Christian music reviews

All I can say is that you haven't seen or heard anything yet!! This "review" goes beyond just making comments about Dr. McAllister's recordings - "Raise The Praise" and "Send Judah First". However, let me say that if you don't have these projects, you should buy them if you appreciate true worship and anointed music. Be sure to buy the CDs and the videos or DVDs. If you are not blessed, I will PERSONALLY GIVE YOU YOUR MONEY BACK!! You can find me at West Angeles Church of God in Christ, in Los Angeles.

Much has been said about the music of Judith Christie McAllister, but let's talk about the ministry of Dr. McAllister. If you've ever heard her share insights on worship and music ministry, minister the Word or deliver God's prophetic words of healing, encouragement and exhortation, then you know why I'm taking the time to write this. The presence of God follows her wherever she goes and transforms the lives of those who are in attendance. I have had the privilege and honor of sitting under her leadership and working with her in church and private settings; and I can testify to the fact that what you see is truly what you get.

God has invested much into this Woman of God; and the world will soon experience all aspects of the ministry that God has entrusted to her. I would advise you to get ready, look for and purchase the many products and materials which will bear her name. She represents our Lord with excellence, integrity and genuineness; and if you are open to receive from God through her ministry, then your life, like mine, will never ever be the same!

Dr. McAllister, my mentor, my prime example in the ministry in whom I look up to. God really used her in writing these songs and recording this album. It's 3 years old and is still going strong. Every song ministers and has meaning. Truly, she is a virtuous Woman of God. Praise God for a "True Worshiper" who is not afraid to go "Behind the Veil". Prosperity and Blessing in everything she does. This album is slammin!!!

I live in Hawaii and this is the quickest shipment I have received from any order placed on the mainland. The product was still in the original wrapper and packed to perfection. Awesome!!

I read that Chris Rice is the son of Christian bookstore owners in Maryland. His 3rd release for Michael W. Smith's Rocketown label is an excellent set of tunes. His upbeat message is framed with such musical skill that his catchy melodies appeal to people of all faiths. The opener "Questions for Heaven" seems to have a musical circus atmosphere that perfectly matches Richard Borge's stunning cover art as Rice asks numerous questions about which many have wondered. "Face of Christ" is an amazing track with an expansive melody and Rice's moving vocals, "See you had no choice which day you would be born or the color of your skin or what planet you'd be on; Would your mind be strong, would your eyes be blue or brown, whether daddy would be rich or if momma stuck around at all; So if you find yourself in a better place, you can't look down on the frown on the other guy's face." The other tracks are also excellent from the nutty lighthearted "Sailing With Russell" where Rice does sound a lot like James Taylor to the amazing "Somebody's Watchin'." This is another excellent release from a great musical artist. Bravo!

This is the second album I bought from one of my favorite artist - I it did not dissappoint! Chris Rice keeps up the good lyrics and catchy melodies. I must say that I liked "Deep enough to dream" a little bit better, but this is absolutely worth 5 stars(maybe 4,8 - but it's 5). The songs I remember the best is the two first, "questions to heaven" and "smell the color 9".

Run to the store... (or press, "add to cart") - you have nothing to loose!

I've been a fan of Chris Rice since his first CD was released and was looking forward to this CD from the moment I heard about it. When I first got it, I was very disappointed with it and couldn't quite place my finger on why. I'm still not sure what the problem was, but this CD has definitely grown on me and now I rate it up there with his others.

The CD opens with the fun "Questions for Heaven," in which Chris lists some of the things he wants to ask God when he gets to Heaven. Frankly, some of these now need to be in an FAQ at the gate because I'm sure I'm not the only one that Chris has gotten curious. I especially enjoy the nods to some of Chris's previous hits.

The title song takes a serious issue and makes a fun point. God has used it many times to increase my faith when trying to figure God out was like trying to "Smell the Color 9."

Another favorite God has brought to my mind on more then one occasion is "Magic Wand." Patience has never been one of my strengths, but this song points out that it takes time to overcome things and to keep asking for God's help.

And I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the simple faith evidenced by "My Prayer." It always brings a smile to my face.

I'm certainly glad I didn't give up on this CD when I first got it. There's some great stuff hidden in here. If you already have it, give it another try. And if you don't, approach it with an open mind. It's not quite like his other stuff, but it's certainly just as good.

The music was fantastic. I'm glad I heard him recently for the first time and the whole CD was good.

One thing I can say about this CD is that these songs are beautiful. It's like love songs written for the Lord, such as "So In Love", "This Song, and "Did You Know". Other songs that were good were:
In Harm's Way 4/5- touching, lyrics are great
Love is the Reason 5/5- upbeat, liked the overall sound to this song
Love's Coming 4/5- really liked the beat on this song
With All of My Heart 5/5- really liked this song and the overall sound
In the Midst of the Rain 5/5- this song was the bomb and the best on the album, really ministers to the spirit
I don't know if Bebe wrote these songs but they were beautifully put together and truly enjoyable. This is one of the best albums I own. If you don't own this one by Bebe, get it. It is worth it and a classic.

This is hands down my favorite cd from BeBe Winans. Every song is sung with true emotion; his voice draws you in never lets go!Granted the whole cd is good, but whenever I listen, tracks 1-5 are on constant repeat. Also noteworthy are: "In the Midst of the Rain", "Oh Happy Day" and "Seeing for the Very First Time".

Brent is BAD. This album has the hit "Goodtime" that you will probably recognize immediately, but there are so many other gems that deserve a listen. The song "Sindy" is one of the few (if not only) spiritual songs that addresses temptation from a man's point of view, and Brent deserves props for including it here.

This album is a strong contender, and in many ways is superior to some of his more popular peers' efforts (such as Kirk Franklin's Nu Nation project). When you buy it for yourself, you'll see what I mean. Enjoy.

Brent Jones & The T.P. Mobb came onto the seen with a piece of work of R&P(Rhythm & Praise) that I have ever heard. I remember buying this CD back in 2000 when I was tired of the same old junk in secular ranks and was listening to more of the gospel sound and Brent Jones who hails from the LA area came onto the seen with a great sound of just some of the old school funk which would have had a lot of r&b & rap acts taking notes. The first single "Goodtime" was a great hit received some very good reviews. Monte Neuble works the talkbox like it is suppose to be. The next song "Crazy" bring back some of the good ol' g-funk with a gospel twist. "Sit Back & Ride" is a good mixture of the Monte Neuble again on the talkbox while the T.P. Mobb makes a joyful noise. Another song that is tremendous too is "Pray" which lets us know in a family crisis where the man has to step up and assume the responsibility and also unite the family and pray together make the home a happy home. Some other songs of note to check out is "You Can Make It", "Can't Handle It By Myself", "Rough Edges", & "Money Ain't Everything". Overall a great gospel cd, this cd may get a lot of critism for maybe not being a traditional type of cd but if you are young person that is in need of some inspiration and some to listen to besides this horrible music of today, then pick this up, you will not be disappointed.

This is THE BEST EVER gospel cd I've ever heard! What a total blessing! From the first song to the last it is wonderful. I hope and pray they bring out another one but until then and even then I will listen to this everyday! Lifts my heart and mind to heaven. Thank you Brent Jones and the TP Mobb, God bless you.

I have to believe it's the fact that he has more control over his own sound, but Chapman sounds like he's really having fun making this album and that makes it another step up for him. For the first time, SCC joins with Phil Naish to produce and his voice sounds stronger and he takes more chances with it (and with the music for that matter, including his first genuine rock number).

HIGHLIGHTS:
The title tune kicks things off with its call for life change NOW...rather than in a future paradise. ("Where is the hope?/Where is the peace?/That will make this life complete/For every man, woman, boy and girl looking for/Heaven in the real world") Knowing Jesus personally, of course, offers that "real world" peace. A percussive track is the foundation for "King of the Jungle"..the jungle being the "rat race" of modern life. It's Chapman's reminder that "the Lord of the gentle breeze is Lord of the rough and tumble",too. "Dancing with the Dinosaur" celebrates the "old fogey" label placed on those of us who assert traditional morality. ("Right is right and wrong is wrong just like it has been all along....") "Treasure of You" is an electric guitar charged self-esteem boost. ("You are a treasure/Worth more than anything under the sun or the moon/God's greatest treasure/the treasure of you...") "Remember the Chains" urges believers to remember their sinful pasts in order to better appreciate their freedom in Christ. ("Remember your chains/Remember the prison that once held you/before the love of God broke through/Remember the place you were without grace/When you see where you are now, remember your chains and remember your chains are gone..") "Facts are Facts" isn't very deep lyrically (more or less God said it, I believe it, that settles it..) but it's a quality rock-edged rave-up.

LOWS:
"The Mountain" is tuneful and "nice" but not especially memorable. SCC sounds remarkably like Dan Hill on "Love and Learn"'s call for marital reconciliation. Again, it's pretty but not really on par with past "love songs" like "I Will be Here" or "Go There with You".

BOTTOM LINE:
While I think those saying this is his BEST record are being too generous, (SIGNS OF LIFE and DECLARATION are decidedly superior on all levels) Chapman does advance his craft again here and turns in a very solid disc. A must for all Chapman fans and most CCM fans in general will probably enjoy it.

this is the best album in christian music yet!all 13 songs on here are amazing!even the 56 second reprise at the end!i love the songs heaven in the real world,king of the jungle,dancing with the dinosaurs,treasure of you,and remember your chains!

YOU BETTER BUY THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

In my opinion, this cd has AWESOME songs, with GREAT tunes, lyrics, and messages. My favorite SCC album.

This collection is absolutely wonderful. Whether you listen to this in your room or in your car you will feel uplifted and relaxed after listening to this album. Both the Live and Studio CD's are well balanced with a variety of songs and artists. This makes a great gift for others. I would highly recommend this to everyone.

I love this album thanks to sonic flood. Before this album I did not know they existed. I wish SF sang every song. The lead singer's voice is so amazing!

Released in August of 2000, this 2-CD disc contains some of the best praise & worship songs written to date. Compiled by various artists, including SONICFLOOd, Matt Redman, Delirious?, and Passion, this compilation has one studio recorded disc and one live disc.

Because of the nature that is praise & worship music, the live disc is, by default, the better of the two discs (though I actually like more of the songs on the first disc).

If you are looking for a praise & worship album you can use at home to help you to sing to the Lord, this compilation is one of the best you can get.

I had a chance to see Lee Williams in concert in tampa and he was wonderful he is truly anointed by God and he can never be imitatd by anyone; he not only sings but he minister in his singing. He sings one song that i really love and that is I can't give up I come to far to turn around that is an inspiration to me and it helps me to make it through because he lets me know that I've come to far to turn around. May the Lord continue to bless him in his ministry.

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Yes! I will stand by that opener, they DO make the some of the best music I've heard. And, Oh yes, it's Gospel music to boot!! I enjoy all types of music. From Louis Armstrong to YES, from opera to Gospel, from bagpipes to Bach. I count myself lucky to have discovered Lee Wiliams. Lee Williams has a long history of singing gospel. His seasoned voice, humble and honest demanor, and profound faith all translate through this wonderful CD. You will wear this CD out as I have listening to it over and over.

Lee and the Spiritual QC'S make music that simply won't let "feet stand still!" It transcends race, ethnicity, age, and background. I have been so blessed by the ministry Lee presents in his music and song.

The track "I can't give up" is a poignant, inspiring, and at times wrenching testimony about faith and perserverance. The track "Jesus is alive and well" simply ROCKS! When the song says: "now He (Jesus) sits at the right hand of the Father, pleading for you, you and me," I get goose bumps the size of Michigan. The song "Midnight hour" is none other than the old standard R+B tune re-done. Lee makes it swing, opens it up a bit, and allows it to breathe. There are three bible stories he relates all in the context of the song and the theme: "God moves at Midnight." Really Awesome! The song "Let's go fishing" is another scriptural parable. He sings: "...drop your nets, take up your cross, and follow me." Lee preaches without preaching. His songs communicate effortlessly and enjoyably providing us with spiritual nourishment as well as an irresistable groove.

To date there are three releases available by Lee Williams and the Spiritual QC's. While the most recent, "GOOD TIME" is also excellent, I'd start any newbie off on this one. YOU WILL BE HOOKED, INSPIRED, and BLESSED! Both this release and "Good Time" are also available on video.

I have met Lee twice at live shows. His warmth, sincerity, and genuine caring are quite simply the icing on the cake! Lee told me their new release is slated for October, 2002. WOO-HOO!

God Bless Lee Williams, his family, ALL of the band members and musicians.

If you do not have this cd please get it now. It's the word all by it's self if you no what I mean.The songs I've Learned To Lean,jesus Is Alive & Well,Love Will Go All The Way, Hold On,and Running For My Life are worth getting this cd alone.Buy it and sit down and injoy it,you will love it.

Like the other reviewers on here, I was stunned after listening to "Not Perfect". What's ironic is this CD IS PERFECT. All these songs are masterful. Musically it's a bit like DC Talk, especially Toby Mac and Kevin Max. But it's more smooth, more consistently good, song after song. The mix of rock and R&B with pop is appealing to almost everyone. The songwriting and playing is flawless. When you listen to this CD, you really can go from start to finish and enjoy every song.

All these songs will speak to you in a special way. Grace seems to be an overarching theme on Not Perfect. God's perfect grace. This is a great disc to give to a non Christian, as the music will be the door to questions. Most Christian music has a wannabe sound. This is authentic and as good as anything secular. Go find this CD and then share it with friends.

I discovered this CD in 1999, and listened to it all the time. I've not found a more powerful collection of music on any other CD. Every song speaks to me....and each time I listen to it causes me to reflect and think about life. This is an awesome CD to give to a non-Christian.....everyone can relate to the lyrics. I lost track of it through several moves, but came across it today and have it playing in the background. If you haven't heard this CD, you need to.

God literally delivered this CD into my hands a year or so ago. I had never heard of the group and was skeptical to say the least. But after giving it a spin, I was instantly hooked and it has become one of my all-time favorites (on par with Jars of Clay). Exquisite lyrics and impressive production quality make this CD a thing of beauty. If more Christian music had sounded like this in my teen years, my CD collection would look very different today. Thank you God, and thank you Church of Rhythm.

I just listened to this disc early on a Sunday morning as was so pleasantly surprised. I do lean more towards this type of inspirational contemporary Gospel music and Lisa McClendon does this genre proud with this set. It is original, soulful, jazzy sounding on some tracks but mainly it just made me feel GOOD to listen to it!

On some tracks she sounds a little like Michelle Williams of Destiny's Child BUT her voice is smoother without that rough soul growl that Michelle has while on other tracks her voice sounds as original as the music offered on the entire disc.

It was hard to rate each track since they all offer some different level of praise & spiritual uplifting but my instant favorite tracks are:

HAS ANYBODY SEEN HER, CAPTURE, SOUL MUSIC, BREATHE, THE TRUTH IS, YOU ARE HOLY AND OLD SCHOOL

I can't say enough about how enjoyable I found this disc and based on this, I definitely want to hear more from this artist and plan to go back and buy her previous as well as future releases. If you like contemporary inspirational music, please do yourself a favor and buy this disc!

THis is definately a very inspiring collection of songs that will no doubt encourage and make you move to the beat. She puts her own interpretation of Breathe which is quite breathtaking. Definately a gift worshipper.

Anyone who appreciates Gospel R&B and Gospel ballads should get this cd. I have been looking for a while for something this deep. EUREKA!

The 'souled-out' rendition of Breathe is worshipful and jammin at the same time-get some 'aaaaaaaaaaaah' into your life.

Keep preaching, keep singing, keep it soulful

Ghoti Hook was one heck of a band. This CD was probably one of their best. It was just awesome punk music (some serious, some funny). Banana man was good, but this CD definately tops it. I would highly recommend it to anybody.

Ghoti Hook. This is the best punk CD I have ever listened to. Hooks, riffs galore, it's intellegent, original, and funny. Great vocals, tight drums and original guitar and bass come together in a way rarely seen on a first album. I own hundreds of CD's, but this is one i still listen to often - even after owning it for several years. Not something I can say about 99% of the other CD's I own.

The most surprising thing about Sumo Surprise is that it was Ghoti Hook's first album. When this came out, very few punk bands demonstrated the technical skill they seemed to throw around so casually. MxPx, apparently considered by some to be a superior band, were still floundering with their first two releases, and even with Life In General still did not reach the level of musicianship that Ghoti Hook nailed their first shot.

These guys comprise one of the best bands to come down the pike in the last 10 years. This album is great fun, both lyrically and instrumentally. Still one of my favorites.