and Aqualung. The piano and strings driven song is about Joseph’s reaction to the birth of Jesus, which reminded me of Michael Card’s classic “Joseph’s Song”.
Miracle of Love: Christmas Songs of Worship (EP) – Chris Tomlin
***
Following close on the June release of his successful country music album Chris Tomlin & Friends, Tomlin is back with his fourth Christmas project, which includes two new songs – “Miracle of Love” and “All the World Awaits (Hosanna)”, along with the four songs from his 2019 EP Christmas Day: Christmas Songs of Worship, and one song from his 2015 album Adore: Christmas Songs of Worship. If you have all of Tomlin’s previous Christmas music, you’ll just want to download the two new songs.
Here are a few comments about each song:
Miracle of Love – This upbeat joyful song was inspired by the Tomlin’s third daughter, due this December, and the parallel story of the birth of Jesus. Tomlin has talked about how each line of the song has a double meaning. The song opens with piano, and picks up with drums, backing vocals and a nice use of horns at the chorus. The song was written by Ashley Gorley, Ed Cash and Chris Tomlin.
Key lyric:
A baby born; a baby born
A miracle of love
A gift from God sent to us
From heaven above
All the World Awaits (Hosanna) – This praise song about the coming of the Savior was written by Tomlin, Jason Ingram and Matt Maher. The song begins with guitar and gently builds with piano, drums and backing vocals. The song is inspired by Matthew 21:9 and Isaiah 9:6.
Key lyric:
Hail the heaven born Prince of Peace
Hail the Son of righteousness
Light and life to all He brings
Glory to the newborn King
Christmas Day – This song is written by Ed Cash, Scott Cash, Franni Cash, Martin Cash and Andrew Bergthold. This joyful song features drums, guitar and excellent vocals by Tomlin and We The Kingdom. Classic Tomlin, this song would be a good one for congregational singing.
Key lyric:
Sing all you people
The Lord almighty reigns
Sing every creature of God
Come bless His name
For He is good, for He is good
He was born to conquer the grave
Light of the world
The reason for Christmas Day
His Name Is Wonderful – This song is written by Tomlin and Ed Cash with a chorus taken from Isaiah 9:6. The song begins with Tomlin singing over piano, and then builds with drums, strings and choir.
Key lyric:
Come and adore Him
On bended Knee
He came to Ransom
Someone like me
Little Drummer Boy – This Christmas classic was written by Katherine Davis, Henry Onorati and Harry Simeone in 1958. The song features guitar, backing vocals and of course some excellent drum work.
Hope Of Israel – This song was written by Tomlin, Ben Fielding, Jason Ingram and Reuben Morgan. The song begins with Tomlin singing over piano, then builds gently with strings and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
God is with us
Christ our Savior
Jesus our Emmanuel
He shall reign our King forever
The hope of Israel
Noel – This song, originally included on Tomlin’s 2015 album Adore: Christmas Songs of Worship, features Lauren Daigle on lead vocals, and was written by Tomlin, Ed Cash and Matt Redman. Tomlin is known for sharing the spotlight with others, such as including Audrey Assad’s “Winter Snow” on his 2009 album Glory in The Highest: Christmas Songs of Worship. Since this recording, Daigle has gone on to great success with her Look Up Child album, which could be the reason this older song was added to the new EP.
Key lyric:
Unto us a Child is born
He shall reign forevermore
Best songs:
A Miracle of Love
All the World Awaits (Hosanna)
Christmas Day
Noel
Live from the Forum MMXVIII – Eagles
****
This new live album – it is available in multiple formats, including Blu-Ray video, digital, vinyl and audio CD, and was shown as a concert film on ESPN over the July 4 weekend – was filmed/recorded September 12, 14 and 15, 2018 at the Forum in Inglewood, California. My wife Tammy and I had seen the Eagles on the same tour just a few weeks earlier, on July 26, at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.
The album is the first release to feature the new Eagles, with Vince Gill and Deacon Frey, replacing founding member Glenn Frey, who died in 2016. Gill and Frey join Don Henley, Joe Walsh and Timothy B. Schmidt as they perform classic Eagles songs, as well as Henley, Gill and Walsh solo hits – 26 songs.
From the first harmonies of the opener “Seven Bridges Road”, you’ll realize that this band, though formed 49 years ago (Henley is the only surviving founding member) is still at the top of their game. Deacon sings a few of his father’s songs (“Take it Easy”, “Peaceful Easy Feeling”), while Gill takes the lead on “Lyin’ Eyes” and “Take it to the Limit”).
If you enjoy the music of the Eagles, you’ll love this new live recording.
Still, Vol. 1 – Michael W. Smith
**
I’ve enjoyed Michael W. Smith’s music since his debut album in 1983. Now 63, he has done just about everything in music, from pop, worship, instrumental, movie soundtrack, Christmas, etc. Still Vol. 1 is a very different Michael W. Smith album, and though I give him credit for trying something different, it won’t be everyone’s “cup of tea”, and it’s sadly my least favorite of Smith’s albums.
The album provides an “atmospheric listening experience of improvisational music” along with Smith reading scripture on the first five tracks. The final five are all instrumental. His prayer for the project “is that this music will help the listener find moments to meditate with scripture.” Smith describes Still as a worship album that is more for individuals during their personal quiet times. There are also videos on Smith’s YouTube channel that accompany each song.
I believe the album will be enjoyed most during listener’s daily devotional and prayer time, or as quiet background music.
Nothing But a Word – Derek Minor and Propaganda
***
Nothing But a Word, a seven song EP, is the result of a plane delay that left Propaganda in Nashville with some extra time on his hands. He contacted longtime friend Derek Minor about recording and that led to this collaboration. It is Propaganda’s first project since 2017’s excellent Crooked, one of my favorite albums of that year. The new project was produced by Minor.
Here are a few comments about each song:
Dope – This song features John Givez as he shares vocals with Propaganda. He’s underrated and underestimated, and has some folks back home questioning how he made it. Life’s not perfect, but it’s worth it, because it’s dope. The song features finger snaps, backing vocals, synth and bass. A highlight.
Key lyric:
Remind me I ain’t crazy and the grace stay amazing
He came down to prove I wasn’t talking to an empty room
Remind me that the truth is that I’m looking at an empty tomb
Comments – This song addresses our online (Twitter, etc.) lives and how we can get pulled into debates by people we don’t even know. The information cycle is polarizing, and it’s beneath you to believe that nonsense (deep state, fake news). The song features a heavy beat, driven by percussion, bass, synth. Contradiction – This song features Aaron Cole on vocals. He wants to honest, shares the many ways that his life is a contradiction, and that he is at war with himself. The song features a heavy beat, driven by bass and percussion, and also features some guitar.
Impose – Although he’s not one to hold his tongue, he has grown a little, and is working on his patience. He doesn’t want to impose or tell you what you already know. The song references Donald Trump, privilege and equality. It is driven by synth and a steady beat.
Overjoyed – He’s overjoyed, but not overwhelmed, living in California, where good churches and bad cops are on the same boulevard. He speaks of fine tuning his priorities, which seem like they are always at war with him. The song features some excellent guitar work.
Key lyric:
It ain’t love if you ain’t willing to fight for it
It ain’t real if you aren’t willing to kill for it
Change – This song is about some things that need to change. He asks what lessons can we learn. We are a culture in crisis. The song references such current issues of refugees and equal pay for women. The song features Daniella Mason on vocals, guitar and a bass beat.
Fallen – This song features Tobe Nwigwe and Liz Vice on vocals, over drums and a bass beat. The chorus includes “They say that we are fallen, then tell me why you follow”. Propaganda and Nwigwe handle the verses.
Key lyric:
When Lucy try to tempt you, remember that it was written
Best songs:
Dope
Comments
Work in Progress – Andy Mineo
*** ½
Work in Progress, the latest from Andy Mineo is a mixtape/podcast hybrid. It features 12 songs that are raw, unmastered and alternate versions of tracks recorded over the years. Each song has a clip from his podcast that explains what the song is about. The songs have been on his hard drive for years, some dating back to 2014, but have never been released for various reasons. The songs are classic Mineo. I’m glad that he cleaned out his vault, and that these songs are seeing the light of day.
Below are a few brief comments about each song:
Reflections – This song was written by Mineo, Joel McNeil, John McNeil and Evan Ford. It was produced by 42 North and Ford. The song is driven by keys and drums. Andy talks about an encounter with a fan, Jesus being crucified and questions which America we speak of when we say we want to make it great again.
OT OD – This song was written by Mineo and produced by BEAM and Alex Medina. It features BEAM on vocals. This song, with its many sports references, sounded like it would have felt at home on Andy Mineo and Wordsplayed Present Magic & Bird. It features percussion, synth and handclap.
Keepin It Movin’ – This song was written by Mineo and Guvna B. It was produced by Iggy Music. It features London rapper Guvna B on vocals. The hard-hitting song about their careers and daily life features synth and drums.
I Don’t Need You – This song was written by Mineo, Matthew Scott Cohen and GAWVI, and produced by Cohen and GAWVI. This emotional song features synth, drums, bass and handclap. He doesn’t need them. He’s built walls so as not to feel pain. By the end of the song he realizes that maybe he does need them after all.
1988 – This song was written by Mineo and produced by Nottz and 42 North. Andy is reflective about turning 30. He addresses time, which will one day go on without him. He considers how he might be remembered. Now he’s less eager to prove something, but more confident in who he is.
Anything But Country – This song was written by Mineo, GAWVI, Joseph Prielozny and !llmind and produced by !llmind, GAWVI and Prielozny. The song addresses stereotypes (music, girls), As he has gotten older, he’s formed his own opinion and stopped letting other people do his own thinking. The song features percussion, backing vocals and an infectious chorus.
Another Me – This song was written by Mineo and produced by GAWVI. This is a love song to Mineo’s wife. She’s his priority. He doesn’t want to miss any of her. The song features synth and some backing vocals.
Til Death – This song was written by Mineo and Brian Reath. It features Reith on backing vocals. The song has a catchy R&B vibe, and features keys, percussion, guitar and handclap. He promises to be there for worse or better till death do they part. The song was recorded in 2014 around the time of his wedding.
So Gone Easy – This song was written by Mineo, B.Keyz, Dave James and Ace Harris. It was produced by James and Harris and features B.Keyz and James. The song features percussion, synth, guitar, keys, and bass, and varies in style between rap and easy going. He’s been doing this for so long, it’s so hard to make it look easy.
Honest 2 God – This song was written by Mineo and BEAM, and produced by BEAM and Daniel Steele. The song features bass, drums, synth, and some backing vocals. He wonders how often we have honest moments. He addresses some doubt about his faith, depression, his wife and grandmother. The honesty here is similar to his recent EPs The Sword and The Arrow.
I Ain’t Done – This song was written by Mineo and produced by BEAM. A version of this song appeared on his 2018 EP The Arrow. This song features a heavy bass and drum beat. He addresses his depression and anxiety. He’s not done making music. As long as there is breath in his lungs, he’ll keep rapping.
Family Photo – This song was written by Mineo and Weathrman and produced by Weathrman. A version of this song appeared on his 2018 EP The Arrow. The song tells the story of Mineo’s father not attending his wedding.
Marty for President 2 EP – Marty
***
Marty takes a break from the Social Club Misfits for a solo outing. Marty For President 2 is the follow-up to his 2015 EP Marty for President. The seven song EP features a number of guest artists, song writers and producers, and will be enjoyed by fans of Social Club Misfits.
Below are a few comments on each song:
The One about the Misfit, Pt. 2 – This song was written by Dave James, DJ Pez and Marty. It was produced by Dave James and DJ Pez. The song starts with a slow pace, a talk-rap over synth, and then builds slightly with percussion and guitar. He states that during the Misfits best year he was depressed the whole time and that sometimes you’ve gotta go through hell on the way to heaven. The song includes a mild “adult language” word that I’m disappointed hearing on a faith-based project. Leave the adult language to the mainstream rappers.
The One Where I Talk to God – This song about needing to talk to God during difficult times, was written by Daniel Chrisman, Israel Hindman, Juice Bangers, Andy Mineo and Marty. It was produced by Marty and Juice Bangers. The song has an easygoing beat and features Andy Mineo and Tree Giants. The song is driven by percussion, synth and bass.
The One Where I Hate You – This song was written by Joshua Toala, Marty, Jung Youth, Ray Castro and Luis Calderon. It was produced by Luis Calderon and Ray Castro. The song, has an easygoing beat, and features drums, bass and keys. It’s about dating someone who is wrong for you. He’s so happy that she’s gone.
The One with the Presidential Freestyle – This song was written by Israel Steven Mercedes, Derek Minor and Marty. It was produced by Chino Dollaz and Derek Minor. The confident song has a hard driving beat driven by synth, percussion and bass. He’s trying to run the race of life without wrecking, while Satan is waiting for his downfall.
The One with the Emo TRL Sound – This song was written by Dave James, Hollyn and Marty. It was produced by Dave James and Marty. The song, which is very different from the others on the EP, features Hollyn. The song is driven by acoustic guitar and is about missing a loved on.
Key lyric:
What does it really mean to be in love?
It’s a choice you make every day even when you’ve had enough
The One with No Discounts – This song was written by DJ Pez, Israel Steven Mercedes, Gravez, Dmitry Lavender, GAWVI, Marty and Tommy Royale. It was produced by Dmitry Lavender and DJ Pez. The song, driven by percussion, synth and bass, features GAWVI and Tommy Royale. God’s everlasting grace is on him and he can’t waste any time.
The Last One – This song was written by Luis Calderon, Ray Castro, Marty and Wande. It was produced by Marty, Luis Calderon and Ray Castro. The upbeat song, with a memorable chorus, features Wande and is driven by drums and guitar. He just wants to shine his light, play his part, sing his songs because of the talent he has he received from God.
Key lyric:
Your work is not in vain, it’s only preparation
It’s about the journey not the destination
Best songs
The One Where I Talk to God
The One with the Presidential Freestyle
The Last One
Doom – Social Club Misfits
****
Social Club Misfits, comprised of rappers Fern (Fernando Miranda) and Marty Mar (Martin Lorenzo Santiago), return with Doom, a six-song EP. I’ve enjoyed some of their previous music, in particular 2018’s Into the Night and its predecessor
2017’s The Misadventures of Fern & Marty. I really enjoyed Doom and look forward to their new full-length release.
Below are a few comments about each song:
Doom – This song was written by Jung Youth, Dave James and Marty and Fern, and produced by James and Marty. Jung Youth handles the vocals on the chorus, with Marty and Fern each taking one of the verses. If they can reach one person, it will be worth it. It’s never been about fame, but purpose. God never said it would be easy, but that He would be by their side and never leave them.
The song features keys and some nice percussion.
Key lyric:
I know that You’ll be there
Now there’s no more doom
Believe – This song was written by Fern and Marty, and produced by DJ Pez and Marty. Dave James adds vocals to the song. Marty has stated that the song is about struggling with faith, looking for an answer and waiting on a response. Do you still believe in what you can’t see? The song features keys, percussion and bass.
Tamo Aqui – This song was written by Fern, Marty and Israel Steven Mercedes. The song was produced by Rey King, who also sings the chorus. The song title means “We are here” in English. Fern sings the first verse in Spanish and Marty the second in English. The song features a good beat, horns and backing vocals.
God WYA – This song was written by Fern, Marty and Ben Lopez and produced by Lopez. He’s sorry for the time he’s wasted, when he took God for granted. Now, the more he prays the freer he feels. The song features a good beat, driven by bass, percussion, keys, backing vocals, and has a memorable chorus.
Enough – This song was written by Fern, Marty, Willyecho and Austin French. It was produced by Jordan Sap. Austin French handles vocals on the chorus and bridge. The joyful song features finger snaps, bass, keys and percussion. Even when we’re broken and tired, God is enough, enough, enough. A highlight.
Stones – This song was written by Fern and Marty and produced by Dave James and Marty. The song features guitar, backing vocals, bass, drums and synth. The song is about being honest about our struggles. We don’t always understand, but it’s the peace of God that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).
Key lyric:
I know I’m not perfect
But You still said I’m clean
Best songs:
God WYA
Enough
Stones
Evensong – Hymns and Lullabies at the Close of Day– Keith and Kristyn Getty
****
Evensong is the first new studio album for Keith and Kristyn Getty since 2016’s Facing a Task Unfinished. It is not your usual album of new modern hymns from the Gettys, but rather more of a Kristyn Getty solo project born out of a family tradition. The Gettys close out their days with a time of reflection in thought, song, and prayer. These are lullabies and hymns that they have sung to and for their own children.
The project was recorded in Nashville during the COVID-19 shelter at home season. Ben Shive, who produced the album with Keith and Kristyn, was able to gather recordings from each musical collaborator and create a project fusing the Celtic, folk, bluegrass, classical, and Americana sound the Gettys have become known for. The musical backing is more restrained than a normal Getty album, but no less beautiful. The cover art was specially created by internationally renowned Irish artist Ross Wilson. The album features guest appearances from Vince Gill, Heather Headley, Ellie Holcomb, Sierra Hull, Deborah Kelmme and Sandra McCracken.
Below are a few thoughts about each song:
Hush-a-by (Come Unto Me and Rest) – This song was written by Keith and Kristyn Getty. The song begins with the first verse from Horatius Bonar’s 1846 hymn “I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say”, and then moves into a “Hush-a-by Baby” lullaby. The beautiful song features piano, acoustic guitar, percussion, bass and strings.
Key lyric:
Hush-a-by baby
The Lord surely keeps
Mother and child in His arms
He keeps us both in His arms
Sun of My Soul (Shine) – This song was written by Kristyn Getty and Sandra McCracken. The song features acoustic guitar, light percussion and the beautiful harmonies of Kristyn Getty, Sandra McCracken and Skye Peterson
Key lyric:
Sun of my soul, steady my gaze
As daylight runs its race
Your Word is a lamp unto my feet
On this journey
Consider the Stars – This song was written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty and Fionan De Barrs, and originally appeared on the Getty’s 2016 album Facing a Task Unfinished. The song features piano, strings, and a tender vocal from Kristyn Getty. The song is a lullaby that was written for the Getty’s daughters to help them go to sleep at night
Key lyric:
Do not be afraid
He who made all of this, says “You’re worth more than this,”
And holds you in his hands
Softly and Tenderly/Ashokan Farewell (Medley) – “Softly and Tenderly” was written by Will L. Thompson in 1880. A new verse was written by Kristyn Getty. “Ashokan Farewell” was written by Jay Unger. The song features vocals by Vince Gill, Ellie Holcomb, Sierra Hull, and Deborah Klemme. The song features acoustic guitar, bass, violin and beautiful harmonies.
Key lyric:
Come home, come home
Ye who are weary come home
Earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling
Calling O sinner come home
Is He Worthy? – This song was written by Andrew Peterson and Ben Shive. The song features piano and vocals from the Getty’s daughters
Key lyric:
Is He worthy? Is He worthy?
Of all blessing and honor and glory?
Is He worthy of this? He is
Lily in the Valley – This song was written by Kristyn Getty and Ben Shive. The beautiful song features acoustic guitar, strings, and Kristyn singing a part of the song in French.
Key lyric:
He is the pearl you seek
And worry adds no single hour
But He knows every need
His Eye is on the Sparrow – This song was written by Gene Bartlett, Charles Gabriel and Civilla D. Martin, and features the vocals of Heather Headley. The song features piano, light percussion, strings, and excellent vocals by Getty and Headley.
Key lyric:
I sing because I’m happy
I sing because I’m free
His eye is on the sparrow
And I know He watches me
Jesus, Friend of Little Children/Jesus Loves Me – “Jesus, Friend of Little Children” was written by Walter John Mathams. “Jesus Loves Me” was written by Anna B. Warner and William Bradbury. Additional lyrics were written by Keith and Kristyn Getty. The song features acoustic guitar, an accordion sounding instrument, and the vocals of the Getty’s daughters.
Key lyric:
Never leave me, nor forsake me
Ever be my friend
For I need Thee from life’s dawning
To its end
The Lord is in His Holy Temple – This song was written by Kristyn Getty and Ben Shive. This beautiful song features piano, bass, and an excellent choir. My favorite song on the album, and one that would be good for congregational singing.
Key lyric:
The Lord is in His holy temple
Let all the earth keep silence
My Heart is Fill with Thankfulness – This song was written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend and originally appeared on the Getty’s 2012 album Hymns for the Christian Life. The song features piano and beautiful strings.
Key lyric:
For ev’ry day I have on earth
Is given by the King;
So I will give my life, my all,
To love and follow Him.
Keep Letting the Light In – This song was written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty and Matt Papa. The song features piano and strings.
Key lyric:
He who said let there be light
Will surely overcome the night
As another day begins
Keep letting the light in
Abide With Me – This song was written by William Henry Monk. The song features strings, piano, light horns, and backing choir.
Key lyric:
Where is death’s sting? Where, grave, thy victory?
I triumph still, if Thou abide with me
Evensong – This song was written by Kristyn Getty and Matt Papa. The song features acoustic guitar, a backing choir, strings,
Key lyric:
Now, turn our hearts toward Thy way
Help those in doubt, in loss, in pain
Oh Lord, have mercy on this world
Thy song of hope be ever heard
Best songs:
Sun of My Soul (Shine)
Softly and Tenderly/Ashokan Farewell (Medley)
His Eye is on the Sparrow
The Lord is in His Holy Temple
Abide with Me
Heaven – Sing! The Life Of Christ Quintology
****
Sing! The Life of Christ: Quintology is the fourth album to be released from Keith and Kristyn Getty’s wonderful Sing! worship music conferences, following 2018’s Sing! Live at The Getty Music Worship Conference and 2019’s Sing! Psalms: Ancient + Modern (Live At The Getty Music Worship Conference) and Sing! An Irish Christmas – Live At The Grand Ole Opry House.
The new album was released in five separate EPs over a period of several months. The project followed the five main themes of the 2019 Sing! conference – the Incarnation, Passion, Resurrection, Commission, and Ascension of Jesus Christ, and includes 29 songs. To find out more about my takeaways from the 2019 conference, held in Nashville, read my article “Reflections From the 2019 Sing! Getty Worship Conference” here.
The album was recorded at the Gaylord Hotel Convention Center, the Grand Ole Opry House and the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. Everything that the Gettys and their musical friends do is with excellence. Throughout, the songwriting, singing and musical performances are of a very high quality, especially noteworthy for a live recording.
The fifth and final EP to be released is on Heaven. Below are a few comments about each song:
Forever Jesus – This song was written by Matt Papa and Stuart Townend. Townend and Kristyn Getty handle the lead vocals. The triumphant song, one of my favorite new songs of 2020, features piano, drums, bass, strings, and the singing of the conference choir.
Key lyric:
So for all my days I will sing my praise
To the King, “forever Jesus”
Though the storms may rage He is strong to save
He’s the King forever Jesus
There is a Higher Throne – This song was written by Keith Getty and Kristyn Getty. Kristyn Getty handles the lead vocals. The uplifting song features guitar, flute, drums, piano, and conference choir.
Key lyric:
Hear heaven’s voices sing;
Their thund’rous anthem rings
Through em’rald courts and sapphire skies.
Their praises rise.
All glory, wisdom, pow’r,
Strength, thanks, and honor are
To God our King, who reigns on high
Forevermore
The Lord is My Salvation – This song was written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty, Nathan Nockels and Jonas Myrin. Kristyn Getty and Shane and Shane handle the vocals. This powerful hymn of praise features, guitar, drums, piano, flute, bass and conference choir.
Key lyric:
Who is like the Lord our God?
Strong to save, faithful in love
My debt is paid and the vict’ry won
The Lord is my salvation
God the Uncreated One (King Forever More) – This song was written by Pete Jams and Aaron Keyes. Lead vocals are handled by Tommy Bailey, Director of Worship at the Village Chapel in Nashville. This joyful hymn features piano, violin, bass, drums, guitar, and conference choir.
Key lyric:
What joy in everlasting life
All is love and faith is sight
Justice rolls and praises rise
At the name of Jesus Christ
King of Kings forever
King of Kings forever
King of Kings forevermore
Christ the Sure and Steady Anchor – This song was written by Matt Papa and Matt Boswell. Lead vocals are handled by Boswell and Papa. The song features piano, bass, drums, violin, and the conference choir.
Key lyric:
Christ the sure and steady anchor
As we face the wave of death
When these trials give way to glory
As we draw our final breath
We will cross that great horizon
Clouds behind and life secure
And the calm will be the better
For the storms that we endure
The King in All His Beauty – This song was written by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. Lead vocals are handled by Papa. The song features piano, bass, drums, and conference choir.
Key lyric:
Now see the Savior lifted up
The Lamb who reigns in splendor
The hope of every tribe and tongue
His kingdom is forever
Best songs:
All
Restoration – Lecrae
****
This long-awaited album, Lecrae’s ninth studio album, is his follow-up to 2018’s collaboration album with Zaytoven Let the Trap Say Amen, and is his first solo album since 2017’s All Things Work Together. The album doesn’t disappoint.
Four songs were released prior to the full album. Restoration is the companion release to his upcoming book I Am Restored: How I Lost My Religion but Found My Faith. The album has Lecrae partnering with a large number of guest artists, songwriters and producers. The theme of Lecrae’s restoration from life’s difficulties weaves throughout the album. As expected, the production is crystal clear and the performances are all of a high quality. The Road to Restoration, a behind the scenes look about the making of the album was released in three parts shortly before the album’s release.
Below are a few comments about each song.
Restore Me – This song, which is 1 minute and 16 seconds long (a nod to Romans 1:16 and Reach Records), was written by Ray Castro, Ace Harris, Alex Medina, Dave James, Lecrae and Taylor Hill. The song was produced by Ray Castro, Ace Harris, Alex Medina, Dave James and Taylor Hill, and features Hill. The brief song sets the tone for the album, addressing the difficulties in Lecrae’s life – trauma, losing his faith, loss of fans when he spoke out about racial injustice, etc. It ends with a prayer to God to restore him.
Key lyric:
Use all this pain, use all this hurt
To grow me
If that’s what it takes to know what I’m worth
Restore me
Set Me Free – This was the first song released from the album, and was written by Erica Campbell, GAWVI, Hulvey, Lecrae, Torey D’Shaun, Trecina Atkins-Campbell, Warryn Campbell, WHATUPRG and YK Osiris. The song was produced by GAWVI, and features Osiris. Lecrae has said that “set free” is a triple entendre in the song – industry, society and spiritually. The song samples Warren Mary Mary’s song “Shackles (Praise You)”.
Key lyric:
Shackles on my feet, You broke the hold and now I’m free
Even in the darkest times You kept Your light on me
Wheel’s Up – This song was written by S1, Epikh Pro, Kelvin Wooten, Marc E. Bassy, Abe Parker and Lecrae. It was produced by Inc. no world, Epikh Pro, Kelvin Wooten and S1. The song features Marc E. Bassy on the chorus. Lecrae handles the verses with a fast rap style. The chorus has his problems fading away as he sits back in a plane that is taking off and he gets to experience God’s eye view on everything.
Key lyric:
Some days I can’t believe how far we made it
I thank God for the fans and pray for patience
Over the Top – This trap influenced song was written by Tray Haggerty, Torey D’Shaun, Hulvey 30 Roc and Lecrae. It was produced by 30 Roc. This song is about how success in life (number one album, awards, money, fame), will fade away. All of that perishes, but you are left with the best, God and your family.
Key lyric:
You can have the percs, I’d rather have a purpose
Self Discovery – This song was written by Mez, Kelvin Wooten, S1 and Lecrae. It was produced by Kelvin Wooten and S1. The song features Trip Lee, Michelle Campbell and a sample from James Williams. On this song, Lecrae talks about his growing up days. He stated that this was his favorite track on the album, where he realized that God is relational, not transactional. The song features some nice keys throughout.
Key lyric:
It’s obvious, I’m highly blessed
I finally get to understand what a man is when he at his godliest
To get there I was highly stretched and I was highly stressed
Deep End – This was the second song released from the album and was written by Khari Alamin, Anthony Gardner, Foushee, John Summit and Lecrae. It was produced by Anthony Gardner. The song features Summit. Lecrae is transparent about the pain and trauma he has experienced as a black man when he has seen black people gunned down in the street.
Key lyric:
I’ve been doin’ better than I was before
I walk with a limp ‘cause I’ve been wrestlin’ with the Holy Ghost
Deep end of this pit, but still somehow I keep floating on
Thought I lost my grip, but God reminded me He’s holding on
Drown – This was the third song released from the album and was written by Jim Lavigne, Micah Premnath, Alex Stacey, Danny Majic, DJ Frank E, Ace Harris, John Legend and Lecrae. It was produced by Danny Majic, DJ Frank E and Ace Harris. The song features John Legend on the chorus. Darkness, drama, shame and heartache has him down and in over his head. God is his last resort. Only He can take the pain away.
Key lyric:
If I had one call, would You answer it?
Or would You take back all of Your promises?
‘Cause I don’t know who to turn to or who to trust
I don’t know who to turn to or who to trust
Saturday Night – This song was written by Mez, Lecrae, Joshua Brennan and Jozzy.
It was produced by Oshi. The song features Jozzy and Khari Alamin. This song finds Lecrae in the club again on a Saturday night. But is it real, or was he dreaming all this time? The song ends with a voice telling him to wake up and get his church clothes on.
Key lyric:
Measures of success
They hate you and admire you too
Sunday Morning – The companion song to “Saturday Night”, this song was written by Blu June, Nathanael Saint-Fleur, Terrence Antonio Jones, Ace Harris, Epikh Pro, SAK PASE, Saint Bodhi, Brittany Coney, Kirk Franklin and Lecrae. It was produced by The Crate League, Ace Harris, Epikh Pro and SAK PASE. The song features Kirk Franklin and a church choir (Melanie Rose, Emerald Campbell, Blu June and Ariel Campbell). He’s thankful for every day he gets to wake up. The last night was a mess, but God just hit “refresh”. The song ends with this from Kirk Franklin:
My life and your life is just a vapor
And if what you see is all you see
Then you do not see all there is to be seen
We leave
Quickly
We leave
Zombie – This was the fourth and final song released before the album was released and written by Tommie Walker, Fred Hammond, Epikh Pro, Taylor Hill and Lecrae. It was produced by Epikh Pro and Taylor Hill. The song features Tedashii and Taylor Hill, and samples Fred Hammond’s song “We’re Blessed”. The song features some nice keys. He was in the dark, but then Jesus called him.
Key lyric:
I was in the dark, I swear you couldn’t tell me nothing
I was after flesh, I guess I was some type of zombie
Demons used to haunt me
Then I heard the voice of God, I’m grateful Jesus called me
Keep Going – This song was written by Ace Harris, Carvello, Quay Global, Lecrae and Fletcher Redd. It was produced by Quay Global, Carvello and Ace Harris. He’s come too far to let it go; he can’t quit. He’s got to keep going.
Key lyric:
I was down, at the bottom, got it out the mud
Kept it goin’, even when they never showed me love
Momma said it would come a time I would struggle
Keep your hands to the ceiling when you see the troubles
Still – This song was written by Mike Woods, Brittany Coney, Blu June, DaniLeigh and Lecrae. It was produced by NOVA WAV and Mike Woods, and features DaniLeigh on the chorus. This is a song to Lecrae’s wife. He wasn’t acting the way his momma raised him. He did her bad, but now he really needs her.
Key lyric:
Let me come through, I can do what nobody else do for you
Let me prove everything I gotta prove
Only Human – This song was written by Kenneth Deron-Anderson, Ace Harris, Ty Brasel, Dave James, John McNeil, Joel McNeil, John Smythe, BJ the Chicago Kid and Lecrae. It was produced by Dave James, Ace Harris, and 42 North, and features BJ the Chicago Kid on the chorus. In a fast rap style Lecrae shares the difficulties in his life and how God restored him.
Key lyric:
But God said “Hol’ up, I got it, I do this”
He lifted my head up then helped me get to it
He gave me the beauty for ashes, I blew it
I thought I was ruined, He started renewin’
Nothing Left to Hide – This song was written by S1, Gwen Bunn and Lecrae. It was produced by S1, and features Gwen Bunn. Lecrae ends the album, and “maybe the end of a long run”, with a confident and hard-hitting vocal, admitting that he had lost his direction, but he didn’t forget the resurrection. He asks us what’s the point of each day if there is isn’t a God. What’s the purpose of waking up? He says we love to beat each other up instead of praying and working to heal each other. He’s not finger pointing, but if the shoe fits, go ahead and wear it.
Key lyric:
Never good enough to get the love of Christ
But He’s good enough to get the love of me
Best songs
Wheel’s Up
Drown
Zombie
Sunday Morning
Only Human
Nothing Left to Hide
Chris Tomlin and Friends
****
Chris Tomlin has been one of my favorite artists for several years. His thirteenth studio album is unlike anything he’s ever done before. It’s his attempt to break down the walls of the Christian music genre and allow the music to be accessible to a wider audience. I give him credit for trying something new and different, bridging country music with his worship music genre. It’s not an album in which guest artists merely join Tomlin, but it’s a true collaboration. Tomlin has talked of the album as being created entirely through friendships. On the downside, there is so much collaboration that on some songs Tomlin can barely be heard.
Florida Georgia Line’s Corey Crowder produced 12 out of the 13 songs, with David Garcia producing one track and Ed Cash co-producing one. The album is also different in that Tomlin is known for writing songs for the church to sing, but most of these songs don’t fall into that category.
The album grew on me with each repeated listen. Below are a few comments about each song:
Thank You Lord (Intro) – This brief song features a gospel choir led by Shannon Sanders that was brought in for the song “Power”.
Thank You Lord – This song was written by Tomlin, Thomas Rhett, Tyler Hubbard, Corey Crowder and David Garcia, and features Florida Georgia Line and Thomas Rhett. Tomlin has said that to have a life of gratitude and thank God for all things – good and hard – that are around us is a major theme of the album. The verses have a country music feel, and the bridge is more worship music, featuring Tomlin. This is a feel-good, sing along song that features hand claps, backing vocals, guitar and drums.
Key lyric:
Praise up, eyes closed
One thing I know
I just wanna thank You Lord, thank You Lord
Reaching For You – This song was written by Tomlin, Shay Mooney and Ed Cash, and features We The Kingdom. This song is probably closest to a traditional Tomlin worship song, featuring keys, synth, backing vocals, drums and guitar.
Key lyric:
And I don’t have to wonder where
My hope is coming from
I lift my hands for who You are
And everything You’ve done
Who You Are To Me – This song was written by Tomlin, Charles Kelley, Hillary Scott and Dave Haywood and features Lady A (formerly known as Lady Antebellum). The song features keys, drums, guitar and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Some people think You’re distant, just some words on a page
That You’re nothing more than fables, handed down along the way
But I’ve seen You part the waters
When no one else could pull me from, the deep
That’s who You are to me
God Who Listens – This song was written by Tomlin, Thomas Rhett, Ashley Gorley and David Garcia, and features Thomas Rhett. The song features guitar, bass, drums, and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
I’m not just hoping
I’m not just wishing
I know I’m praying
To a God who listens
I know He hears me
I know He’s living
Yes, I am praying
To a God who listens
Power – This song was written by Tomlin, Pat Barrett and Ed Cash and features Bear Rinehart, lead singer of NEEDTOBREATHE. This gospel flavored song, based on Psalms 20 and 121, is one that Tomlin has had for a while, and he teams up well with Rinehart and the gospel choir. This is another song that sounds like a traditional Tomlin worship song.
Key lyric:
There is wonder working power
Holy Spirit power
Great redeeming power
Power in the name
Resurrection power
Bondage breaking power
Power in the name of Jesus
Be The Moon – This song was written by Tomlin, Corey Crowder and Tyler Hubbard, and features Brett Young and Cassadee Pope. Tomlin has said that this song represents the heart of the album. God calls us to be a light in the darkness, and that is what the moon does, reflects the light of the sun amidst night. The easy-going song features backing vocals, drums, guitar and a memorable chorus.
Key lyric:
I wanna be the moon
Up among the stars
Fly around the world
Lighting up the dark at night
I’m nothing without the Son’s amazing grace
On everything I do
If You’re shining on me
I’m shining right back for You
I wanna be the moon
Sing – This song was written by Tomlin, Corey Crowder, Brian Kelley, Tyler Hubbard and Cary Barlowe and features Russell Dickerson (who was formerly Tomlin’s guitar tech on the road for three years), and Florida Georgia Line. The easy-going song features guitar, hand claps, backing vocals, drums and a memorable chorus.
Key lyric:
You make me wanna sing all about Your love
Make me wanna tell the whole world what You’ve done
How You’ve turned my life around, I was lost but now I’m found
You’re the song stuck inside my head all day
Yeah, You make me wanna sing, sing
Sing all about You
Yeah, You make me wanna sing
Chase Me Down – This song was written by Racheal Lynn David, Josh Kerr and Hannah Ellis, and features RaeLynn on lead vocals as Tomlin sings harmony. The song is about how God pursues us, and features keys, synth, guitar, bass, and drums.
Key lyric:
You chase me down when I don’t deserve it
You show me love, You don’t make me earn it
I make a mess and I just start running
Hoping that You won’t know
Oh, when I’m lost and I’m low
In a place that I think You won’t go
You chase me down
You chase me down
Gifts From God – This song was written by Tomlin, Corey Crowder and Tyler Hubbard and features Chris Lane. This was the first song written for the album. It’s about thanking God for those gifts that are the ones money can’t buy. The song features guitar, hand claps, drums, backing vocals, and a memorable chorus and a worshipful bridge.
Key lyric:
The best things in life are straight from His hands
Like the raising kids on a piece of land
A little peace of mind when the day is done
Where you think that comes from? That’s gifts from God
Forever Home – This song was written by Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley, Ashley Gorley, Corey Crowder and features Florida Georgia Line. This song features guitar, organ, drums, backing vocals, and a memorable chorus.
Key lyric:
When we get to our forever home
We’ll see beauty like we’ve never known
Angels singing Hallelujah songs
Hard to imagine one day
Together – This song was written by Tomlin, Brian Kelley, Tyler Hubbard, Russell Dickerson and Corey Crowder and features Russell Dickerson. Tomlin has said that the song is about through everything, through the ups and the downs, through the bends in the road, through the valleys and the highs and the lows, God holds us together. The song, which touches on Romans 8:28, features guitar, piano, percussion and a gospel choir.
Key lyric:
Together, together
Your mighty hands are holding me
Together, together
You’re the God that never leaves
When life gets hard, the only Jesus
We fall apart and You’re putting the pieces
Together, together
Thank You, Lord, You hold all things together
Tin Roof – This song was written by Blessing Offor and Natalie Hemby and features Blessing Offor. On an album of superstars, Offor is an unknown blind singer, songwriter and musician from Nigeria, who now lives in Nashville. Offor says about the song “In Nigeria where I grew up, I would lay at night and those African rains would hit the roof. That rain on a tin roof reminds me of home and I think of heaven. That’s what heaven is, home.” The song features Offor and Tomlin singing beautifully over piano and organ.
Key lyric:
They tell me in the promise land
There are mansions to choose
Oh, but I pray Heaven is like rain on a tin roof
Best songs:
Thank You Lord
Who You Are to Me
God Who Listens
Power
Sing
Forever Home
Tin Roof
Great Commission – Sing! The Life of Christ Quintology EP – Keith and Kristyn Getty and Friends
****
Sing! The Life of Christ: Quintology is the fourth album to be released from Keith and Kristyn Getty’s Sing! worship music conferences, following 2018’s Sing! Live at The Getty Music Worship Conference and 2019’s Sing! Psalms: Ancient + Modern (Live At The Getty Music Worship Conference) and Sing! An Irish Christmas – Live At The Grand Ole Opry House.
The new album is being released in five separate EPs over a period of several months. The project will follow the five main themes of the 2019 Sing! conference – the Incarnation, Passion, Resurrection, Commission, and Ascension of Jesus Christ, and include approximately 30 songs. To find out more about my takeaways from the 2019 conference, held in Nashville, read my article “Reflections From the 2019 Sing! Getty Worship Conference here.
The album was recorded at the Gaylord Opryland Convention Center, the Grand Ole Opry House and the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. Everything that the Gettys and their musical friends do is with excellence. Throughout, the songwriting, singing and musical performances are of a very high quality, especially noteworthy for a live recording.
The fourth EP to be released is on the Great Commission. Below are a few comments about each song:
Facing a Task Unfinished – The original words to this song were written by Frank Houghton, with music by Samuel Wesley. New words and music were written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty, Ed Cash and Fionan De Barra. This missions hymn originally appeared on the Facing a Task Unfinished album. Lead vocals are handled by Kristyn Getty, backed the conference choir and the incredible Getty band. The drums really stood out on this song.
Key lyric:
We go to all the world
With kingdom hope unfurled
No other name has power to save
But Jesus Christ The Lord
May the Peoples Praise You – This joyful song was written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty, David Zimmer, Stuart Townend and Ed Cash, and originally appeared on the Facing a Task Unfinished album. The song is a call to worship and missions. Lead vocals are handled by Kristyn Getty, backed by the conference choir and the Getty band.
Key lyric:
May the peoples praise You
Let the nations be glad
All Your blessing comes
That we may praise
May praise the Name of Jesus
Let the Nations Be Glad – This song was written by Matt Boswell, Matt Papa and Aaron Boswell. The song features vocals by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa, and originally appeared on their album His Mercy is More: The Hymns of Matt Boswell and Matt Papa, my favorite album of 2019. The song features drums, guitar, bass and the conference choir.
Key lyric:
Let the nations be glad
Let the people rejoice
For salvation belongs to our God
Let the whole earth be filled
With the praises of the Lord
For salvation belongs to our God
Let the nations be glad
For the Cause – This song was written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty and Stuart Townend and originally appeared on the Facing a Task Unfinished album. The song is on the call to missions and the cause of the Kingdom around the world. Lead vocals are handled by Kristyn Getty, backed by the conference choir and the Getty band. The drums stand out on this song.
Key lyric:
Let it be my life’s refrain:
To live is Christ, to die is gain;
Deny myself, take up my cross
And follow the Son
O Church Arise – This song, a call to the church, was written by Keith Getty, Stuart Townend and Andrew Christopher, and originally appeared on the In Christ Alone album. Lead vocals are handled by Shane and Shane, backed by the conference choir and the Getty band.
Key lyric:
And as the stone is rolled away,
And Christ emerges from the grave,
This victory march continues till the day
Ev’ry eye and heart shall see Him.
By Faith – This song, inspired by Hebrews 11, was written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty and Stuart Townend, and originally appeared on the Awaken the Dawn album. Lead vocals are handled by Kristyn Getty, backed by the conference choir and the Getty band.
Key lyric:
We will stand as children of the promise
We will fix our eyes on Him our soul’s reward
Till the race is finished and the work is done
We’ll walk by faith and not by sight
Best songs
All
Covers EP – Switchfoot
***
This side project from Switchfoot was recorded during the COVID-19 quarantine period. The band covers six diverse songs, about which Jon Foreman has stated: “There is a commonality in melody, and rhythm, and lyric, and truth that speaks to me even from someone who might look different than myself. This is the beauty of music: it can take us around the world, even when we’re quarantined at home.”
I was not familiar with any of these songs, nor had I heard any music from the artists that are covered here. I approached each song on its lyrical merits and Switchfoot’s performance, which was up to their usual high standards. Here are a few brief comments about each of the songs:
Swim Good – This is a cover of a 2011 song by Frank Ocean. This dark song about a suicide was written by Waynne Nugent, Kevin Risto, Charlie Gambetta and Frank Ocean. It was produced by Tim Foreman and Jon Foreman. The song features bass, keys, guitar and is driven by some exceptional drums from Chad Butler.
Key lyric:
I’m about to drive in the ocean
I’ma try to swim from something bigger than me
Kick off my shoes and swim good, and swim good
Take off this suit and swim good, and swim good, good
Harmony Hall – This is a cover of a 2019 song by Vampire Weekend. The song was written by Ezra Koenig. The song features acoustic and electric guitar, hand claps, backing vocals, and drums. The song, which has themes of power, resistance, and anti-Semitism, is musically more upbeat than the lyrics are.
Key lyric:
And the stone walls of Harmony Hall bear witness
Anybody with a worried mind would never forgive the sight
Of wicked snakes inside a place you thought was dignified
I don’t wanna live like this, but I don’t wanna die
Stupid Deep – This is a cover of a 2018 song by Jon Bellion. The song was written by Travis Mendes, Raul Cubina, Mark Williams, Jon Bellion and Christianne Jensen. It was produced by the Freeman Brothers. The song features guitar, backing vocals, drums and bass. The song speaks to the hole in our hearts, our attempts to fill it, and our continual failure to do so.
Key lyric:
What if who I hoped to be was always me?
And the love I fought to feel was always free?
What if all the things I’ve done
Were just attempts at earning love? Yeah
‘Cause the hole inside my heart is stupid deep, oh, stupid deep
Lucky Man – This is a cover of a 1997 song by the Verve. It was written by Richard Ashcroft. The song begins with acoustic guitar and then builds with drums, electric guitar, bass and backing vocals. The song, which was inspired by Ashcroft’s relationship with his wife, is one that U2’s Bono has said that he wished he would have written.
Key lyric:
Happiness
More or less
It’s just a change in me
Something in my liberty
Lights Up – This is a cover of a 2019 song by Harry Styles. It was written by Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson and Harry Styles. The song has a dance beat, featuring guitar, keys, backing vocals, and drums. The song, about freedom, self-reflection and self-discovery, is musically more upbeat than the lyrics are.
Key lyric:
Shine, step into the light
Shine, so bright sometimes
Shine, I’m not ever going back
Sick Boy – This is a cover of a 2018 song by the Chainsmokers. It was written by Tony Ann, Emily Warren, Alex Pall and Andrew Taggart. The song features acoustic guitar, backing vocals, drums, guitar and bass. The dark song addresses what if feels like to be alive right now, the struggle of self-identity in a crazy world, and about dealing with anxiety.
Key lyric:
Welcome to the narcissism
Where we’re united under our indifference
My overall assessment is that Switchfoot continues to surprise, not rest on their laurels, be creative, and remain relevant. Jon Foreman’s expressive vocals lead this incredible high energy band. Unfortunately, the songs here didn’t move me like Switchfoot songs do. Although I enjoyed the performances, this is not a project that I will be going back to often.
The Worship Initiative, Vol. 20 – Shane and Shane and Various Artists
****
The latest release from the Worship Initiative features a pleasing combination of excellent songs and performances. Shane and Shane handle lead vocals on four of the songs, with Davy Flowers and Robbie Seay each handling vocals on two songs. I really enjoyed this release. Here are a few brief comments on each song:
Behold the Lamb – This triumphant song was written by Kristian Stanfill, Melodie Malone and Phil Wickham. The lead vocal is performed by Shane and Shane, and the song features piano, acoustic guitar, backing vocals, bass and light drums. The song builds powerfully at the chorus.
Key lyric:
Behold the Lamb
The story of redemption written on His hands
Jesus, You will reign forevermore
The victory is Yours
We sing Your praise
Endless hallelujahs to Your holy name
Jesus, You will reign forevermore
The victory is Yours
The Passion – This praise song was written by Brooke Lingertwood, Chris Davenport and Scott Ligertwood. The lead vocal is performed by Dinah Wright and the song features guitar, drums, bass, piano and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Our chains are gone, our debt is paid
The cross has overthrown the grave
For Jesus’ blood that sets us free
Means death to death and life for me
You Cannot Be Stopped – This joyful song was written by Chris Quilala, Hank Bentley and Phil Wickham. The lead vocal is performed by Davy Flowers, and the song features synth, keys, acoustic guitar, bass, drums and backing vocals. Jesus has triumphed over the grave and the battle is won.
Key lyric:
Mover of mountains
Breaker of chains
Jesus has triumphed
Over the grave
Sing hallelujah
The battle is won
Nothing can stand
Against our God
His Heart Beats – This triumphant song was written by Andrew Peterson and Ben Shive. The lead vocal is performed by Shane and Shane and the song features acoustic guitar, bass, drums, keys and backing vocals. The song is about Jesus’s heart beginning to beat as he is resurrected. The last enemy to be destroyed is death.
Key lyric:
He took one breath
And put death to death
Where is your sting, O grave?
How grave is your defeat
I know, I know His heart beats
Jesus, Only Jesus – This song about the sufficiency of Christ was written by Matt Redman, Chris Tomlin, Christy Nockels, Kristian Stanfill, Nathan Nockels and Tony Wood. The lead vocal is performed by Bethany Barnard and the song features synth, piano, drum, and backing vocals, building powerfully.
Key lyric:
Holy, King almighty Lord
Saints and angels all adore
I join with them and bow before
Jesus, only Jesus
Christ Our Hope in Life and Death – This new Easter hymn was written by Jordan Kauflin, Matt Merker, Matt Boswell, Matt Papa and Keith Getty. The lead vocal is performed by Shane and Shane and the song features acoustic guitar, piano, drums, backing vocals, violin, and is about Christ, our only hope.
Key lyric:
O sing hallelujah!
Our hope springs eternal;
O sing hallelujah!
Now and ever we confess
Christ our hope in life and death.
My Victory – This triumphant song was written by Crowder, Darren Mulligan, Ed Cash and Hank Bentley. The lead vocal is performed by Robbie Seay and the song features drums, piano, bass, guitar, and backing vocals, building powerfully. The song is about the victory of Jesus on the cross.
Key lyric:
Oh, Your love bled for me
Oh, Your blood in crimson streams
Oh, Your death is hell’s defeat
A cross meant to kill is my victory
Glorious Day (Living He Loved Me) – This triumphant song was written by Mark Hall and Michael Bleecker. The lead vocals are performed by Shane and Shane, and the song features acoustic guitar, piano, bass, drums, strings, and backing vocals, building powerfully at the chorus. One day Jesus is coming, and what a glorious day that will be.
Key lyric:
Living, He loved me
Dying, He saved me
Buried, He carried my sins far away
Rising, He justified freely forever
One day He’s coming
Oh glorious day, oh glorious day
Overcome – This triumphant song about Jesus overcoming the grave, was written by Chris Brown, Mack Brock and Steven Furtick. The lead vocal is performed by Davy Flowers and the song features, guitar, bass, drums, piano and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
We will not be moved
When the earth gives way
For the risen One has overcome
And for every fear
There’s an empty grave
For the risen One has overcome
Christ is Risen – This victorious song was written by Brian Johnson, Mack Brock and Phil Wickham. The lead vocal is performed by Robbie Seay and the song features acoustic guitar, bass, drums and piano and backing vocals, building powerfully toward the end of the song.
Key lyric:
Hallelujah, Christ is risen from the grave
Best songs
Behold the Lamb
Christ Our Hope in Life in Death
Glorious Day (Living He Loved Me)
Christ is Risen
Rough and Rowdy Ways – Bob Dylan
****
Rough and Rowdy Ways is 79-year-old Bob Dylan’s 39th studio album, and his first of original material since 2012’s Tempest. The title of the album comes from the 1929 song “My Rough and Rowdy Ways” by Jimmie Rodgers. Between Tempest and the new album, Dylan released three albums (one of them being a triple album), of traditional pop standards covers, many of which had been recorded by Frank Sinatra, as well as seven volumes in his ongoing Bootleg Series. The ten new songs here, which cover nearly 71 minutes, have themes of love, mortality, menace, and doom, and make allusions to many historical figures and works of art. Dylan is backed by his touring band, he wrote all songs, and it is assumed that it was self-produced, though there are no producer credits given.
The album, his first album of new material since he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2016, is one of my favorite releases of 2020 thus far. Below are a few comments about each song:
I Contain Multitudes – This was the second song released prior to album’s release. The title comes from Song of Myself, 51 from Walt Whitman. Dylan sings the song beautifully in a low register over an acoustic guitar and cello. He’s a man of contradictions, a man of many moods, he contains multitudes
Key lyric:
I’m just like Anne Frank, like Indiana Jones
And them British bad boys, the Rolling Stones
False Prophet – This slow blues song was the third song released prior to the album’s release. The song features a gravely Dylan vocal over guitar, bass and drums, and a few excellent guitar solos. The song incorporates a guitar lead and other elements from the B-side of a 1954 single by Billy “The Kid” Emerson, a pianist, singer and composer whose songs were recorded by Elvis Presley and others. The song touches on life, death, love, hatred, and about Dylan himself.
Key lyric:
I ain’t no false prophet
No I’m nobody’s bride
Can’t remember when I was born
And I forgot when I died
My Own Version of You – This slow blues song has Dylan as sort of a Dr. Frankenstein visiting morgues and monasteries collecting body parts in hopes of creating his own version of a past lover, someone who feels the way that he feels. The song features soft percussion, guitar, bass, and an expressive vocal from Dylan.
Key lyric:
I’ll bring someone to life, is what I wanna do
I wanna create my own version of you
I’ve Made Up My Mind to Give Myself to You – This slower paced song could be a love song, or a song of spiritual awakening. It features acoustic guitar, bass, light percussion, light backing vocals and has a guitar solo mid-song. Traveling is a theme in the song. He can’t bear to live his life alone. He laments that many people he has known are now gone.
Key lyric:
If I had the wings of a snow white dove
I’d preach the gospel, the gospel of love
A love so real, a love so true
I’ve made up my mind to give myself to you
Black Rider – The vocal and music on this song may remind some of Dylan’s recent pop standards albums. The slow song features sparse instrumentation of acoustic guitar and bass, with the focus on Dylan’s vocal. In the song, Dylan addresses a mysterious figure, perhaps Death.
Key lyric:
Black rider, black rider, tell me when, tell me how
If there ever was a time, then let it be now
Let me go through, open the door
My soul is distressed, my mind is at war
Goodbye Jimmy Reed – This blues song features a great beat driven by guitar, drums, bass and harmonica. The song includes a lot of religious imagery.
Key lyric:
For thine is kingdom, the power, the glory
Go tell it on the mountain, go tell the real story
Tell it in that straightforward, puritanical tone
In the mystic hours when a person’s alone
Mother of Muses – This is a slower paced song that features acoustic guitar, bass, and mandolin. The muses may be a reference from Homer’s Odyssey. He sings that he is falling in love with Calliope, one of the nine muses – the muse of poetry – in Greek Mythology. He praises the muses for clearing the path for Presley to sing, and carved the path for Martin Luther King. My least favorite song on the album.
Key lyric:
I’ve already outlived my life by far
Crossing the Rubicon – This slow blues song is about Dylan crossing the Rubicon River, an ancient red river in Italy, that is “three miles north of purgatory, and one step from the great beyond”. He sings:
What are these dark days I see?
In this world so badly bent
I cannot redeem the time
The time so idly spent
How much longer can it last?
How long can it go on?
The song features bass, drums, and some excellent guitar.
Key lyric:
I feel the Holy Spirit inside
See the light that freedom gives
I believe it’s in the reach of
Every man who lives
Keep as far away as possible
It’s darkest ‘fore the dawn (Oh Lord)
I turned the key, I broke it off
And I crossed the Rubicon
Key West (Philosopher Pirate) – This nine-minute, slower paced song, is about an outlaw who is dying and hiding out in Florida. He is alone except for his radio. The song features accordion, bass, and light percussion.
Key lyric:
Key West is the place to be
If you’re looking for immortality
Key West is paradise divine
Key West is fine and fair
If you lost your mind, you’ll find it there
Key West is on the horizon line
Murder Most Foul – Dylan surprised everyone when he released this song at midnight on March 27. The song would top Billboard’s Rock Digital Song Sales chart, becoming Dylan’s first number one song. The title of the 17-minute song comes from Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Dylan talk/sings over piano, violin and soft percussion. He uses the assassination of President John F. Kennedy as the foundation of the song, includes many references to popular culture, and ends with sending out a plea to DJ Wolfman Jack to play the songs of musical legends. In a recent interview, Dylan said “The song is like a painting, you can’t see it all at once if you’re standing too close. The individual pieces are just part of a whole.”
Key lyric:
The day that they killed him, someone said to me,
“Son, the age of the Antichrist has just begun”.
Best songs:
False Prophet
Goodbye Jimmy Reed
Crossing the Rubicon
Murder Most Foul
Blues with Friends – Dion
****
I first became interested in Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Dion (DiMucci), who will turn 81 in July, when he recorded five Contemporary Christian music albums between 1980 and 1986. I’ve enjoyed his music ever since. The liner notes for Blues with Friends are written by Bob Dylan, a friend of Dion since the early 1960’s, when they were both signed to Columbia Records. Dylan writes “Dion knows how to sing, and he knows just the right way to craft these songs, these blues songs. He’s got some friends here to help him out, some true luminaries. But in the end, it’s Dion by himself alone, and that masterful voice of his that will keep you returning to share these blues songs with him.”
The album has a number of guest artists (Van Morrison, Bruce Springsteen, Paul Simon, etc.), partnering with Dion, with great results. All songs were written by Dion and Mike Aquilina, with the exception of two remakes – “Kickin’ Child 2020” and “Hymn to Him”. The album was produced by Wayne Hood, who also played guitars, bass, Wurlitzer electric piano, Hammond Organ and drums.
I thoroughly enjoyed this album, one of my favorites of 2020 thus far. Here are a few brief comments about each song:
Blues Comin’ On – This song features Joe Bonamassa on guitar. The song begins with guitar and immediately moves into a driving beat, including a few guitar solos from Bonamassa. Dion offers a strong and confident vocal. An excellent opener.
Kickin’ Child 2020 – This mid-tempo song was written by Dion and Buddy Lucas, and features Joe Menza on guitar. This was the title song of Dion’s “lost album”, recorded in 1965, but not released until 2017. It features a Menza guitar solo mid-song.
Uptown Number 7 – This song features Brian Setzer (Stray Cats) on guitar. The song opens with Setzer’s guitar and immediately moves into a good rockabilly Stray Cats type beat, featuring a few Setzer guitar solos. About the song, Dion said that he wanted to write an old-fashioned gospel song in the style of the Golden Gate Quartet, about moving forward in the spiritual life, having a goal, and facing temptations along the way.
Can’t Start Over Again – This song features Jeff Beck on guitar. The pace slows down on this country blues song. The song is about love and loss and heartache. It features strings and a Beck guitar solo mid-song
My Baby Loves to Boogie – This song features John Hammond, who Dion has been friends with since the 1960’s, on harmonica. This song kicks off with guitar and harmonica and goes right into a driving blues beat. It features a guitar solo mid-song.
I Got Nothin’ – This song features Van Morrison on vocals and Joe Louis Walker on guitar. This song starts with guitar and harmonica and a driving beat. The song, which has Dion and Morrison trading vocals, features some excellent guitar, including a solo mid-song.
Stumbling Blues – This song features Jimmy Vivino on guitar and Jerry Vivino on saxophone. The easy-going song has a melody built on a classic blues progression, with Dion singing in a lower register, and also includes some piano and strings.
Bang Bam Boom – This song features Billy F. Gibbons (ZZ Top) on guitar. This song is driven by guitar and bass, and features some background vocals. Caroline saved his soul and eased his worried mind.
I Got the Cure – This song features Sonny Landreth, an incredible guitarist, who I saw in concert as a part of John Hiatt’s band two years ago. The song has Dion bragging about what he can do, he’s got the cure. The song features guitar, drums and some excellent horns. The song features a few guitar solos by Landreth.
Song for Sam Cooke (Here in America) – This is a powerful song that touches on racism in America that Dion began many years ago. It includes reference to his walking southern streets with Cooke in 1962. He would put the song aside because he thought it was too personal, until he saw the 2018 Oscar winning film Green Book. The mid-tempo song features acoustic guitar, violin, and Paul Simon on backing vocals.
What If I Told You – This song features Samantha Fish on guitar. The song is about suspicion. It is driven by Fish’s excellent guitar work and drums.
Told You Once in August – This song features John Hammond on guitar and Rory Block on slide guitar and vocals. This song has an Appalachian blues feel, and is about the anger of a man who gradually realizes that he’s been done wrong by his woman.
Way Down (I Won’t Cry No More) – This up-tempo song features Stevie Van Zandt on grunge guitar. He’s been way down but won’t stay long. The song features some excellent guitar from Van Zandt.
Hymn to Him – This song was written by Dion and Bill Tuohy, and features Patti Scialfa on vocals and Bruce Springsteen on guitar. The mid-tempo song was originally recorded on Dion’s 1986 album Velvet and Steel. Springsteen surprised Dion by coming into the studio and asking to play a guitar solo on the song.
Key lyric:
Come to Him through the darkness
Come to Him through the rain
Walk with Him from misfortune
Walk with Him from the pain
Best songs:
Blues Comin’ On
Uptown Number 7
I Got Nothin’
Bang Bam Boom
Song for Sam Cooke (Here in America)
Hymn to Him
Go – John Schlitt
****
I first heard the incredible voice of John Schlitt in 1975 when I was a freshman in college and he was the lead singer of Head East. Their album Flat as a Pancake had two singles that were getting a lot of play on the radio – “Never Been Any Reason” and “Love Me Tonight”. I was excited when I heard that Schlitt had joined the Christian band Petra as lead singer in 1986. During his tenure with the band, Petra earned 10 Dove Awards and four Grammys. Schlitt has been inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame as the lead singer of Petra. Now, 45 years after Flat as a Pancake, and at age 70, he has released Go, his sixth solo album, and his voice still sounds amazing. I thoroughly enjoyed this new album, mostly made up of rockers.
Here are a few comments about each song:
Go – This up-tempo song was written by Schlitt and Mark Lee Townsend, with Townsend producing. The song features acoustic guitar, bass, electric guitar and drums. Petra’s John Lawry is among those adding backing vocals. The song addresses the question of what our path is. There is no time to stop. Take your shot and keep moving on. An excellent opener.
Feel It – This rocker was written by Schlitt, Scott Bernard and Dan Needham, and produced by Needham. The song features electric guitar, drums, backing vocals from Needham, and a nice guitar solo mid-song. When you feel like you are losing control, all you have to do is to have a little faith.
Takin’ It Higher – This rocker was written by Schlitt, Scott Bernard and Dan Needham, and produced by Needham. The song begins with some nice electric guitar and then drums are added. Needham adds backing vocals and Bernard a guitar solo. The song is about holding on with what you’ve got. Keep pressing on, and never stop. You’ll find your way. No matter what they say, take it higher, every day.
Fighting the Fight – This mid-tempo song was written by Schlitt and Ryan Horn, and produced by Petra’s John Lawry, who also adds backing vocals, keyboards and bass. The song features a nice guitar solo by Paul Brannon. The song is about living the Christian life and fighting the fight with the Lord’s help.
Key lyrics:
Looking forward I will run the race
Heading to the finish line
Where I see You face to face
With angels shouting cheers
I’ll run to the light
With all I got, I’ll never stop
I’ll never give in
I’ll keep fighting the fight
Just Let Go – This rocker was written by Schlitt, Jeff King and Dan Needham who also produced the song, in addition to adding backing vocals and drums. The song features guitar, drums, keyboards and some nice guitar from Jeff King. The song addresses that where we go from here isn’t so clear. Are you willing to let go of what is for what might be? Just grab hold of something new and be set free.
Time Keeps Rollin’ – This rocker was written by Schlitt and Mark Lee Townsend who also produced the song. John Lawry plays keyboards is among those providing backing vocals. The song features drums, guitar and backing vocals. The older you get the faster time moves. You need to know where you’re going to spend eternity.
Where Would I Be – This gospel flavored rocker was written by Schlitt and Chuck Anderson and was produced by John Lawry, who also adds keyboards and backing vocals. The song begins with keys and hand claps, and features guitar, bass, drums and backing vocals. The song addresses where he would be if the Lord hadn’t saved him. Amazing grace keeps setting him free.
Find a Way – This easy-going song was written by Schlitt, Scott Faircloff and Dan Needham, who also produced the song, in addition to adding backing vocals, drums and guitar. The song opens with acoustic guitar, percussion and features some nice backing vocals. It has taken him so long to see the truth and find the Lord, he doesn’t want to waste any more time in finding the road that leads to Heaven.
Fake News – This rocker was written by Schlitt and John Lawry, who also produced the song and added keyboards and backing vocals. The song features guitar, drums, keyboards and backing vocals. He calls on God to help with the fake news we are exposed to.
Key lyrics:
Where is the truth?
Where has it gone?
Where is the trust?
What’s goin’ on?
Let’s Go – This rocker was written by Schlitt, Scott Faircloff and Dan Needham, and was produced by Needham, who also added drums and guitar. It features guitar backing vocals, hand claps and a guitar solo. The song continues the theme of the song “Go”, when he sings that there is no time to hesitate, it’s time to go.
Not Dead Yet – This rocker was written by Schlitt, Jerry McPherson and Dan Needham, who also produces the song and adds backing vocals, keyboards and drums. The song is driven by drums and guitar by McPherson, and features bass and backing vocals. The 70-year-old Schlitt sings that you might think he’s washed up, but he’s still in the game, just getting started. He encourages all of us to live each moment like it was meant for us.
Best songs:
Go
Feel It
Where Would I Be
Find a Way
United: Live – Newsboys
***
In the spring of 2018, former Newsboys lead singer Peter Furler and former bassist Phil Joel joined the then current Newsboy lineup of Michael Tait, Duncan Phillips, Jeff Frankenstein and Jody Davis for a Newsboys reunion tour. That resulted in the album United, one of my top albums of 2019 (see my review here).
Since reuniting, the Newsboys “United” lineup has played more than 250 concerts to date. Now, less than a year since the release of United, the band has released an EP of five songs (and accompanying videos) from the album recorded on their recent Greatness of Our God tour.
Below are a few comments about each song:
Greatness of Our God – This worship song about the greatness of God, was written by Bryan Fowler, Colby Wedgeworth and Ethan Hulse. Furler and Tait share lead vocals on the song, which was the biggest hit from United. Phillips drums stand out on the upbeat song.
Symphony – This upbeat song was written by Bryan Fowler, Colby Wedgeworth and Ethan Hulse. The voices of Furler and Tait blend well on this prayer, and Phillips’ drums particularly stand out.
Key lyrics:
So, let my life be, let my life be
A symphony, a symphony
Every breath that I breathe
Lord I wanna bring You glory, glory
Love One Another – This song, based on Jesus’ words in John 13:34 “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another”, was written by Duncan Sparks, Furler and Steve Taylor, and features Tait’s former DC Talk bandmate Kevin Max on vocals. The upbeat song opens with guitar and then moves right into a good driving beat.
Only the Son (Yeshua) – This worship song was written by Seth Mosely, Peter Furler and Summer Furler. An early version of the song (“Yeshua”), appeared on the Peter Furler Band’s 2014 album Sun and Shield. A new chorus “Only the Sun” has been added. The song features some good guitar from Davis. Tait and Furler share vocals and their vocals blend well on the memorable chorus.
Beautiful Story – This song was written by Andrew Holt, Mia Fieldes and Robert Marvin and features Tait on vocals. The power ballad begins with piano and builds with guitars, bass and drums.
The bridge brings in Romans 8:28 “You work all things together for good.”
Key lyrics:
You write a beautiful story
From glory to glory I believe
Like Switchfoot, Chris Tomlin and others, the Newsboys have released a live EP of songs from a recent album. The live performances and production on this project are excellent, but if you have the United album, I’m not sure you’re going to want to purchase United: Live, at least the audio version, as the performances don’t differ that much from the original release.
Hymns in the Round – Shane and Shane
****
The latest project from the duo Shane and Shane is an album of ten hymns and worship songs from acoustic studio sessions held in Dallas in November, 2019. Most (eight of ten) songs included here were also included on their 2019 Hymns Vol. 2 album. The difference here is that the songs are performed “unplugged”.
Below are a few comments about each song:
Praise to the Lord (Joyful, Joyful) – “Praise to the Lord Almighty” was written by Joachim Neander in 1680. “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee” was written by Henry J. van Dyke in 1907. The song features acoustic guitar, piano, bass, backing vocals, banjo (giving it a bit of a NEEDTOBREATHE sound), cello/fiddle, and light drums.
My Jesus I Love Thee – This hymn was written by William R. Featherston in 1864. It features acoustic guitar, bass, cello/fiddle, light percussion, piano and backing vocals.
Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus (Amazing Grace) – “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” was written by Hellen Howard Lemme in 1922. “Amazing Grace” was written by John Newton. The song features acoustic guitar, bass, backing vocals, cello/fiddle, synth, light percussion, and piano.
Living Waters (As the Deer) – “Living Waters” was written by Kristyn Getty and Ed Cash. “As the Deer” was written by Martin Nystrom. The song features some nice percussion and banjo, cello/fiddle, piano, acoustic guitar, bass and backing vocals. “Living Waters” has a nice beat and country music sound.
Ancient of Days – This song was written by Jonny Robinson, Rich Thompson, Michael Farren and Jesse Reeves. It features acoustic guitar, cello/fiddle, piano, backing vocals and drums. This is a bit of a slower version of the song than CityAlight’s.
Be Thou My Vision (Lord You Are) – “Be Thou My Vision” is an 8th century Irish hymn that was translated by Eleanor Hull in 1912. “Lord You Are (More Precious Than Silver)” was written by Lynn DeShazo. The song features acoustic guitar, synth, piano, drums, bass, cello/fiddle, backing vocals and banjo.
Come Behold The Wondrous Mystery – This song was written by Matt Boswell, Matt Papa and Michael Bleeker. It features acoustic guitar, synth, cello/fiddle, bass, percussion and backing vocals. The song builds powerfully towards the end.
Oh Lord Almighty – This song, which may be less familiar to many, was written by Jon Able and Shane Barnard. It includes an excellent lead vocal, acoustic guitar, synth, drums, bass, piano, and backing vocals.
Power of The Cross – This song was written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend. It features, synth, piano, acoustic guitar, backing vocals, bass, drums and cello/fiddle.
All I Have is Christ – This song was written by Jordan Kauflin. It features an excellent lead vocal, acoustic guitar, cello/fiddle, bass, backing vocals and light drums.
Best songs:
Living Waters (As the Deer)
Ancient of Days
Come Behold the Wondrous Mystery
All I Have is Christ
The Lost Demos – TobyMac
****
This surprise EP is the result of TobyMac digging through old laptops and hard drives during this Covid-19 quarantine period, and realizing that he had some good songs there that had not been released. These were songs that had not been included on previous albums for one reason or another.
Don’t let the word “Demos” in the album’s title scare you away. These are excellent songs, with the level of writing, performance and production you would expect from TobyMac.
Below are a few comments about each song:
On Your Own – This song from 2017 was written and produced by Christopher Stevens and TobyMac. The song is about the fact that we will never be on own our own, as God will always be there with us. The song has a good beat, driven by keys, finger snaps, drums and backing vocals.
Drivin’ Me – This song from 2016 was written by David Garcia, Mat Kearney, Robert Marvin and TobyMac. The song was produced by Garcia and TobyMac. The song is about God being in control of his life through every twist and turn that the world brings. The easy-going song, which begins with a Mat Kearney feel guitar, features keys, finger snaps, bass, percussion, backing vocals and a catchy chorus.
The Real You – This 2018 song was written and produced by Christopher Stevens and TobyMac. The passionate song is about Toby’s relationship with his son Truett (who died October 23, 2019). He’d not been himself, the pain had him acting like someone else. The song features bass, drums and keys.
Rich – This upbeat 2016 song was written by Bryan Fowler, Mr. Talkbox and TobyMac. It was produced by Fowler and TobyMac and features Mr. Talkbox. Rather than the riches of this world, he wants to be rich in love, loaded with friends and family. The easy-going beat features keys, finger snaps, bass, drums, horns, backing vocals and a memorable chorus.
Home – This 2017 song was written and produced by Dave Lubben and TobyMac. This song is about Toby being lost without God’s love, so he’s coming home. The song has a good beat, driven by keys, finger snaps, bass and percussion.
Key lyric:
I don’t know how You’ve been so patient
With this one-sided arrangement
Woulda washed my hands and called it history
But You pursue with such intention
It’s beyond my comprehension
To see the love I took for granted come after me
Love of My Life – This 2014 song (the oldest on the EP), was written by Cary Barlowe, David Garcia, Jesse Frasure and TobyMac and produced by Garcia and TobyMac. This upbeat song is about his total dependence on God, though it is also one of those songs that could be a song to his wife instead. (“I-I-I remember the first time I met You (Met You), My heart raged, jumped out my Earth suit”). The driving beat is driven by guitar, bass, percussion and backing vocals.
Fighting for Your Life – This 2017 song was written and produced by Bryan Fowler and TobyMac. This is a song to his wife. He will be the last man standing by her, fighting for her heart. The chorus features a memorable beat, driven by keys, percussion, horns and backing vocals.
Best songs:
Drivin’ Me
Rich
Home
Resurrection – Sing! The Life of Christ Quintology – Keith and Kristyn Getty and Friends
****
Sing! The Life of Christ: Quintology is the fourth album to be released from Keith and Kristyn Getty’s Sing! worship music conferences, following 2018’s Sing! Live at The Getty Music Worship Conference and 2019’s Sing! Psalms: Ancient + Modern (Live At The Getty Music Worship Conference) and Sing! An Irish Christmas – Live At The Grand Ole Opry House.
The new album is being released in five separate EPs over a period of several months. The project will follow the five main themes of the 2019 Sing! conference – Incarnation, Passion, Resurrection, Commission, and Ascension of Jesus Christ, and include 30 songs. To find out more about my takeaways from the 2019 conference, held in Nashville, read my article “Reflections From the 2019 Sing! Getty Worship Conference here.
The album was recorded at the Gaylord Hotel Convention Center, the Grand Ole Opry House and the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. Everything that the Gettys and their musical friends do is with excellence. Throughout, the songwriting, singing and musical performances are of a very high quality, especially noteworthy for a live recording.
The third EP to be released is on the Resurrection. Below are a few comments about each song:
Christ is Risen, He is Risen Indeed – This joyful song was written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty and Ed Cash, and features Shane and Shane on vocals. The song originally appeared on the Hymns for the Christian Life album. I enjoyed the backing vocals on the song. This is really outstanding version of the song.
Key lyric:
Christ is risen, He is risen indeed!
Oh, sing hallelujah.
Join the chorus, sing with the redeemed;
Christ is risen, He is risen indeed.
Christ Our Hope in Life and Death – This wonderful new Easter hymn was written by Keith Getty, Jordan Kauflin, Matt Papa, Matt Boswell and Matt Merker. This song was recently released, and thus is not from the 2019 Sing! conference, as are the other songs. Matt Papa handles the lead vocals. The song features piano, drums and backing vocals. This is sure to be a worship classic.
Key lyric:
O sing hallelujah
Our hope springs eternal
O sing hallelujah, now and ever we confess
Christ our hope in life and death
Now and ever we confess
Christ our hope in life and death
Come People of the Risen King – This song was written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty and Stuart Townend. The song originally appeared on the Awaken the Dawn album. The joyful song features drums and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Rejoice, rejoice
Let every tongue rejoice
One heart, one voice
Oh, church of Christ rejoice
Magnificent, Marvelous, Matchless Love – This song was written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty, Matt Papa, Luke Brown and Aaron Keyes. The song originally appeared on The North Coast Sessions EP. It was a song that I immediately liked with its memorable chorus. The song soars over synth, bagpipe sound, guitar, drums and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Magnificent, marvelous, matchless love
Too vast and astounding to tell
Forever existing in worlds above
Now offered and given to all
I Will Wait for You (Psalm 130) – This song was written by Jordan Kauflin, Keith Getty, Matt Merker and Stuart Townend and features Jordan Kauflin on vocals. The song originally appeared on The North Coast Sessions EP. The song, which is a prayer, opens and closes with singing over bagpipe sounds. The main part of the song features piano, backing vocals and drums.
Key lyric:
I will wait for You
I will wait for You
On Your word I will rely
I will wait for You
Surely wait for You
Till my soul is satisfied
Holy Spirit, Living Breath of God – This song was written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend. The song originally appeared on the Hymns for the Christian Life album.
The song, a prayer, features some beautiful violin, piano and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Holy Spirit, come abide within,
May Your joy be seen in all I do.
Best songs
All
Christ Be All EP – Grace Worship
****
Grace Worship is the worship ministry of Grace Presbyterian Church in Peoria, Illinois, where Kevin King is the worship leader and Bryan Chapell has served as senior pastor since 2013. The songs feature theologically rich lyrics with soaring melodies. Chris Zobac produced the EP, which is one of my favorite releases of 2020 thus far. Here are a few brief comments about each song:
Unlimited Grace – In 2016, Bryan Chapell wrote an excellent book Unlimited Grace: The Heart Chemistry That Frees from Sin and Fuels the Christian Life (see my review here). For this song, Chapell wrote verse lyrics that went along with the theme of the book, and King wrote the chorus and music. King handles the lead vocal. The song features piano, drums and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
Glory, glory hallelujah!
Jesus Christ has saved my soul;
Though I once stood as a sinner,
For me, blood was shed,
Yes, his love has bled,
Now I stand in unlimited grace.
Psalm of Thanksgiving – This song was written by Kevin King. It has a Crowder-like electronic/pop feel. The song is joyful and about thankfulness, and features guitar, finger snaps, backing vocals and some nice drums.
Key lyric:
Whom have I in heaven but You?
Nothing on earth can out shine You.
Bones may break and spirits crumble,
But God remains my strength
And I am His forever.
Christ Be All (studio) – This song was written and sung by Kevin King. The song incorporates words from Andrew Murray’s classic book Humility. The song is meant to help worshippers express, along with the Apostle Paul, “It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Galatians 2:20), as they sing, “May Christ be all and I be nothing.” King has said with the song he was seeking to have the worshiper understand through song that it is to our joy to ‘become nothing’ (Philippians 2:7) as Jesus did; to lose our lives so we can find them in Him.
A great song, both lyrically and musically, and one of my favorites of 2020.
Key lyric:
May Christ be all, and I be nothing,
His glory shines in vessels weak;
May Christ be all, and I be nothing,
This is my hope:
Not I, but Christ in me.
The Love of God – This hymn was written by Frederick Lehman in 1917. Bryan Chapell wrote a new verse for the song, the second verse. This new arrangement by Kevin King brings a somewhat somber feel to the song, with the female vocal over drums and excellent piano and strings.
Calvary’s Anthem – This song was written by Bryan Chapell and Kevin King, incorporating lyrics from Robert Lowry’s hymn “Nothing But the Blood of Jesus” in the chorus. The song, sung by King, invites worshippers to celebrate Christ’s sacrifice for us on the cross of Calvary. This is a beautiful hymn for congregational singing and features piano, strings, drums, horns, and backing vocals.
Key lyric:
At the cross You opened fully,
Heaven’s heart poured out completely,
Angels singing, hell now fleeing,
Roars of saints shout, “Christ, our vic-t’ry!”
Christ Be All (live) – This is a nice live version of the title song.
Best Songs
Unlimited Grace
Psalm of Thanksgiving
Christ Be All
Calvary’s Anthem
Illumination – Phil Keaggy and Rex Paul
****
Phil Keaggy is one of the most respected guitarists of this generation, and has been a long-time favorite of mine. His last vocal album, 2016’s All at Once, was one of my top albums of that year. He returns with a new vocal album collaboration with Rex Paul Schnelle. The two first met in the mid-1980’s. They collaborated on the song “I Love the Way You Love Me” on All at Once, which led to this collaboration.
The album features five songs that Keaggy and Paul wrote together, four new versions of Keaggy classics, and one song that each artist collaborated on with others. The album was recorded at the artist’s home studios. The two-guitar approach, strong vocals, and fresh production by Paul, makes for an enjoyable listening experience. Keaggy’s vocals are outstanding, and he sounds as good as he did in the 1980’s.
Below are a few comments about each of the songs:
Don’t Hold Back. This song was written by Paul and Keaggy. The song features excellent guitars, including a few solos and drums. Keaggy takes the lead vocal. The song is based on Matthew 25:20 and Jesus’ words “Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.” We are to love the least of these until judgment day and not hold back the love in our heart from our fellow man in need.
Calling Us Home. This song was written by Paul and Keaggy. The song opens with acoustic guitar. Paul and Keaggy share lead vocals, and their voices blend well on backing vocals. God is calling us home to stay, and we will worship the King. There is a guitar solo mid-song.
Time. This song was written by Keaggy and first appeared on his 1976 album Love Broke Thru. Keaggy handles lead vocals on this rocker, which opens with strong drums, which are soon joined by electric guitar. His name is time and he’s coming to an end. Jesus died for you to set you free. Where will you be when time ends? The song features a few guitar solos.
Nothing Can Separate Us. This song was written by Paul and Keaggy. It is based on Romans 8:35-39 which tells us that nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord, and that we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. The mid-tempo song starts with guitar and a good drum driven beat. Keaggy handles the lead vocals and their voices blend nicely on backing vocals. There is a guitar solo mid-song.
Glorify Your Name. This worship song was written by Paul and Keaggy. It opens with Beatle-like guitars, followed quickly by drums. Keaggy handles the lead vocals, and their voices blend well on the backing vocals. From creation to the cross, we can trust in His salvation and glorify His name. There is a guitar solo mid-song.
Let Everything Else Go. This beautiful song was written by Keaggy. It’s one of his personal favorites, and one of his most-requested songs in concert. It originally appeared on the 1980 album Town to Town album, later appearing on Way Back Home and Live from Kegworth. The song opens with piano and acoustic guitar. Keaggy handles lead vocals and the song builds on the chorus with backing vocals.
Oh, I can’t wait to see you Jesus, face to face,
Nothing in this world can take Your place.
The song features a few nice guitar solos. Nothing can compare with what You are, let everything else go. A highlight.
I Believe. This mid-tempo song was written by Paul and Keaggy. Keaggy was on tour with Glass Harp in 1971 and had been working on what would eventually become this song, but all he had left was the chorus of the song. Keaggy handles the lead vocals, with good backing vocals. The song is about the early days of a new believer. I believe and I have a reason to live. The song features a few guitar solos.
Spend My Life With You. This song was written by Keaggy and appeared on his 1980 album Ph’lip Side. The easy-going and joyful song is driven by acoustic guitar. Keaggy handles lead vocals and the song builds with backing vocals on the chorus. The song closes with an acoustic guitar solo.
Key lyrics:
‘Cause there’s a home in my heart
And I believe the day is coming
When we’ll never be apart.
Just to be where you are,
And to spend my live with you
Would be a perfect start.
You Never Know. This song was written by Tom Douglas and Paul. Paul and Keaggy trade lead vocals and their voices blend well on the chorus. You’ll never know who you might meet on a bus. The song references Hebrews 13:2 “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares”. The song closes with a guitar solo.
Full Circle. This song was written by Keaggy and originally appeared on his Town to Town album. The joyful song opens with acoustic guitar, drums and a bit of organ. The Lord took his hand and led him out of the darkness. With one touch of His hand he was made a newborn man. He has come full circle in his life. The song features a few guitar solos. Another favorite.
Day of the Lord. This song was written by Bryan Clark and Keaggy. The song features drums, guitars, including solos, and organ. In this world we face hardships (hunger, poverty, homelessness, suffering, sorrow, etc.). But one day death will be swallowed up (1 Corinthians 15:55), so set your mind on things that will last (Colossians 3:2).
Key lyrics:
The art of life in living is loving the best that you can.
Lend your neighbor a hand
Let us be forgiving, the day of the Lord is at hand.
A Great Adventure: Live Solo Performances of Timeless Hits by Steven Curtis Chapman
****
The latest project from Steven Curtis Chapman, which arrived less than two months after his Deeper Roots: Where the Bluegrass Grows album, comes in both a DVD and audio recording format, filmed and recorded at the Gaither Studios in Alexandria, Indiana. The album version chronicles Chapman’s life in song through live solo acoustic performances of some of his most popular songs, but no between song comments. Chapman has toured extensively performing solo concerts the past few years, and is very comfortable performing his songs backed only with his acoustic guitar. Listening to these songs, originally released between 1987 and 2018, reminds the listener of the blessing his music has been for more than thirty years now.
Below are a few comments about each of the songs (who wrote them and on which album they first appeared):
Lord of The Dance/No Better Place – “Lord of the Dance” (which he refers to as Chapter 1) was written by Chris Clark, Stephen Kipner and John Parker, and originally appeared on Chapman’s 1996 album Songs of Life. “No Better Place” (which he refers to as Chapter 2) was written by Phil Naish and Chapman, and originally appeared on his 1990 album For the Sake of the Call.
Remember to Remember – This song was written by Chapman and released as a single in 2018. This is the first time it has been available on an album.
The Great Adventure – This song was written by Geoff Moore and Chapman and originally appeared on his 1992 album The Great Adventure.
He Touched Me/There’s Something About That Name/Because He Lives – This is a medley of songs written by Bill and Gloria Gaither.
More to This Life – This song was written by Phil Naish and Chapman and originally appeared on his 1989 album More to This Life.
Be Still and Know – This song was written by Chapman and originally appeared on his 1999 album Speechless.
I Will Be Here – This song was written by Chapman and originally appeared on his 1989 album More to This Life.
Cinderella – This song was written by Chapman and originally appeared on his 2007 album This Moment.
Glorious Unfolding – This song was written by Chapman and originally appeared on his 2013 album The Glorious Unfolding.
Together – This song was written by Chapman and originally appeared on his 2013 album The Glorious Unfolding.
His Strength Is Perfect – This song was written by Chapman and originally on his 1988 album Real Life Conversations.
When Love Takes You In – This song was written by Chapman and originally appeared on his 2001 album Declaration.
My Redeemer Is Faithful and True – This song was written by James Isaac Elliot and Chapman and originally appeared on his 1987 album First Hand.
American Standard – James Taylor
****
American Standard is James Taylor’s 19th studio album, and first new album since 2015’s Before This World. The songs on the album are songs he has always known. He writes in the liner notes that most were part of his family’s record collection, the first music he heard as a kid growing up in North Carolina.
Work on the album began a little over two years ago when John Pizzarelli joined Taylor at the Barn, his recording studio in Massachusetts to work on a few songs. Taylor loved the sound of their two guitars together, and that forms the basic sound of these songs, giving it the feel of Taylor’s early recordings. As he reinterprets these songs, he is supported by his regular family of players who tour and record with him, as well as contributions from Viktor Krauss (upright bass), Stuart Duncan (violin) and Jerry Douglas (dobro). The album is produced by Taylor, along with Dave O’Donnell and John Pizzarelli.
Below are a few comments about each of the songs on the album:
My Blue Heaven. This song was written by Walter Donaldson and George A. Whiting in 1924. The song was used in the Ziegfeld Follies of 1927. The upbeat song is driven by acoustic guitar and features violin and bass and a nice violin solo mid-song.
Moon River. This song was written by Henry Mancini and Johnny Mercer in 1960. It was originally performed by Audrey Hepburn in the 1961 film Breakfast at Tiffany’s, winning the Oscar for Best Original Song. Later it would become Andy Williams’ theme song. This song is driven by acoustic guitar and features what sounds like a harmonica solo mid-song.
Teach Me Tonight. This song was written by Gene De Paul and Sammy Cahn in 1953. The song is driven by acoustic guitar and features light percussion, bass, and features a nice horn solo mid-song.
As Easy as Rolling Off a Log. This song was written by M.K. Jerome and Jack Scholl, a song featured in Katnip Kollege, a 1938 Merrie Melodies cartoon that Taylor first discovered as a child. The upbeat song is driven by acoustic guitar and features bass, a nice horn solo mid-song and closes with some whistling.
Almost Like Being in Love. This song was written by Frederick Loewe and Alan Jay Lerner in 1947 for their musical Brigadoon. This easy-going song is driven by acoustic guitar and features backing vocals, and a horn solo mid-song.
Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat. This song was written by Frank Loesser in 1950, and was introduced in the Broadway musical Guys and Dolls. This upbeat song is driven by acoustic guitar and features bass, light percussion, and backing vocals.
The Nearness of You. This song was written by Hoagy Carmichael and Ned Washington in 1938. The song is driven by acoustic guitar and features bass, horns, including a nice horn solo mid-song.
You’ve Got to be Carefully Taught. This song was written by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II in 1949 for the musical South Pacific. The song is driven by acoustic guitar and features violin.
God Bless the Child. This song was written by Billie Holiday and Arthur Herzog Jr. in 1941. It is driven by acoustic guitar and features bass, light percussion, and features a nice guitar solo mid-song.
Pennies from Heaven. This song was written by Arthur Johnston and Johnny Burke in 1936, appearing in the film of the same name. The upbeat song is driven by acoustic guitar and features bass, horn and some nice Hammond B3 organ.
My Heart Stood Still. This song was written by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart in 1927. It was written for the Charles Cochran review One Dam Thing After Another. The song is driven by acoustic guitar and features violin, light percussion and bass.
Ol’ Man River. This song was written by Jerome Kern and Oscar Hammerstein II in 1927, and appeared in the musical Show Boat. The slow-paced song is driven by acoustic guitar and features bass, with Taylor offering an expressive vocal.
It’s Only a Paper Moon. This song was written by Harold Arlen, Yip Hardburg and Billy Rose in 1932. The song was originally written for the unsuccessful Broadway play The Great Magoo. This easy-going song is driven by acoustic guitar and features bass and backing vocals.
The Surrey with the Fringe on Top. This song was written by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II in 1943 and appeared in the musical Oklahoma! The song is driven by acoustic guitar, and features vocals Taylor’s wife Caroline.
Best songs:
Teach Me Tonight
As Easy as Rolling Off a Log
It’s Only a Paper Moon
Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat
Pennies from Heaven
More Blood, More Tracks: The Bootleg Series Vol. 14 – Bob Dylan
****
Blood on the Tracks was the first Bob Dylan album I bought new. I had the iconic album cover on the wall of my basement apartment my Dad had built for me to live in during college. Little did I know then that the album had quite the recording history. The songs were primarily written by Dylan on his farm in Minnesota while his marriage to Sara was disintegrating. He started the recording process by working solo with engineer Phil Ramone in New York City in September, 1974. Ramone then brought in the band Deliverance to back Dylan, but that collaboration didn’t work well. Dylan chose to record the rest of the material over the four days of recording in NYC with Deliverance bassist Tony Brown. Still not satisfied, and with only a month to go before the album was to be released, in December Dylan’s brother set up two days of recordings in Minnesota with local musicians while Dylan was still tweaking lyrics. The original Blood on the Tracks album contained five songs from the NYC sessions and five from the Minnesota sessions.
Something I wasn’t aware of was that Dylan had asked Ramone to speed up the mix 3%. Ramone also added a bit of a studio echo. The songs on More Blood, More Tracks removes the accelerated mix and echo.
Like most of the Bootleg Series, this fourteenth volume comes in different configurations, including a 6 CD, 87 tracks limited edition version. I purchased the single CD compilation of alternate versions of the album’s 10 songs plus one that wasn’t included, “Up to Me” from the NYC sessions. The recordings are acoustic and intimate and will be enjoyed by Dylan fans. “Up to Me” fits well with the rest of the originally released songs on the album. Dylan has always included biblical imagery in his songs. “Up to Me” includes the interesting verse:
We heard the Sermon on the Mount and I knew it was too complex
It didn’t amount to anything more than what the broken glass reflects
When you bite off more than you can chew you pay the penalty
Somebody’s got to tell the tale, I guess it must be up to me
Live from the NATIVE TONGUE Tour – Switchfoot
***
This six-song EP, from Switchfoot was recorded live at the Tabernacle in Atlanta on the band’s Native Tongue tour. It once again proves that Switchfoot is an excellent live band. Here are a few comments about each song.
Native Tongue – This song was written by Tim Foreman, Jon Foreman and Brent Kutzle. It starts with Jon telling the crowd that rather than fear, hatred, and retaliation, love is our native tongue. The song has a great beat, beginning with Jon singing over hand claps and light drums before a driving drum comes in. The song includes some effective backing vocals. I really appreciated the Chad Butler’s drums on the song. Tim Foreman’s bass comes through on this version more so than it did on the studio version. There is also a nice guitar solo on the song. Where did we go wrong, we forgot our song? He wants the world to sing in her native tongue and use our lungs for love.
Voices – This song was written by Brent Kutzle, Jon Foreman, Ryan Tedder, Tim Foreman and Tyler Spry. The song, which was inspired by a homeless man at the beach, begins with some excellent electric guitar, before Jon’s vocal kicks in. Butler’s drums drive an excellent beat, which features Jerome Fontamillas’ keys. In the catchy chorus, Jon sings of having an army of voices in his head. Each moment is crowded with choices, which speak to him and drown out the voices. There are also some good backing vocals on the song.
Let it Happen – This song was written by Jon Foreman. The song features crashing guitars and driving drums, over Jon’s lead vocal. Backing vocals join him for the chorus and there is a nice guitar solo mid-song. This life seems hollow and mostly borrowed. He doesn’t know the meaning and his body is aching. He doesn’t know what is going to happen tomorrow but he trusts God with his future. Excellent song and performance.
Take My Fire – This song was written by Tim Foreman and Jon Foreman. The song begins with drums, then distorted guitar. Satan is never going to take his fire, his love for God. The defiant, guitar-driven rocker features a brief guitar solo and slows down mid-song before a powerful ending.
All I Need – This song was written by Tim Foreman and Jon Foreman. The band sings the song around one microphone to bring it back to where it all began. You can hear the crowd singing along. The love song begins with acoustic guitar, before keys, bass and drums are added later in the song. The chorus is memorable as he sings that all he needs is the air he breathes, the time they share and the ground beneath his feet. He wants to know if she believes in him.
Native Tongue – This is another version of the first song on the EP. Chad Butler’s drum work really stands out on this song. It is a bit of a different version of the song, but I question why the band would include two versions of the same song on a six-song EP.
Sing! The Life of Christ Quintology: Passion (EP)
****
Sing! The Life of Christ: Quintology is the fourth album to be released from Keith and Kristyn Getty’s Sing! worship music conferences, following 2018’s Sing! Live at The Getty Music Worship Conference and 2019’s Sing! Psalms: Ancient + Modern (Live At The Getty Music Worship Conference) and Sing! An Irish Christmas – Live At The Grand Ole Opry House.
The new album will be released in five separate EPs over the next several months. The project will follow the five main themes of the 2019 Sing! conference – Incarnation, Passion, Resurrection, Commission, and Ascension of Jesus Christ, and include 30 songs. To find out more about my takeaways from the 2019 conference, held in Nashville, read my article “Reflections From the 2019 Sing! Getty Worship Conference here.
The album was recorded at the Gaylord Hotel Convention Center, the Grand Ole Opry House and the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. Everything that the Gettys and their musical friends do is with excellence. Throughout, the songwriting, singing and musical performances are of a very high quality, especially noteworthy for a live recording.
The second EP to be released is on the Incarnation. Below are a few comments about each song:
The Power of the Cross – This worship song, one of the Getty’s best, was written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend. This wonderful version of the song was performed at the Bridgestone Arena. It is preceded by Jackie Hill Perry performing an original spoken word piece with flute accompaniment by Pedro Eustache. Kristyn Getty handles lead vocals, backed by the choir and the Getty Band – piano by Keith Getty, bass, drums, violin, etc. – as the song builds powerfully.
Key lyric:
This, the pow’r of the cross:
Son of God—slain for us.
What a love! What a cost!
We stand forgiven at the cross.
My Worth Is Not in What I Own (At the Cross) – This song was written by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty and Graham Kendrick. The song was performed at the Bridgestone Arena, and features Fernando Ortega and Kristyn Getty sharing lead vocals. The song features Ortega on piano, backed by the Getty band – beautiful cello, violin, drums, and choir.
Key lyric:
Two wonders here that I confess
My worth and my unworthiness
My value fixed – my ransom paid
At the cross
My Savior’s Love (What Tongue Could Tell) – This song was written by Matt Boswell, Matt Papa and Keith Getty. It was performed by Matt Papa, backed by choir, piano, drums and bass. I enjoyed the ending of the song, with the chorus being sung acapella.
Key lyric:
What tongue could tell my Savior’s love
What song of angels could describe
Could endless praises be enough
To echo full His sacrifice
His Mercy is More – This song has been one of my favorites since being introduced to it at the Sing! 2018 Conference. It was written by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. The song was performed at the Bridgestone Arena. Matt Papa and Matt Boswell share the lead vocals, backed by piano, drums, guitar, bass, violin, and choir.
Key lyric:
Praise the Lord!
His mercy is more.
Stronger than darkness; new every morn;
Our sins, they are many, His mercy is more.
He Will Hold Me Fast – This song was written by Ada Habershon and Matt Merker. The song was performed by Selah during the “Hymn Sing” at the Grand Ole Opry House. Selah is backed by piano, a beautiful cello and choir.
Key lyric:
Raised with Him to endless life
He will hold me fast
Till our faith is turned to sight
When he comes at last
Let There Be Wonder – Matt Redman
****
Let There Be Wonder is worship leader, singer/songwriter Matt Redman’s fourteenth album, and first since 2017’s Glory Song. The album was produced by Jacob Sooter and Joshua Silverberg, and was recorded live in front of more than 1,000 people at Free Chapel in Orange County, California. Redman wrote all of the songs, collaborating with writers and friends such as Sooter, Phil Wickham, Hillsong’s Joel Houston, Jason Ingram, Pat Barrett, Corey Voss, Andi Rozier (Vertical Church Band), Jon Guerra, and Brandon Lake, who also appears on the project along with Evan Craft.
I really enjoyed this album of live worship. Below are a few comments about each song:
The Same Jesus – This joyful song was written by Redman, Jacob Sooter and Josh Silverberg. It was the first song released from the album. The song features drums, backing vocals, keys and drums. The same Jesus is still with us, still on the move, making us new. We know that He is coming again. He’s alive and is keeping His promises.
Key lyric:
This Jesus
Who carried our shame
This Jesus
Who rose from the grave
The same Jesus
We worship today, we worship today
We Praise You – This upbeat worship song was written by Redman, Brandon Lake, Brian Johnson and Phil Wickham. Redman and Lake share the vocals. The song features guitar, backing vocals and some good drums. An excellent song for congregational singing.
Key lyric:
We’ll see You break down every wall
We’ll watch the giants fall
Fear cannot survive when we praise You
The God of breakthroughs on our side
Forever lift Him high
With all creation cry, ‘God, we praise You’
Oh, we praise You
All Praise (Sing Praise) – This song was written by Redman, Andi Rozier and Jason Ingram. The song begins with guitar and keys and builds at the chorus with backing vocals, drums and bass. God’s amazing grace far exceeds our past mistakes. God brought us back to life again and we will rise with Jesus from the grave. He is coming soon. His promises all come true and He deserves all praise.
Key lyric:
Your name, Your name always
Jesus, You alone deserve all praise
Upon Him – This song was written by Redman, Andi Rozier and Jon Guerra. The song begins with keys and light guitar, and builds powerfully with backing vocals and drums. There is no greater name than Jesus. One day every knee will bow and every heart confess (Philippians 2:10-11).
Key lyric:
Christ has died, we are forgiven
And Christ alive, we are the risen
And He shall come again
Praise the King, praise the King
Let There Be Wonder – This worship song was written by Redman, Joshua Silverberg, Jacob Sooter and Corey Voss. The song begins with synth, guitar and keys and then builds powerfully with bass drums and backing vocals. He is the God who parted the sea, who heals our disease and is the source of all that we need.
Key lyric:
Let there be wonder, let there be wonder in this place
Let there be worship, let there be worship for Your name
Come Holy Spirit, how we need Your fire again
Let there be wonder, let there be wonder
King Jesus – This song was written by Redman, Jason Ingram and Joel Houston. The worship song opens with electric and acoustic guitar and keys, and builds at the chorus with drums and backing vocals. His is the name above all names (Philippians 2:9). There will never be a higher name. All glory to God alone, the King is in residence here.
Key lyric:
All glory to God alone, praise to the One who gave it all
Name above all names, King Jesus, King Jesus
All glory to God alone, praise to the One who holds the throne
Name above all names, King Jesus, King Jesus
Merciful Father – This upbeat song was written by Redman, Tim Wanstall and Pat Barrett. The song begins with keys, drums, bass and builds with guitar and backing vocals. The song describes attributes of God such as love, goodness, faithfulness, merciful and kindness.
Mercies (New Every Morning) – This mid-tempo song was written by Redman, May Angeles, Edith Mcneill, DK Kim and Colby Taylor. The song features keys, guitar, drums and bass, and speaks to God’s faithfulness and goodness, though like many worship songs, lyrically it gets a bit repetitive.
The chorus is from Lamentations 3:23:
They are new every morning
New every morning
Great is Your faithfulness
Your mercies are new every morning
New every morning
Great is your faithfulness
Jesus Your Name – This song was written by Redman, Lindsey Sweet, Joshua Silverberg and Jacob Sooter. The song features acoustic guitar, synth, keys, bass, excellent drums, and backing vocals, and is about Jesus’s wonderful name.
Key lyric:
Jesus Your name, when the whole world shakes
Jesus Your name, I will ever praise
My battle cry every night and day
I’ll sing Your name over everything
I’ll sing Your name over everything
In The Name – This triumphant song was written by Redman, Ryan Ellis, Joshua Silverberg and Jacob Sooter. The song features keys, synth, bass, guitar, some nice drums, and backing vocals. Interestingly, it’s follows another song about the name of Jesus.
Key lyric:
In the name of Jesus, all fear must go now
In the name of Jesus, perfect peace
In the name of Jesus, burdens be lifted
In the name of Jesus we believe
Hymn of Surrender – This song was written by Redman, Mitch Wong, Joshua Silverberg and Jacob Sooter. The song features synth, keys, guitar, drums, bass and backing vocals. The song is a prayer to Jesus. He’s going to deny himself and follow Jesus. For less of him is more of Jesus.
Key lyric:
No compromise
I won’t give You just half my life
If it’s all or nothing
Let it all be, let it all be for Jesus
Send Me Lord – This song was written by Redman, Joshua Silverberg and Mitch Wong. The song features, synth, keys, guitar, backing vocals, and is a prayer to God. He contrasts his own selfishness with God’s holiness.
Key lyric:
Where You go, I will go, I belong to You alone
Letting go of my selfishness, send me Lord
A Ti Adoramos (We Praise You) – This is a second version of “We Praise You”, this time featuring Evan Craft, with some of the singing in Spanish.
The Same Jesus (single version) – This is a shorter version of the first song released from the album.
Best songs:
Upon Him
The Same Jesus
We Praise You
Jesus Your Name
Hymn of Surrender
Alive & Breathing, Vol. 1 – Matt Maher
****
This is the first of four Alive & Breathing releases from Matt Maher. Each EP will feature three songs – a new song, a live version of a song that Maher has written for other artists but hasn’t recorded himself, and a live version of some of Maher’s previous songs. Here are a few comments on each song on Vol. 1.
Run to the Father – This song was written by Maher with Cody Carnes and Ran Jackson and produced by Bernie Herms. The powerful song of surrender features piano, strings, drums, and backing choir vocals.
Key lyric:
I run to the Father, I fall into grace
I’m done with the hiding, no reason to wait
My heart needs a surgeon, my soul needs a friend
So, I’ll run to the Father, again and again
Lord, I Need You (Señor, Te Necesito) – This is a live version of Maher’s worship song “Lord, I Need You”, which Maher recorded with Bianca, who sings in Spanish. Maher wrote the song with Christy Nockels, Daniel Carson, Jesse Reeves and Kristian Stanfill. The song features piano, bass, guitar, drums, and the audience singing along. The voices of Maher and Bianca blend well.
White Flag – This is a live version of a song that Chris Tomlin originally recorded at the Passion Conference. Maher wrote the song with Tomlin, Jason Ingram and Matt Redman. The song features synth, drums, guitar, bass and the audience singing along.
Key lyric:
We raise our white flag
We surrender all to you, all for you
We raise our white flag, the war is over
Love has come, your love has won
Alive & Breathing, Vol. 2 – Matt Maher
****
This is the second of four Alive & Breathing releases. Each EP features three songs – a new song, a live version of a song that Maher has written for other artists but hasn’t recorded himself, and a live version of some of Maher’s previous songs. Here are a few comments on each song on Vol. 2.
Alive & Breathing – This new song was written by Maher and Elle Limebear. Limebear also adds vocals to the song. This song of encouragement features piano, backing vocals, guitar, strings and drums.
Key lyric:
Joy still comes in the morning
Hope still walks with the hurting
If you’re alive and breathing, praise the Lord
Don’t stop dancing and dreaming
There’s still good news worth repeating
So, lift your head and keep singing, praise the Lord
Because He Lives (Amen) – I was introduced to this song when Maher sang this song in concert a few years ago as he opened for Toby Mac. This is a live version of the song he wrote with Bill Gaither, Gloria Gaither, Chris Tomlin, Daniel Carson, Ed Cash and Jason Ingram. The joyful song features drums, synth, piano and the audience singing along.
Soul on Fire – One of my favorite Third Day songs, I recently heard Mac Powell and the Family Reunion perform this song in concert and the next day when they led worship at a church in Indiana. The song was written by Maher with Brenton Brown, Mac Powell, Tai Anderson, David Carr and Mark Lee. This excellent live version features drums, guitar and the audience singing along.
Alive & Breathing, Vol. 3 – Matt Maher
***
This is the third of four Alive & Breathing releases. Each EP features three songs – a new song, a live version of a song that Maher has written for other artists but hasn’t recorded himself, and a live version of some of Maher’s previous songs. Here are a few comments on each song on Vol. 3.
Lord of My Life – This new song was written by Maher and Daniel Bashta. The song features piano, backing vocals, guitar, synth, and drums. He is prone to wander. The Lord is the destination and the way to get there. He surrenders all.
Key lyric:
Be the song I sing, be my guiding light
Savior of my soul, be the Lord of my life
Every step I take, always by my side
I am Yours, You are mine, be the Lord of my life
Your Love Defends Me – This is a live version of Maher’s song that he wrote with Hannah Kerr. Maher has said that the song comes out of Psalm 91, and the idea of God being not a refuge, but our only refuge. The song features acoustic guitar and the audience singing along and then builds with electric guitar, piano and drums.
Here for You – This is a live version of a worship song Maher wrote with Tim Wanstall, Jesse Reeves and Matt Redman, who originally recorded the song. The song was also recorded live at a Passion Conference, with Chris Tomlin handling the lead vocals. The song features keys, synth, bass, drums, partially distorted vocals, the audience clapping and singing along.
Alive & Breathing, Vol. 4 – Matt Maher
****
This is fourth and final of the excellent Alive & Breathing EP releases from Matt Maher. Each features three songs, a combination of new songs, live versions of songs that Maher has written for other artists but hasn’t recorded himself, and live versions of some of Maher’s previous songs. Here are a few comments on each song on Vol. 4.
Come as You Are – This is a live version of a song made popular by Crowder, and included on his 2014 album Neon Steeple. The song was written by Maher, Crowder and Ben Glover. The song begins with acoustic guitar and then slowly builds with piano, guitar, bass and the audience singing along.
Key lyric:
Oh, wanderer come home
You’re not too far
Lay down your hurt
Lay down your heart
Come as you are
Lord, I Need You – This is a live version of perhaps Maher’s most popular song, which was written by Maher, Christy Nockels, Daniel Carson, Jesse Reeves and Kristian Stanfill. I first heard this song sung by Chris Tomlin on the 2011 Passion conference album Here for You. The song begins with piano and gently builds with bass, drum and the audience singing along.
Key lyric:
Lord, I need You, oh, I need You
Every hour I need You
My one defense, my righteousness
Oh God, how I need You
Come Holy Spirit – This is a live version of a song I hadn’t previously heard, featuring Martin Smith, formerly of the band Delirious? The song was written by Smith, Maher, Paul Nelson, Lydia McAllister, Henry Milne and Connor Patterson. The song begins with piano, and then builds powerfully with keys, strings, bass, drums, guitar, the audience singing along and ends with some excellent organ. This was the highlight of the EP for me.
Key lyric:
Come, Holy Spirit
Fall on us
Burn like a fire
Living flame of love
United – Newsboys (Deluxe Edition)
****
In the spring of 2018, former Newsboys lead singer Peter Furler and former bassist Phil Joel joined the then current Newsboy lineup of Michael Tait, Duncan Phillips, Jeff Frankenstein and Jody Davis for a Newsboys reunion tour. Since then the Newsboys United have played more than 150 concerts. As a result, this new studio album has been highly anticipated. And the album, which is comprised of praise and worship songs, does not disappoint. The album, co-produced by Furler and Duncan Sparks and featuring a number of different writers, has a clean and energetic sound, as it merges the former members and current members together for a satisfying result.
Below are a few comments about each song:
Greatness of Our God – This worship song about the greatness of God, was written by Bryan Fowler, Colby Wedgeworth and Ethan Hulse. This was the first song released from the album. Furler and Tait share lead vocals on an excellent opening song.
Symphony – This song was written by Bryan Fowler, Colby Wedgeworth and Ethan Hulse. The voices of Furler and Tait blend well on this prayer, and Phillips’ drums particularly stand out.
Key lyrics:
So, let my life be, let my life be
A symphony, a symphony
Every breath that I breathe
Lord I wanna bring You glory, glory
Love One Another – This song, based on Jesus’ words in John 13:34 “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another”, was written by Duncan Sparks, Furler and Steve Taylor, and features Tait’s former DC Talk bandmate Kevin Max on vocals. The song opens with guitar and then right into a good driving beat.
Never Setting Sun – This song was written by Bede Benjamin-Korporaal, Renee Sieff and Seth Mosley. This joyful song of praise to Jesus features Furler primarily on vocals, has an infectious chorus driven by Phillips’ drum beat.
Beautiful Story – This song was written by Andrew Holt, Mia Fieldes and Robert Marvin and features Tait on vocals. The power ballad, which will sound good on Christian radio, begins with piano and builds with guitars, bass and drums.
The bridge brings in Romans 8:28 “You work all things together for good.”
Key lyrics:
You write a beautiful story
From glory to glory I believe
Worth Fighting For – This song was written by Furler and Steve Taylor. The song opens with guitar and features a good drum beat. Furler and Tait share vocals on this song about love and forgiveness. The song references Jesus’ commandment in Mark 12:31 “You shall love your neighbor as yourself”.
Fearless – This song was written by Jonathan Lindley Smith, Maggie Eckford and Mia Fieldes. The song opens with keys, and features excellent drums from Phillips. Tait and Furler share lead vocals and their voices blend well.
Key lyrics:
I am Fearless in Your presence
You’re all around, me all around me
In my weakness You are strongest
You surround me, You surround me
This I Know – This song was written by Aodhan King, Furler, Reuben Morgan and Seth Mosley. The song of praise opens with guitar, starts slowly and then gently builds with drums and keys. He is with us through the trials and has never let us go. Tait and Furler share vocals.
Key lyrics:
This I know
At the whisper of Your name
There is peace I can’t explain
I am fearless, I am safe
Here with You, here with you
Only the Son (Yeshua) – This worship song was written by Seth Mosely, Peter Furler and Summer Furler. An early version of the song (“Yeshua”), appeared on the Peter Furler Band’s 2014 album Sun and Shield. A new chorus “Only the Sun” has been added. The song features some good guitar from Davis. Tait and Furler share vocals and their vocals blend well on the memorable chorus.
Set Me Ablaze – This song was written by Bryan Torwalt, Jacob Sooter, Katie Torwalt and Mia Fieldes. Furler delivers a passionate lead vocal on this worship song to the Holy Spirit, asking Him to “Breathe, come and breathe on the coals of my heart”. The song features guitar and drums.
Deluxe Edition – This Deluxe edition includes one new song, a previously released single, two remixes and an interview. Although I normally prefer a Deluxe edition, I don’t see the extra value in this particular one.
Rejoice – This song was written by Steve Taylor and Furler. Tait and Furler share vocals on this upbeat and joyful song. Faith and love make you want to rejoice. The song features good guitar and drums.
The Cross Has the Final Word – This worship song about, the power of Jesus and the work He on the cross, was written by Cody Carnes and produced by Seth Mosley. It was released as a single in May, 2017, and was the first song released in which Furler joined the current lineup of the Newsboys.
Greatness of Our God (Doug Weier Remix) – This is a remix of a song included on the standard edition.
Only the Son (Yeshua) (Doug Weier Remix) – This is a remix of a song included on the standard edition.
United: The Story Behind the Album (Interview with Peter Furler and Michael Tait). This is a seven minute plus interview with Doug Hannah.
Believe – Russ Taff
****
I’m a long-time Russ Taff fan, having seen him in concert several times and have followed his music since his days with the Imperials. Amazingly, he has been inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame an unprecedented three times – as a member of the Imperials, a member of the Gather Vocal Band and as a solo artist. This is his first worship album and the first new album in seven years for the 66-year-old singer. The album sounds great, being well-produced by Phil Naish and Mark Hornsby. It was released on the heels of the documentary Russ Taff: I Still Believe, and ahead of a book titled I Still Believe: A Memoir of Wreckage, Recovery, and Relentless Love, which was published in February 26, 2019.
This album is a welcome return for Taff, who is one of contemporary Christian music’s great vocalists, who sounds better than ever. Below are a few comments about each song:
Your Love Never Fails – The opening song is an excellent cover of the Jesus Culture song written by Anthony Skinner and Chris McClarney. The song has high energy from the beginning note with Taff bringing his strong vocals over a driving beat led by guitar, organ, drums and backing vocals.
I Still Believe – This song was written and originally recorded by The Call, and was included on Taff’s excellent 1990 self-titled album. On this new version Taff sings his heart out, backed by an excellent accompanying band, featuring a good guitar solo and backing vocals. About the song, Taff said “It meant the world to me back when I was struggling trying to find my way and I was screaming at the sky, but today it’s a joyous anthem. I’m up here singing again for Jesus. I survived.”
Key lyric:
But I still believe
I still believe
Through the pain,
And through the grief,
Through the lives,
Through the storms,
Through the cries,
And through the wars.
Oh, I still believe!
Don’t Try So Hard – On this beautiful midtempo song, Taff is joined by Amy Grant, who herself was accompanied by James Taylor when she originally recorded the song. I enjoyed the organ on this track, with also features a nice guitar solo.
Key lyric:
Don’t try so hard
God gives you grace and you can’t earn it
Don’t think that you’re not worth it
Because you are
He gave you His love and He’s not leaving
Gave you His Son so you’d believe it
You’re lonely even with your scars
Don’t try so hard
Same Power – This is an excellent cover of the joyful Jeremy Camp song. Taff brings a powerful vocal to the song over organ, guitar, piano, drums and backing vocals. There is victory in singing that we will not be overtaken, we will not be overcome.
Key lyric:
The same power that rose Jesus from the grave
The same power that commands the dead to wake
Lives in us, lives in us.
I Am – This is a cover of Crowder’s song which appeared on his 2014 debut album Neon Steeple. Crowder joins Taff on this excellent version. A guitar solo replaces the banjo that was on Crowder’s version. The song also features some excellent drums. Crowder has said “Standing and singing ‘I Am holding onto you in the middle of the storm’ alongside Russ is one of life’s greatest memories.”
Key lyric:
I am
Holding on to You
In the middle of the storm
I am Holding on
Be Still My Soul – This is a song that Taff originally recorded with the Imperials on their 1980 album Priority. It was a song, written with his wife Tori, during a time when he was making the difficult decision to leave the Imperials. The beautiful song features piano, strings and some excellent backing choir vocals.
Key lyric:
Be still my soul and know that He is God
Stand quietly – He is the Lord
If God is for me who can be against me?
Be still my soul, He is the Lord
No Longer Slaves – This is a cover of the Bethel Music song written by Brian Johnson, Joel Case and Jonathan David Helser. It opens with a brief female vocal. The joyful song builds with a powerful vocal from Taff, drums and strong backing vocals.
Key lyric:
I’m no longer a slave to fear
I am a child of God
When I Hear Your Name – This beautiful song features strings, piano acoustic guitar and backing vocals. It is about the impact of God’s name. His whole world is changed and he is changed when he hears God’s precious and beautiful name. There Is a Fountain – This is a cover of William Cowper’s classic 1772 hymn. Taff delivers a passionate vocal over piano, drums and some excellent strings.
Key lyric:
Redeeming love has been my theme
And shall be till I die
There’s a Hallelujah – This song features a driving beat from the beginning, featuring guitar, bass, drum and some excellent guitar. No matter what happens, he will worship Him the same. Hallelujah when I rise, hallelujah when I fall, Yes, there’s a hallelujah in it all.
Isn’t the Name – This is a cover of the Bethany Worship song written by Jonathan Stockstill. This song features piano, as well as some excellent strings that were recorded at the legendary Abbey Road studio in London. The name of Jesus is all we need.
We Will Stand – This song was originally recorded on Taff’s classic 1983 album Walls of Glass. The song features guitar, organ and builds powerfully with Taff’s vocal and a backing choir. Taff has said about the song “It’s a message that is important to the Church, especially today. Politics are tearing the body of Christ apart. People are losing friends and walking away from each other because of who they voted for. We’ve got to rise above that, love one another and allow another person to have their own feelings and beliefs.”
Key lyric:
But I, I don’t care what label you may wear
If you believe in Jesus you belong with me
Sing! The Life of Christ: Quintology: Incarnation – Keith and Kristyn Getty and Friends
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Sing! The Life of Christ: Quintology is the fourth album to be released from Keith and Kristyn Getty’s Sing! worship music conferences, following 2018’s Sing! Live at The Getty Music Worship Conference and 2019’s Sing! Psalms: Ancient + Modern (Live At The Getty Music Worship Conference) and Sing! An Irish Christmas – Live At The Grand Ole Opry House.
The new album will be released in five separate EPs over the next several months. The project will follow the five main themes of the 2019 Sing! conference – Incarnation, Passion, Resurrection, Commission, and Ascension of Jesus Christ, and include 30 songs. To find out more about my takeaways from the 2019 conference, held in Nashville, read my article “Reflections From the 2019 Sing! Getty Worship Conference here.
The album was recorded at the Gaylord Hotel Convention Center, the Grand Ole Opry House and the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. Everything that the Gettys and their musical friends do is with excellence. Throughout, the songwriting, singing and musical performances are of a very high quality, especially noteworthy for a live recording.
The first EP is on the Incarnation. Below are a few comments about each song:
Across the Lands/Of the Father’s Love Begotten – “Across the Lands” was written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend. “Of the Father’s Love Begotten” was written by Aurelius Clemens Prudentius. This track begins with the recitation of John 1 by astronaut Colonel Jeff Williams before segueing into the choir singing verses one and three of “Of the Father’s Love Begotten” before the full band goes into “Across the Lands” with Kristyn Getty on lead vocals.
Key lyrics:
You’re the Author of creation;
You’re the Lord of ev’ry man;
And Your cry of love rings out across the lands.
Sing We the Song of Emmanuel – This song was written by Matt Boswell, Matt Papa, Stuart Townend, and Keith Getty. The song opens with piano, and then the full band kicks in. This was my favorite song of 2019. We sang it often in our church worship service. Boswell and Papa share lead vocals with the audience joining in on the closing “Gloria”.
Key lyrics:
Glory shining for all to see
Hope alive, let the gospel ring
God has made a way, He will have the praise
Tell the world His name is Jesus
Come Adore the Humble King – This song was written by Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. This piano driven song has Boswell and Papa sharing lead vocals. The song features a violin solo and builds powerfully.
Joy Has Dawned/Angels We Have Heard on High – “Joy Has Dawned” was written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend. “Angels We Have Heard on High” was written by James Chadwick. The song begins with the choir singing verse one and the refrain from “Angels We Have Heard on High” before the full band kicks in with “Joy Has Dawned”, with lead vocals by Kristyn Getty. The upbeat song gives the band an opportunity to flex its muscles mid-song. The song ends with the refrain and verse three from “Angels We Have Heard on High”.
Key lyrics:
What a Savior! What a Friend!
What a glorious myst’ry!
Once a babe in Bethlehem,
Now the Lord of hist’ry.
Come Behold the Wondrous Mystery – This song was written by Matt Boswell, Matt Papa and Michael Bleecker. The song begins with piano, before adding drums, bass and guitar. Boswell and Papa share lead vocals.
Key lyrics:
What a foretaste of deliverance
How unwavering our hope
Christ in power resurrected
As we will be when He comes
In Christ Alone/I Stand Amazed (O How Marvelous) – “In Christ Alone” was written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend. “I Stand Amazed’ was written by Charles Gabriel. Kristyn Getty and Travis Cottrell share lead vocals on “In Christ Alone”, and the album closes with a spirited version of “I Stand Amazed”.
Key lyrics:
And as He stands in victory,
Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me;
For I am His and He is mine—
Bought with the precious blood of Christ.
Best songs: All
Note: The 2020 Sing! Getty Worship Music Conference will be held August 31 – September 2 in Nashville. To get more information and register go here.
The Worship Initiative Christmas – Shane and Shane
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The duo Shane and Shane returns with a new five-song Christmas EP. The project includes one new song “Sing We The Song of Emmanuel”, as well as four Christmas classics. The duo’s voices blend well and the instrumentation is top-notch.
Below are a few comments about each song:
Sing We The Song of Emmanuel – This new Christmas song was written by Matt Boswell, Matt Papa, Stuart Townend, and Keith Getty. The song features acoustic guitar, bass and chimes. The song builds powerfully with the mid-song “Gloria”.
Key lyric:
Come we to welcome Emmanuel
King who came with no crown or throne
Helpless He lay, the Invincible
Maker of Mary, now Mary’s son
Oh Holy Night – This joyful song was written by Adolphe Adam in 1847. The song features acoustic guitar, drums, bass, piano and an excellent vocal with a good overall pace. A highlight.
Little Drummer Boy – This song was written by Katherine K. Davis, Henry Onorati and Harry Simeone in 1958. The upbeat and joyful arrangement features guitar, bass, and of course drums. A highlight.
The First Noel – This traditional English Christmas carol dates back to 1823. The song features acoustic guitar, piano, bass, backing vocals, and is driven by a light percussion beat.
O Come O Come Emmanuel – This song was translated by John Mason Neale in 1861. The joyful song features acoustic guitar, bass, synth, piano, backing vocals, and some nice drum work.
Best songs:
O Holy Night
Little Drummer Boy
Bing at Christmas – Bing Crosby with the London Symphony Orchestra
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Bing at Christmas was produced by Nick Patrick, who has also produced albums with orchestras by artists such as Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, the Carpenters, Beach Boys, and others. Patrick took recordings by Crosby, who died in 1977, and added newly-recorded orchestral arrangements, performed by the London Symphony Orchestra. The overall effect is giving a fresh clean sound to some of Crosby’s most loved Christmas songs.
The album features fourteen classic Crosby Christmas songs, including his biggest hit, “White Christmas”, which is the world’s best-selling single, with sales in excess of 50 million copies worldwide. The song is included in two versions on the album. Joining Crosby on a special version of the song is the multi-Grammy Award winning a cappella group Pentatonix, whose voices fit perfectly with Crosby’s.
If you have loved Crosby’s Christmas music in the past, you’ll want to check out this new release.
Below is a list of the songs included on this new release:
- It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas
- Sleigh Ride
- Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!
- White Christmas (featuring Pentatonix)
- I’ll Be Home For Christmas
- Jingle Bells (with The Andrew Sisters featuring the Puppini Sisters)
- Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
- Do You Hear What I Hear?
- The Christmas Song
- Little Drummer Boy (with David Bowie)
- Twelve Days Of Christmas (featuring the Puppini Sisters)
- Winter Wonderland
- The Christmas Song (featuring the Tenors)
- White Christmas
Joy of Every Longing Heart – Sara Groves
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Sara Groves follows up her 2008 Christmas album O Holy Night with Joy of Every Longing Heart, which she calls the bookend to the earlier album. While O Holy Night featured songs about Jesus’ birth, Joy of Every Longing Heart – which is a mix of new songs, Groves’ interpretation of 5 traditional Christmas songs, and one instrumental – focuses on those who were directly part of the Nativity story, the angels, wise men and shepherds. The album’s title comes from the last line of the song “Come Thou Long Expected Jesus”. The album cover art is a rendition of the city of Bethlehem, purposefully showcasing the color tones of oranges and purples to represent the dawn and awaiting the birth of Jesus. The album was produced by John Mark Nelson and recorded at Art House North, a one hundred-year-old house in St. Paul, Minnesota. A minor complaint is that the nine songs clock in at just 32 minutes.
Below are a few comments about each of the songs:
O Come O Come Emmanuel – This Christmas standard was written by John Mason Neale. The joyful song features light drums, bass, a guitar solo, backing vocals, and some excellent piano. A highlight.
Angels From The Realms of Glory – This song was written by James Montgomery. The song features guitar, piano, backing vocals and light drums. The song starts slowly and then gently builds.
God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman – This is a traditional English Christmas carol. The song features piano, strings, drums, guitar and backing vocals.
Come Thou Long Expected Jesus – This song was written by John Stainer, and features acoustic guitar, piano, some nice drum work, backing vocals and a new chorus.
We Wait – This new song features guitar, piano, bass, drums, backing vocals. The song is about the people of Bethlehem waiting. They wait for a number of things – a sign, peace and goodwill to all men, a break in the weather, the light of the morning, and most of all they wait for Jesus.
Winter Wonderland – This song was written by Richard B. Smith and Felix Bernard. The song features a slower pace than usual and acoustic guitar, piano, bells, and backing vocals. It also includes a reference to St. Paul, Minnesota, where the album was recorded.
Just Like They Said – This new song is seen through the eyes of a shepherd as he first heard about the birth of Jesus. The sky was on fire. It was just like they said it would be. He was wrapped in a cloak and laid in a manger. But no one believed the shepherd, instead shaking their heads and saying nothing good comes from Bethlehem. But he knows what he saw. The song features piano, bass, backing vocals, and strings.
Tidings – This short instrumental was written by John Mark Nelson and John Arndt. The song features cello and strings.
Let Our Gladness Have No End – This song was written by G. Kucharik. It features piano, backing vocals and strings.
Key lyric:
Let our gladness have no end, alleluia!
For to earth did Christ descend, alleluia!
Best songs:
O Come O Come Emmanuel
Just Like They Said
Christmas – Sandra McCracken
****
I love Christmas music and each year add new albums to my collection. Christmas by Sandra McCracken is a new album that I can recommend to you. I became aware of McCracken’s music at a few conferences that my wife Tammy and I have attended recently.
The album was recorded over three days in a studio just outside of Nashville. McCracken wrote that she joined up with Gabe Dixon, Will Sayles, Anthony LaMarca, Joey Bradshaw, Cindy Morgan, Matt Pierson, Don Chaffer and Tim Nicholson to make the record. Russ Long mixed the recordings together with orchestration from Isaac Wardell and friends in Charlottesville, VA, vocals from Josh Garrels in Indiana, and cello from Cara Fox and B3 from Phil Madeira.
McCracken has had the desire to record a Christmas album for years. It was on a trip to Israel two years ago when she visited the birthplace of Jesus and the shepherd’s field near Bethany that pushed her to make Christmas. The eleven songs include both originals and Christmas classics. Here are a few comments on each song:
Joy to the World – This Christmas classic written by Isaac Watts, features McCracken singing over piano, light guitar, bass, cello and drums. She adds a new chorus “Repeat the sounding joy”.
Ring the Bells – This song was written by McCracken and Cindy Morgan. McCracken has said that she wanted the song to provide a picture of a present-day holiday scene, the family gathering together, the candlelight service, the call for peace and comfort from one to another. The song features some nice piano, strings, drums and bass.
Key lyrics:
We’re gonna ring the bells on Christmas day
Let the light bring forth the dawn
We’re gonna ring the bells the joy proclaim
Giving us hope, helping us carry on
All is Well – This song, set around the birth of Jesus, in a manger, a humble landing in a quiet place, is written by McCracken and Cindy Morgan. The song features acoustic guitar, bass, light percussion and piano.
Mary’s Arms – This joyful song, with a memorable chorus, features piano, light percussion, strings, and backing vocals, ending with some excellent organ. A highlight.
Key lyrics:
Now is the time,
Songs fill the skies
Redeeming love, baby child
Resting in Mary’s arms.
Jesus What A Wonderful Child – This traditional spiritual begins with bass, and then adds guitar, drums, hand claps, piano, organ and some excellent backing vocals from Cindy Morgan and Gabe Dixon. It’s instantly likable0 and my favorite song on the album.
Hark the Herald Angels Sing – This Christmas classic was written by Charles Wesley (lyrics) and Felix Mendelssohn (music). The song features bass, piano, light percussion and organ.
This Is the Christ – This song was written by Martin Luther (lyrics) and McCracken (music). The song features McCracken singing over piano, bass, light guitar and drums.
Key lyrics:
This is the Christ, our God and Lord
Who in all need shall aid afford
He will himself our savior be
And from our sins will set us free
Bright Morning Stars – This short traditional song features McCracken leading a group of singers. The song has a raw sound, much different from the other songs on the album, leading you to believe that it wasn’t recorded in a studio.
Go Tell it on the Mountain – This African-American spiritual song, compiled by John Wesley Work, Jr., and dating back to at least 1865, is one of my favorite Christmas songs. The joyful song features acoustic guitar and some excellent backing vocals. A highlight.
The Space Between – This song was written by McCracken, Cindy Morgan and Gabe Dixon, and features Josh Garrels on vocals. The song looks at the days after Christmas and before the New Year begins. McCracken has said that the song is a reflective, joyful reminder to accept the discomfort of life transitions with grace. It is a call to see what’s next. The song features acoustic guitar, bass, drums, piano and strings.
Silent Night – This Christmas classic was written by Joseph Mohr in 1816. The beautiful version of the song features McCracken singing over acoustic guitar, backing vocals, and strings.
Best songs:
Mary’s Arms
Jesus, What a Wonderful Child
Go Tell it on the Mountain
Christmas Day: Christmas Songs of Worship – Chris Tomlin
****
Over the years, Chris Tomlin has given us some excellent Christmas music, primarily through his two full-length Christmas albums 2009’s Glory in the Highest: Christmas Songs of Worship and 2015’s Adore: Christmas Songs Of Worship. His latest release is Christmas Day: Christmas Songs of Worship, a four song EP. The EP features three new songs, and one classic Christmas song.
Here are a few comments about each song:
Christmas Day – This song is written by Ed Cash, Scott Cash, Franni Cash, Martin Cash and Andrew Bergthold. This joyful song features drums, guitar and excellent vocals by Tomlin and We The Kingdom. Classic Tomlin, this song would be a good one for congregational singing.
Key lyrics:
Sing all you people
The Lord almighty reigns
Sing every creature of God
Come bless His name
For He is good, for He is good
He was born to conquer the grave
Light of the world
The reason for Christmas Day
His Name Is Wonderful – This song is written by Tomlin and Ed Cash with a chorus taken from Isaiah 9:6. The song begins with Tomlin singing over piano, and then builds with drums, strings and choir.
Key lyrics:
Come and adore Him
On bended Knee
He came to Ransom
Someone like me
Little Drummer Boy – This Christmas classic was written by Katherine Davis, Henry Onorati and Harry Simeone in 1958. The song features guitar, backing vocals and of course some excellent drum work.
Hope Of Israel – This song was written by Tomlin, Ben Fielding, Jason Ingram and Reuben Morgan. The song begins with Tomlin singing over piano, then builds gently with strings and backing vocals.
Key lyrics:
God is with us
Christ our Savior
Jesus our Emmanuel
He shall reign our King forever
The hope of Israel
Best song: Christmas Day
50 Year Trip: Live at Red Rocks – John Fogerty
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John Fogerty was the lead singer and songwriter for Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), who dominated Top 40 radio from mid-1968 – mid-1972, with nine of the band’s singles cracking the Top 10 during that period. The band, who sold more than 35 million albums and singles in the U.S. alone, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and Rolling Stone magazine has them at Number 82 on its list of the 100 greatest artists of all time.
CCR broke up in 1972, and Fogerty has gone on to have a very successful solo career as well. Now 74, he recorded this live album at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado on June 20 during a tour celebrating his 50-year career, dating back to the release of CCR’s