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As featured on the front page of NFN a couple of months ago, Romanian sisters, Gabriela and Simina have recently recorded their debut UK Cd at Phil Goss' AppletreeStudio. The girls' broken English doesn't hinder the enjoyment at all. Indeed, the listener is drawn into the songs by their native tongue. The titles of the songs are self explanatory. "Never Without You", "Come To Me" and "Shine your Light" are all praises to the Almighty. Likewise, "Let Us Exalt" follows suit but is, perhaps, more powerful in presentation. A few songs are sung in Romanian, and gentle "Esti Necuprns" sounds very pretty. "Why Did you Give your Life", written by Simina, asks the question of Jesus and prayerfully gives thanks. Musically, we're looking at an easy listening album, with Phil Goss' production complimenting the girls' songs perfectly. A work colleague asked if I was listening to the Cheeky Girls. Thankfully, there's whole lot more to these two girls. God Bless them both. 8/10. (January 2004)
You might think by the title that there's something more to this singer songwriter than just putting together an album of songs for the sake of it. Gareth takes the gritty writing style of Martyn Jospeh, the simple smoothness of Fernando Ortega's sound, and the commercial substance of David Gray, to come up with an album that could just be different enough to make it big. The lyrics delve into your conscience and ask those questions that we sometimes avoid. Are we really building our house on solid rock, or is slowly sinking in the sand? Listen, as "Out of Hand", an acoustic blues number, asks that very question. Do you really put others first? "Take A Back Seat" cleverly twists and turns lyrically to pose another. Musically, Gareth leads the way with his acoustic guitar but is complimented well by his co-musicians and vocalists. "Solitude" flows effortlessly all over you and wraps you in a cocoon of God's love, while the haunting sound of "Heavenfield" explores the personal battle that we all go through, especially times of denial. Take time to listen to this album and you'll find a lot more than just a talented musician. This is a gift for all. 9/10. (September 2004)
According to Garth, this album represents "a journey of discovery, as I travelled round the Holy Land and have met Christians and peacemakers." What we actually get is a collection of songs that have been previously released on 5 different albums. I suppose it's the nearest we'll come to Religious marketing ploy, but does this mean that - like Take That - Garth is about to spit up? The opening 'Ten Measures of Beuaty is an awful song and is equalled by many of the 10 songs here. However, things take a turn for the better as the accoustic guitar is joined by fiddles and accordian on 'Stronger Than the Storm' and 'Where is the Land of Palestine'- both up tempo foot tappers. On the whole 'Journeys' reminded me of those 1960's protest albums that the likes of Dylan released, and the durge like 'Oh Palestine' is one of the most depressing pieces I've heard in a long time. It's another one of those albums for fans alone but, if you've already got his previous albums, will you really want to buy this? 3/10. (May 1996)
I almost screamed when I received this one to review. My last verdict on a Garth release brought telephone calls from some of his fans. This album was originally released last Christmas but has surfaced again in time for this festive season. It opens well enough with 'Peace at Christmas', the sort of number that Sir Cliff might release. There are some other good tracks featured, such as the ambient 'Mary's Child' and the choir assisted 'Into the Darkness'. However, (here it comes) there are some quite dreadful songs that I personally wouldn't dare to put on an album. I've no quibble with Garth Hewitt's work or his lyrics, but his presentation leaves a lot to be desired. For his fans only. 4/10. (November 1996)
This musical has been written to reflect the joy and hope of Christian Aid's Statement of Commitment "All Shall Be Included". It's also been produced so that churches can use during certain weeks of the year and result in an enjoyable community experience. Sadly, this is nothing more than a Garth Hewitt album with a theme. I really want to like his music because of the tireless work he does but, I can't. Starting with the 'happy clappie' title track it meanders through twists and turns in, mostly, second rate mode and rarely moves out of first gear. "world of Difference" is a nice duet but "Dance of Injustice" is terrible. Here, Garth sounds like Neil Diamond and sings a song that is far too close to one of the American artists own hits. "A Child is the Future" raises things a little, a gentle ballad sang by one of three females featured. Oh Garth, I do promise never to review another album of yours again. Me and your music just don't mix! 4/10. (August 1998)
I am pleased to review this four CD set from Garth Hewitt having been a fan of Garth's music and ministry since being challenged at Greenbelt years ago by the message he brings. In his distinctive 'folky' style Garth's songs tell stories of places he has visited, people he has met and situations he has witnessed on his many visits to the Holy Land, Africa, Asia and Latin America over 25 years. Garth's is a voice speaking out against injustice for those often with no other voice and although some of the topics are out of date now, as Garth says, he's left them there "to tell the story of the pain on the journey to dignity for those countries". My own favourite is the Holy Land CD provoking memories of a journey I made accompanying Garth to Palestine - the most challenging and disturbing journey of my life. Singing 'O Palestine' in a Palestinian school together with Palestinian Christian, Jewish and Arabic teenagers is something I will never forget. For all Garth fans and anyone seeking to learn more of the injustices in our world this is a thought/action provoking must, listen to the lyrics of Garth's songs and you cannot help but be moved. 8/10. Val Hunter. (November 1999)
Okay, it's "take your life in your own hands" time as, despite all my previous reservations, I look at Garth Hewitt's latest release. Moving to ICC has given Garth the opportunity to return to his folk roots, labeit keeping to his tried and trusted songwriting formula. However, introducing the slide guitar of Melvin Duffy, Hewitt leans into country with the opening "Guide My Feet" and "Oasis of Mercy". So, with my initial fears laid to rest, I was rather surprised to find myself actually enjoying some of the material. I've never questioned Garth's lyrics but, for me, this is the best thing he's done in years - despite the throwaway "Words of Peace". The Christmas song "Candle of Hope" isn't just a typical festive jolly, it's been written in conjunction with Garth's book of the same name, which is a journey through Advent. Standing out, the harmonica lifts the sound and really does set this album alight. I've still to become completely won over to his music but this one certainly goes a long way towards it. 7/10. (January 2000)
Let me get two things out of the way right from the start - first, Garth Hewitt's heavily Nashville inspired style of music has never really "floated my boat" and second, a Garth Hewitt concert way back in the mid-1980s was my first ever experience of Christian music other than traditional hymns so (number 1 notwithstanding) I will always have a soft spot for this particular heavyweight of Contemporary Christian Music with a Social Conscience. So what do we have here? Simple question, simple answer. This collection of some of his finest songs of the last 30 years demonstrates a good variety of style and content, including country, gospel and protest songs all filled with an unmistakeable sense that here is a songwriter who passionately cares about Jesus, this world and its people. Stand-out songs for me are "Light a Candle in the Darkness", "The Feast of Life" (a wonderful duet with Jessy Dixon), "Dance on Injustice" and a nice re-recording of "When Johnny Cash Sang 'Men In Black'" with Martyn Joseph. If you like Garth Hewitt this is probably an essential in your collection. If, like me, you can only take this kind of music in small doses then give this a try anyway - you won't regret it. 9/10 David Cooper (February 2004)
Earlier this year, Garth & Paul travelled to India and visited Christian Aid partners in Tiruchirapalli, as well as the Dalit Resource Centre in Tamil Nadu. The trip turned out to be a real eye opener, giving the duo an insight into the history of dalit suffering. This album features many of the dalit musicians and singers, as well as a guest vocal from Sir Cliff Richard on the song "Indian Sun". Garth's earthy folk style is well complemented here by Paul's leaning to pop music and, mixed with the dalit culture, the result is quite good. "He's Holding On" tells the story of an old man and his life and struggles, while "Raise the Flag" depicts the dalit woman who was stopped and attacked for trying to raise the national flag. Sung by one of the villagers, it leaves a deep feeling in your heart. The drums are evident throughout but, perhaps, more strongly in "I Am the Drum". Then there's a celebration. "Caste Out Caste" is a great song but suffers from one of the best mis-heard lyrics for a long time; "Let the darlek's dance". The album is full of songs of hope and "One Of Us" lifts up the Christmas story as a sign of hope for the dalit community. Never one to portray the run of the mill album, Garth's musical marriage wroks very well indeed. 8/10. (December 2001)
In his 5th album in 10 years, Gary Chapman invites his listeners to come in from the cold to experience the warmth of a loving God. Throughout the album, he continues to point you to God's mercy, grace and love, using songs of differing quality. "Daddy Cut My Hair" is a song about forgiveness and the 'lost sheep' syndrome. It's a poignant number and works well. "Hold On" is a ballad that has similar qualities but whatever possessed him to record "I Love You", I don't know. It's the kind of twee song that even the likes of Pat Boone and Perry Como would be ashamed of recording! The title cut takes the biscuit in 'best song' award, even though it's a complete rip-off of Carolyn Arends' "Seize the Day". Gary has a loyal fan base in the UK and I expect they will clamour for this release. As for me, I'm not quite there, yet. 6/10. (December 1999)
His careers spans more than 20 years, and includes 8 Dove Awards, 4 No.1 songs, 3 Grammy Award nominations, and a successful run of 3 years as host of a US Country TV show. For this new album, Gary Chapman single-handedly recorded, produced, and engineered, along with writing all the songs, playing all the instruments and singing all the vocals. So, he's quite a talented guy. But, what about the resulting album? Where does it lie in the life of one NFN editor? Well, I like new country, and smattering of old style too, and it's in the latter where this falls. Simple and honest lyrics, accompanied by music that, on the whole, failed to move me at all. In all fairness, I've played this album 5 times for this review, hoping that something extra would light a spark, but it doesn't. I find Gary's voice carrying little or no emotion, resulting in a very monotone delivery. I looked at "Walk On" closely as I thought this was the best track, but couldn't work out why, other than, I did. 10 tracks of MOR country that left me feeling that it was no more than bland. 3/10. (May 2002)
Launching her debut album, Gemma McQueen is donating some of the proceeds to CLAPA, a charity supporting babies born with serious facial deformities. The lady, herself, has received acclaim as a singer/songwriter from such personalities as the late Roy Castle, and EMI's Bruce Welch, and was also invited to audition for the role of Cathy in Heathcliffe. Although I have plumped for the style of soft pop overall, there's more than hint of Celtic roots, running throughout. Some tracks, including the opening 'Nothing', are both malleable and powerful in a Kate Bush sort of way, but Gemma's individuality shines in it's own right. The anthem 'I Will Stay' tells of a child-like love for the Father and ministers right to the heart. Pounding drums and dynamic use of fiddles accompany her passionate vocals on the title track, before the gentle 'Can It Be True'. Here, Gemma sings softly over sparse string pads, and exquisite guitar work. The honest theme of her own relationship with God, together with the quality of thefinished product make this album very special. If it was a painting, it would be hung in the Louvre. 'The Rescue' is a work of art. 10/10. (March 1998, Album of the Month)
No, I hadn't heard of Geoff Baker before, either. Why I haven't come across his music before is beyond me, after listening to this album, featuring a whole host of top British musicians. It's not an exceptional collection of songs but, apart from the awful 'Let Us Celebrate', they are pleasant. 'I Know My Redeemer Lives' is an m.o.r. pop based praise & worship standard, but you can't help tapping your foot to it's sound. There's some very powerful vocals and accompaniment on the superb 'Nothing Can Keep Me From His Love', and a lighter feel to the country tinged 'He Rescued Me'. It's not as 'in your face' as Hillsongs, but many will like the more peaceful style of Geoff Baker. 7/10. (October 1998)
Subtitled "The Songs of Geoff Bullock II", this 11 track release is performed by a whole host of unknown Australian artists. Apparently, Mr Bullock is a very popular contemporary praise & worship song writer but, all too often, I found that this collection would send me to sleep. The opening number "The Power of Your Time", is a powerful number and one of the strongest tracks featured. The words of the title song tell of a love for the creator that we really don't deserve, as we fall so short of His perfection. Now, that really did have me singing and worshipping. Like all the album I've had the pleasure of reviewing, I have no qualms about the lyrical content, it's just the presentation in music. 5/10. (October 1996)
If the artist's name doesn't give it away, then the label does. This is NFN's editor in full flight on his first solo album. Recorded at Hull's Eastside studios over "far too long", it kicks off with "You Promised" and the tone is set. Geoff writes songs with catchy choruses separated by verses that do far more than simply fill the spaces: they tunefully explain the words that you'll go round singing for ages after first hearing them. Then just as you think you've got the album sussed and are ready to give it a solid 7/10, it steps up a gear: "Ebony Blood and Snow", "When the Son Comes Down" and "Sea of Flames" are the album's purple patch, "When.." featuring some of the best-recorded acoustic guitar I've heard in a long time. Asking around, the track that's raising the most interest, though is "No", a re-working of a song Geoff first aired with "95 Foot Wave". This is a calmer version, and took me a couple of listens to decide that he's done the right thing. If the album has a fault (and as a reviewer, I'm supposed to find at least one) it's in the ordering of the tracks: it runs more like a live gig than an album. It starts strongly and closes with a stomper, but lacks a cohesion in places, that, live, would be given by the introductions. Did I mention I like the album, by the way? 8/10. Paul Ganney. (November 1998)
It must be at least 18 months now since Geoff released his solo album, 'Fear No Evil', so it's about time we heard from him again! Since then, Geoff has found himself playing much more to audiences of over 35s, so has built upon those experiences to produce a more mature style of music. Released for St. Valentine's Day, this EP of four more Howlett compositions certainly shows this. All are love songs, treated in different ways but with Geoff's lyrical style stamped all over them. The EP opens with the title track, unashamedly retro 60s - but doesn't he do it well? And it goes on ... 'My Love' , also 60s style, is a slower number with the arrangement really catching the style of the time. 'I Love You' is more of an acoustic number with Geoff's guitar work coming to the fore, whilst 'The Positive Sign' makes use of modern technology and reminds me of 80s synthesiser stuff such as Soft Cell and early Depeche Mode. I like this collection as a whole, and the variety works but I have to say that Geoff's forte is definitely in the 60s retro material. His voice is perfect for it, his original songs just seem to slide into it, and the way he uses modern sounds to recreate it is great. No crackle and hiss! Geoff's version of the Billy Fury classic 'Halfway to Heaven' adorns the late star's fan club website, so surely that is recommendation indeed. Nice one, Geoff! 8/10. Julie Lord. (March 2000)
Well, if Daniel O'Donnell can record an album of secular classics, why can't Geoff? After all, as he takes his music into various venues, there's always a smattering of smash hits from the 50's and 60's to help roll back the memories. His love for British rock n' roller Billy Fury results in three of the legend's tracks on show, "Be Mine Tonight", "Cross My Heart" and the classic "Like I've Never Been Gone". Similarly, three songs made famous by Johnny Tillotson also get an airing, "Judy Judy Judy", "My Special Angel" and "Poetry in Motion". Despite the age of some of these songs, Geoff has the happy knack of making them sound just as fresh as the day they were in the charts. Hit's by the Beatles, Buddy Holly, and Bobby Vee slip together nicely with songs like "Venus in Blue Jeans" and "Summertime Blues," all helping to make this an enjoyable listen. 7/10. Warren Harry. (September 2004)
Actually, it's only a couple of month's since we heard Geoff's last album, 'Home Run'. What we have here is the chance for relatively new fans to catch up on some of his early releases. The familiar traits of good, catchy choruses are here - if only on a couple of songs - but most of the songs are written by members of Whiteheart. It opens, however, with Larry Norman's 'Why Should the Devil Have All the Good Music', and is followed by a foot stompin' rocker called 'Never Wanna Go Back'. If you're a fan of his Huey Lewis type music of the 90's then you may well be disappointed with this retrospective release. There again, there is a classic track 'Make Your Mind Up' from 1986 which just may persuade you to add this low-price album to your collection. 5/10. (May 1996)
This is the first time that I've come across Geraldine Latty outside the usual live worship and other such compilation albums, so I wasn't too sure hat to expect. She writes most of the songs listed, and interprets passages from the Bible into song. "O Lord Our God", for instance, is straight forward praise, linked to 2Chronicles 6, and it's one of the strongest songs, complete with "happy" feeling. It took three listens before I started to enjoy this album as the first two plays seemed to pass me by. The old hymn, "Take My Life" has been given a new lease of life and I honestly hated it on first hearing. By the third, however, I began to change my mind, and can say that I really enjoy it now. Strange how things grow on you isn't it? In fact, I could say that about the whole album. "Wash Me and Cleanse Me", and "We Will Proclaim" are two more songs that seem to improve with repeated plays, so I'll persevere and, for now, give Miss Latty's album 6/10. (June 2003)
Geron Davis established himself as a singer, songwriter and worship leader at the age of 19, after writing the popular worship song "Holy Ground". The Kindred Souls are none other than his wife, sister, and sister's husband. Together, they regularly lead worship seminars and perform concerts in churches throughout America. This new album sees plenty of songs in the Yolanda Adams genre, not least the title track and "There's a Light On". Not for some time, have I heard an album with direct messages of the Gospel, in traditional style. "Undenying Love" is full of God's promise and sung as a testimony of His love. "Go" (tell the world) produces an awesome choir of angels, singing their hearts out, while the quieter "Don't Be Afraid" is just beautiful. When the sound gets funky, it lost my attention. The "grooves", as they say, just don't excite me. Mind you, the rest did. 8/10. (April 2003)
Gersh is Mark Gersmehl and Awakening is caused by his realisation that this world is infinitely more beautiful and fragile than he had dreamed and that who he was yesterday was no longer good enough. The music comes from a spiritual and musical journey to seek more and more of God's heart. There's no doubting the sincerity of the driving force behind the CD, but does it communicate and is it, to put it bluntly, any good? Yes and yes. Gersh's vocal is very reminiscent of Peter Gabriel. The musical style is very singer/songwriter (albeit with a band rather than solo). If you're into Gabriel/Dylan/Toploader then you'll like this. "I believe" is almost funky and very clear in where Gersh is coming from, although "Awakening" (the track) is probably the best even though it is also the most Gabriel-esque. Listen before you buy, but it's worth the effort. 8/10. Paul Ganney. (September 2002)
Here's the guy who's been around as long as the Bible itself! Well, I may jest, but George Beverley Shea seems to have been sharing the gospel through hymns and testimony since time began. Indeed, as a soldier of God, he must have seen some spirtual fights in his time. This two disc set contains his gentle delivery on songs like "I Will Sing the Wondrous Story", "The Old Rugged Cross", "Amazing Grace" and "Rock of Ages". According to the sleeve notes, George has sung in front of over 225 million people around the world, many of which have been through Billy Graham Crusades. There's a few songs new to me on the discs and this collection is a fine tribute to a wonderful man. 6/10. (January 2005)
When I heard a couple of Ginny's songs on a sampler, I was impressed by the freshness of the sound, and her vocal qualities. So, it was with eagerness that I listened to this album, hoping for more of the same. The theme of the album is a "timeless message of love and hope", and Ginny does write intimate and thought provoking lyrics but the end product is quite ordinary. "With Me" is an "OK" sort of pop song but nothing special. "This Road" gently sees the piano accompanying Ginny's "little girl" voice and this IS quite pleasant. But it's through to track 8 before there's a song that rises head and shoulders above mediocrity. "Simply Love You" tells how, sometimes, our lives become so busy that we forget that our Father is there to guide us and the prayer response is that we're sorry and we just want to love Him. It's a great song and such a pity that it's a gem amongst some dull stones. 4/10. (July 2002)
Almost two years ago, I gave my album of the month award to an acappella release by Sweet Deliverance. The album was full of great harmonies, catchy links, and mightily strong songs. Yes, you're ahead of me aren't you? This is the other extreme. No, the harmonies are quite good, but the songs are so bland that they tend to just drift in and out of one another. "Awesome God" was the first recognisable tune but, by this time, Glad were already on the slippery slope. A little percussion is added here and there but it fails to lift, what soon becomes, a drab affair. This is the group's 18th album in it's 20 year history, so they do have a splendid background. I can only assume that the previous releases have been better than this. 3/10. (April 1999)
I must admit that when I first saw this CD I was half expecting a sugary coated worship album, just like I really hate. It was a pleasant surprise then when I heard it, as it was nothing of the kind, in fact I liked it right from the start. GlassByrd are Christine Glass, and Marc Byrd, hence the name, and this is their second album together. The information supplied with the CD said that this album would appeal to fans of Jars of clay, and there is a similarity. If however I had heard any of the tracks that are sung by Marc, on the radio without knowing who it was. Then I would have bet money that I was hearing Del Amitri, it's that kind of sound, acoustic rock with a jangly electric guitar over the top. I don't think there's a bad track on this album, "I Stand Amazed" and "Peace To You" stood out to me personally. I would certainly recommend this CD to anyone. 10/10 Andy Sayner (April 2003)
Produced by Steve Hindalong of The Choir, Glisten's debut release features powerful distorted guitars and pounding rhythms. If the Manic Street Preachers decided to praise God, then this would be their album. Snappy pop songs, mixed with full blooded anthems that seem to last a lifetime. My main problem with this collection was trying to pick out any real highlights. Saying that, there isn't a single song that I completely disliked, they all seemed quite listenable without really setting my mind afire. The atmospheric "Rejoice" had me reaching for an old Pink Floyd record, as I was sure I'd heard it before. "Used" uses that psychodelia guitar sound of the sixties and swamps the overall production to a stage of euphoria. Jason Pettit's lead vocals are reasonable without being outstanding, and the lyrics are all written towards a sincere and deep praise of God. Not my particular taste, but not a bad release. 6/10. (July 1999)
Here's a relatively new band that will be playing at this year's Cross Rhythms Festival. They play in pubs, as well as the usual church events and,consequently have released two demo tapes - one for each setting. The first has just two tracks in the style of bands such as Cast and Ride. "Candle in the Wind" is not the Elton John number, but an upbeat Brit pop venture that's sure to please that genre. The other song is "Looking For the Light", a similar track but with a more catchy hook and tight guitar driven sound.
The second tape contains three songs and, to be honest, the only way in which it differs from the first is the lyrical content. The sounds are the same but the words are nstantly more spiritually recognised. The pick of these, I guess, has to be "Celtic Night Prayer", complete with it's atmospheric keyboards and anthemic feel. As well as the Brit style, I thought that there was a little gothic inspiration there too - perhaps creeping in from three of the band's previous excursion into punk rock? What both tapes show, however, is that the band are competent musicians with a set of songs that are relevant to toaday's youth culture. Let's hope and pray that they continue this way. Tape 1 8/10 : Praise Tape 7/10. (May 1997)
In the last 5 years Go fish have sold more than 100,000 units of their independent releases. With a recognised record company firmly behind them, the three guys now have a chance to spread their wings and reach countless thousands with their music. They've been described as "acapella with attitude", so imagine my surprise to find not one single acapella track on the whole album. However, there are some quite astounding songs such as "That's What Amazes Me". It tells of the wonder of a little baby from a father's point of view. It's a gentle song but very powerful in it's lyrics. "Watch Me Go" sees the band's harmonies in full flow while "You're My Little girl" would win my vote for best potential radio single. It has lovely words, as God talks to one of His creations and tells her that she is an individual and perfect to His eye. Funnily enough, I found the title track to be one of the weaker songs on the album. It's a sort of power pop track that doesn't really work for the voices on show. I can see why Go Fish have sold so many albums independently, they can only get better. 8/10. (December 2001)
When you think of gospel music, you usually think America. Right? Wrong. Think Holland! In the year 2000 a decision was made to set up a new black gospel choir. this was the vision of the group's director Andre Bijleveld. After extensive auditions, the choir was named and this self titled debut is their first offering. Full of excellent harmonies and lots of energy, the emotion of the songs spill out for all to hear. Wow, they've even breathed new life into Mary Mary's "Shackles". dare I say that it's better than the original? Nothing wrong, either, with the lyrics. Straight praise to God, as in the beautiful "It's A Matter of Love" or the swinging "my Life is in Your Hands". Bill Withers' "Lovely Day" gets the GB treatment too, and that goes down well with me anytime. Like black gospel? you'll love this. 8/10. (May 2002)
Culled from 11 top albums, this release features the very best of gospel music. Household names like Fred Hammond, and Hezekiah Walker are joined the lesser known (in the UK) John P Kee and Richard Smallwood, to name but four. Indeed, the latter provides one of the real highpoints, for me, with catchy "Bless the Lord". The Canton Sprituals really take the tempo down with "Memories", a massive 9 minute song. The Commissioned give their usual funky style to proceedings, while Tonex's "Real With U" produces superb harmonies on another great song. Other artists include Ben Tankard and Donnie McClurkin, and what this album does show is that gospel music, new and old, is as powerful as it ever was. 7/10. (December 2000)
This is a 2 CD set, with a bonus DVD thrown in for good measure. If you like dance music then I guess you will enjoy this album, but personally I found it to be somewhat tedious. Perhaps if there was just one CD it might be better, there is a limit to the number of wailing gospel choirs I can take in one go. Like most gospel albums there are loads of cliché ridden worship songs, complete with all the usual key changes, and cheesy sounding organs, and also there is a lot of "spontaneous applause" that American audiences seem to excel at, whilst everyone else is left wondering what is going on. There is of course the obligatory song from Ce Ce Winans. Also a Smash Hit Single "Dance Dance Dance" by Mary Mary, and the rare "Don't Worry" by Kirk Franklin. Presumably it's rare because nobody bought it the first time around, to be honest I don't think there's much to recommend this CD full stop. It's just one more attempt to repackage a load of second rate songs, which in my opinion too many of the big Christian labels are doing far too much of these days. On the plus side though, three disks, that's almost a set of coasters! 3/10 Andy Sayner. (March 2004)
It's hard to think who this CD is actually aimed at, a collection of Dylan's Christian songs sung by various gospel groups. I suppose that all the die hard Dylan fans will buy it anyway, but is there a huge market for traditional type gospel music? I must say that I prefer the originals myself. As a fan of Bob Dylan I did wonder about buying this, but after hearing it I'm glad that I didn't bother. Traditional gospel is bad enough at the best of times, but Dylan's songs weren't written as traditional, most of the songs on this CD were driving rock songs originally, and don't really work in this style. Like gospel music tends to do this CD gets a bit intense in places, with much whining and wailing going on. Bob himself only appears on the final track, which is "Change my way of thinking" from his "Slow train coming" album. It's a duet with Mavis Staples, and it's awful. As I said, unless you are a really serious Dylan fan I wouldn't bother with this. 4/10 Andy Sayner. (October 2003)
In the sleeve notes, Graham writes that the first 11 songs are "Street songs for public praise whenever and wherever..." After listening, let me tell you that there is no way I would sing any of these songs in public. As a non-Christian work colleague commented "This is 'Jesus wants me for a sunbeam' music". "Shake hands with as many people as you can", he calls, launching into "Reach Out...". "Oh Our God Is Good", says the title of the next track. So He is!, I cried, pity about the song - tacky just doesn't enter in to it. The second half of the album is entitled Prayersongs, and lift this album from sinking into oblivion. "Save The People" is undoubtedly the highlight but the quite excellent "Come Let Us Return" runs a close second. What Mr Kendrick was thinking of when he wrote the first half I'm not sure, perhaps he was tired. 4/10. (July 1997)
So, it's 5 years since Graham's last studio album. Not that he's been taking things easy, mind you, it's just that all the other work he's been doing has left little time for recording. "What Grace" doesn't produce anything radically different from any of his previous albums but, and this is the thing, it does carry on the high standard he has done before. The opening "To You O Lord" is one those Kendrick songs that draws you instantly into worshipping an almighty and powerful God. The theme is carried on with "To the King Eternal" and "The Spirit of the Lord". Then, it's a duet with Martin Smith, "Lord, You've Been Good To Me" - a prayer of thankfulness for all the good things the Lord has done in his life. The closing "Everybody Everywhere" paraphrases Psalm 145 and is a celebration of God's greatness and of the reasons why He is worthy of praise. Well, Graham, it certainly does that, and it's great to see you on top form. 9/10. (May 2001)
Dear Graham, Early in my Christian life I bought your single "Let the Flame Burn Brighter". I hoped and prayed it would make the Top 20 but, sadly, it didn't. Over the year's I've listened to many of your albums and sung even more of your songs in worship throughout the country. As much as I disliked your 1997 "No More Walls" release, I was overjoyed to see you return to top form with "What Grace" last year. After listening to this new album, I'm afraid I am quite disappointed. Why? Well, Graham, most of the songs sound tired and out-dated, as if you've tried to re-write everything that you've done before. Mind you, when I first heard the duet with Darlene Zchesch, I thought that it was a great start.. Then came the title track. I'm really sorry Graham, but it is so bland and, in all honesty, that's how I feel about the rest of the album. Do Something Beautiful? Yes please, but make it better than this. 2/10. (June 2003)
Recorded live on his "Cathedral tour", this album sees Graham return to his acoustic roots for, what is, an intimate evening, despite the grand surroundings. You feel immediately at home with the man who has given this country so many great songs over the years. Indeed, it's easier, sometimes, to forget just what classics have been written or co-written by the man himself. "Led like A Lamb" starts things off and there's an instant feeling of gentle worship. Then, there's the story of the simple fisherman, in "Simon's Song", a lovely little ditty. "Caiphas & the Temple Guard" comes at you with a jazz tinge, and I didn't like this one at all. Other well known songs include "Meekness & Majesty" and "The Servant King", each sung and performed with much reverence. "Thorns in the Straw" is a new ballad to my ears and I felt that Graham's voice really brought out the best in it. Not stunning by any means, but a nice album from a great bloke. 7/10. (April 2004)
Recorded live on his "Cathedral tour", this album sees Graham return to his acoustic roots for, what is, an intimate evening, despite the grand surroundings. You feel immediately at home with the man who has given this country so many great songs over the years. Indeed, it's easier, sometimes, to forget just what classics have been written or co-written by the man himself. "Led like A Lamb" starts things off and there's an instant feeling of gentle worship. Then, there's the story of the simple fisherman, in "Simon's Song", a lovely little ditty. "Caiphas & the Temple Guard" comes at you with a jazz tinge, and I didn't like this one at all. Other well known songs include "Meekness & Majesty" and "The Servant King", each sung and performed with much reverence. "Thorns in the Straw" is a new ballad to my ears and I felt that Graham's voice really brought out the best in it. Not stunning by any means, but a nice album from a great bloke. 7/10. (April 2004)
Grapevine is the UK's longest running Christian Bible Week's held, each year, at the Lincolnshire County Showground. 1999 saw the 18th year of this unique family event which included worship leaders such as Chris Bowater, Johnny Markin, Dave Middleton, and Trish Morgan. New songs, like the endearing "Sing A Song For the Nations", and "Holy Breath of God" are lined up alongside the much loved "Holy Holy Holy" and "I Will Never Be". The act of worship comes over really well and, apart from "Hallelujah Hosanna" the listener can enjoy over 70 minutes of uninterupted spiritual pleasure. Even if you didn't attend the festival itself, I'm sure you'll find this recording inspiring. 9/10. (March 2000)
One of Southern Gospel's most popular trio's have recorded their latest album, inviting the best bass singers of today and favourites from yesterday, to join them. The Result? Classic four-part harmony. Featuring Glenn Dustin of Legacy Five, the opening "He Is To Me" is a very strong song. It's got the catchy hook, the said harmonies, and a terrific bass line. "Who can do anything?" is the question asked in track four, and the answer most certainly is "Nobody but my Lord". It's a slow number that comes straight out of the music history books, yet it still sounds as fresh today. There's a few Southern Gospel albums that have crept across to the UK over the last few months and, on the whole, I'm finding them pretty good. However, although there's not a lot of difference between "City That's Coming Down" and "He Called Me Out", I did find the former most irritating and the latter very good! "Just Ask" has a more modern production than some of the other songs but the great harmonies are still at the fore. There's something about most of the songs that I can't quite put my finger on, yet still I can't stop from joining in with. Southern Gospel sounds as strong and as popular as it ever was, and that can only be a good thing. 9/10. (June 2003)
I must say that I liked this CD right from the start, especially the first track, which has quite a bit of style variation in it. In fact the Whole CD has that live energy that you only get from a self produced recording, (for some reason most record companies seem think it's necessary to lose this somewhere along the line) and that doesn't mean that the quality is bad either. On the first track the singer reminded me a lot of early David Bowie, and there are some nice guitar licks thrown in there too. The remaining three tracks rock along quite nicely, although if I were to criticise I would say that they are maybe a bit too much alike, but then again there are only four tracks. All in all I think that this is a good effort, and worth a listen. I noticed that all the artwork and labelling has been done by the band themselves too. With the price of blank CD's being so low nowadays making your own CD from start to finish has never been easier, there must be hundreds of bands out there who find an outlet this way, perhaps you should have a look at this CD and get an idea of what is possible. 8/10. Andy Sayner. (July 2002)
Greg Long's career has brought him six No.1 hit singles, two Dove Award nominations, and the No.2 CCM Song of the Year, "Love the Lord". This new release is the first offering I have ever heard from Mr Long, and I've got to say that it really is very good. "Sufficiency of Grace" is the first, and best, track, with a catchy tune and excellent vocals. To me, it sounds like a hit single all the way. Greg's got a really good voice and his songs would appeal to Christians and non-christians alike. "In the Waiting" is another early favourite of mine but I found "We Dream of a Kingdom" just a bit monotenous. There are ten songs on the album, all eaasy listening and, on the whole, most enjoyable. 8/10. Judith Wilson. (May 2001)
Christian DJ and former HOG person, Lee Jackson, once raved to me about this band. On this hearing, I can't think why - although I'm sure he'll tell me. One track plods into another and it's hard to tell what each singer is saying. There's no lyrics provided to help and the whole concept is just dull and uninspiring. Three plays later, I was still getting the headaches! Come on Lee, tell me different. 1/10. (June 1997)
The vision of American singer Ray Boltz, Spindust Records is a
label for young bands developing ministry that reaches young people.
With that in mind, perhaps I've finally reached middle age. GS
Megaphone are a powerful heavy rock outfit that are a cross between
Linkin Park and Fono. "Uses Me" is such a loud, cacophony
of crashing guitars and drums that it really was painful to endure.
The title track wasn't much better, and I really had to persevere
to listen to the complete album. One thing I can say about the
songs is that throughout the album, the clear word of God is being
spoken and, if this type of music appeals to you, then go for
it. For me, I couldn't get on with it at all. In all honesty,
I would find it hard to pick the best track - simply because there
isn't one. Maybe it's time this reviewer sat in his rocking chair
and had another cup of tea. 1/10. (September 2001)
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