Limitless Faith | Posted April-26-2023 What You Need to Know
Colton Dixon is a popular artist in the Contemporary Christian Music genre who has been releasing music for over a decade now. He first gained popularity on the show American Idol; he did not win, but he certainly blew the audience away. From then on, he has crafted brilliant melodies, combining several different sounds under the purpose of praising God. "Through All of It," "More of You," and "You Are" are some of his classic anthems.
Most recently, he released the CanvasEP featuring a newer favorite, "Build A Boat," as well as a collaboration version of the song with Gabby Barrett. Over the course of 7 songs, Colton tells a story of redemption, one I couldn't stop listening to. I hope it impacts you with a message of grace just as much as it wrecked my heart.
What It Sounds Like
The first song I heard on the record was "Build a Boat (feat. Gabby Barrett)." I'll preface the rest of this section by simply saying, I cannot get over those harmonies. Her vocal range is impeccable and combined with Colton's familiarly amazing voice, the melody was jaw-dropping. "Build A Boat" already had my heart because of its easy-to-sing-along substance and perfectly positioned drum beats. The introduction of Gabby Barrett and her sweet, but also awe-worthy tone, rocketed the tune up to an ultimate favorite of mine. No doubt this talent is carried throughout the entire record, but it especially shone through here.
Spiritual Highlights
On an upbeat album such as this, I am sometimes wary going in because I know how difficult it can be to successfully incorporate God's truth in between the beats. However, Colton Dixon pulled off such a feat with perfection. In "My Light," he admits, "I've tried on my own strength, but I just trip and fall/Put my faith in the wrong things, turns out after all." Relatable as this may be, it was the next line that really got me. Colton declares, "You're the answer for every problem/You're thе grace when I hit the bottom." So often we skip any description of the bottom in order to gloss over our stories as much as possible. But that is where true salvation comes into play, when God is still present in the pain. Colton recognizes this truth and skillfully weaves it into the song.
Best Song
As was probably evident by my gushing earlier on the Gabby Barrett version of this melody, "Build A Boat" is my favorite track on the Canvas EP. It holds near and dear road trip memories for me, but even beyond that, it is simply an amazing melody for all occasions. Contrary to our human instinct of skirting the edge of danger, "Build A Boat" extends the offer of sacrifice in order to grow closer to God. Colton sings, "I'll build a boat, so let it rain." He is so clearly confident in the presence of our Heavenly Father as he proclaims, "I'll ride the storm 'cause I got You by my side." This conviction stands strong and is a large part of the reason why this anthem will forever remain my favorite "belt it out loud in the car" song!
Following Colton's career for many years now, I have seen only improvement. And although that is a very true statement, it is difficult to support because of how much I absolutely adore the relatively old melody, "Limitless." Even going back to listen to it in preparation for this review, I felt tears once again spring to my eyes. Colton's lyrics have always held such weight, no declaration spoken without a firm belief behind it. That fact makes singing along intensely rewarding and I am honored to say this listener experience has not once gotten old over the course of Colton's musical journey.
Canvas EP is not just another incredible accomplishment to hang alongside his other successes, although it is indeed a huge accomplishment. No, this album is a clear story of a heart discovered by God, a heart that will never be the same again. As a human, I know Colton's creativity isn't endless, but with God, the impact he can have on this industry is limitless (pun intended). This record is proof of the faith that makes such influence possible. Give it a listen as soon as possible, I promise you won't regret it.
Relatable Truth | Posted March-16-2023 What You Need to Know
Contemporary Christian artist Micah Tylerbroke into the Christian music world with a story of obedience. Previously a sausage delivery truck driver, he knew the Lord was calling him to serve full-time in music. "Never Been a Moment" was a single from his 2016 EP that made huge waves in the industry. Beyond a professional view, Tyler knows how to relate to his audience, and his words resonate uniquely. Singing on real-life experiences, it's clear he lives with open hands, ready to accept the talent God has given and offer it as praise. In the process, he invites others to sing along with him. This is the beautiful experience I entered when I listened to his newest record,People Like Us.
What It Sounds Like
An upbeat pop sound accompanies the confident declarations of praise that resonate throughout this album. With buoyant drum beats, the melodies could best be described as joyful. The background rhythms accent important phrases that Tyler belts out. He asserts his belief in the Lord with a strong and distinctive voice. He has a remarkable ability to take a worship message that we may have heard countless times and present it in a fresh and captivating way that leaves us wanting to listen to it on repeat.
Spiritual/Lyrical Highlights
Tyler presents the truth digestibly and can do this without filtering it. Such transparency is something I admire deeply, as preachers and musicians alike can sometimes get sucked into the people-pleasing pit. Tyler does not even venture near this fault but shares his view of the Lord without fear. It's clear that he has had his love for the Heavenly Father affirmed by real-life experiences. In "Praise The Lord," he sings, "I'm surrounded by a million mercies/I can feel them now." No doubt about it, Tyler believes deeply in a living testimony. Not only has God worked in the past in Him, but He also continues to change his perspective even now. That openness to change by the Lord is a characteristic we can all learn from.
Best Song
"I See Grace" pulled me in from the catchy tune at the song's beginning. This piqued interest remained throughout the rest of the melody; if anything, it grew. Everything from the incredible lyrics, "When I left the 99/You saw the one," and vocal inflections had me in awe. That's not even to mention the dance-worthy and clap-along beat. I can't wait to see this played live someday. I'll jump and sing with the utmost energy and adoration for this song.
Ever since I first heard "Even Then," I have been caught up in Micah Tyler's musical journey. I'm honored to witness him continue influencing his audiences with God's truth. This record proves his talent and dedication to the critical path the Lord has set him on. Tyler's music can minister to even the most hardened of hearts because his words resonate with incredible empathy. On the other hand, he's also skilled at supporting other believers by committing to a pure representation of God in his music. This versatility will continue to aid him immensely on his musical journey. I hope you can derive as much encouragement from People Like Us as I did and leave refreshed. Tyler speaks the truth, we are not alone, and because of that, we will "praise the Lord."
A Tangible Transformation | Posted March-08-2023 What You Need to Know
Passion, as a student movement and church in Atlanta, GA, has many facets to cover. However, for this review I am specifically focusing on their worship band. I have followed the team for quite some time, and have been known to come back from church summer camps belting their anthems. They have a rotating group of collaborators, especially demonstrated in this album, since it was set at their annual conference with various Christian music guests.
Their passion for the Lord (yes, pun intended) is unparalleled and I adore the opportunity to bask in their creativity that comes in records like this one. My one-year anniversary of visiting Passion Church is quickly approaching, so this review is sure to be woven through with sentimentality. Let's dive in.
What It Sounds Like
As suggested by the album title, the elements of a live performance are evident in this record and prove quite contagious. There is something so intoxicating about hearing a vocalist's voice echoed by an engaged audience. As soon as I finished one song, I immediately went on to the next with eager anticipation. Unique and spontaneous additions were also present that simply increased my desire to attend Passion 2024. On a more specific note, "Another Glimpse" is beautifully built by the drums and synth. I just saw Sean Curran perform this song live in concert less than a week ago, so I am clearly biased. Nevertheless, I can confidently say that although the visual aspect is removed, this track does an excellent job at capturing the in-person moment. In fact, the entire album embodies this special quality.
Spiritual/Lyrical Highlights
Passion has an incredible gift of communicating the grace of God in every word they sing. A special example comes in "I've Witnessed It," a moment when the band collaborated with Melodie Malone. The entire melody is a testimony of seeing Him work in our own personal lives. "I've seen you breathe life within" is just one powerful line they employ to describe His goodness. The group then goes on to speak of the future, "and I'm confident I'll see it again." Not only do they describe the prior goodness of God, but they move forward with strong faith. The certainty they have of His provision and the spontaneous speaking moment had me near tears when listening to this song. A gift of words of crafting words and melodies is something the group surely possesses.
Best Song
I adore every song on this record, but if I had to pick one, I'd choose "All About You." As the first song on the record, there is a tangible sense of energy. Kristian Stanfill leads the incredible melody with expectation for God coming in and changing lives. His excitement is evident and for that reason, everything about this tune drew me in. Any song could really be argued as the best on I've Witnessed It (Live), but I am consistently drawn to this one, a fact I am more than okay with.
I could not be more thrilled that Passion has gifted us all with this compilation. I know God consistently shows up and does amazing things at their conference. Releasing the music from those moments is a reminder that He can work the rest of the year as well, no matter where we are. He is not a stagnant God, nor is He contained in one place. What a miracle it is that we have music (and such amazing music like this) to share His love with those listening. There's not a single part of this album that I don't like and I absolutely can't wait to see this music live myself; I hope you enjoy it just as much as I did.
Authenticity Personified | Posted November-08-2022 What You Need to Know
Benjamin Hastings is a worship leader, both as a part of Hillsong United and as a solo musician. Hailing from Ireland, he found a home in the Australia Hillsong community, although he now resides in the United States. He pens lyrical masterpieces that many are probably already familiar with including "So Will I (100 Billion X)," "Gratitude," and "The Father's House." His role as a co-writer on these projects is just a fraction of his musical talent though, and he is intent on sharing his faith using his own voice as well. That's where his lead vocals come in on "So Will I" and the Hillsong Worship melody, "Come Alive."
Benjamin recently released his solo album, aptly titled Benjamin William Hastings, which is an extensive collection of songs showcasing his heart and his journey. This record has been on repeat for me the past few days; I hope you are as moved by its candidness as I was (and continue to be as I make it the soundtrack for writing this).
What It Sounds Like
From the first lines of "Hold Onto Your Hats," I was utterly convinced of this album's worth. And a worthy album it was indeed. "So hold onto your hats, hold on to your hearts/We're gonna lie in the dirt, but we'll stare at the stars."
There were only a few instruments incorporated into the album, but with an ever-increasing diversity of dynamics, each song sounded fresh. Nevertheless, it remained able to flow between the neighboring melodies and that fluidity is what gives this album its character. My favorite dynamic was created through the "The Pain You Let Me Feel," "Anyway," and "Only One Response." The former and latter are beautiful intros and outros, respectively, to the already released single "Anyway." This album sounds like life and it sounds like truth. Drifting above the instrumentals is an autobiography of faith that translates into an encouraging tale sure to inspire all who listen.
Spiritual/Lyrical Highlights
I've said it before and I'll say it again. Benjamin is a master songwriter and he has a unique way of translating truth into tune. The phrases he crafts seem to embed themselves in my mind; everything from "you came down the mountain like a pilgrim in reverse" to "And I don't know the timing/So I'm guessing it's not mine to know" is proof of his talent.
However, more than that, his words are proof of his reliance on the Lord and that is what this album hones in on. There is no sugarcoating but rather, credence is given to the struggles of the past while still weighing God's constant devotion as greater than any fear. "Well, if you're God, then you're God/And I know You know more than I might." Isn't that the truth? None of us is perfect and nobody ever feels perfectly sufficient for this world. But I do believe that as Christians we can be perfectly fulfilled by the Lord and that is the message communicated with power in this album.
Best Song
This album only came out a few days ago and I have already experienced a rotating list of treasured songs. Currently, my favorite is "Cathedrals of the Nelder Grove." I cherish Benjamin's lyrical reference to "Seasons" which is one of my favorites in the category of Hillsong Worship songs that he leads. Back to this song though, there is something so pure to the metaphor he crafts about how sequoias have to burn at high intensity in order to experience future reproduction. The swelling instrumentals and accompanying vocals tugged at my heart and the National Geographic voiceover was just one more element that made me intensely overcome with emotion.
I found myself wanting to cry by the end of this song and yet, the tears were warranted; I've never experienced a song that made me feel so seen. And it was about trees, no less! All that to say, I was deeply moved by this song and when Benjamin tacked on the final lyric: "You can't change where you've been/But you have where you are/Every start has its end/But every end is a start," I broke. I could continue detailing my reaction to this incredible melody, but it would require a focus shift from the song to me and that's not why I've been raving about it for the last paragraph. I urge you to listen to "Cathedrals of the Nelder Grove" and see for yourself what I am talking about. Even when my favorite song rotates on, I am confident this one will retain a special place in my heart.
I suppose I could make a joke about its "indulgently long" 25-song format, but one look at his Instagram and anyone can see that he's laughed about that enough for everyone. So it's not a jab at the length when I stress how appreciative I am that Benjamin was vulnerable enough to include so many tunes. Of course there is his iconic single, "Homeward" and his catchy collaboration with JUDAH, "Feels Like a Blessing," but there are also the thirty-second songwriting snippets and the raw acoustic sessions. Recorded and captured, these tracks felt like precious moments caught in a bottle and then released for all to hear. I had the unmistakable feeling of honor to get to be one of those listeners. Since I have always enjoyed watching Benjamin lead worship, I do admit some bias on behalf of this review. However, I have little doubt that after listening you will be just as blown away as I was. Benjamin William Hastings is honest and relatable, talented and faithful; his album by the same name is no different. Go give it a listen.
Every Shade of Sound | Posted September-18-2022 What You Need to Know
Contemporary Christian band, We The Kingdom, has taken over the music scene in the past two years. Their gentle flow between genres is bound to draw listeners in as they cater to many different stylistic tastes. This diversity in the sound most likely stems from their multigenerational mix of members.
We The Kingdom is made up of Franni Rae Cash Cain, Ed Cash, Scott Cash, Martin Cash, and Andrew Bergthold. Many of the bandmates are related and the ones that aren't related make sure to emphasize that they're still bound together by faith. Some of the band's hit songs include "God So Loved," "Holy Water," and "Child of Love." Their newest self-titled album, We The Kingdom, contains some amazing tracks, and it was an honor to review it.
What It Sounds Like
This album embodies a fresh, unique sound quite different from prior releases. As We The Kingdome continues to hone their talent, they place stronger accents on guitars, drums, keys, and, of course, Franni's breathtaking vocals. "Deep End" showcases the band's ability to deliver an impressive alternative rock song. In a later track, the sentimental spot of honor was taken by "Count The Stars (Be There For You)": the piano was a sweet addition to the tender melody. By balancing their strengths between the 13 songs, there's a diversity within the album itself that left me with tears in my eyes and melodies in my mind.
Spiritual Highlights
When Franni sings "Now that's amazing grace," in "Tabernacle," you can hear the smile in her voice (it exemplifies everything I love about this album lyrically). Not only is the group capable of writing incredible lyrics, but they also perform them with a vibrancy that draws the listener in again and again. Alongside "Tabernacle," the band sings biblical truth in every song. "I'll follow where you lead/This wild adventure/My life forever changed" in "The Veil" is another example of this lyrical precision that inspires me to live my life even more fully for Jesus. I don't doubt that God spoke these phrases into being through the channel of We The Kingdom's music for someone out there who needs to believe it today. He saves and He heals, and He has an amazing way of doing that through this music; "Now that's amazing grace."
Best Song
I adore this record, but if I had to pick one song, I'd choose "Mine." I heard this one in concert a few months ago, and now I have it on permanent repeat. There's something musically attractive about the track from the vocally packed verses to the jaw-dropping, voice-layered bridge, and harmonious choruses. Any song could be argued as the best on We The Kingdom, but I am consistently drawn to this one, a fact I am more than okay with.
We The Kingdom's self-titled album is the best they've released so far. From the first time I let the anthem of "If I Gave You My Heart" wash over me, I knew there was something special about this project. It connected to my previous favorite songs, "Cages" and "No Doubt About It." We The Kingdom showcases the band's growth since previous albums. Shortly after the new album's release, I felt that gratitude and love growing for it even more. I can't wait to see We The Kingdom perform this music in concert. I hope you enjoy it just as much as I did.
A Fresh Breath of Heaven | Posted July-08-2022 What You Need to Know
VOUS Worship is a diverse group of singers and songwriters who've joined together in their quest to passionately praise Jesus. They share a common passion for God: they want His kingdom to reign on earth. The group represents Miami, Florida-based VOUS Church, with a mission "to go into the night carrying the message of Jesus and to bring the broken home."
This mantra is skillfully exemplified on their newest album, I Met Jesus In Miami. Over the course of 15 tracks, VOUS Worship shares their story and their claim to victory in Jesus.
What It Sounds Like
The airy, synth pads are coupled with beautiful keys on the album's slower songs. For example, "Up On This Rock" has a delicate melody plucked out on piano before the drums come in and carry the song away; simultaneously, the leaders' voices shout out the name of Jesus. This message is carried through to the faster songs, like the title track, "I Met Jesus in Miami," with more of an electronic sound, but still a stellar quality. All songs have an excellent balance. And, by the time I reached the record's 15th track, I was disappointed (I didn't want it to end; I was so invested in the music).
Spiritual Highlights
As the sweet voices that are VOUS Worship sang these songs of peace, I felt a fresh wave of calm wash over me. They provided an elegant reminder that the joy of the Lord is not contingent on any worldly events and, therefore, even though my life has been a bit crazy lately, I still have access to His joy.
I was instantly drawn into "Rejoice" by the overwhelming breath of heaven in the anthem. "The Lord is near," the choir declares, "let my heart be sure of this." I cherish that line and found myself singing it, reading it, and doing anything I could do to ingrain it into my heart. We all need a Jesus encounter; I pray that "Rejoice" and this album as a whole will open the floodgates of heaven, so you may experience one right where you're at today, just as I was able to.
Best Song
"Up On This Rock" is, by far, my favorite song that VOUS Worship has ever released. The group puts a unique beat to powerful lyrics, and the catchiness of the melody caught me by surprise. I'll be singing this anthem of confidence for many days to come.
I absolutely love how the worship team cries out, "My joy was built for this/My peace was built for this/My strength was built for this." I'm prone to forgetting my position as a child of God when I'm thrown down by heartache and disappointment, but that's exactly the time I need to remember it the most.
Keeping these lyrics on repeat in my mind is a way to remain affirmed by the love of Jesus and also a great reminder to talk to Him through prayer. When I feel that I have reached my weakest point, it's always God who comes through. And I hope this song communicates an equally moving message to you.
True creativity is not just creating something from nothing, but making that something glow with a purpose. VOUS Worship let their something glow on I Met Jesus In Miami. Matthew 5:16 declares, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." There's a light shining through these songs and it's not artificially made. What shines through and takes this record to the next level is Jesus and His tangible presence.
VOUS Worship has exemplified genre diversity on this album--an incredible accomplishment--allowing them to minister to many more people through their music. I'm grateful that I was able to take part, even if just as a listener, in this amazing chapter of their story.
The Heartbeat of Joy | Posted June-12-2022 What You Need to Know
In the past few years, pop artist Tauren Wells has become a staple in Christian music (And I know I'm not the only one who feels this way). Tauren's impact on the genre has been huge. He's received 10 GRAMMY® Award nominations and six GMA Dove Awards. Not to mention he's toured with the likes of pop icons Mariah Carey and Lionel Richie. With hit songs like "Known," "Hills and Valleys," and "Famous For (I Believe)," Tauren has developed a unique sound that allows listeners to jam out while simultaneously being infused with the message of Jesus.
Recently, Tauren has had success applying his talent for choreographed dance and stage presence to upbeat melodies, as reflected on his newest album, Joy In The Morning, and accompanying music videos. The 10-track record features guest appearances and beyond that, showcases a fresh side of the artist that fans are sure to enjoy.
What It Sounds Like
The electronic beats carried through this record are what typically turns me away from pop music, to begin with. But I had a different experience with Joy In The Morning. Contrary to my original belief, those sounds didn't, in fact, show up in every song (only in a few dance-inducing ones). The rest of the album was balanced by his traditional sound, consisted of incredible background vocals, and a plethora of instruments to accompany them. It's the diversity of this album that stood out the most.
The soft piano of "Empty" directly follows the strong drum beat of "Crazy About You" yet they flow into each other expertly, each proclaiming the name of Jesus in their own way. Tauren has left his mark on the music world, that's for sure. But even more than that, God has marked this album with His grace.
Spiritual/Lyrical Highlights
Watching an artist grow in their faith through music is one of the most rewarding parts of my role in the behind-the-scenes area of Christian music. When Tauren first entered the contemporary Christian music scene, he already had a solid foundation of faith, but that has exploded in proportion recently. The unwavering trust in God allows him to pen the next hit song with a focus not on fame, but on faith. I found this illustrated most clearly in "Crazy About You," when Tauren sings "He's never been mad at you/He's only been madly in love."
It's clear that he's personally experienced the love of God, because without that belief, it would be difficult to pen such a compelling phrase. Tauren's faith is a blessing to everyone who listens to his music. I hope you agree after listening to this album jam-packed with Jesus.
Best Song on the Record
As soon as I heard the chorus of "Use A Friend," my heart instantly melted and every guard I had up today fell away. The story of friendship presented through the melody was so powerful, I was overcome with emotion. I adored how descriptive the lyrics were; although they didn't replicate my life exactly, the personal touch made me connect with them all the more.
Specifically, the line "I swear/You never have to wonder if I care" hit me with a deep resonance that can be difficult to find when music is mass-produced. Tauren avoids the call of fame and is able to intimately pull on heartstrings with this song, as is evident by my gushing reaction. I highly suggest you listen to this song with your best friend, or a loved one. Tears of happiness just might be in your future when you do so.
Tauren clearly let himself go on this album, and I don't mean that in a bad way at all. I admire how he put aside his own desires and allowed God to speak through him. Creatively, I know how difficult that can be, but it's so worth it; the fruits of His influence on this music are scattered throughout the entire record. Tauren blew me away with yet another incredible record and I encourage you to listen to every track, appreciating the message and sound of each. Simply hearing His message float around me for forty minutes in the form of Tauren's creativity was a blessing and I hope, after listening, you'll feel the same way.
Like The Rushing of Water | Posted May-30-2022 What You Need to Know
Contemporary artist Brandon Heath continues to make an impact on the contemporary Christian world. People all over the world have connected with his music. A five-time GRAMMY nominee, Brandon is also a two-time GMA Male Vocalist and the man behind the 2009 GMA Dove Award-winning Song of the Year, "Give Me Your Eyes."
In his most recent project, Enough Already, Brandon dives deeper into personal insecurities with hopes that by opening his heart, the songwriting he produces can connect with more people. He shares, "This has been a season of me rediscovering what I mean to God, and it has really just given me a lot of peace and a sense of belonging." More than just a personal blessing, this album is sure to bless a whole community of listeners as it also positively impacted me.
What It Sounds Like
Enough Already provides a representation of Brandon's voice from many different angles. Paired often with electronic backups and interesting synth pads to peak the ear's interest, it gives a catchy tune. Subsequently, it was layered with all types of instruments, ranging from drums to piano, so that these nine songs flowed through my headphones like water. I personally love that analogy because water can roar, but water can also stream smoothly. Brandon explores both of these sides in the course of one album by utilizing different tempos and unique harmonies. It was a treat to listen to this album continually from start to finish and see the ebbing and flowing of his musical nature.
Spiritual Highlights
Brandon does an excellent job at centering the message of God in his music and the end product of this album is no exception. He clearly has a heart focused on furthering the kingdom of God, and I believe that one of the gifts God has given Him to assist with this is compassion. One place this is especially evident is in the lyrics of "That's Enough," when Brandon sings, "I don't know your situation/What kind of story you're in." He goes on to remind the listener that no matter where they're at, God is good and "that's enough."
The gentleness of this message lines up well with the representation of Jesus in the Bible. In John 15, Jesus speaks about His love for people and the specific ways in which we, as Christ followers, can emanate His glory by caring for each other. The lines I find the most powerful are John 15:12-13, "My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." Although I don't believe that Brandon based any single song off of this verse, he certainly reflected obedience to it throughout the entirety of his album and after listening, I could not be more grateful that he did.
Best Song
Walking into this album review, I wasn't quite sure what to expect and I nearly got through the entire album without being able to choose a favorite song. The entire album was beautifully made and I appreciated each track, but I couldn't possibly be a bigger fan of the title track, "Enough Already."
He repeats the fact "I'm enough already," consistently bringing the point home that we do not have to strive to earn God's grace. I love his honesty as he admits that "nobody's harder on me than myself," because that is something I personally resonate with. He then goes on to remind himself of the peace that God provides and the truth that He already loves us. It was the perfect reminder I needed, telling me to breathe and practice accepting God's grace just as I am right now. Through this song, I am finding it easier to believe "I'm enough already."
Brandon has been releasing music for nearly two decades, but that hasn't quenched the flow of his creativity in the slightest. Rather, he has grown as a musician and this album is the perfect representation of that increase in maturity, both musically and spiritually. I personally enjoyed every song on this album, especially the deep cuts that may not be future radio hits. Brandon has been able to expand his musical horizons a bit more with every album and this project felt like a personal demonstration of that talent.
Through the smooth application of background instruments, he is able to accentuate the clarity of his voice. It's a process that many singers grapple with, because it is more than just sounding good. It's about singing the right song and declaring the right message. Brandon has certainly discovered that when he's singing about God's mercy, there's no going wrong. I greatly enjoyed this stretch of my musical palette and I am positive that much of the Christian music community will feel the same way.
Inspiration On Repeat | Posted May-23-2022 What You Need to Know:
Love & The Outcome, hailing from Canada, is made up of husband and wife duo Jodi King and Chris Rademaker. Since 2013, they have been making a mark on the Christian contemporary music scene. This of course includes their hit songs, "He Is With Us" and "King of My Heart." Their latest offering is Only Ever Always, which showcases not only the band's gifts as songwriters but also the profound, emotion-laden voice of lead singer Jodi King. This album is a declaration of their choice to be faithful even in hardship and within its outline, holds previously released favorites as well as future hits.
What It Sounds Like:
Love & The Outcome is a breath of fresh air. Jodi’s unique voice swallows up the listener until they stop what they're doing and simply listen. The pop-based instruments in the background are implemented skillfully. None of them overpower her voice but instead contribute to its strength. Each song rises and falls in accurate time with the lyrics and the emotions guaranteed to come as you listen range from joy to awe. Her voice perfectly captures the feelings of chasing the Lord and the passion of both members engulfs the record beautifully.
Spiritual/Lyrical Highlights:
This whole album is filled with the power of the Holy Spirit and it is breathtaking. The band focuses on the never-ceasing presence of God and how His strength is more than enough to fight our battles. The title track "Only Ever Always" is firstly a cry out to Him to come save us. It then builds into a declaration of confidence in God's power against our struggles. The song evolves into a beautiful melody of affirmation of the Lord's strength and the stability we can stand on when we trust in Him. "You only ever always show me/More than anyone/You know me/I'm only ever always Yours."
Best Song on the Record:
I walked into this review only knowing one song off the record, but loving it quite dearly. It, therefore, came as no surprise to me that it remained my favorite even after hearing the rest of the incredible melodies. “You Got This” is a wonderful reminder of God's constant presence in our lives. I love how catchy the vocals are and how well they blend with the background beat. It has made its way onto several of my playlists for sure, for an audible and encouraging respite from a busy day. "Breathe in, breathe out/Feels good to shout it out" are some lyrics I cherish from this song and I certainly plan to shout them out!
Jodi and Chris have produced a masterpiece. I love this album because it is full of strength and confidence. It is a true declaration of hope. The motivation to write many of these songs stemmed from the flooding of their Nashville home and the uncertainty that echoed in their lives following that. The talent it takes to step back from such an event and be able to craft those emotions into relatable lyrics is truly immeasurable. What was an inspiration for them has become inspirational for the rest of the world.
The music defines passion for the Lord and excitement to see His kingdom come. The sounds are polished yet flow beautifully with a raw message of truth. If you take away only one thing from reading this, let it be this: set aside a moment to dance in the joy of the Lord and if you want a moving spiritual experience, have this album playing in the background.
Triumphs in Tragedy | Posted April-15-2021 What You Need to Know
One of my favorite things about reviewing music is the story behind every artist. In every song they write. The message. The sound. The arrangement. Every song has a story. Contemporary Christian artist Tim Timmons has a beautiful victory story.
Roughly 20 years ago, Tim was diagnosed with terminal cancer and given five years to live. But, God spared him from a death sentence, thus giving the artist new freedom--and a testimony. Now, Tim shares victory and profound joy in his music. And, you can hear it on Tim's latest release, HERE.
What it Sounds Like
Tim explores different aspects of his voice throughout the album. I think it's often overlooked how many different sounds our voices can create and complement. If we allow our voice to rush and roll completely, many instruments aren't needed. Tim recognizes this and relies mostly on his vocal talent to carry the album; the rest of the instruments are there but not the main focal point, which makes the music 10 times more authentic.
Take '"This is the Day," for example; Tim took a simple Bible verse, Psalm 118:24, to be exact, and created a sonic wonder. With its simple beat, it's easy to nod along to. And, if you're anything like me, you'll want to re-listen to ensure you catch each thoughtful lyric.
Tim's voice is accompanied by a beautiful choir. It all flows majestically together. Don't even get me started on the drum break near the end of the song. It's such a perfect moment to enunciate the song's message--and Timmons employs it with expertise. He utilizes his God-given skills in every other song on the album.
Spiritual/Lyrical Highlights
Weaved throughout the album is a message that speaks of the joy found in the Lord. Like a stream of truth, this inspiration comes straight from Tim's heart. The repetitive nature of "No Other Gods" is perfect for the accompanying message: "So I'll place no other one above You/No other thing beside You/You are God alone" The message is a sound of hope and a promise for light in the future.
Best Song
It was extremely hard for me to pick a best song. But, after thoughtful contemplation, I decided on "You Never Let Go," which features artist Tammi Haddon. The addition of a female voice really balances out the sound. My inner pianist appreciated the gentle keys in this song layered on top of their beautiful duet. It is a wonderful reminder of God's constant presence in our lives.
When listening to this album, I could tell something was different. I just couldn't put my finger on it. I brooded on the thought and eventually came up with the simple fact that this is a wonder. A miracle by God that Tim has survived cancer and come out stronger on the other side. A miracle that he has crafted these songs and they have reached my ears just when I needed new music to uplift me. It's a beauty like no other. It's clear Tim poured his heart into it.
The music defines passion for the Lord and excitement to see His kingdom come. The sounds are polished yet flow beautifully with a raw message of truth. If you take away only one thing from reading this, let it be this: set aside a moment to praise the Lord and if you want a moving spiritual experience, have this album playing in the background.
SelenaSchulz_NRT's Music and Book Reviews 
