CD Reviews
CD Review: Joy: An Irish Christmas (Keith & Kristyn Getty)
I realize this is not a southern gospel CD but, since I know southern gospel fans who like Keith & Kristyn Getty, I wanted to announce their brand new Christmas CD.
When I first saw it, I was curious, wondering if it would be full of new Christmas songs. Actually this is a combination of new songs, along with some old Christmas hymns with an Irish flair.
The arrangement of “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” is uptempo and one you can easily picture someone playing a fiddle and dancing around on.
“Hark the Herald Angels Sing” also starts with a lively tune. Then slows down slightly when Kristyn starts to sing.
“What Child is This” has more of a contemporary feel as well as an Irish feel. I’ve not heard a lot of Irish music so don’t know if that’s normal but they did a good job of merging the two.
Keith & Kristyn, along with Stuart Townsend wrote “Magnificat,” a song with a nice melody based on Luke 1 where Mary says “My soul does magnify the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.”
Kristyn wrote, “How Suddenly a Baby Cries.” Keith wrote the music and a reel he included titled the “Narnian Reel.”
Next is another original tune, “Joy Has Dawned” incorporating at the end the chorus of “Angels We Have Heard on High.”
“Jesus, Joy of the Highest Heaven” is a nice Christmas ballad.
“O Savior of Our Fallen Race” goes beyond the fact that Christ came to remind us why He left the splendor of Heaven to come to earth.
“Fullness of Grace” tells of the grace God showed in sending His Son and how, because of that, we have hope.
“An Irish Christmas Blessing” is a typical Kristyn Getty ballad: a fitting end to an Irish Christmas CD.
Also included are “Carol of the Bells” and “Joy to the World.”
CD Review: Timeless: A Christmas Collection (The Crist Family)
The new Christmas recording from The Crist Family starts with a winter song, “Love Me Some Snow.” An uptempo, catchy arrangement, this will be a favorite among those who love snow.
Most everyone knows the song the Charlie Brown gang sang: “Christmas Time is Here.” The Crist family sings that song acapella. Other acapella arrangements on this project are “Jesu Parvule” and “In the Bleak Midwinter.”
“I Love Those Jingle Bells” is another fun, toe tapping winter song, using parts of the song, “Jingle Bells” and featuring sleigh bells ringing in the background. I’d love to know how much time it took to get the arrangement down but they do a good job.
I’d never heard “Pine Cones and Holly Berries” but I like their arrangement which intersperses “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas.”
“I’ll be Home for Christmas” starts with the opening verse, then goes into an instrumental segment before they sing the rest of the song. Very beautiful.
The “Winter Wonderland Medley” includes “Winter Wonderland,” “Sleigh Ride,” and “White Christmas.” I enjoy listening to these winter songs around Christmastime.
Other songs included are “The Christmas Waltz,” “What are You Doing New Year’s Eve” and “Silent Night.”
Concert/CD Review: “50 Years: The Call is Still the Same” (Dixie Melody Boys)
I remember the Dixie Melody Boys from the days of “Good Ole Boys,” “Ride That Glory Cloud,” “Double Dose,” etc. Two weeks ago was my first time to experience a full concert however. Performances were great from Matt Felts, Steve Cooper and, of course Ed O’Neal. It was an extra blessing to find that David Staton was filling in that weekend for Donald Morris, whose wife had just had a baby.
The concert started with a couple old favorites: “First Day in Heaven,” “Roll on Jordan,” “Royal Telephone” (which I hadn’t heard in probably over 20 years),” and “Victory Road.”
Steve Cooper sang “Gotta Get the Good News Out.”
David Staton sang “Bottom of the Basket.”
I met Matt Felts a couple years ago when he was singing with Perfect Heart but I haven’t heard him sing much. He sang “O What a Savior” and did a really good job. They then went into a medley of “Search Me, Lord,” “Working on a Building” and “Walk Dem Golden Stairs.”
Ed sang, “I’ve Got Family There” and then they sang their uptempo “Jesus in My Boat” which I believe is the song Ed said they hadn’t sung on Sunday morning before.
After a brief intermission, they sang “There’s Joy in Serving Jesus,” “God Will Hear Your Prayer,” “His Blood Alone” and the powerful “The Call is Still the Same.”
The pastor of the church gave an altar call and then requested the group to sing again “God Will Hear Your Prayer” and “O What a Savior.”
The new CD from DMB celebrating 50 years is the best I’ve heard from them lyrically in a long time. Many of the songs they sang in concert are on the CD. Plus they brought back “Too Much Thunder” and “Good Ole Boys” which long-time fans will remember from back in the 1980s. The CD also includes “That’s Why I Sing Gospel Music” which was written by David Staton.
CD Review: The Only Way (Greater Vision)
When I put in the newest release from Greater Vision, the first thing that jumped out at me was the quality of Rodney Griffin’s voice. I’ve been listening to him sing for years but he’s gotten even better.
“He Didn’t When He Could’ve Passed By” is my favorite kind of Greater Vision song: uptempo with a good message. Jesus didn’t have to stop and hear my cry but He did when He could’ve passed by.
“Safe Within His Hand” is moderate tempo and features Chris Allman.
When “No Longer Chained” begins, you think it’s going to be a slow song but then it picks up tempo and Rodney Griffin sings about a soldier who had been chained to the Apostle Paul and finds Christ because of the apostle’s testimony.
Chris Allman sings “I Know a Man Who Can” and totally nails it.
“He’s the Only Way” is a pretty typical song about Jesus being the only way to Heaven.
My favorite song on this project is “Like I Wish I Lived.” “May we use the pain behind us to walk in victory up ahead.” How powerful is that! “Lord, help me to live like I wish I lived in the past.” I could quote so much of the song but you get the point.
“But God” talks about how God is in control. He understands what we don’t, and He will give us strength if we but look to Him.
“We Still Have to Pray” reminds us that being in God’s will does not exempt us from trials.
“Eternity’s About to Begin” is another toe tapper.
When I heard “Heaven Can’t Be Far Away,” I knew I’d heard it before. I looked it up and, sure enough, it was previously recorded on Greater Vision’s The King Came Down recording. It’s a great song to bring back.
The CD concludes with “Another Child’s Coming Home”–another great song sung by Chris Allman.
CD Review: Songs You Know By Heart (Rejoice)
This hymns project by Rejoice begins with an acapella version of “I Sing the Mighty Power of God.”
“Wonderful Words of Life” features the newest vocalist to Rejoice, Sherri Vestal’s son Tyler.
“Heaven Medley” is a beautiful arrangement of “How Beautiful Heaven Must Be,” “What a Day That Will Be” and “Heaven Will Surely Be Worth it All.”
Tyler Vestal sings Rusty Goodman’s “The Greatest Love Story.”
Another Medley consists of “Fairest Lord Jesus” (sung acapella), “Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us,” and “‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus.”
I’ve heard several groups sing “Wait Upon the Lord” but I love the song. Rejoice’s version is no exception.
They did a great job on “Where the Roses Never Sang.” I love listening to the guitar on this song.
Also included are: “What a Happy Time,” “Jesus, Hold My Hand,” “Keep on the Firing Line,” “When God Dips His Love in My Heart,” “Glory Be to the Father (Gloria Patri),” and “I Will Trade the Old Cross for a Crown.”
CD Review: Summer Rains Have Gone (Channing Eleton)
Up until a few months ago, I always thought of Channing Eleton as one of the best piano players in the business. However, when I heard he released a CD where he not only played but also sang and wrote or co-wrote 6 of the 10 songs, I knew this would be a top notch project. I was not disappointed.
The CD starts with the uptempo “Days,” discussing the importance of prioritizing and focusing on the things that matter. “Starting now, I plan to make the most of every one of those days” pretty much sums it up.
“The Harvest” talks about the seasons of life and how quickly they change. However, no season is unimportant.
Next is Channing’s great new single “Up on This Ridge.” (See video below.)
My favorite is probably still “Is Not This the Land of Beulah?” I love the message of that song but Channing’s arrangement is superb. It starts out pretty typical, a moderate tempo and by the third verse, picks up the tempo, afterward going to an instrumental break where you can especially hear the keyboard.
“Song and Dance” is a song about David, creatively written by Gabe Scott and Andrew Peterson.
“Looking to Jesus” is a Teddy Huffam song I hadn’t heard before but I love it. A soulful toe tapper with a great message.
“Creation Song (Glory to the Lamb)” is a song of praise, which brings you into the presence of God as if you were reading the Psalms or Revelation where the saints are worshiping around the throne.
“As We Wait” is a great follow-up to “Creation Song.” Written by Channing Eleton and Buddy Mullins, this song is about waiting on God and inviting His presence “as we wait.”
“Just This Song” has a 2-minute prelude and is probably my second favorite song on this CD, maybe mostly because it says how I feel much of the time. Nothing I do or say comes close to being enough to thanking God for everything He’s done for me.
Channing recently released his first concept music video. Since it’s also his single off this recording, I thought I’d share it with you. I hope you enjoy it.
CD Review: Reach Out (Karen Peck and New River)
The new release from Karen Peck and New River starts with Karen singing the punchy “Mighty Big God” then goes into “On the Banks of the Promised Land.”
“Love With All Your Heart” has an older sound to me … maybe like something from the ’70s … but the message is relevant as it focuses on Christ’s command to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and to love our neighbor as ourselves.
Susan Jackson sings “Sustaining Grace,” a message of encouragement to those going through trials.
Karen reminds us that “Good Things Are Happening.” No matter how bleak things look, this song puts things in perspective.
“This is What Mercy Does” talks about the Prodigal Son and the mercy he found when he returned to his father.
“Don’t Worry About the Waves” is a fun, uptempo song with a country feel.
The CD ends with the title song, “Reach Out and Touch.” Although not a blatantly Christian song, it has a Christian theme–that of touching others and being available for those who need a friend.
Other songs include “More Than Ever,” “Faithful Love of Jesus” and “Broken Into Beautiful.”
CD Review: The Journey (River City Quartet)
This CD from River City Ministries features 11 original songs from group manager and baritone Greg Lindsey. With musicians like Tim Parton, Adam Borden and Jeremy Medkiff, you know this is going to be a good project.
“The One Who Wears the Crown” is a great reminder that the King of the Ages knows my name. I am so blessed by the truth of that song.
“Who Wouldn’t Want to Tell the World” focuses on the goodness of God and how He’s worth bragging on.
“I Am Still Standing” tells about how, regardless of what’s going on around me, I’m still standing on the solid Rock. Why fear when the Rock never moves?
“Don’t Let Satan Steal Heaven” is a creative song, reminding us that satan is a liar. Give your life to Jesus and don’t look back.
“Just to Praise Him” is a mid-tempo song of praise.
I love the song, “I’m Going Home.” This great tune is sung with feeling and deepens my longing to go Home. “Troubles I’ve been knowin’ soon will all be gone.” Do I hear an Amen?!
“I am Ready to Go” is a toe-tapper.
“Lord, I Will Trust You” talks about the importance of trusting God even in the midst of difficult circumstances. We don’t need to understand but we know God has a purpose in everything.
“Ten Thousand Angels Singing” is a mid-tempo typical southern gospel song about Heaven.
“A Made Up Mind” talks about the resolve to make it to Heaven. A great song sung by bass singer Jamie Layton.
In closing, we are reminded that “Only One could arise again in three days, holding the keys to death, hell and the grave.” He is the One we worship, the One we adore. In Him, we live and move and have our being. Praise His name! (My ending.) 🙂
CD Review: The Best of Jessica King
Somewhere around the year 2000, the southern gospel community became aware of a Christian country artist by the name of Jessica King. For the last decade, we haven’t heard from her but I’m pleased to announce that she’s back with a new recording of her top hits. The list includes:
“Gift of Grace”
“When He Reigns”
“Come Spring” (one of my favorites)
“Keep Me In Your Will” (another of my favorites). “Remind me, Lord, I’m just a glove that fits into Your hand …. Lord, keep me in Your will so I won’t be in Your way.” Do I hear an Amen?!
“Kiss of God”
“You Don’t Have to Bear Your Burdens Alone” (sung with Jason Crabb)
“No Matter How Long”
“I Can Mend Your Fences”
“Sometimes it Takes a Storm”
There are also three new songs on this project: “Can’t Dream Big Enough,” “Work of Heart” and “I’m Coming Home.”
CD Review: Blue Skies Coming (The Perrys)
I’ve been looking forward to reviewing this CD since I received it months ago. I started listening to the Perrys in the mid-1980s. In the ’90s, I’d hear a few songs here and there but didn’t keep up with them much. The last few years, I’ve been listening to them again and I can say unequivocally that they’re as good as ever.
The CD begins with the title song that makes you want to shout if you’re a shouter. No matter how dark things are, there are “Blue Skies Coming.” I’m so thankful for that.
I absolutely love “Celebrate Me Home.” When David Wilkerson died, that is the song I played over and over. For me, it’s two-fold. At times I think of those who are already Home who I look forward to seeing one day but I also think of the day when I will be Home with the One whom I love above all else.
“Nothing Was Burned but Their Bands” is a fun song which primarily features Tracy, Joseph and Bryan. Libbi comes in at the end to tear the chorus up.
“Rejoice, My Children, Rejoice” is a slow song which the group sings together on the first verse and then Libbi sings the second verse. “Rejoice, my children, rejoice for your name is recorded today.” I feel like shouting again. 🙂
Joseph sings “Grace Doesn’t Remember” and “Sounds Good to Me.”
This CD was the first I really heard Bryan Walker but he’s a great addition. He sings “He Loves to Save” and “The End of the Aisle.”
It’s hard to find a favorite song on here but I really enjoy “Every Time I Need Him.” For those who know me, you’ll know that means it’s a fast song. The Perrys make uptempo songs come to life.
I can relate to “I Know What I’m Singing About.” Compared to others, I don’t feel very intelligent but I can sing about what God’s goodness all day.
I don’t give out many 5-star ratings but the Perrys have once again outdone themselves with a superb recording of meaningful songs.
