|
By Kevin Pollard
• Britt Nicole: The Lost Get Found, EMI
BRITT NICOLE follows up her critically acclaimed pop debut, Say It (2007), with a CD that leaves behind some of the rock edge and replaces it with
some catchy R&B hooks. The title track is already a hit on radio, with a chorus that urges
listeners to stand up and make a difference for Christ. Half the songs speak
about surrendering to God and stepping out in faith, as heard on ‘Hanging On,’ ‘Walk On Water,’ and ‘Glow.’ The balance consists of pure fun pop tunes like ‘How We Roll,’ ‘Headphones’ and ‘Welcome to the Show.’ There is enough lyrical substance and stellar production work to make this the
best pop album of the year.
brittnicole.com
• Jars of Clay: The Long Fall Back to Earth, Essential
One of the most highly anticipated new releases of 2009 is this group’s 10th studio album. Once again, they offer engaging, innovative and intelligent
work. Lead vocalist/lyricist, Dan Haseltine explores relational issues, and our
unwillingness to truly connect with those around us. ‘Two Hands’ delves into the human struggle between surrender and our sinful nature; and ‘Heaven’ boldly reflects on finding glimpses of eternity in Christ’s presence in our hearts. Compelling lyrical content, hints of an upbeat 1980s–influenced synth flavor, with the band’s trademark vocals, combine to make this the ‘biggest’ sounding Jars project to date.
jarsofclay.com
• Ernie Haase & Signature Sound: Dream On, Gaither
The tight harmonies, youthful charm and onstage antics have helped make this
group the most sought-out southern gospel quartet. Their latest album includes ‘Reason Enough,’ which was recently honoured with a Dove Award. These leaders of southern gospel’s new school offer a set of 14 progressive originals. There is also a companion
DVD, an explosive live recording titled Dream On: Live from Chicago. The group made several Canadian appearances this spring, joining the Gaither
Vocal Band on the Gaither Homecoming Tour – playing in Edmonton, Calgary, Saskatoon and Winnipeg. ehssq.com
Continue article >>
|
• Hillsong United: Across the Earth, Tear Down the Walls, Integrity
This Australian worship band is back, with its first new live recording since
2006. The CD features 11 brand new songs, plus a new recording of the Brooke
Fraser favourite, ‘Desert Song.’ While many of their recordings have focused on worship that not only reaches up, but also reaches out to the needy, this album sees a return to their roots of praise that just
flat-out rocks. Some of the highlights here include: the fist-pumping ‘Your Name High’; the soaring anthem title track, co-written by Joel Houston; and another Fraser
penned song, ‘Soon’ – which is a love song looking forward to the coming kingdom. hillsong.com
• Go Fish: Let’s Sing, Word/Warner/Curb
The Go Fish guys continue their stated mission of making great music for kids
that ‘won’t drive their parents bonkers.’ Their new DVD is a perfect followup to their highly successful kids’ album, Snazzy. This DVD came at the request of children’s pastors, who were looking for a way to use Go Fish music to lead their kids in
singing. It features 10 music videos, which include lyrics, animation and
actions that are perfect for the 3 – 9 year old crowd. Some of the great songs included here are ‘The Ten Commandments Boogie,’ ‘The Bible Book Bop,’ ‘Lord I Lift Your Name on High,’ ‘I’ve Got the Joy’ and ‘Stories.’
gofishguys.com
September 2009
|
