Plugged ®

19 Apr 2010

Lucas Parry - Alive

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Artist: Alive
Album: Lucas Parry
Year: 2008
Label: Lucas Parry
Website: http://www.lucasparry.com/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/lucasparry
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/mrlucasparry
Twitter: @lucasparry
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store
Sounds Like: Tree63, Delirious?, Me In Motion, Jackson Waters, DecembeRadio, Needtobreathe, Nate Sallie, Gavin DeGraw, The Black Crowes, Train, Coldplay, U2, Sting, The Beatles, Lenny Kravitz, Stephen Curtis Chapman, Green Day, 3 Doors Down, Keith Urban, Rascal Flatts, Maroon 5, Marc Anthony, Five For Fighting, Jars Of Clay, Jason Gray
Rating: 4/5 ♥♥♥♥

Lucas Parry, a spirited missionary, an artist and an Australian-born dynamic storyteller, shares his heart through the release of “Alive”, a contagious and irresistible message that encourages people to pursue their personal mission from God to their lives. This album combines his own musical tastes and the talent that God has given him as a composer, singer, guitarist and producer to create a cd full of energy and passion that comes from God.

“Ocean” opens the disc with solid guitar strumming on an impulsivity compass progression. The lyric is inspired by Psalm 139: “Your love is like the ocean / As far as deep as far as wide / I don’t deserve you / That’s the beauty of your grace”. The blistering “Something Beautiful” talks about the light we have to show the world, not hide beneath the fear and low self-esteem: “I know that you are something beautiful / A diamond in the rough that you just can’t hide / I know that you are something beautiful / It’s time for you to let it shine”. The titletrack “Alive” encourages us not to look at the circumstances and simply take a step of faith and believe. Then a voice pronounce excerpts from Isaiah 61:1, Isaiah 54 17, 1 John 4:4, Philippians 4:13, Romans 8:17, while the chorus proclaims total devotion to God: “I surrender to your Call / I lay down and give you all / Would you take this life and make me yours / I am alive, I am alive”. Acoustic guitars make their way to “Breath Of God”, a song of revival in search of mercy and the fire of God. “Dance With Angels” sings those with tears in his eyes, looking for answers in the emptiness (Proverbs 3:5): “Trust in the Lord with all your heart / Not on your own understanding / In every way you crown Him Lord of all / Then you come laying down your pride / You’ll dance with angels tonight / There in surrender you’ll find calmness from the storm”. Powerful guitars snatch energy on “Rise Up”, the cry of the Church of God raising a banner and proclaiming a spiritual awakening in the body of Christ to work in unity. “October Eyes” is immersed in the romance, in the fall and love: “Her eyes are like October skies / I’m blinded by her disguise / I search to find but time flies by / I’m mesmerized by her october eyes”. With gospel, blues and soul features, “Better Man” sounds like DecembeRadio and Needtobreathe. It is a prayer to God for being a better father: “I want to be a better man / Make you proud to be my / Oh my little man / Though I’ll never be a superman and I may never fly the world / But like my daddy was for me / I will be here for you”. The dynamic “Shine”, reminds us of the mission we have as children of God and compare us to a city on a hill that needs to shine with the hope of eternity. “You Are Loved” is constructed through the sweet pianos and acoustic guitars, talking about the incomprehensible love of God who answers the prayer of the afflicted spreading hope and mercy: “You are not forgotten / He has bottled all your tears, oh every tear / You are not forgotten / He has sent me here to be His hands and feet / To show his love for you”. Finally, “Fly Away” was inspired by the freedom of unity in a world of color, in an atmosphere where gravity has no limits: “Reach out your arm, and take the hand of another / When every color becomes one and we will be free”.

“I wanted to create an album that reflects my personal journey over the last three years. God has shown me what really matters in life … people. The core of everything we do should be to love God and to love people”, says Parry behind “Alive”. Simple and complex compositions with a small sample of an emerging talent. Lucas Parry has a passion simply contagious.

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Lucas Parry, un impulsador misionero, un artista y un dinámico narrador de historias de origen australiano, nos comparte su corazón a través del lanzamiento de “Alive”: un mensaje contagioso e irresistible que anima a la gente a perseguir la misión personal de Dios para sus vidas. Este álbum combina sus propios gustos musicales y el talento que Dios le ha regalado como compositor, cantante, guitarrista y productor al crear un cd lleno de energía y pasión que brota de Dios.

“Ocean” apertura el disco con sólidos rasgueos de guitarras en una impulsadora progresión de compases. La lírica se inspira en el Salmo 139: “Your love is like the ocean / As far as deep as far as wide / I don’t deserve you / That’s the beauty of your grace”. La abrasadora “Something Beautiful” habla sobre la luz que tenemos que mostrar al mundo, sin escondernos debajo del temor y la falta de autoestima: “I know that you are something beautiful / A diamond in the rough that you just can’t hide / I know that you are something beautiful / It’s time for you to let it shine”. El titletrack “Alive” nos anima a no mirar las circunstancias y simplemente tomar un paso de fe y creer. Luego una voz pronuncia pasajes extraídos de Isaías 61:1; Isaías 54 17; 1 Juan 4:4; Filipenses 4:13; Romanos 8:17, mientras que los coros proclaman total devoción a Dios: “I surrender to your Call / I lay down and give you all / Would you take this life and make me yours / I am alive, I am alive”. Guitarras acústicas se abren paso con “Breath Of God”, un canto de avivamiento en búsqueda de misericordia y del fuego de Dios. “Dance With Angels” le canta aquellas personas con lágrimas en los ojos, que buscan respuestas en medio del vacío (Proverbios 3:5): “Trust in the Lord with all your heart / Not on your own understanding / In every way you crown Him Lord of all / Then you come laying down your pride / You’ll dance with angels tonight / There in surrender you’ll find calmness from the storm”. Potentes guitarras se arrebatan de energía en “Rise Up”, el clamor de la Iglesia levantando la bandera de Dios y pregonando un despertar espiritual en el cuerpo de Cristo a trabajar en unidad. “October Eyes” se sumerge en el romanticismo, en el otoño y el amor: “Her eyes are like October skies / I’m blinded by her disguise / I search to find but time flies by / I’m mesmerized by her october eyes”. Con rasgos góspel, blues y soul, “Better Man” se asemeja a DecembeRadio y Needtobreathe. Es una oración a Dios pidiéndole ser un mejor padre: “I want to be a better man / Make you proud to be my / Oh my little man / Though I’ll never be a superman and I may never fly the world / But like my daddy was for me / I will be here for you”. La dinámica “Shine”, nos recuerda la misión que tenemos como hijos de Dios y nos compara a una ciudad en una colina que necesita brillar con la esperanza de eternidad. “You Are Loved” se construye a través de dulces pianos y guitarras acústicas, que hablan sobre el incomprensible amor de Dios que contesta la oración del afligido extendiendo esperanza y misericordia: “You are not forgotten / He has bottled all your tears, oh every tear / You are not forgotten / He has sent me here to be His hands and feet / To show his love for you”. Finalmente, “Fly Away” se inspira en la libertad de la unidad en un mundo de color, en una atmósfera donde la gravedad no tiene límites: “Reach out your arm, and take the hand of another / When every color becomes one and we will be free”.

“Quise crear un álbum que refleje mi trayectoria personal en los últimos tres años. Dios me ha revelado lo que realmente importa en la vida… la gente. El núcleo de todo lo que hacemos debe ser amar a Dios y amar a la gente” comenta Parry acerca de “Alive”. Simples y complejas composiciones, con una pequeña muestra de un talento emergente. Lucas Parry posee una pasión simplemente contagiosa.

7 Apr 2010

Brave Saint Saturn - Anti-Meridian

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Artist: Brave Saint Saturn
Album: Anti-Meridian
Year: 2009
Label: Department Of Biophysics
Website: http://www.bravesaintsaturn.com/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/bravesaintsaturn
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bravesaintsaturn
Twitter: @BraveSaint
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store
Sounds Like: Earhtbound, ELO, Five Iron Frenzy, Roper, David Bowie, Radiohead, Mogwai, Derek Webb
Rating: 5/5 ♥♥♥♥♥

I don’t think I was the only one waiting 5 long years to see Brave Saint Saturn conclude this magnificent musical history that began with the name of Five Iron Frenzy. A band that creates conceptual albums elaborated about space travels, with interplanetary synthesized beats. This is how we define the trilogy called “Anti-Meridian”, with 17 songs that exploit themes of despair, failure, and salvation. Intelligent lyrics that are based on faith, life, loss, loneliness and the love of God.

“‘They shall have stars at elbow and foot / Though they go mad, they shall be sane / Though they sink through the sea, they shall rise again / Though lovers be lost, love shall not / And death shall have no dominion”. The opening song, “Here Is The News” receives two inspirations. Electric Light Orchestra originally wrote this song and the intro is the story of a famous poem by Dylan Thomas. Quirky synthesizers sound and distorted guitar riffs that are consumed in an instant to give way to the next track. “Mercenary” is a Reese Roper’s classic song with catchy, happy tunes, but it criticizes the actions of the society: “Armed to the teeth, score one for treachery / I am a mercenary / There’s more lies here, than we can all bury / I am a mercenary”. Deviating from previous sound, “Starling” becomes acoustic, sometimes it sounds like a lament. It tells the suffering of a child and a small bird whose he fatally injured, and asks God: “Raise their souls up to the sky / Why must helpless creatures die?”. An illustration of how Christians sometimes hurt those who they trying to save. Dennis Culp stars “Underground”, a protest against the totalitarian ideologies: “Real change doesn’t come from a mandate / Real love you cannot legislate”. Argues that the music created by the love cannot be corrupted by the culture, society and entertainment; while the guitars add a touch of grunge to synthesizers. “When You Burn Too Fast” is consumed with fear and regret. The melody of the verses ironically resembles “Hotel California” by The Eagles, with dark background vocals, an unwavering xylophone and heads bowed electric guitars. It floods of sentiment and reflection on how ephemeral and treacherous is the fame. Fortunately, “Through Depths Of Twilight” brings hope to our ears: “And we will burn the starless night / The truth will ring through depths of twilight”. Reese sings a few references to Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King on racism, slavery, equality and beautiful pictures about shining the light of Christ into the darkness. Dennis sings in the impulsivity and exhilarating “Hero’s Homecoming”, the triumphal return of the band: “Underneath the smiles / A melancholy weighs upon them all the while / They can’t forget the cost / The innocence of youth and brave ones who were lost”. Reese’s thoughts are reflected in “Ammodramus” telling their new experience of life on earth. The excellent harmonious voices exercise of Reese and Dennis makes “Fields Of The Fallen” a beautiful work of art that shows the struggle of the search for God. Abundant acoustic guitars and synthesizers in a crude delicate lyric: ““I’m trying to break through / I am reaching for the sky / I am frayed, torn in two / Through fields of the fallen / Lost in the gray”. An introspective look to the sad modern scheme of just mediocre and irresponsible parenting, it’s how we find the painful “Always Just Beneath The Dawn”. Pain and hope in the same song: “Boys need fathers, every daughter / Every broken heart so gone / I believe that Love is greater / Never ceasing, always hoping / Always just beneath the dawn”. The desire to lose the fame and recognition is reflected in “Fortress Of Solitude”. An odd, progressive melody that is full of references to Superman, and his frustrations. Based on the biblical portion of Matthew 5:5-9 and the Beatitudes, the band is not shy about criticizing the suspicious prosperity on “Blessed Are The Land Mines”. A crude satire of the Christian church that calls itself as Christian while supports the wars and took shelter under the pockets of the wealthy instead of showing the love of God to the world. Powerful guitars and a versatile vocal performance that echoes your headphones. “Aegolius” is another of those spoken interludes and shows us a perspective of life after a space mission. “Begin Again” shines through the grace and second chances. Small traces of reggae thanks to the beat provided by the bass and guitar: “Fire comes and it burns all the brush away / Rain comes down / Snow falling in a lifeless grey / Sun comes down / Something new comes cautiously from the dust / And spreads its limbs toward the heavens”. I like the way the album is firing, and in this way we find “These Frail Hands” which speaks about hope in God, a postulate of surrender and humiliation to acknowledge that we are nothing without Him, and the magnitude of His own love toward us: “And these frail hands / They tremble as they pen perhaps their last / And these weak words / Can never say what cannot be surpassed / I need your love / And most of all I want to feel your peace / I need your love / Let everything that you are not decrease”. The acoustic work is simply glorious. “Invictus” closes this route with a gold brooch, in a sincere praise to the King of Kings, the Invincible and Eternal God. Is the prayer of King David who along with the voice of Amy (Roper’s wife) raised a humble living sacrifice. The bonus track “Here Is The News (ELO Style Radio Edit)” again mesmerizes us with those electric spasms and its inspiring concept.

Stories from an alien and captivating perspective. The creativity of Brave Saint Saturn is immeasurable, both lyrically and musically. A well-deserved, historical, epic end for a band that has retained its essence through the years. “Anti-Meridiam” does not appeal to popular tastes, but it touches the heartstrings.

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Creo que no he sido el único en esperar 5 largos años por ver a Brave Santi Saturn concluír esta magnífica historia musical que empezó con el nombre de Five Iron Frenzy. Una banda que crea álbumes conceptuales elaborados sobre viajes espaciales, con interplanetarios latidos sintetizados. Es así como definimos la trilogía llamada “Anti-Meridian”, con 17 canciones que explotan temas de desesperación, fracaso y salvación. Letras inteligentes que se basan en la fe, la vida, la pérdida, la soledad y el amor de Dios.

“‘They shall have stars at elbow and foot / Though they go mad, they shall be sane / Though they sink through the sea, they shall rise again / Though lovers be lost, love shall not / And death shall have no dominion”. La canción de apertura, “Here Is The News” recibe dos inspiraciones. Originalmente Electric Light Orchestra escribió esta canción y la introducción es el relato de un famoso poema de Dylan Thomas. Extravagantes sintetizadores sólidos riffs de guitarras distorsionadas que se consumen en un instante para dar paso al siguiente track. “Mercenary” es una clásica canción de Reese Roper, con pegajosas y alegres melodías, pero que critica los actos de la sociedad: “Armed to the teeth, score one for treachery / I am a mercenary / There’s more lies here, than we can all bury / I am a mercenary”. Desviándose del sonido anterior, “Starling” se torna acústico, a veces suena como un lamento. Nos relata el sufrimiento de un niño y un pequeño pájaro al que lesionó mortalmente, y le pregunta a Dios: “Raise their souls up to the sky / Why must helpless creatures die?”. Una ilustración de cómo a veces los cristianos lastiman a aquellos que tratan de salvar. Dennis Culp protagoniza “Underground”, una protesta hacia las ideologías totalitarias: “Real change doesn’t come from a mandate / Real love you cannot legislate”. Sostiene además que la música creada por el amor no puede ser corrompida por la cultura, la sociedad o el espectáculo, mientras que las guitarras le dan un toque grunge a los sintetizadores. “When You Burn Too Fast” se consumen con el miedo y el arrepentimiento. La melodía de las estrofas se asemeja irónicamente a “Hotel California” de The Eagles; con unos tenebrosos coros de fondo, un inquebrantable xilófono y cabizbajas guitarras eléctricas. Se inunda de sentimiento y reflexión acerca de lo efímero y traicionero que es la fama. Afortunadamente, “Through Depths Of Twilight” trae esperanza a nuestros oídos: “And we will burn the starless night / The truth will ring through depths of twilight”. Reese canta algunas referencias de Abraham Lincoln y Martin Luther King con respecto al racismo, la esclavitud, la igualdad y hermosas imágenes acerca de brillar con la luz de Cristo en la oscuridad. Dennis nos canta en la impulsadora y regocijante “Hero’s Homecoming” sobre el desfile triunfal del retorno de la banda: “Underneath the smiles / A melancholy weighs upon them all the while / They can’t forget the cost / The innocence of youth and brave ones who were lost”. Los pensamientos de Reese se plasman en “Ammodramus” relatando su nueva experiencia de vida en la tierra. El excelente ejercicio armónico de las voces de Reese y Dennis hace de “Fields Of The Fallen” toda una hermosa obra de arte que muestra la lucha de la búsqueda de Dios. Abundantes guitarras acústicas y delicados sintetizadores en una cruda lírica: “I’m trying to break through / I am reaching for the sky / I am frayed, torn in two / Through fields of the fallen / Lost in the gray”. Una mirada introspectiva al triste esquema moderno de paternidad mediocre e irresponsable, es como encontramos a la dolorosa “Always Just Beneath The Dawn”. Dolor y esperanza en una misma canción: “Boys need fathers, every daughter / Every broken heart so gone / I believe that Love is greater / Never ceasing, always hoping / Always just beneath the dawn”. El deseo de perder la fama y reconocimiento se refleja en “Fortress Of Solitude”. Una extraña y progresiva melodía que se llena de referencias a Superman, y sus frustraciones. Basada en la porción bíblica de Mateo 5:5-9 y la Bienaventuranzas, la banda no se avergüenza de criticar la prosperidad sospechosa en “Blessed Are The Land Mines”. Una cruda sátira de la iglesia que se dice cristiana mientras que apoya las guerras y busca cobijarse bajo los bolsillos de los acaudalados en lugar de mostrar el amor de Dios al mundo. Potentes guitarras y una versátil performance vocal que retumba tus audífonos. “Aegolius” es otro de esos interludios hablados y nos muestra una perspectiva sobre la vida después de una misión espacial. “Begin Again” se trasluce por medio de la gracia y las segundas oportunidades. Pequeños trazos de reggae gracias al beat proporcionado por el bajo y la guitarra: “Fire comes and it burns all the brush away / Rain comes down / Snow falling in a lifeless grey / Sun comes down / Something new comes cautiously from the dust / And spreads its limbs toward the heavens”. Me gusta el modo en que el álbum se va despidiendo, y en este trayecto hallamos “These Frail Hands” que habla sobre la esperanza en Dios, en un postulado de rendición y humillación al reconocer que no somos nada sin Él, y la magnitud de su amor para con nosotros: “And these frail hands / They tremble as they pen perhaps their last / And these weak words / Can never say what cannot be surpassed / I need your love / And most of all I want to feel your peace / I need your love / Let everything that you are not decrease”. El trabajo acústico es simplemente glorioso. “Invictus” cierra con broche de oro este recorrido, en una alabanza sincera al Rey de Reyes, al Invencible y Eterno Dios. Es la oración del rey David que junto a la voz de Amy (esposa de Roper) elevan un quebrantado y humilde sacrificio vivo. El bonus track “Here Is The News (ELO Style Radio Edit)” nuevamente nos hipnotiza con sus eléctricos espasmos y aquel concepto inspirador.

Historias desde una perspectiva alienígena y cautivante. La creatividad de Brave Saint Saturn es inmensurable, tanto lirica como musicalmente. Un final bien merecido, histórico, épico para una banda que ha mantenido su esencia a través de los años. “Anti-Meridiam” no apela a los gustos populares, pero que toca las fibras del corazón.

23 Mar 2010

Method Echo - Method Echo (EP)

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Artist: Method Echo
Album: Method Echo - EP
Year: 2008
Label: Method Echo
Website: http://methodecho.com/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/methodecho
Twitter: @methodecho
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store
Sounds Like: Michael Jackson, Justin Timberlake, Robin Thicke, Ne-Yo, Maroon 5, Family Force 5
Rating: 2/5 ♥♥

The mixture of pop and rock, with a pulsating soul rooted in contemporary gospel, gives us the quintet called Method Echo. Proud to mix musical chemistry and friendship formed over eight years, we have their self-titled debut “Method Echo – EP”. Josh Guerrero (vocals/guitar), Tyler Hagan (lead guitar), David Moore (drums), Daniel Herrera (keyboards) and Chris Moore (bass) are influenced by Michael Jackson, Justin Timberlake, Robin Thicke, Ne-Yo and Maroon 5. The mission of the band is simple but strong: “Always strive to be better than you were the day before”.

“Electrified” turns the spotlight with a unique introduction from synthesized violins, guitars and some leads. Guerrero’s voice resounds with the atmosphere of a funny dancing night, while David Moore seasons the song with powerful drums and cymbals. The seductive “Catch My Breath” talks about the suffocation caused by the approach to that person, leaving us to wordless. Tyler Hagan adds captivating riffs to “Burn Me Up” burning with synthesizers by Daniel Herrera, and the magical poetry that expresses a burning love. The galactic dark “Cold Shoulder” talks about frozen feelings, worn loves, off passions. On the other hand, “Flashback” flirt us with relaxing guitars and sequenced drums trapped by synthesizers and effects that seem taken from an Atari’s video gam. Then the song is featuring a devastating guitar solo that blows your speakers. “Broke Me Into Pieces” rushes between the keyboards, rhodes and Chris Moore taps, with a chorus that reminds me to Maroon 5. Finally, “Crown” concludes this sublime EP with exciting guitar riffs and the gentle melody that is quickly inserted into your heart.

Perhaps the Echo Method’s sound is somewhat difficult to digest, but the freshness of each instrument makes you fall in love with each of their songs. Awakening emotions, making set the pace with your feet, experiencing something unique. Method Echo stands on stage with 3 goals: make you dance, make you smile and always leaving you with a need to hear one more song.

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La mezcla de pop y rock, con un palpitante soul arraigado con góspel contemporáneo, nos da como resultado el quinteto llamado Method Echo. Orgullosos de mezclar la química musical y de amistad formada hace más de ocho años, nos presentan su debut autotitulado “Method Echo – EP”. Josh Guerrero (vocalista/guitarra), Tyler Hagan (primera guitarra), David Moore (batería), Daniel Herrera (teclados) y Chris Moore (bajo) se influencian de Michael Jackson, Justin Timberlake, Robin Thicke, Ne-Yo y Maroon 5. La misión de la banda es simple, pero sólida: “Siempre nos esforzarnos por ser mejores que ayer”.

“Electrified” enciende los reflectores con una peculiar introducción basada en violines sintetizados, guitarras y algunos leads. La voz de Guerrero retumba con la atmósfera de una noche de baile y diversión, mientras que David Moore sazona la canción con potentes tambores y platillos. La seductora “Catch My Breath” nos habla sobre la sofocación que provoca el acercarnos a esa persona, tenerla al lado dejándonos sin palabras. Tyler Hagan añade cautivantes riffs a “Burn Me Up” ardiendo con los sintetizadores a cargo de Daniel Herrera, y la mágica lírica que expresa un amor encendido. La galáctica y sombría “Cold Shoulder” habla sobre sentimientos congelados, amores desgatados, pasiones apagadas. Por otro lado “Flashback” nos coquetea con sus relajantes guitarras y la secuenciada batería atrapada por sintetizadores y efectos que parecen sacados de un videojuego de Atari. Luego la canción es protagonizada por un arrasador solo de guitarra que hace explotar tus parlantes. “Broke Me Into Pieces” se apresura entre los teclados, rhodes y los punteos de Chris Moore con un estribillo que me recuerda a Maroon 5. Finalmente “Crown”, concluye este excitante EP con sublimes punteos de guitarra y la apacible melodía que se introduce rápidamente a tu corazón.

Tal vez el sonido de Method Echo sea algo difícil de digerir, pero la frescura de cada instrumento te hacen enamorarte de cada una de sus canciones. Despertando emociones, haciendo que marques el ritmo con tus pies experimentando algo único. Method Echo se para en el escenario con 3 metas: hacerte bailar, sonreír y siempre dejándote con el anhelo de oír otra canción.

16 Mar 2010

Joe Henschel - Capture Me

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Artist: Capture Me
Album: Joe Henschel
Year: 2008
Label: {L}istener Records
Website: http://www.farewelldown.com/fwd/index2.html
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/joehenschelmusic
Twitter: @joehenschel
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store
Sounds Like: Chris Tomlin, David Crowder Band, Switchfoot, Jars Of Clay, Keane, Coldplay, Copeland, Charlie Hall y Phil Wickham, Sarah MacIntosh, Luna Halo, Trevor Davis, Brad Hooks, Steven Curtis Chapman, Delirious?, Matt Redman, Paul Baloche, Oasis, Travis, Robbie Seay Band, Jimmy Eat World, Farewell Down, Jason Morant, Shane & Shane, Brenton Brown, Eoghan Heaslip, Michael W. Smith
Rating: 4/5 ♥♥♥♥

Next to the breakup of the band Farewell Down, singer/songwriter/worship leader Joe Henschel was already writing his own songs. After signing with {L}istener Records, the sound of Joe was defined and constructed with influences from Chris Tomlin, Jars Of Clay, Coldplay and Copeland. The result of this process is called “Capture Me”; produced by Jonathan MacIntosh (Sarah MacIntosh, Luna Halo, Trevor Davis), the album contains 10 wonderful songs of praise with the conviction of reaching the lost with an open and humble mind.

The first single “My Heart Speaks” reached the #5 position in Christian Radio Weekly’s Top 100. Strong influences of Steven Curtis Chapman, an acoustic sound from the beginning that marvels at the qualities of God, the mystery of his love: “My heart speaks of a mystery of you / And all that you do my Jesus”. With a fresh, light melody, sublime guitar and strings, “Grace Falls” celebrates the unconditional redemption of God, his immeasurable grace, and the beauty that surrounds us: “Grace falls from you with mercy and truth / You are the Love I trust in / Beauty surrounds you / Your love covers every part of me / It covers me”. It reminds me to Robbie Seay Band and Phil Wickham in simpler facet. With features like Oasis and Travis, the upbeat “Jesus You’re My Victory” reminds us that in the midst of our weakness, when darkness descends on us, Christ is our victory: “You’ve over come my sorrow / You’ve paid the fatal Price / You’ve captured me with mercy / My soul declares your might”. This song was also written with Brad Hooks, who will be outlining below. The cry of the Church is heard in “You Never Let Go”, a cover of Matt Redman, showing Henschel’s wide vocal range, masterfully playing this classic: “And I will fear no evil / For my God is with me / And if my God is with me / Whom then shall I fear? / Whom then shall I fear?”. The intense silence “Sweet Breath Of God” sounds like a sincere prayer hearing the sweet melody and the simplicity of acoustic guitar, who pours his heart into every sentence: “Help me to run to you despite what I’m going through / Help me to cling to what you have for me / You are Lovely”. This time the album leans toward Chris Tomlin, Paul Baloche, in a transparent composition. Similarly, “Creation Cries Out” reminds me of Wickham and Tomlin, a song of praise that focuses on declare his holiness. The harmonies are perfect and the lyrics, just inspiring, passionate: “You hold the stars in your hand / Creation cries out at your command / Forever your love is pure / Forever your grace it will endure”. The second remake comes from the hand of “Majesty”, originally by Delirious? but this time with a more acoustic and mainstream atmosphere that easily becomes a Christian hymn: “Now I’ve found the greatest love of all is mine / Since you laid down your life / The greatest sacrifice”. Then we find Henschel standing under the stars, begging God to shine upon him: “You hold my heart in the palm of your presence / You draw me near every time I am distant / You call my name in the night that is falling / You take my hand in the light of your glory”. Coldplay brushstrokes and an eloquent harmony in the chorus. “Sing Your Song” is complicated. It begins with a musical interlude of nearly a minute length, filled of guitars, booming drums and a subliminal choir hummed. But then the music is interrupted with Henschel’s voice and a gentle hum that whispers: “You’re beautiful you blow my mind, I give it all to you tonight”. Finally, the titletrack “Capture Me” enchants us with his magical musical structure and lyrical melodies that asks God: “Capture me with mercy / Capture me with Grace / Hold my head up softly / To Your arms embrace / You are God in heaven / The only one I seek / You amaze me”. It reminds us that God has chosen to pursue us, before we do it Him. A thousand voices angelic chorus concludes this heavenly symphony.

Joe Henschel capture us with this collection of amazing songs, with a fresh and honest sound that lets you spread your wings and fly. “Capture Me” has the right elements for success in congregations and in contemporary worship, capturing souls for the kingdom of heaven.

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Trás de la separación de la banda Farewell Down, el cantante/compositor/líder de alabanza Joe Henschel ya estaba escribiendo sus propias canciones. Luego de firmar con {L}istener Records, el sonido de Joe ya estaba definido y se construía con influencias de Chris Tomlin, Jars Of Clay, Coldplay y Copeland. El resultado de todo ese proceso se llama “Capture Me”; producido por Jonathan MacIntosh (Sarah MacIntosh, Luna Halo, Trevor Davis), el álbum contiene 10 maravillosas canciones de alabanza con la convicción de alcanzar a los perdidos con un espíritu abierto y humilde.

El primer sencillo del álbum “My Heart Speaks” llegó a posicionarse en el #5 del Top 100 de Christian Radio Weekly. Fuertes influencias de Steven Curtis Chapman, un sonido acústico desde el principio que se maravilla por las cualidades de Dios, del misterio de su amor: “My heart speaks of a mystery of you / And all that you do my Jesus”. Con una fresca y ligera melodía, sublimes guitarras y cuerdas, “Grace Falls” celebra la incondicional redención de Dios, su gracia inmensurable, y la belleza de nos rodea: “Grace falls from you with mercy and truth / You are the Love I trust in / Beauty surrounds you / Your love covers every part of me / It covers me”.  Me recuerda a Robbie Seay Band y Phil Wickham en una faceta más simple. Con rasgos de Oasis y Travis, la impulsadora “Jesus You’re My Victory” nos recuerda que en medio de nuestra debilidad, cuando la oscuridad desciende a nosotros, Cristo es nuestra victoria: “You’ve over come my sorrow / You’ve paid the fatal Price / You’ve captured me with mercy / My soul declares your might”. Esta canción además fue escrita junto a Brad Hooks, de quién más adelante estaremos reseñando. El clamor de la Iglesia se oye en “You Never Let Go”, cover de Matt Redman, que muestra el amplio rango vocal Henschel, interpretando magistralmente este clásico: “And I will fear no evil / For my God is with me / And if my God is with me / Whom then shall I fear? / Whom then shall I fear?”. La intensamente silenciosa “Sweet Breath Of God” se escucha como una oración sincera, al escuchar la dulce melodía y la simpleza de la guitarra acústica, que derrama su corazón en cada frase: “Help me to run to you despite what I’m going through / Help me to cling to what you have for me / You are Lovely”. Esta vez el álbum se inclina hacia Chris Tomlin y Paul Baloche, en una transparente composición. Del mismo modo, “Creation Cries Out” me recuerda a Wickham y Tomlin, en un canto de alabanza que se centra en declarar la santidad de Cristo. Las armonás son perfectas y la lírica, simplemente inspiradora, apasionada: “You hold the stars in your hand / Creation cries out at your command / Forever your love is pure / Forever your grace it will endure”. El segundo remake viene de la mano de “Majesty”, original de Delirious? pero esta vez con una atmósfera más acústica y mainstream que fácilmente se convierte en un himno cristiano: “Now I’ve found the greatest love of all is mine / Since you laid down your life / The greatest sacrifice”. Luego, nos encontramos a Henschel parado bajo las estrellas, pidiéndole a Dios que brille sobre él: “You hold my heart in the palm of your presence / You draw me near every time I am distant / You call my name in the night that is falling / You take my hand in the light of your glory”. Pinceladas de Coldplay y una elocuente harmonía en el coro. “Sing Your Song” es complicada. Comienza con un interludio musical de casi un minuto, lleno de guitarras, resonante tambores, y un subliminal coro tarareado. Pero luego la música se interrumpe con la voz de Henschel y un suave zumbido que nos susurra: “You’re beautiful you blow my mind, I give it all to you tonight”. Por último, el titletrack “Capture Me”, nos encanta con su mágica estructura musical, sus melodías y lírica que le pide a Dios: “Capture me with mercy / Capture me with Grace / Hold my head up softly / To Your arms embrace / You are God in heaven / The only one I seek / You amaze me”. Nos recuerda que Dios ha elegido perseguirnos, antes de que nosotros a Él. Un coro angelical de mil voces concluye esta sinfonía celestial.

Joe Henschel nos captura con esta colección de sorprendentes canciones, con un sonido fresco y honesto que te permite extender tus alas y volar. “Capture Me” posee los elementos perfectos para ser un éxito en las congregaciones y en la adoración contemporánea, capturando almas para el reino celestial.

10 Feb 2010

Paul Ramey - Alright

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Artist: Paul Ramey
Album: Alright
Year: 2009
Label: Tent Creative Group
Website: http://www.paulramey.com (free download of “Alright”)
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/paulrameymusic
Twitter: @rameytime
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store

Paul Ramey is much more than a soloist. He’s a worshiper for over 13 years with the aim of giving the people of God a sublime vision of how He works through our pain. With an acoustic sound, sweet melodies and uplifting lyrics of worship that push you to discover the secrets of the mystery of God. I found Paul in a compilation called ‘Top 20 Indie Worship Artists’ with the song “Wonderful Savior”. The debut album is titled ‘Alright’ and it shows a wide repertoire of pop/rock with influences from Lukas, Matt Brouwer, Lincoln Brewster and an interesting personal touch. The fascinating thing about this album is the perfect synchronization; each song is hooked to the next.  Right choice.

“How Long” is the desire of Christians to witness the second coming of Christ, the promise in which we have placed our faith. The chorus is very reminiscent of Matt Brouwer, the arrangements are well done and the lyrics are defiant: “You said we’d have joy with much tribulation / You said when your story’s reached every nation / You will restore what heaven and earth is for”. The song ends with a organ which blends with the languid and powerful “King Of My Heart” with touches of Evan Wickham, and a surprising melody beneath a delicate piano: “How could I not worship you / Lord my life belongs to you”. Quickly, “He’s A Wonderful Savior” has an air of “Sparks” by Coldplay, and possesses incredible arrangements, unforgettable guitar chords: “He died He lives and reigns over us”. The impulsive “Creation Waits”, (like the first track) is the cry of the church eager for the return of our Savior: “Soon the world will be living in His light / When He returns he will end the night / Once every tribe and every nation knows his story / Finally death will be swallowed up by life / Every eye will see Jesus Christ / Once Every tribe and every nation knows His story” and then proclaim a thousand voices: “Go tell the world, one God will save us”. There’s nothing more exciting to tell the amazing story of salvation. The titletrack “Alright” gives a charming touch to the album, with guitars, xylophones, bells and a melody that could easily sound into a mainstream radio. Sing about our confidence in God, assured that everything will be fine in his arms and that we can surrender to his grace: “It feels like forever since I’ve felt your kindness / I know you surround me, so why is the darkness all I see? / I can’t hear, I don’t feel you, what is wrong with me? / I need to hear the song you’re singing over me”. A string wrapped hugging the atmosphere, and makes way for “Kingdom Of Mystery” which reflects the inexplicable love of God that frees us from sin: ”I belong to this Kingdom of Mystery / Where the greatest wonder is why you have chosen me / To belong to this Kingdom of Mystery / I will always wonder why you have chosen me”. There is a short guitar instrumental that paints on the canvas of worship in which we are. With a soul folk/acoustic, we find “My Father’s World” describing the life we have in Christ, it’s almost like a paradise in spite of adversity. The lyrics refers to Psalm 61:2, when God looks after us in our weakness: “Be at rest of my soul / Even when a sparrow falls the Father knows / His love for you is greater than creation knows”. The penetrating Rhodes and accurate bass on “Shake The Foundations”, which asks God to break the ground, barriers that sin has placed in our hearts: “Come and shake, old Lord, the foundations / Come Reclaim old Lord All the passions of our lives / Send, us Lord, to the nations”, claiming that our heart beats for God. “All Of Me” is a song made proverb: “May my mind have your wisdom / May my eyes see your wonder / May my ears hear your words / May my mouth speak your truth”, rendering our pride and our selfish desires before His throne. Concluding, “Depth of Mercy” softens the mood with Hammond organ, elec pianos and acoustic guitars reminiscent to City and Color. It appears that the same King David whispers a poem/psalm, saying: “Now incline me to repent / Let me now my sins lament / Now my foul revolt deplore / Weep, believe, and sin no more”.

‘Alright’ could be summed up in one word: “Emmanuel - God with us”. The fiery heart of Paul Ramey is reflected in each of these songs, which focus on the glorious return of Jesus Christ and also reminds us that although life can sometimes be unbearable in the end everything will be alright.

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Paul Ramey es mucho más que un solista. Es un adorador por más de 13 años con el propósito de darle al pueblo de Dios una sublime visión de cómo Él trabaja a través de nuestro dolor. Con un sonido acústico, dulces melodías y edificantes letras de adoración que te impulsan a descubrir los secretos del misterio de Dios. Descubrí a Paul en un recopilatorio llamado ‘Top 20 Indie Worship Artists’ con la canción “Wonderful Savior”. El álbum debut se titula ‘Alright’ y desprende un repertorio amplio de pop/rock con influencias de Lukas, Matt Brouwer, Lincoln Brewster y un interesante toque personal. Lo fascinante del álbum es su perfecta sincronización, cada canción está enganchada a la siguiente. Elección acertada.

“How Long” es el deseo de los cristianos por presenciar la segunda venida de Cristo, la promesa en la cual hemos puesto nuestra fe. El coro recuerda mucho de Mat Brouwer, los arreglos están bien hechos y la letra es desafiante: “You said we’d have joy with much tribulation / You said when your story’s reached every nation / You will restore what heaven and earth is for”. La canción concluye con un órgano que se fusiona con la lánguida y potente “King Of My Heart” con toques de Evan Wickham, y una melodía sorprendente ceñida por un delicado piano: “How could I not worship You / Lord my life belongs to You”. Rápidamente, “He’s A Wonderful Savior”, tiene un aire a “Sparks” de Coldplay, y posee unos arreglos increíbles, inolvidables acordes de guitarra: “He died, He lives and reigns over us”. La impulsadora “Creation Waits”, al igual que primer track, es el clamor de la iglesia ansiosa por el regreso de nuestro Salvador: “Soon the world will be living in His light / When He returns he will end the night / Once every tribe and every nation knows his story / Finally death will be swallowed up by life / Every eye will see Jesus Christ / Once Every tribe and every nation knows His story” y luego proclamara a mil voces “Go tell the world, one God will save us”. No hay nada más apasionante que contar la sorprendente historia de salvación. El titletrack “Alright” le da un toque encantador al disco, con guitarras, xilófonos, campanas y una melodía que fácilmente podría sonar en un radio mainstream. Canta sobre la confianza que tenemos en Dios, la seguridad que todo estará bien en sus brazos y que podemos abandonarnos a su gracia: “It feels like forever since I’ve felt your kindness / I know you surround me, so why is the darkness all I see? / I can’t hear, I don’t feel you, what is wrong with me? / I need to hear the song you’re singing over me”. Un abrazador string envuelve la atmósfera, y abre paso a “Kingdom Of Mystery” que expresa el inexplicable amor de Dios que nos libera del pecado: ”I belong to this Kingdom of Mystery / Where the greatest wonder is why you have chosen me / To belong to this Kingdom of Mystery / I will always wonder why you have chosen me”. Hay un corto instrumental de guitarra que pinta en el lienzo de adoración en el que nos encontramos. Con un alma folk/acústica, nos encontramos a “My Father’s World” describe la vida que tenemos en Cristo, que casi parece un paraíso a pesar de la adversidad. La letra hace referencia a Salmo 61:2, cuándo Dios cuida de nosotros en nuestra debilidad: “Be at rest of my soul / Even when a sparrow falls the Father knows / His love for you is greater than creation knows”. Los penetrantes rhodes y el certero bajo en “Shake The Foundations”, que le pide a Dios quebrar los cimientos, las barreras que el pecado ha puesto en nuestros corazones: “Come and shake, old Lord, the foundations / Come Reclaim old Lord All the passions of our lives / Send, us Lord, to the nations”, proclamando que nuestro corazón late por Dios. “All Of Me” es un proverbio hecho canción: “May my mind have your wisdom / May my eyes see your wonder / May my ears hear your words / May my mouth speak your truth”, rindiendo nuestro orgullo y nuestros deseos egoístas ante Su trono. Concluyendo la jornada, “Depth Of Mercy” suaviza el ambiente con órganos hammons, rhodes y guitarras acústicas que recuerdan a City And Colour. Pareciera que el mismo Rey David nos susurrara un poema/salmo al decir: “Now incline me to repent  / Let me now my sins lament / Now my foul revolt deplore / Weep, believe, and sin no more”.

‘Alright’ se podría resumir en una sola palabra: “Emmanuel – Dios con nosotros”. El ardiente corazón de Paul Ramey se refleja en cada una de estas canciones, que se centran en la gloriosa venida de Jesucristo y al mismo tiempo nos recuerda que aunque a veces la vida puede ser insoportable, al final, todo estará bien.

Israel Risco
Rating-Calificación: 2/5 ♥♥

18 Jan 2010

The Access - The Time Has Come

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Artist: The Access
Album: The Time Has Come
Year: 2009
Label: RAW Music Group
Website: http://www.myspace.com/theaccessband
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - CD Baby

The debut of The Access is full of songs that attract the listener into his own purpose and passion in life. Impacting the world with the gifts that God has placed in them, gifts that could have been buried beneath a life of pain, anguish, misery, abuse, divorce, shame and destruction. Having shared the stage with tobyMac, Hawk Nelson, Newsong, Rush of Fools, Britt Nicole, David Crowder Band, Brandon Heath, among others, ‘The Time Has Come’ was recorded with producer MD Thompson’s mission is to affect and inspire a  generation called by God.

The album begins with the tittletrack, an introduction based on guitars, pads and creative pop/rock cuts that open road to the band’s first single, “Pressing On”. It’s a song about our search for an eternal destiny: “Runnin’ around in circles / Lookin’ for a place I can call my own / Is this me or destiny?”. Just like its predecessor, “I Remember When” is getting good reception on the radio from the USA and especially Texas. With piano and a simple melody, expressed the sad heart of God that is trying to remember the good times we had shared together and how we have left him behind, but nevertheless his promise remains faithful. “Goodbye” begins in an atmosphere accompanied by guitars and sweet falsetto, and then quicken the pulse and become a hymn continue our battle on earth. With an acoustic guitar, “Broken” is the story of a girl full of confusions in quiet silence their pain, and seeks salvation in the midst of his complaints: “Redemption’s calling as your falling / I feel what you’re going through / Get on your feet again / This is not the end / There’s still hope for you”. Delicate piano and percussion comfortable join us in “Reflection”, in which we can see that God has always been with us whispering his love, and still continues to love us despite our sins: “I cannot seen to find the reason why you still love me / You accept me with open arms / In the midst of my situation / Lord, you came runnin’ as I was runnin’ for you / I’m finally free”. Our youth are in search of a unique love and hope, “This Generation” reflects the cry of our generation for a new revival. “Still In Love” is very commercial. You can hear claps, and an indie-pop beat highly contagious. It shows the unchanging love of God, which remains the same yesterday, today and forever. With a riff similar to “Wonderwall” by Oasis, but with a positive lyric, “It’s A New Day” encourages us to get up from our fall and depend on God. Continuing with the ballad “Holding On” enhances the confidence we have in the grace of God, while “Waiting On Love” breaks this tranquility to speed with a message based on 1 Corinthians 13, because many times we get tired of all those empty feelings we could find by searching for true love. “Saving Grace” has a beautiful atmosphere, naturalness in the voice of Justin that adds a wonderful mix of string arrangements collected during the crescendo. It makes you remember is typical worship songs or Goo Goo Dolls, but it is impossible to deny that transports you to an atmosphere of intimacy with God. Finally, “The Call” culminates in voices, violins, guitars, and all the elements right for a masterpiece.

The creativity of this album is the best launch for the debut of The Access, a strong band with a definite purpose. “Our passion is to provide a fresh and unique sound to the body of Christ and the world through our music and lyrics. We want our music to be used as a tool to awaken, give life to a sleeping church and light a generation to take action. Music is one of the most powerful tools that can be used to unify diverse groups of people, uniting them in one heart, one mind and one voice”. Soon the band will be bringing us a live album, and that’s more than exciting.

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El debut de The Access está lleno de canciones que atraen al oyente hacia su propio propósito y pasión en la vida; impactando su mundo con los dones que Dios ha puesto en ellos, dones que pudieron haber sido enterrados bajo una vida de dolor, angustia, desgracia, abuso, divorcio, vergüenza y quebrantamiento. Habiendo compartido escenario con tobyMac, Hawk Nelson, Newsong, Rush Of Fools, Britt Nicole, David Crowder Band, Brandon Heath, entre otros; ‘The Time Has Come’ fue grabado con el productor MD Thompson y tiene como misión afectar e inspirar a una generación llamada por Dios.

El álbum comienza con el tittletrack que es una introducción basada en guitarras, pads y creativos cortes de pop/rock que abren camino al primer sencillo de la banda, “Pressing On”. Es una canción sobre nuestra búsqueda por un destino eterno: “Runnin’ around in circles / Lookin’ for a place I can call my own / Is this me or destiny?”. Del mismo modo que su antecesora, “I Remember When” está recibiendo buena acogida en las radios de USA y sobre todo Texas. Con pianos y una melodía simple, nos expresa el triste corazón de Dios que intenta recordarnos los buenos tiempos que pasamos juntos y de cómo lo hemos dejado atrás, pero sin embargo su promesa sigue siendo fiel. “Goodbye” empieza en una atmósfera dulce acompañada de guitarras y falsetes, para luego acelerar el pulso y convertirse en un himno sobre seguir nuestra batalla en la tierra. Con una guitarra acústica, “Broken” es la historia de una muchacha llena de confusiones que calla en silencio su dolor, y que busca salvación en medio de sus querellas: “Redemption’s calling as your falling / I feel what you’re going through / Get on your feet again / This is not the end / There’s still hope for you”. Delicados pianos y una confortable percusión acompañana a “Reflection” que nos hacer ver que Dios siempre ha estado a nuestro lado susurrándonos su amor, y que aun sigue amándonos a pesar de nuestras iniquidades: “I cannot seen to find the reason why you still love me / You accept me with open arms / In the midst of my situation / Lord, you came runnin’ as I was runnin’ for you / I’m finally free”. Nuestra juventud está en búsqueda de un amor inigualable, esperanza y “This Generation” refleja el clamor de nuestra generación por un nuevo avivamiento. “Still In Love” es muy comercial. Puedes oír palmadas, y un beat indie-pop muy contagioso. Nos muestra el inmutable amor de Dios, que sigue siendo el mismo ayer, hoy y siempre. Con un riff similar al de “Wonderwall” de Oasis, pero con una lírica positiva, “It’s A New Day” nos anima a levantarnos de nuestras caídas y depender de Dios. Continuando con las baladas, “Holding On” realza la confianza que debemos tener en la gracia de Dios, mientras que “Waiting On Love” interrumpe esa tranquilidad para apresurar con un mensaje basado en 1 Corintios 13, ya que muchas veces nos cansamos de todos esos sentimientos vacíos que encontramos al buscar el verdadero amor. “Saving Grace” tiene una hermosa atmósfera, naturalidad en la voz de Justin que se suman con una maravillosa mixtura de arreglos de cuerdas reunidos durante el crescendo. Te hace recordar ha típicas canciones de adoración o a Goo Goo Dolls, pero es imposible negar que te transporta a un ambiente de total intimidad con Dios. Finalmente, “The Call” culmina con voces, violines, guitarras, y todos los elementos perfectos para una obra maestra.

La creatividad de este álbum es el mejor despegue para el debut de The Access, una enérgica banda con un propósito bien definido. “Nuestra pasión es brindar un sonido fresco y único al cuerpo de Cristo y al mundo a través de nuestra música y letras. Deseamos que nuestra música sea usada como una herramienta para despertar, dar vida a una iglesia dormida y encender a una generación a tomar acción. La música es una de los instrumentos más poderosos que puede ser utilizado para dar unidad a diversos grupos de personas, uniéndolos en un solo corazón, una mente y una sola voz”. Muy pronto, la banda estará trayéndonos un álbum en vivo, y eso es más que emocionante.

Israel Risco
Rating-Calificación: 2/5 ♥♥

11 Jan 2010

The Gentleman - A Candid History Of Faith, Hope, Love

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Artist: The Gentleman
Album: A Candid History Of Faith, Hope, Love
Year: 2008
Label: The Stereo Tree
Website: http://www.myspace.com/gentlemusic
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Townsend Records - Cross Rythms Store

Now with the signing with The Stereo Tree, the band The Gentleman formed by Nicholas Noble (vocals, piano, guitar), Joel Cana (drums, percussion), Sean Walsh (lead guitar, vocals) and Josh Cana (bass, vocals) are intended for good forecasts. Their influences include bands like Ben Folds, Incubus, Dave Matthews Band, Jeff Buckley cooperating to cement a rock and indie pop with an inventive breakbeat. Through a deafening silence and lyrics that drive you crazy, these guys offer nutritious guitar riffs that carry you with insatiable rhythm shown on their debut album ‘A Candid History Of Faith, Hope And Love’.

The sticky “Push Back” opens the album catching your attention immediately with a loud bass speeds with fast drums and a roaring chorus: “I wanna go wanna go wanna go don’t wanna be push back. Currently this song is the latest single from the album, having added to BBC Radio with great reception. “Unique” is constructed with guitars, falsetto and a clammy funky that asks God to fix us, see his beauty and make the long wait worthwhile. My favorite song is “I’m Not Leaving”. It has an indescribable charm while roaring down his energy in the chorus: “Don’t know if you want me, but I’ll be here anyway / I’ve got a smile to give you, and I’m not leaving till you smile back at me” with a romantic melody and a resounding performance. Creative work on guitar and a defiant lyrical rebels against the values of this era, we find in “Protest Music” which sings: “I wanna know a loving nation / I wanna see a people free / I wanna be a new creation / I wanna hear a symphony / I don’t want pornography all over MTV / And I don’t need a magazine to tell me who to be”. Undoubtedly the most popular song of the band is “Sending Cards”, from the dynamic introduction to the memorable chorus shows the ability of the band through a powerful pop that screams, “I want to tell the truth and hear the truth from you / I want to wait for you but you don’t want me to”. Spectacular. “Fairy Tales” is a metaphor between God and his church, comparing it as a princess who has been overshadowed by his regret and looks for redemption one day. With a hybrid lyrical, “Ecoutez Moi!” seduces with that tireless guitar and an insatiable melody that cries: ”Pour more oil on my fire! / And draw forth! I’ve changed my desire!”. Pianos and violins opens “For Better Or For Worse”, which tells us about the consequences of falling in love with someone, and that can often bring positive results as negative. “Come And Make Me Feel Right” is turned around 360 degrees to the album. Completely naked, Nicholas ‘a cappella’ voice sounds intimate and cozy, proving once and for all, the versatility of his voice: “When I see your shining light / And breathe your freshing air / I know my heart is right / and in your arms I’m home”. On the other hand, “Something You Can’t Regret” breaks the silence with an aggressive guitar riff, and lyrically just homogenous as a poem of disappointment and pain. It is worth noting the excellent instrumental led by a savage guitar and classical piano to deliver more complexity to the song. Finally, with a beat similar to “Unique”, we ran into “Done Me Wrong” which begins with the voice of a girl and talks about mistakes, shame and bitterness.

Increasingly, I am more surprised by how talented are the bands in the UK, and the best proof of this is The Gentlemen. Catchy, quirky, inspiring, full of hope, faith and love makes this album an absolute murderer.

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Ahora con la firma junto a The Stereo Tree, la banda The Gentleman conformada por Nicholas Noble (vocalista, piano, segunda guitarra), Joel Cana (batería, percusión), Sean Walsh (primera guitarra, voces) y Josh Cana (bajo, voces) están destinados a buenos pronósticos. Sus influencias incluyen bandas como Ben Folds, Incubus, Dave Matthews Band, Jeff Buckley, entre otras que cooperan para cimentar un indie pop con rock y un creativo breakbeat. A través de un ensordecedor silencio y letras que te desquiciaran, estos muchachos ofrecen nutritivos riffs de guitarras que te transportan con un ritmo insaciable mostrado en su álbum debut ‘A Candid History Of Faith, Hope And Love’.

El pegajoso “Push Back” apertura el álbum captando tu atención inmediatamente, con un ruidoso bajo que se acelera con la veloz batería y un rugiente coro: “I wanna go wanna go wanna go don’t wanna be push back”. Actualmente esta canción es el más reciente sencillo del álbum, habiéndose agregado a la BBC Radio con gran acogida. “Unique” se construye con guitarras, falsetes y un viscoso funky que le pide a Dios que nos repare, ver su belleza y hacer que la larga espera valga la pena. Mi canción preferida es “I’m Not Leaving”. Tiene un encanto indescriptible sin dejar lado su rugiente energía en el coro: “Don’t know if you want me, but I’ll be here anyway / I’ve got a smile to give you, and I’m not leaving till you smile back at me” con una romántica melodía y una resonante performance. El trabajo creativo en la guitarra y una desafiante lírica que se rebela contra los valores de esta época, encontramos en “Protest Music” que nos canta: “I wanna know a loving nation / I wanna see a people free / I wanna be a new creation / I wanna hear a symphony / I don’t want pornography all over MTV / And I don’t need a magazine to tell me who to be”. Sin duda la canción más conocida de la banda es “Sending Cards”, desde la dinámica introducción hasta el memorable coro nos muestra la habilidad de la banda a través de un poderoso pop que grita: “I want to tell the truth and hear the truth from you / I want to wait for you but you don’t want me to”. Espectacular. “Fairy Tales” es una metáfora entre Dios y su iglesia, comparándola como una princesa que se ha visto opacada por su lamento y que busca un día la redención. Con una híbrida lírica, “Ecoutez Moi!” seduce con aquella guitarra incansable y una melodía insaciable que clama: ”Pour more oil on my fire! / And draw forth! I’ve changed my desire!”. Pianos y violines aperturan a “For Better Or For Worse”, que nos cuenta sobre las consecuencias de enamorarse de alguien, y que muchas veces puede traer resultados positivos como negativos. “Come And Make Me Feel Right” da un giro de 360 grados al álbum. Completamente desnuda, la voz ‘a cappella’ de Nicholas suena íntima y acogedora, demostrando de una vez por todas, la versatilidad de su voz: “When I see your shining light / And breathe your freshing air / I know my heart is right / and in your arms I’m home”. Por otro lado, “Something You Can’t Regret” irrumpe el silencio con un agresivo riff de guitarra, y líricamente igual de homogénea que un poema de decepción y dolor. Cabe resaltar el magnífico instrumental dirigido por una salvaje guitarra y clásicos pianos que le entregan más complejidad a la canción. Finalmente, con un beat similar al de “Unique”, nos topamos con “Done Me Wrong” que se inicia con la voz de una niña y nos habla de errores, vergüenza y amargura.

Cada vez más me sorprendo mas por cuan talentosas son las bandas del Reino Unido, y la mejor prueba de ello es The Gentlemen. Pegajosos, extravagantes, inspiradores, llenos de esperanza, fe y amor hacen de este álbum un asesino absoluto.

Israel Risco
Rating-Calificación: 4/5 ♥♥♥♥

28 Dec 2009

Sleeperstar - To Speak, To Love, To Listen (EP)

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Artist: Sleeperstar
Album: To Speak, To Love, To Listen - EP
Year: 2008
Label: Sleeperstar
Website: http://www.myspace.com/sleeperstar
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Store

Sleeperstar born in July 2007, Dallas (Texas) formed by Chris Pearson (vocals, keyboards, guitars), Nick Box (lead guitar, piano, vocals), Shaun Menary (drums), Brandon Rosas (bass) and Jake Lester (pianos, synthesizers, keyboards and vocals) building an alternative and experimental rock sound similar to The Killers, Muse, U2, Third Eye Blind, Lifehouse, Coldplay. Their debut EP is titled “To Speak, To Love, To Listen” was produced by Ron Aniello (Lifehouse, Guster) and Peer Astrom (Madonna, Celine Dion) and is the prelude to what will be his new album “Just Another Ghost”, which I had the opportunity to hear a new song called “Fallback” and the future of this band is more than assured.

“Disengage” begins with tangible pads and synthesizers, energetic pianos and a dance/pop totally tacky. Talks about an thick love, lacking in passion that needs to be revived: “Everything’s turning to dust all around us / But what if our love is enough to carry us through?”. With a fierce guitar intro and violent drums, “The Journey” is a nostalgic song about love and distance: “If I said that I was wrong / If I wrote you this song / Would it bring you back to me? / And if I said that I had changed / Would you ask me to stay / And rest my head? / And when you see me / Will you know me? Will you love me again?”. The sweet “Texas Rain” takes you to a peaceful atmosphere with piano and a lyric full of melancholy and endearing passion. “Just So You Know” is the song with more spiritual content on the album, and with a pop/rock beat cries out: “When the night, undaunted, hides the way / When you think that you may never see the day / Always know / You’re not alone”. Inspiring. Accelerating the pulse of the album, “Bullseye Trigger” is written to a girl who doesn’t feel the pain she’s causing to poison with her delusions. While “Photos” denotes memories, regards, love letters trying to relieve the pain when we left that to be loved. The hilarious “The Day I Quit My Job” says ironically in the chorus: “Tell you tonight / What I could not say before / ‘Take me somewhere brighter’ / So it’s you, and I tell you tonight / What have I been waiting for?”, and thus concludes the EP.

While Sleeperstar is not the name of some illustrious astrological anomaly, but is the name of a band that has succeeded in blending sounds and shades of U2, Lifehouse, Coldplay and Maroon 5, well it sounds so insane, though with a beat much more melodic and a deep lyrical really passionate about.

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Sleeperstar nace en julio del 2007, en la ciudad de Dallas (Texas) formado por Chris Pearson (vocalista, teclados, guitarras), Nick Box (primera guitarra, pianos, voces), Shaun Menary (batería), Brandon Rosas (bajo) y Jake Lester (pianos, sintetizadores, teclados y voces) construyendo un sonido de rock alternativo y experimental similar al de The Killers, Muse, U2, Third Eye Blind, Lifehouse, Coldplay. Su EP debut es titulado “To Speak, To Love, To Listen” fue producido por Ron Aniello (Lifehouse, Guster) y Peer Astrom (Madonna, Celine Dion); y es la antesala a lo que será su nuevo álbum “Just Another Ghost” del cual he tenido la oportunidad de escuchar una de las nuevas canciones, llamada “Fallback” y el futuro de esta banda está más que asegurado.

“Disengage” se inicia con tangible pads y sintetizadores, enérgicos pianos y un dance/pop totalmente pegajoso. Nos habla sobre un amor apagado, carente de pasión que necesita ser reanimado: “Everything’s turning to dust all around us / But what if our love is enough to carry us through?”. Con una feroz  introducción de guitarra y una violenta batería, “The Journey” es una nostálgica canción sobre el amor y la distancia: “If I said that I was wrong / If I wrote you this song / Would it bring you back to me? / And if I said that I had changed / Would you ask me to stay / And rest my head? / And when you see me / Will you know me? Will you love me again?”. La dulce “Texas Rain” te transporta a una atmósfera apacible con pianos y una lírica llena de melancolía y entrañable pasión. “Just So You Know” es la canción con más contenido espiritual en el álbum, y con un pop/rock nos grita: “When the night, undaunted, hides the way / When you think that you may never see the day / Always know / You’re not alone”. Inspiradora. Acelerando el pulso del disco, “Bullseye Trigger” está escrito a una muchacha que no siente el dolor que está causando al envenenar con sus engaños. Mientras que “Photos” denota recuerdos, memorias, cartas de amor que intentan aliviar el dolor cuando ese ser querido nos deja. La hilarante “The Day I Quit My Job” nos dice irónicamente en el coro: “Tell you tonight / What I could not say before / ‘Take me somewhere brighter’ / So it’s you, and I
tell you tonight  / What have I been waiting for?” y de esta manera concluye el EP.

Si bien Sleeperstar no es el nombre de alguna ilustre anomalía astrológica, pero es el nombre de una banda que ha logrado mezclar sonidos y matices de U2, Lifehouse, Coldplay y Maroon 5, así suene tan desquiciado; aunque con un latido mucho más melódico y una profunda lírica que realmente apasiona.

Israel Risco
Rating-Calificación: 4/5 ♥♥♥♥

28 Dec 2009

Clemency - Vapors

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Artist: Clemency
Album: Vapors
Year: 2008
Label: Clemency
Website: http://www.myspace.com/clemencymusic
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - CD Baby

The songs they write are a reflection of hope, love and the joy we seek, mixed with indie rock, creative melodies and unique musical sounds, interesting and accessible. Clemency consists of Jason Watkins (vocals/guitar), Paul Watkins (bass/bg’s), Whit Stiles (guitars), Jake Goss (drums) and Joe Causey (keyboards and guitars), conquering us with his sophomore album, “Vapors” full of influences from Nada Surf, Death Cab For Cutie, The Wallflowers, Switchfoot, etc. Produced by Brent Milligan (The Elms, tobyMac, Backstreet Boys and Michael W. Smith).

There are more innovative starting than with “Vital Signs”, a slow but steady beat, expressing the feeling we have when we receive Jesus in our lives: “That darkness breaks / I’m wide awake / I’m standing on my feet / The hand that rests on my chest / Can feel my heart beat / Oxygen fills my lungs / I am breathing deep an it’s divine to have vital signs”. Next, “Settled For” captivates with an introduction and a distant chorus that choose to use claps to say: “With every breath I take in / The more I am quite sure / Of the reason I am thinking / There is something more than what we’ve settled for” which reveals that there is more in this life than we expect and there is a purpose far greater than imagined. “Inside” is one of the most outstanding tracks on the tape, and not only has an amazing guitar and bass riff, but the message is as impulsive as his musicality: “You are mine / Don’t you dare let go”. The acoustic sound is present with “What’s To Be Afraid Of”, inspired by Romans 8:38-39, where God reveals us that nothing and nobody can separate us from His love. The first single is “Control”, beginning with an acoustic guitar, a contagious pop/rock and a lyric that surrenders control of our lives to God: “The whole world’s getting heavy to hold / So I’m letting go / The center of the universe is getting old / So I’m giving up control”. Starting with explosive guitars, “Underneath My Skin” reflects the internal change that we have when the love of God permeates our hearts: “You’re underneath my skin / You’re changing who I’ve been / Don’t stop now”. The acoustic folk arrive with “Looking For Love”, reminding us of The Beatles, through the gentle arpeggios, the sweet melodic violins and accordions. “Vapors” talks about the end times and that we are made for eternity, as James 4:14 tells us. Pianos and a complex drum beat brings “Here Comes The King”, which continues the legacy of the previous track but now adding praise to God and strong guitar in a dark and mysterious atmosphere. Finally, “New Beginnings” starts with synth-like “Spaceman” from The Killers, and concludes with a positive message of new beginnings: “On this mess that we’re in / All these stains, all this without / This is not the end / Now we can begin again / His love can help us see that change starts from within / Things do not have to be the way that they have been”.

Christ is the reason why these boys make music, and behind the intelligent lyrics, rhythm, melodies and rock, Clemency have the desire to communicate something more profound and meaningful than any song can express: Good News.

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Las canciones que escriben son una reflexión de la esperanza, el amor y el gozo que buscamos, mezclado con indie rock, melodías creativas y sonidos musicales únicos, interesantes y accesibles. Clemency está formado por Jason Watkins (vocalista y guitarras), Paul Watkins (bajo y voces), Whit Stiles (guitarras), Jake Goss (batería) y Joe Causey (teclados y guitarras); conquistándonos con su segundo álbum “Vapors” repleto de influencias cómo Nada Surf, Death Cab For Cutie, The Wallflowers, Switchfoot, etc. Producido por Brent Milligan (The Elms, tobyMac, Backstreet Boys y Michael W. Smith).

No hay manera más innovadora que empezar con “Vital Signs”, un beat pausado pero seguro, expresando el sentimiento que tenemos cuando recibimos a Jesús en nuestras vidas: “That darkness breaks / I’m wide awake / I’m standing on my feet / The hand that rests on my chest / Can feel my heart beat / Oxygen fills my lungs / I am breathing deep an it’s divine to have vital signs”. Seguidamente, “Settled For” nos cautiva con una distante introducción y un coro que opta por utilizar palmas al decir: “With every breath I take in / The more I am quite sure / Of the reason I am thinking / There is something more than what we’ve settled for” que nos revela que hay mucho más en esta vida de lo que hemos esperamos y que hay un propósito mucho más grande del que imaginamos. “Inside” es una de los tracks más destacados en la grabación, y no solo tiene un sorprendente riff de guitarras y bajos, sino que el mensaje es tan impulsador como su musicalidad: “You are mine / Don’t you dare let go”. El sonido acústico se hace presente con “What’s To Be Afraid Of”, inspirado en Romanos 8:38-39, en dónde Dios nos revela que nada ni nadie podrá separarnos de Su amor. El primer sencillo del álbum es “Control”, empezando con una guitarra acústica, un pop/rock contagioso y una letra que le entrega el control de nuestras vidas a Dios: “The whole world’s getting heavy to hold / So I’m letting go / The center of the universo is getting old / So I’m giving up control”. Empezando con explosivas guitarras, “Underneath My Skin” refleja el cambio interior que tenemos cuando el amor de Dios se impregna en nuestro corazón: “You’re underneath my skin / You’re changing who I’ve been / Don’t stop now”. El folk acústico llega con “Looking For Love”, recordándonos a The Beatles, a través de los dóciles arpegios, los apacibles acordeones y los melodiosos violines. “Vapors” habla sobre el final de los tiempos y que hemos sido hechos para la eternidad, tal y como Santiago 4:14 nos dice. Pianos y un complejo beat en la batería nos trae “Here Comes The King”, que continúa con el legado del track anterior pero ahora agregándole alabanzas a Dios y pujantes guitarras en una atmósfera sombría y misteriosa. Finalmente, “New Beginnings” se inicia con sintetizadores similares a los de “Spaceman” de The Killers, y concluye con un mensaje positivo de nuevos comienzos: “On this mess that we’re in / All these stains, all this sin / This is not the end / Now we can begin again / His love can help us see that change starts from within / Things don’t have to be the way that they have been”.

Cristo representa la razón por la que estos muchachos hacen música; y detrás de las letras inteligentes, el ritmo, las melodías y el rock de Clemency, se encuentra el deseo de comunicar algo mucho más profundo y significativo que cualquier canción puede expresar: Buenas Noticias.

Israel Risco
Rating-Calificación: 3/5 ♥♥♥

18 Dec 2009

Travis Taylor - You Have Loved

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Artist: Travis Taylor
Album: You Have Loved
Year: 2008
Label: Koch Records
Website: http://www.myspace.com/travistaylormusic
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Store

With an interactive mix of congregational worship and songs that plunge into the most personal moments of reflection and devotion, strongly influenced by British rock (from Keane, The Fray, Snow Patrol to Coldplay) and the compositions of Tim Hughes, Matt Redman and Delirious?, acoustic folk with traces of the 70’s. Travis Taylor shows us the desire of his heart through the “You Have Loved”, produced by Dwayne Larring (former guitarist of Sonicflood), a worship album that is artistic, musical and spiritually satisfying.

The album begins with the sublime “Meet You” was written after the birth of Travis’ first son, who thrilled aims to show her the world: “You got me looking in circles / smilling at little angels”. Accelerating the pace, “No One Who Compares” (first radio single), proclaim praise to God through the rumble of guitars and talk about the abundant love of God and our responsibility to give thanks for such great love: “There is no one who could suffice, the wrath of God in sacrifice”.  Starting with a slow strings and acoustic guitar, “Some Will Rise” reveals the multiple ways of expressing worship to God. Radiating irresistible brilliance, “God Of The Redeemed” celebrates the redemptive power of Christ. “Love Divine” was inspired by an old hymn called “Cleanse Me” based on Psalm 139:23: “Search me, O God and know my heart today”. Clear examples of particularly melodic influence, we found in “So Much More”, with glimpses of The Byrds, reflect us wonder at the immensity of God’s goodness. The captivating musical introduction and outline of “Fruit Of Lips” is surprising. This song is about to offer a sacrifice of praise and live in constant devotion (Psalm 19:14 and Hebrews 13:15): “You’re my rock, You’re my heartbeat”. While “He Lives” is an alternate version of “I Know That My Reedermer Lives” with a new chorus. An acoustic ballad quickly catch us “Pictures In My Mind”, who dresses as a piano and heavenly voices, with a very personal lyric. “You Have Loved” highlights how amazing is that Christ has poured out his love in us when we do not really deserve it, came to us when we were dead in our sins, but he gave us life and salvation.

Beyond being a passionate songwriter, Travis Taylor is an impressive combination of impeccable production; arrangements and deep well constructed songs that transcend the stereotypes of mainstream Christian music. He combines a strong musical identity with the heart of a true worshiper.

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Con una mezcla interactiva de adoración congregacional y canciones que se sumergen en los momentos más personales de reflexión y devoción, vigorosamente influenciadas por rock británico (desde Keane, The Fray, Snow Patrol hasta Coldplay) y las composiciones de Tim Hughes, Matt Redman y Delirious?, con huellas de folk acústico de los 70’s. Travis Taylor nos muestra el deseo de su corazón a través de “You Have Loved”, producido por Dwayne Larring (ex guitarrista de Sonicflood), un álbum de adoración que es artístico, musical y espiritualmente satisfactorio.

El disco comienza con la sublime “Meet You”, que fue escrita luego del nacimiento del primer hijo de Travis, quien muy emocionado pretende mostrarle el mundo: “You got me looking in circles / smilling at little angels”. Acelerando el ritmo, “No One Who Compares” (primer sencillo de radio), pregonan alabanza a Dios mediante redobles de guitarras, y hablan sobre la abundante amor de Dios, y nuestra responsabilidad en darle gracias por tan grande amor: “There is no one who could suffice, the wrath of God in sacrifice”. Iniciándose con strings y una pausada guitarra acústica, “Some Will Rise” nos revela las múltiples maneras de expresar adoración a Dios. Irradiando un brillo irresistible, “God Of The Redeemed” celebra el poder redentor de Cristo. “Love Divine” fue inspirada en un antiguo himno llamado “Cleanse Me” basado en Salmos 139:23: “Search me, O God and know my heart today”. Claros ejemplos de de influencia particularmente melódica hallamos en “So Much More”, con retazos de The Byrds, nos reflejan asombro ante la inmensidad y bondad de Dios. La cautivante introducción y esquema musical de “Fruit Of Lips” es sorprendente. Esta canción se trata de ofrecer un sacrificio de alabanza, de vivir en constante devoción (Salmos 19:14 y Hebreos 13:15): “You’re my rock, You’re my heartbeat”. Mientras que “He Lives” es una versión alterna de “I Know That My Reedermer Lives” con un nuevo coro. Una balada acústica nos captura rápidamente con “Pictures In My Mind”, que se viste de pianos y voces celestiales, con una lirica muy personal. “You Have Loved” resalta cuan asombroso es que Cristo haya derramado su amor en nosotros cuando realmente no lo merecíamos, vino a nosotros cuando estábamos muertos en nuestros pecados, pero nos dio vida y salvación.

Más allá de ser un apasionado compositor, Travis Taylor es una impresionante combinación de producción impecables, arreglos bien construidos y profundas canciones que trascienden en los estereotipos de la música cristiana convencional. Él combina una fuerte identidad musical con el corazón de un verdadero adorador.

Israel Risco
Rating-Calificación: 2/5 ♥♥