Christian music reviews

Focal Point. To give a brief discription of the band first I will quote what solid state records had to say about them: "Focal Point is a step beyond hardcore. Pushing the boundaries with punk and metal overtones. The multi-dimensional approach to songwriting is both innovative and intelligent. Selections such as `Inception', `Broken Bonds', `No Return', and `Attainment' reach beyond the surface for deeper meaning. One that the band wants you to figure out for yourself. A central theme of non-conformity and self-respect can be found in an age when lyrics generally reflect negativity. Focal Point guides the listener towards something more positive without sacrificing any of the intensity or aggression needed. A positive outlet for those searching for a higher purpose." That right there is something I totally agree with. Of course Focal Point doesn't have the technical premise of Training for Utopia, and not the amazing musicianship of Demon Hunter but it has it's charm. This is definately for fans of Living Sacrifice, Training for Utopia, and Strongarm.

I first saw these guys at Unashamed's last show, and bought their 7". So I couldn't wait until Suffering of the Masses" came out. I was the first one to buy it in my church book store. And let me tell you it is awesome, the vocals are great, and their are some the best breakdowns you will ever here. The lyrics are great, especally "Homicide" a song against aboration. If you like bands like Earth Crisis get this.

This band is christian and they have there sh*t goin' on! Focal Point has phat-ass breakdowns, with aggressive vocals straight up sounding like V.O.D or Will Haven, pulverising heavy riffs.Hatebreed is brutal and very much short, but there 3rd newest album may have a chance when comes out this fall.In other words Focal Point crushes Hatebreed's first & second album.

This is one of John's older CDs but it has some of his best songs!!

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I have to say that John and his band are very original and a talented bunch, with music that has meaning to every song. I like the upbeat of the christian pop that they bring to us. I wish that you could actually see their C.D.'s out in stores, and played on the radio. If you really didn't listen to the words in their music, alot of people wouldn't know that it is christian based yet with meaning of life experiences that he has had, and the message they are professing. I have never met John personally,nor his band members, but I know his family very well.His nephew and sister are like my second family. I have been to his family Thankgivings and Christmas's, and yet still have not met him. He does have other albums and the one that I was wanting to purchase was the album "Eigthy Years" with his either his Grandparents or great-grandparents picture on the cover. It by far is my favorite album thus far and as time passes I hope that he continues producing great music. If you get a chance be sure to buy this album "Eighty Years". The songs are very well written and sung. The song "pull into my world" in my opinion, is by far the best one yet. If you get a chance go to his website at www.coxrocks.com and take a look and listen to his music. It will be well worth it!!

I've had this cd for years and I still bust it out quite a bit. It's relatively hard to compare him to anything else 'cause he's got his own sound. Check him out, you won't be disappointed! And he's got like EIGHT kids so he can use all the support you can offer. Aviators Unite!

Lloyd was one amazing band. Miss them? I do. Some of the members of Lloyd have gone on to form a band called VAPOR. Check them out at www.vaporband.com you won't be dissapointed and I hope this helps anyone looking for any info on these guys because they are the best.

With their 1998 release, Lloyd ventured into territories not often explored by Christian bands. Much of Christian music borders on both the contemporary and hard rock sides of a good modern rock sound. But Lloyd jumped right into the middle of it and supplied Christian rock fans with what the scene needed.

The lyrics on the album are much like the music. Nothing is too fancy and everything is straight up on the level. "Listening for Whispers" is the strongest song on the CD musically while "Mr. Warner" delivers an "in your face" message to a secular band that will remain nameless.

In the end, frontman Daryl Younglood (formerly of "Imagine This") and his band deliver a fresh sound without attempting to be overly inventive. This is a must CD for any Christian rock fan or for any music fan looking for a rock CD with a refreshing message.

In 1998, Lloyd entered the Cristian rock scene with its freshman album "Thoughts From a Driveway". Instantly many of the songs, such as "Don't Wanna Know" and "Listening For Wispers" became a regular on Christian radio waves accross the United States. The Album contains strong lyrics and Post Garage rock to back it up, it has become a winning album. Their sound has been compared to Vertical Horizons, Everclear, and Matchbox 20. People who enjoy a healthy taste of rock will enjoy this album. I personally enjoy all of the songs, however two stand out. "Mr.Warner" which is a song to Marlyin Manson, and "Human" which expains how some things were not for us to understand. Their lyrics are far from corny and I think that anyone, Christian or not, will enjoy "Thought From a Driveway" for it gives fuel to the soul with a rock sound to help it go down.

[...]In the late 60's and early 70's, I was always on the lookout for interesting releases by obscure new bands, and the place to find them was at Tower Records on Sunset Blvd in Hollywood. I stumbled across a group called Glass Harp and their album was an ear opener. I eventually bought 3 albums (I still have them) before the group disappeared. About 1975 I saw the WHAT A DAY album by Phil Keaggy in a Christian bookstore. What a sweet, melodic piece this title song was... and still is. This compilation CD covers Phil Keaggy's prolific career with some excellent selections from this guitar master. Also give a listen to VOL.2-TIME for some more older, no longer available nuggets. In fact, just about any PK disk is worth having. Keep checking Amazon's Auction site for early PK album titles like WHAT A DAY, LOVE BROKE THRU, EMERGING, THE MASTER and the MUSICIAN, and BEYOND NATURE. Phil Keaggy will open your ear, too.
(Note - In 2005 some above mentioned albums are now on CD)

Phil Keaggy is one of my most favorite Christian music artists. His music is so great to listen to, very simple yet uniquely one of a kind. The lyrics are good, sending a clear, strong message. The guitar work is really cool. Here are a few of my most favorite songs from his album "Time 1":

I've Just Begun (Again): This song talks about a simple optimism in our walk with Christ. Even if we run into hard and sad times, we still have hope. We have to "try not to think of things that can't be done" because God can do anything.

Sunday's Child: Another great song, the main theme of the song is about meeting the "King of Hearts".

Love Divine: A fun song with a simple and loving message, about a "Divine Love" from our Lord.

I Will Be There: A song with a beautiful tune and beautiful lyrics. The song is telling about Jesus "will always be there" for you.

Where Is My Maker?: The words were taken from the book of Job, when Job cried out "where is my Maker?" The shuffle at the end is really neat, making me want to tap my feet and snap my fingers to the beat.

What A Day: "What a day that will be when we go up to heaven" is the theme of the songs. Makes me want to sing along!!

If you would like to start collecting Phil Keaggy albums, I suggest you start with this album, then "Time 2". Don't miss out on these great music!!!

This is a nice CD from Keaggy. Albeit, these are not some of the 'best' songs which you would find on a greatest hits album, as the review below indicated. However, the album is wonderful.

Many of Keaggy's classics are present (i.e. Sunday's Child, I will be There, Pilgrim's Flight, etc.). The music has an ELO and Beatles type sound to it, and as usually, Keaggy demonstrates how wonderful a guitar player he actually is. Also, the CD includes several previously unreleased tunes, and live versions of other tunes.

Each song on the CD has it's own personality, and in my book this is a good thing, since too many musicians tend to get into a rut and begin to sound the same. Keaggy does not fall into this trap. This is a great CD for the long time Keaggy fan and the new fan alike. I highly recommend it.

p.s. the other time CD (part 2) is a good investment as well, check it out.

I thoroughly enjoyed tracks number 2, 10, and 11, but I found myself disappointed with the rest of the album. This album has songs that are contemporary and traditional. The traditional cuts are by far the best. The contemporary cuts left me wanting more of the traditional, and I love all types of gospel music. In my opinion, this would have been a great album if the producers would have stayed true the the traditional gospel style.

I was not familiar with Gabriel Hardeman but was very impressed and uplifted by "To the Chief Musician". How the song builds!

"To Be Saved" speaks to my soul and my spirit! This is an uplifting song! I can hardly contain myself. I want to clap, sing and shout at the same time! This is a wonderful CD! God has surely anointed this music!

The album starts off with a beautiful rendition of "Psalms 150" and continues into the catchy, "Lord, I Want to Know You" and the encouraging, "Deliverance Is Available To You". Other standouts include; "Holy Is His Name", which features lead vocals by Daryl Coley. It's an okay Daryl Coley guest spot, it's no 'When Sunday Comes' (from Donald Lawrence & the Tri-City Singers 'Bible Stories' album) or 'Guide Me O Thou Great Jehovah' (from Here II Praise's 'Giving You Nothing But Praise' album), but it's aight. There's also the upbeat "Yes I Can", the title track "Welcome To The Village". Then the album takes a more patriotic turn, finishing out with "God Bless America" and "The Star-Spangled Banner"; altogether a solid project.

This CD has stirred up the fire of God in my soul. I can't put it down. I listen to it in the car and at home. I am the praise and worship leader at a growing charismatic church in Portland,Texas and have turned the worship team on to this CD also. I have instructed the soundman to play it every chance he gets. I want the people to ask "Who is that dynamic group playing over the mains." I can't wait until my Pastor hears it. He is going to love it. I wish I had heard of you all sooner.It is obvious to me that you have a personal relationship with the Father. Keep up the God work. I am looking for more of your praise and worship music.

This CD ministers through relationship. I felt like voices on the CD know the risen savior. The lyrics were uplifting, encouraging, inspiring and most importantly they were in line with the word. This is the one of the best choir CD's that I have heard in a while. I love the anointed voice of Kathy Taylor-Brown and I was impressed by the collaboration of the talents of Windsor's music ministry staff in composing, producing and arranging the cuts. Keep up the great work!

With majestic, peaceful, and upbeat songs, Twila Paris has presented a beautiful album that is a joy to listen to. With "Love's Been Following You," "Jesus in You," and "Faithful Friend," (a lovely duet with Steven Curtis Chapman), as well as others, Where I Stand will definitely please. :)

This is one of my favorite Twila Paris albums. It's got a blend of styles; some slow, some more upbeat. I can't think of anything of Twila's that's disappointed me; and this album is no exception.

Probably my favorite song on the album is "I Will Listen," from whence the album's title was taken. The duet with Steven Curtis Chapman, "Faithful Friend," is beautiful, too.

I really like the song she did with Steven Curtis Chapman "Faithful Friend". I also like the one "I Can See Jesus in You" which was written for the kids at YWAM. In all I think it is a strong record and is worth a listening!

I just recenly heard this CD "Only" at Evergreen Community church and loved it right away. Awesome music

My first exposure to The Kry came from hearing "He Won't Let You Go" on the radio. A few months later, I heard "Everywhere." I was hooked.

"You" is the first The Kry CD I purchased even though it is the second studio effort by the band. In my opinion, it also is the most "radio friendly" collection of songs. The first CD ("I'll Find You There") featured more aggressive guitar work and up-tempo songs while this one toned down the edge and speed somewhat. You will hear a little more piano and strings, but fear not, The Kry still rock on this album

The strength of this CD rests on the hearts and the integrity of the band. The lyrics are honest and pure in motive. The music flows with pop melodies that are easy to sing along with while listening. I find myself wondering why I do not hear more of their songs on the radio.

As with all "The Kry" CD's, this one blends a good mixture of rock tunes, acustic pop, and stirring ballads. It is possible you will like what you are hearing during the first listen.

I HEARD THE SONG 'HE WILL NEVER LET YOU GO ON A TV PROGRAM, IT TOUCHED MY HEART DEEPLY, IT WAS IF GOD WAS SPEAKING TO ME PERSONALLY THROUGH THIS SONG, YEARS LATER WHEN MY FATHER PASSED AWAY I PLAYED IT HIS FUNERAL, MY NON CHRISTIAN FAMILY LIKED IT AND ASKED ME TO RECORD IT FOR THEM.AS WELL AS MY YOUNG NEICES, IT IS ENCOURING AND SENTS HOPE! AND REASSURANCE,WHEN WE GIVE GOD OUR HEART HE WILL NEVER LET US GO, AND IS ALWAYS BY OUR SIDE, EVEN WHEN U DIE HE IS ALWAYS BY YOUR SIDE, GIVE ALL YOUR HEART IS ALL YOU GOTTA DO! THE WORDS ARE BIBICAL AND THE GROUP KRY DELIVERS IT WITH THEIR POWERFUL VOICES ,,AND THE LOVE OF GOD IS FELT IN EVERY NOTE! THANKS KRY,, ITS MY FAVORITE GOSSPEL SONG! MAY GODS LOVE TOUCH EVERY HEART THAT HEARS IT AS IT HAS TOUCHED MINE,.. C,.M.

...I normally do not review "old" albums, but I will make an exception with this masterpiece. The Grammy series has seen both ends of the spectrum and this editon is conpletely flawless. There is not one song on this album that I disapprove of. I did not listen to music back in 1995, this album makes me wish that I did. An analysis of these classic tracks:
1.Mariah Carey & Boyz II Men"One Sweet Day"A-.Beautiful,that is the only word to describe the powerful and masterful work.No wonder it was #1 for 16 Weeks in that year.
2.Coolio feat. L.V."Gangsta's Paradise"A+.This bangin' summer track was THE best song of 1995.Right from the chilling beat to the deep lyrics,this song is what rap should be.Surprising that the Academy was bold enough to give this a Record Of The Year nod.
3.Joan Osborne"One Of Us"A-.She may have been forgotten,but this song is easily a classic.Everyone knows the words to this inventive and inspired theological track.It does pose a very good idea about God.
4.Seal"Kiss From A Rose"A.The song may be ungainly in construction,but it is graceful in delivery.It is one of those songs that just plain resounds with you and uses some brilliant "images".
5.TLC"Waterfalls"A.Since Lisa Lopez has passed a way the group is in danger.The is one the best R&B songs of the '90s.The message seems verey heartfelt whlie the lyrics and horn arangments provide a perfect vehicle for it.
6.All-4-One"I Can Love You Like That"A.They may have been second compared to Boyz II Men, but this a superb and perfect slow dance song.Very well done.
7.Michael Jackson"You Are Not Alone"A-.In the midst of all his legal troubles,here is reminder of his talent.MJ singing R.Kelly's emotional lyrics make this a terrific song choice.
8.Alanis Morissette"You Oughta Know"A.It's no mystery why Alanis was such a huge hit with everyone.This song shows the kind of rage and straight forward attitude most females don't have. Truly a one of a kind song.
9.Brandy"Baby"A-.The song shrinks in comparison to "The Boy Is Mine" and "What About Us?",still it is very catchy and slick in it's production.
10.Hootie & The Blowfish"Let Her Cry"B.When "Cracked Rear View" sold 12 Million copies,no one predicted them to be on the bottom of the bargain bin now.This song is not original or spectacular,but it delivers what it promises to.

11.Shania Twain"Any Man Of Mine"A-.This early track from Shania may not have been her best,but it shows true talent and a lot of potential as an artist.
Bottom Line:****.A perfect album, shows that sometimes less can be more(it only has 11 songs). Grammy got it right way back in 1995!

This was a good year at the Grammy's. Alanis, Mariah, and other created a good mix of music for this album, and I was glad to actually see some diversity at the award show. "One Sweet Day" "You Are Not Alone" "Any Man of Mine" "You Oughta Know" and "One of Us" are the sweet spots on the album. A good year for the Grammy's.

my step sister would always come over to my house and play this CD non stop. i grew up on this CD, literally. I developed my ear for hip hop, my first true love. i remember rapping to Left Eye's rap from Waterfall in my living room. i still know every lyric to this CD even today. "Kiss from a Rose" by Seal and "One Sweet Day" by Boyz II Men feat. Mariah Carey are my favorite romantic songs ever. And "One of Us" literally changed my life. It made me think philosophically at such a young age. i was such a hip hop baby. I remember rapping in the car to "Gangsta's Paradise" over and over again until my mom yelled at me. This CD is magical in my opinion. its the ultimate CD for any collection and i advise everyone to have it.

This entire CD sets the scene for praise and worship. Excellent, simply excellent! Get yours TODAY!

This CD is full of messages that will motivate you and see you through some of life's challenges...talk about a motivational tool!(everyday I have a different favorite song depending on what I have to face that day.)

Listening to this CD helps to get me "centered" and keep me "centered" throughout the day.

Yes to His will is the bomb! Worship the LORD and the Medley are awesome as well.