Christian Music Reviews By Aaron

LOVE IS ON THE MOVE
Leeland
Essential Records
Release Date: August 25, 2009

Leeland - Love Is On The Move

Track Listing

1. The Door
2. Follow You (with special guest Brandon Heath)
3. Via Dolorosa
4. Pure Bride
5. Carry Me On Your Back
6. New Creation
7. Lift Your Eyes Up
8. Weak Man
9. Love Is On the Move
10. Learn to Love
11. Holy Spirit Have Your Way
12. My Jesus

Score: 90%/A-

I personally find listening to Leeland joyful and refreshing.  The band’s third album, Love Is On The Move returns again with all of the elements that have made the band so popular in the CCM industry and so appealing to its fans.  Leeland’s latest work presents new and powerful hooks, rich melodies and dramatic arrangements.  Once more, Leeland’s songs capture moments of honesty expressed by a humble group of believers who are lifting their hearts and instruments toward heaven.  Frontman, Leeland Mooring’s lyrics resonate again with all of the sensitivity and conviction we’ve come to expect.

Today, Leeland Mooring is considered by many to be one of the best young lyricists in the business.  His talent is evident on the new album and supported by his body of work which includes hits like “Yes You Have” from the band’s debut album, Sound of Melodies; songs he’s written for artists Michael W. Smith and Paramore; and contributions made on the projects, CompassionArt and Your Name.  Explaining his inspiration as a songwriter, the Wikipedia.org website quotes Leeland Mooring as stating: “A lot of my songs are birthed out of prayer. The ones that we’ve received the best response from have been the ones God just kind of dropped in my lap while I was spending time in His presence. That’s my main inspiration.”  The lyrics found on the new album are not only intrinsically pure, but also biblically based.

New tracks including “Weak Man” reflect Jesus’ call for service in Matthew 20:26 when it exclaims: “Jesus give me Your heart. Let there be a death in me.  I’m making room for all that You are. Give me Your heart. My Creator….Oh, my Creator.  May I be low, low, low so You’re made higher. I’ll be weak for You are strong…Weak for you are strong in the weak man.” Another song, “Pure Bride” (based on Revelation 21:2) reminds us, “He’s coming for a pure bride. See Him riding in the sky.  See the fire inside His eyes.  Through the darkness His light will shine.  In His glory, He’s lifted high. He’s coming for a pure bride.” These songs and others offer timely reminders for Christians regarding the quality and focus of their faith.

In the end, Leeland’s third album continues where the critically acclaimed Sound of Melodies left off.  Love Is On The Move injects this band back into prominence by way of its original and worshipful sound.  The album successfully elicits a range of emotion from listeners, from introspection to exhilaration.  Current fans will appreciate Love Is On The Move, and those not yet familiar with Leeland will now have a new opportunity to discover them.

Closing Thoughts:
Leeland does it again!  Love Is On The Move offers refreshing music, light sounding and humble in spirit.  Its prayerful lyrics are riveting, reverent and adept.  The new album captures the imagination with brilliant new hooks and sweet sounding, original melodies.  Love Is On The Move should appeal to both old and prospective fans alike.  Next to Jeremy Riddle’s The Now And Not Yet and Aaron Shust’s Take Over, Leeland’s Love Is On The Move is among my top 5 favorite albums so far this year.

For the latest Christian Music Reviews, visit: http://www.ChristianMusicReview.org

Aaron Shust Leaks Album, Take Over

ANNOUNCEMENT: Aaron Shust Leaks Songs Off New Album, Take Over

Aaron Shust has posted 7 new videos featuring songs off his new album, Take Over due in stores August 4th.  The songs leaked today include, “Come and Save Us”, “Forevermore”, “When Everything Is Beautiful”, “Live To Lose”, the title track, “Take Over”, and my personal favorite, “Rest In The Arms”.  I recently reviewed Aaron’s new album on behalf of Christian Music Review and gave it very high marks.  Read my full review here.

Take Over is a highly anticipated album that follows the successes of Aaron’s extraordinary and highly acclaimed albums, Whispered And Shouted and Anything Worth Saying, which included the 2007 Song of the Year, “My Savior My God”.  Many of us beleive that Take Over is Aaron’s best work yet.

Be the first to hear the new songs on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/aaronshustube

AMERICAN PATRIOT’S BIBLE: THE WORD OF GOD AND THE SHAPING OF AMERICA
Dr. Richard Lee
Thomas Nelson Publishers
Release Date: May 5, 2009
Available: Amazon.com

American Patriots Bible

Score 100%/A+

Facts are sometimes difficult things to acknowledge, especially when it comes to America’s past. The “American Patriot’s Bible” by Dr. Richard Lee is an epic work that accurately documents the words and events of our American history, taking accounts and statements directly from the historical record and relating them to their scriptural inspiration.  Whether you agree with Christianity or not (if not, why should you be so interested, or even offended by another bible anyway), the buildings of our nation’s capital are filled with verses and our past presidents commonly prayed and called upon the Lord for strength and guidance.

The words of our founders, presidents and statesmen cited in this Bible are emphatic and straightforward.  Through the “American Patriot’s Bible”, you have an opportunity to look back, appreciate and read the quotes for yourself.  In it’s pages, the “American Patriot’s Bible” clearly substantiates the values and beliefs of our founders by connecting their declarations with the scriptures that inspired them.  By reading the prayers and convictions of these great men, you get a sense for the passion that drove them to risk their lives in establishing and promoting a uniquely American Judeo-Christian model of government and citizenship.

The “American Patriot’s Bible” unabashedly, unmistakably tells it like it is – the way your great grandfather would, or in this case, the way our forefathers did. This scholastic work represents one of the few remaining tools for passing on our American heritage to future generations who may never understand what America first stood for. It highlights the Christian principles that separated us from all other nations on earth including, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart. Obey His timeless precepts and live in peace. Love your neighbor as yourself. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

Reading other reviews on this new Bible, you can’t help but to wonder why its existence is so threatening to some.  In truth, the present controversy in fact makes this work all the more appealing to Christians as we recount how Jesus himself was not popular in his day for ‘telling it like it is’.  Mindful as well is the reality that our past presidents themselves also made tough stands, based on right and wrong, that did not make them popular with their publics (Abraham Lincoln). The “American Patriot’s Bible” reaffirms the beliefs of great patriots and underscores the faith that made them strong in spite of the critics. The “American Patriot’s Bible” is an accurate, objective and respectful pairing of God’s Word and American history that I am proud to support.

Closing Thoughts:
An epic work. This is a Bible you’ll be proud to home school with or have placed on your coffee table.

TAKE OVER
Aaron Shust
Brash Music
Release Date; August 4, 2009

Aaron Shust - Take Over

Track Listing

1. To God Alone
2. Come And Save Us
3. Forevermore
4. Take Over
5. Stars Will Fall
6. Rest In The Arms
7. Live To Lose
8. Ever After
9. Still You Love Me
10. Breathe Me In
11. When Everything Is Beautiful
12. Carry Me Home

Score 91%/A-

Aaron Shust’s latest release, Take Over is a solid compilation of prayerful lyrics with gentle hooks on a backdrop of mid-range contemporary acoustic rhythms. The album is less moody than the last, but stays true to the introspective depth of expression and worship you expect from Aaron Shust. This is not an album of one or two standout hits. Rather, it’s a full album where the more you listen to it, the more it draws you in and you appreciate the music. Take Over very much plays like one man’s prayer and petition to the Lord. There’s gratefulness and beauty in Aaron’s expressions of adoration.

For younger fans there are a few up-tempo tracks like “Come Save Us” and “Still You Love Me”, but as is consistent with Aaron’s style, listeners should expect arrangements that keep a moderate-to-slow pace. For those of us that appreciate the power of slow builds resonant with praise, Aaron delivers again and again. Songs like “Rest In The Arms” which declares, “You can rest in the arms of The One who holds you. Rest in the arms of The One who knows you. Rest in the arms of The One who won’t let go…” and “Forevermore”, with lyrics, “There is no other God before You. No one can replace You. You are forevermore…” (inspired by Isaiah 46:9-10) are vehicles for you to sing out to the Lord.

Aaron’s God-given ability to capture heartfelt, honest moments and express them in psalmist fashion is not only captivating, but award-worthy. Now on his third studio album, Aaron has already garnered the Song Of The Year award for the song “My Savior My God. For those that follow Aaron’s music, there is no doubt that his lyrics are one of the central elements that sets him apart from other artists. Among my favorites on this album include lyrics from the title track, “Take Over” which exclaim, “I tried to run. I tried to fight you, I’m done. I’m giving up. I’ve learned to trust You, Your love…Can you take over, take over – can you take over me? I’ve been here over and over again, here on my knees. I’m only closer and closer to where I wanna be. When you take over, take over – can you take over me?” This album is special as well because so many of the lyrics explore the depths of the soul of the believer.

There was a great deal of anticipation for Aaron Shust’s third album after the breakout successes of Anything Worth Saying (2005) and Whispered And Shouted (2007). In the end, I find Take Over to be even more hopeful and upbeat than Whispered And Shouted, though similarly compelling. With Take Over, Aaron Shust continues on with his signature artistry, putting forth a solid effort that is certain to be well received by both fans and critics alike.

Closing Thoughts:
Aaron’s latest album, Take Over is a vehicle of praise. If you’ll replay this album again and again and let it soak into your soul, you’ll find it not only to be inspired, but inspiring. The great thing about Aaron’s music is its depth of message. Believers in their daily walks can easily identify with Aaron’s sentiments. This is a good album to take on a car trip, to play in the office, to listen to during a morning jog, or during a commute. You’ll want to have this one in your collection – I am so glad to have it in mine.

For more of the latest Christian Music Reviews, visit: http://www.ChristianMusicReview.org

LIVE REVELATIONS
Third Day
Essential Records
Release Date: April 7, 2009

Third Day - Live Revelations

Track Listing

1. Run To You
2. This Is Who I Am
3. Slow Down
4. I Will Always Be True
5. Cry Out To Jesus
6. Call My Name
7. Otherside
8. When Love Comes To Town
9. Revelation/Honeysuckle Blue

Score 87%/B

It’s amazing how much of an influence Third Day has had in its nearly two decade ministry/career. Dove Award winner. Grammy winner. You name it, this band has done it. Last year saw the release of the highly anticipated release, Revelation. The album was fantastic. April 7, 2009 brings the release of Live Revelations. It’s your typical live album, but unlike others before it, this one offers a little more to the Gomer (that’s a Third Day fan for all of you who are unfamiliar)…

Read the rest of the review right now at Christian Music Review

THE NOW AND NOT YET
Jeremy Riddle
Varietal Records
Release Date: March 3, 2009

Jeremy Riddle - The Now and Not Yet

Track Listing

1. Christ Is Risen
2. Prepare The Way Of The Lord
3. Prayer For The Church
4. Bless His Name
5. As Above, So Below
6. Among The Poor
7. One Thing
8. To Be Like You
9. Surrendered In Praise
10. The One, The Only
11. Joyful Noise
12. I Am Redeemer

Score 95%/A

I’m not sure if you’ve heard the song by Jeremy Riddle’s called “Sweetly Broken” from his debut album, Full Attention, but it’s pretty amazing and has been on regular rotation on my iPod for a while. That was the case at the time I was asked to review Jeremy’s latest release, The Now and Not Yet (due in stores March 3rd).

Jeremy’s voice and message on this album are powerful. He’s a former pastor and with that comes a real heartfelt passion for the Word. The gospel message is driven in every song I’ve ever heard from him. To me, Jeremy’s style echoes qualities of some of the great alternative acts like Aaron Shust, U2, Bush, INXS and Cold Play. In his latest release, Jeremy is again true to form. The Now and Not Yet is raw, soulful and heavy on the salvation message. Passion is carried forth with piercing vocals and clever phrasing. The music is selective, timely and monumental.

Jeremy’s classic, authentic and alternative sound make him unique amongst Christian artists today. Like other well-crafted albums, this one is designed to provide you with a listening experience from beginning to end. The songs add layers to the story as they go along, ending the album in a way that makes you want to start the journey all over again. As Jeremy focused on delivering serious biblical messages, light and upbeat songs are mixed in with the more slow, serious ballads to maintain a balance as the tracks progress. Listeners should be aware however that like Aaron Shust, many songs play out in the mid-range (sometimes disappointing to a younger crowd). The great thing about this album though is that Jeremy never fails to provide a successful praise hook and that creates expectation for what’s next.

The Now and Not Yet as a whole has become one of a handful of favorites for me since the release last year of Above the Golden State and the recent release of CompassionArt (note, there is no comparison stylistically between any of these). Every song is good on this album, but here in my opinion are some of the highlights:

Track 1: “Christ Is Risen” begins the journey. “Quickly now, go tell the world that Christ the Lord, He has risen. The power of God forever raised him from the grave!” The high vocals, building chords, stinging guitar solos and marching drums create a dynamic call to modern day Christians.

Track 2: “Prepare The Way of the Lord” is reminiscent of great INXS. The low vocal intro with a backdrop of electric club synthesizers and paced out drums. The guitars kick in…the build-up starts, and then the scream: “Prepare ye the way of the Lord!…Yahweh, Yahweh!” It’s very thrilling.

Track 4: “Bless His Name” is U2 sounding on the intro. It starts off slow with heart pulsing drums and a simple lyric that is turned completely upside down when met with faster paced distortion guitars that drive the melody throughout the rest of the song. After the intro the song takes off like a rocket and then slows back down to repeat the heartbeat again on the bridge; then a sudden build-up and you’re off again: “Come…let us sing for joy. Let us shout aloud to our King…” This song demonstrates a great delivery and is radio-friendly.

Track 6: “Among The Poor” is a ballad from Jeremy’s heart and experience. It is a reminder for us of who the Jesus of the bible really was – a man of compassion for the least among us. Listen to this lyric: “Lord I’ve said I want to serve you. I’ve been so eager to love. How I’ve longed so much to find you; just to be where you are. But it seems I’ve forgotten where you are and what you look like. I hear your words speak to me as you remind me again. You’re among the poor. You’re close to the broken…and as I do unto them, I’ve done unto you.” …Powerful!

And I could go on… There are at least two or three more tracks that deserve praise here, but I’ll stop and just recommend that if you want something that will touch your heart for Christ, go ahead and give this one a try. I personally loved it.

Closing Thoughts:
Classic alternative rock with a solid salvation message. A raw, heartfelt and unique sound that stands out in today’s market. You’ll like this if you’re a fan of the style of music played by artists like Aaron Shust, U2, INXS or Bush. One of the best albums so far this year. Don’t miss it.

For more on Jeremy Riddle and to see the full review, visit: http://www.christianmusicreview.org/jeremyriddle_thenowandnotyet.html

Next Step
KOTCH Records
Release Date: March 3, 2009

Melissa Greene - Next Step

Track Listing

1.  Next Step
2.  Imagine
3.  Wonder
4.  Long Road To Forgiveness
5.  Army
6.  Too Far
7.  You Satisfy
8.  Revelation Song
9.  To Trust You (Jody’s Song)
10.  At Your Feet

Score: 75%/C

Avalon fans will have a new album to sink their teeth into as Melissa Greene releases her new solo album, Next Step.  Right out of the gate the album starts off stylistically with a Christina Aguilera sounding track: “Next Step” (the title track for the album).  The music was a bit too familiar for me and I have to say, I was particularly disappointed with the direction of the song after having read the lyrics beforehand.  In my opinion, the lyrics are powerful even if the execution was not.

The next track, “Imagine” seems to fit Melissa Greene stylistically a bit better.  It’s a successful upbeat, pop-rock song suitable for radio(this time more Martina McBride than Christina Aguilera).  “Imagine” transitions pleasantly into a ballad named, “Wonder”.  With a solid rhythm and straightforward lyrics, the song offers a message that is clear and worshipful.  Where previously I couldn’t help but make comparisons, “Wonder” seemed to offer a glimpse of authentic Melissa – it really felt like her heart was in it. “Long Road to Forgiveness” is up next and continues to slow down the pace.  This song boasts a truly solid vocal with a great melody.  After track four though, the album takes a sharp and disappointing detour, in my opinion, with some over-sung, overly dramatic vocals and more stylistic confusion.  It then picks back up again with a solid cover of the popular Praise and Worship song, “Revelation Song”.  Melissa truly demonstrates her
pipes on this one and does the song justice by not over singing it.  A clever addition of pianos and club effects at the beginning of the song and an upbeat pace help to make the song a real standout on the album.

Overall, after having listened to the album for more than three weeks(longer than most albums I review), I felt that there were four memorable songs that would appeal to a general audience.  The others though, I fear, may only be suitable for avid Avalon fans (who will undoubtedly see past much more than I was able to).

Closing Thoughts:
Though I enjoy good contemporary Christian albums, I candidly had a hard time catching the vibe on Next Step.  I think it’s because I kept getting thrown off with some of the theatrical vocals and the changing musical styles throughout the album.  The songs, “Imagine”, “Wonder”, “Long Road to Forgiveness” and “Revelation Song” are worth downloading individually, but unless you’re an avid Avalon or Melissa Greene fan, I’m not sure you’ll want to purchase the entire album.

For more on Melissa Greene and to see the full review, visit: http://www.christianmusicreview.org/melissagreene_nextstep.html

COMPASSIONART: CREATING FREEDOM FROM POVERTY
EMI CMG
Release Date: January 27, 2009

CompassionArt

Track Listing

1. Come To The Water
2. Shout Praise
3. Kind Of Wonders
4. Lead Me To The Rock
5. We Won’t Stay Silent
6. Highly Favoured
7. Fill My Cup
8. Friend Of The Poor
9. King Of The Broken
10. You Have Shown Us
11. Until The Day
12. Let It Glow
13. So Great
14. There Is Always A Song
15. Reprise

Score: 100%/A+

When I received this album for review it came to me with the usual press material and a word from Jay Heilman (founder of Christian Music Review) letting me know only that the album was “highly anticipated”.  I, myself, hadn’t actually heard of the project before, and since I make a practice of not reading any background prior to listening to an album I’m reviewing (my way of making sure I remain unbiased toward the music), I simply went ahead, pressed play and dived head first into the music.

So today, after listening to this album for nearly a week, I finally took my first look at the accompanying press material and the album’s website before sitting down to write this review.  Man, I have to tell you how surprised and incredibly impressed I was when what I had assumed was strictly an extraordinary compilation of work, turned out to be something much more special and far more reaching than I had imagined – in reality, a trend setting movement.

Separated from all of the build-up and promotion, and apart from all the surrounding buzz, the CompassionArt release is quite simply a masterpiece of worship.  The genius of the album not only comes from the 19 talented artists who contributed to it and the level of creative synergy that was reached, but the way the styles converged in a unity of cause and belief.  The music presented a dynamic medium for a message which I believe can only be explained by the involvement of the Holy Spirit – the album’s 20th contributor.  I want to tell you unequivocally that the compositions included here are as solid and meaningful as the worthy causes they support.

The CompassionArt initiative is an artist-backed charity founded by Martin Smith of Delirious? that is (to quote the website), “dedicated to seeing works of art generate income for the poorest of the poor.” The current album is a central component for the launching of the charity.  By releasing all current and future rights and royalties to the music contained in the CompassionArt album, Martin Smith, Michael W. Smith, Chris Tomlin, Darlene Zschech, Paul Baloche, Steven Curtis Chapman, Stu G (Delirious?), Israel Houghton, Tim Hughes, Graham Kendrick, Andy Park, Matt Redman, Kirk Franklin, Amy Grant, Joel Houston, Leeland Mooring, Christy Nockels, tobyMac and CeCe Winans have insured that 100% of the proceeds from the sale and reproduction of their work will go directly to helping those in need.

CONCLUSION:
After listening to the 15 inspiring tracks and learning the story behind this incredible album, if you’re not moved by CompassionArt, you’re simply not alive.  Go out and buy this album because one of your favorite artists is on it.  Go out and buy this album because you feel compelled to play a role in carrying out the Lord’s work to help the poor and needy across the globe.  Go buy this album to witness a special moment in the history of Christian Music.  Go buy this album because you long to experience the Holy Spirit at work. Whatever the reason…Go out and buy this album!

CLOSING THOUGHTS:
Not often does a Christian album come along that combines music, message and purpose in a way that transcends an album or even an industry.  This one does.  You don’t want to miss it.

For more about CompassionArt and to see the full review, visit:
http://www.christianmusicreview.org/various_compassionart.html

ChristianMusicReview.org

Online ministry announces its first quarter, 2009 calendar of events.

For 2009, the ministry of Christian Music Review (ChristianMusicReview.org) will continue its founding purpose, a focus on message first, because message matters.  On the heels of its 4th straight year of growth, the popular online Christian music review site plans to:

1.    Host new contests and promotions in a continued partnership with Christian artists, record labels and movie promoters.
2.    Release new updates to its website and ministry services.
3.    Continue offering readers a biblical perspective on the music and messages released by today’s top artists and producers.

Through these efforts, Christian Music Review (CMR) will continue to fulfill its commitment to its readers, follow its unique calling, and offer accountability for listeners by promoting creative works produced in accordance with Christian principles outlined in God’s Word.  By focusing on message first in 2009, CMR will continue challenging the status quo in an ever evolving Christian industry struggling to maintain the balance between spirituality and popular appeal.

Christian Music Review invites friends, artists, publicists and readers to participate and benefit from the following upcoming first quarter, 2009 calendar of events:

January 14th
New Logo.  New Look.   New Features & Services
That’s right, after four years online, CMR will update its website with a fresh new look, improved usability and new features and services for its readers.  Among the changes, visitors can expect more streamlined navigation throughout the site, improved page layouts, faster load times and the introduction of a brand new weekly devotional written by one of CMR’s newest and most talented writers.

January 15th – February 14th
Fireproof DVD Release & “Love Dare” Book Giveaway
In partnership with Sherwood Pictures, Provident Films and Carmen Entertainment, beginning on January 15th, fans of the blockbuster film, Fireproof, can enter to win one of 10 DVDs, including 5 copies of the book, “Love Dare” featured in the movie.  The Fireproof movie soundtrack includes popular artists such as Third Day, Leeland, Casting Crowns, Warren Barfield, John Waller and Grey Holiday.

Christian Music Review invites each of these artists and their representatives to participate in the Fireproof promotional giveaway.

January 19th – February 9th
VeggieTales – Larry Boy and the Bad Apple Giveaway
As a part of an ongoing relationship with Big Idea, Inc., Christian Music Review will be giving away 6 copies of the DVD, VeggieTales – Larry Boy and the Bad Apple.  This is one of many co-promotions with Big Idea this year in which CMR will give readers the chance to win FREE copies of the very funny and highly entertaining VeggieTales series.

Christian Music Review enjoys offering unique entertainment benefits to its readers.   More new promotions and giveaways are now in the planning phase for the second quarter and the rest of 2009.  Christian industry publicists, record labels and representatives are highly encouraged to contact Christian Music Review as soon as possible to coordinate special promotions and release announcements.

For more information about Christian Music Review, please call 813-528-0291 or visit:  www.ChristianMusicReview.org.

Jay Heilman and Christian Music Review (www.christianmusicreview.org) are giving away a prize pack worth over $600 including the latest albums by top selling artists Switchfoot, tobyMac, P.O.D, Kutless, David Crowder Band, Hillsong, DecembeRadio, Big Daddy Weave and others. In all, the 2008 Ultimate Prize Pack Giveaway: Volume IV is made up of 66 CDs (including 6 signed by the artists themselves), 2 Veggie Tales DVD movies, and an autographed copy of the book, “The Love Dare” featured in the hit film, Fireproof.

2008 marks the fourth straight year that Christian Music Review (CMR) has given away their entire annual library of review material provided to them by the major industry record labels. Like in years past, sign‐up is open to the public with no cost to enter or to win. The last day for entry is December 31, 2008. The winner of the Ultimate Prize Pack Giveaway will be selected by random drawing and announced on the ChristianMusicReview.org website on January 1, 2009. The contest entry form and official rules are found online at: http://www.christianmusicreview.org/entryform_ultimate2008.html

Since 2004, ChristianMusicReview.org has expanded to include six additional writers. For the team at CMR, the 2008 Ultimate Prize Pack Giveaway is a way to give back to its readers and positively influence one more life for Christ.

For more about Christian Music Review, or the Ultimate Prize Pack Giveaway: Volume IV, please visit: www.ChristianMusicReview.org or call 813‐528‐0291