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5 Feb 2011

Abandon - Control

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Artist: Abandon
Album: Control
Year: 2011
Label: EMI CMG/Forefront
Web: http://www.abandonrock.com
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/abandontx
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/abandon
Twitter: @abandonrock
Sounds Like: The Killers, Coldplay, Above The Golden State, Remedy Drive, The Afters, Waking Ashland, Sanctus Real, Seabird, Delirious?, Anberlin, Acceptance, Mutemath, U2, Switchfoot
Rating: 4/5 ♥♥♥♥

This April 19th, humanity will witness a musical evolution, but above all a spiritual depth. Abandon has been characterized by adding unique elements to what is commonly called alternative rock/pop. Searchlights was about giving hope, an immediate rescue, being in the hands of Christ and do what he tells us. Controlis about losing control, asking God to take control of the situation. It’s about the beauty of not knowing (sometimes) when you will be rescued.

Control also adds fundamental ingredients such as the production of Chris Stevens (tobyMac, Carrie Underwood, Audio Adrenaline) alongside Paul Moak (Seabird, Third Day, Mat Kearney); in addition to the lyric intervention (“SOS” and “Push It Away”) of Aaron Gillespie (Underoath, The Almost) who is about to launch his solo debut.

From the first guitar riffs by Stevan Vela invading the atmosphere with “Feel It In Your Heart” (first single) to the infectious melodies that show a much more uninhibited Josh Engler (vocals). The message of the song tells us that real change happens in a person from the inside out. “There are thousands of voices, thousands of bands trying to sound louder than others, but that sound never affects their souls. It’s about being honest and havng the passion to live or die for what you believe in. It’s about not being part of the noise but tuning our hearts to heaven”, says the band. On the other side “Live It Out” opens with a question: “Is it me, or the walls are closing?”. The chorus (with a touch of The Killers and Coldplay) talks about the urgency of living according to what we speak, to choose to be part of the disease or be the cure for it. “Your Love Goes On” is evidently an AC and CHR radio favorite in. Solid acoustic guitars and pianos that are lightened with a sweet melody, clearly influenced by Tenth Avenue North and Rush Of Fools. The song speaks of a God who is always chasing his creation, even those who feel unworthy for committing many sins. “When we fall, we should run to Him, because it shows maturity as a Christian” believes Engler. The album continues with the pop/rock formula and this is how we come to “Let Go”, which resembles the sound of Waking Ashland. It tells us to rid ourselves of all those things that bind us to not advance as believers. One of my favorite songs is “New Years Day”, with an interesting piano opening that celebrates our freedom from sin: “Dark has turned to light and I will celebrate. All my wrongs made right, everything has changed. My sins have been erased and it feels like new years day”. Then, we find the shameless “Talk To Me”, painted with whistles, rhodes and guitars expressing a cry for God’s direction. Gillespie clearly left noted his influences on “Push It Away”, adding synths in a hymn that encourages believers to never be swayed by the pleasures of this world, no matter if we face ridicule or even persecution, as we noted in “Under Fire”. Another of my favorites is “Why Does It Take So Long”, which opened a series of slow songs, full of inspiration and questions that are answered in the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. “Known” conveys the message of Romans 8:1. There’s no condemnation. Finally, “Hero” epically closes the album, charting the work of Jesus on earth, his miracles, his teachings, his death and resurrection. He was, is and will be the biggest hero of the story.

I’m sure the perfect formula that Control has, lies in its sincerity and transparency. Production has been impeccable. Each arrangement is necessary, from the guitars (Justin Engler and Stevan Vela) to the aggressive rhythms of Bryan Fowler (bass) and Dave Vela (drums). “We’re always reevaluating success for ourselves”, sums up Josh. “We don’t think there are any limits, not in a prideful sense, but with the intention of serving the Creator and wanting Him to use us to impact the world around us”.With this album you can say that Abandon is more than a Christian band that sounds like The Killers.

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Este 19 de abril, la humanidad será testigo de una evolución musical, pero sobre todo de una profundidad espiritual. Abandon se ha caracterizado por agregar elementos únicos a lo que comúnmente llamamos rock/pop alternativo. Searchlights se trató de dar esperanza, de un rescate inmediato, de estar en las manos de Cristo y hacer lo que él nos diga. Control se trata de perder el control, de pedirle a Dios que tome el control de la situación. Se trata de la belleza de a veces no saber cuándo serás rescatado.

Control, también suma ingredientes fundamentales como la producción de Chris Stevens (tobyMac, Carrie Underwood, Audio Adrenaline) junto a Paul Moak (Seabird, Third Day, Mat Kearney), además de la intervención lírica (“S.O.S.” y “Push It Away”) de Aaron Gillespie(Underoath, The Almost) quién está próximo a lanzar su debut como solista.

Desde los primeros riffs de guitarra a cargo Stevan Vela invadiendo la atmósfera con “Feel It In Your Heart” (primer sencillo) hasta las contagiosas melodías que muestran a un Josh Engler (vocalista) mucho más desinhibido. El mensaje de la canción nos dice que el cambio real en una persona ocurre de adentro hacia afuera. “Hay miles de voces, miles de bandas que intentan sonar más fuerte que las otras, pero que nunca afectan sus almas. Se trata de ser honesto y tener la pasión para vivir o morir por lo que crees. Se trata de no ser parte  del ruido sino de afinar nuestros corazones con el cielo”, nos dice la banda. Por otro lado “Live It Out” se apertura con una interrogante: “¿soy yo, o las paredes se están cerrando?”. El coro (con pinceladas de The Killers y Coldplay) nos habla de la urgencia de vivir conforme a lo que hablamos, de elegir ser parte de la enfermedad o ser la cura para ella. “Your Love Goes On” será evidentemente una de las preferidas en las radios AC y CHR. Guitarras acústicas y sólidos pianos que se aligeran con una dulce melodía, claramente influenciada por Tenth Avenue North y Rush Of Fools. La canción nos habla de un Dios que busca constantemente a su creación, incluso a aquellos que se siente indignos por haber cometidos tantos pecados. “Cuando caemos, deberíamos correr hacia Él, ya que eso muestra madurez como cristiano” considera Engler. El álbum continúa con la fórmula pop/rock y es así que nos topamos con “Let Go”, que se asemeja al sonido de Waking Ashland. Nos habla de despojarnos de todas aquellas cosas que nos atan a no avanzar como creyentes. Una de mis canciones preferidas es “New Years Day”, con una apertura interesante de piano que celebra nuestra libertad del pecado: “Dark has turned to light and I will celebrate. All my wrongs made right, everything has changed. My sins have been erased and it feels like new years day”. Por ahí encontramos a la desvergonzada “Talk To Me”, pintada con silbidos, rhodes y guitarras, expresan un clamor por la dirección de Dios. Gillespie claramente deja notar sus influencias en “Push It Away”, agregando sintetizadores en un himno que anima a los creyentes a nunca ser convencidos por los placeres de este mundo, no importa si enfrentamos el ridículo o incluso persecución, como podemos notar en “Under Fire”. Otra de mis preferidas es “Why Does It Take So Long”, que apertura una serie de canciones lentas, llenas de inspiración e interrogantes, que encuentran respuesta en el sacrificio de Jesús en la cruz. “Known” transmite el mensaje de Romanos 8:1. No hay condenación. Finalmente, “Hero” cierra de manera épica el álbum, graficando la obra de Jesús en la tierra, sus milagros, sus enseñanzas, su muerte y resurrección. Él fue, es y será el mayor héroe de la historia.

Estoy seguro que la fórmula perfecta que Control posee, radica en su sinceridad, en su transparencia. La producción ha quedado impecable. Cada arreglo es preciso, desde las guitarras (Stevan Vela y Justin Engler) hasta el agresivo ritmo de Bryan Fowler (bajo) y Dave Vela (batería). “Siempre estamos evaluando el éxito en nosotros”, agrega Josh. “No creo que haya límites, no en un sentido orgulloso, sino con la intención de servir al creador y querer que Él nos use para impactar el mundo que nos rodea”. Con este álbum podrás decir que Abandon es más que una banda cristiana que suena como The Killers.

25 Mar 2010

Miriam Webster - Made Me Glad

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Artist: Miriam Webster
Album: Made Me Glad
Year: 2010
Label: Kingsway Music/EMI CMG
Website: http://www.miriamwebster.com.au/
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store
Sounds Like: Darlene Zschech, Hillsong Australia, Alvin Slaughter, New Breed, Don Moen, Martin Smith, Sandi Patty, Vicky Beeching
Rating: 3/5 ♥♥♥

Probably hearing the name Miriam Webster, your brain quickly associates it with Hillsong Australia. Thus, this worship leader, singer and songwriter is about to launch “Made Me Glad”, compiling the best songs of her career and also adding new compositions. Produced by John Hartley, this album reflects the passion for the Church and God’s people in songs to help listeners to connect with the Heavenly Father.

“Mercies” opens the album with the hopeful promise that God will always hear our prayers and that his grace is renewed every morning (Lamentations 3:23). Then the sublime “Angel Of The Lord” is inspired by Psalm 91, reminding us that while we pray and confess that the Angel of the Lord is all around us, we started a spiritual war: “Surely the Angel of the Lord is around me / I have no cause to fear, my God will not forsake me / I am my Father’s child, no enemy can touch me / I will not die but live to tell what He has done”. The disc also includes a masterly duet with acclaimed worship leader from Hillsong, the passionate Darlene Zschech in the inspirational “Loving Kindness”, which exalts the great goodness of our Father when he picked up us from sin and brought us to his presence. The celebration and joy comes with “Praise Him”, co-written Simeon Webster (Miriam’s brother) with dynamic pop guitar that glorifies the wonders of God. Undoubtedly the Webster’s most famous song is titletrack “Made Me Glad” which brings the perspective of the magnitude album: “One day I was speaking some words of praise to God and said, ‘You have made me glad’. It’s like He grabbed those words and praise rose up within me. He revealed to me freshly that day that it doesn’t matter where I am - in a beautiful hotel or the opposite - Jesus is the One who makes me glad, and my joy is found in Him” shares Miriam. The intimate and beautiful “Draw Near” sings that being in the presence of God, everything else disappears, all the words fade away and what we gained is worthless compared to Jesus. Simeon wrote “Peace” with the motion of the tranquility, the peace that God gives us to receive His grace: “He delivers me, sets my feet on a rock / Gives me beauty for ashes / I’ll sing a new song of His loving kindness / His unfailing grace / What a merciful Saviour / My heart will respond” and then declares total dependence on the sweet statement: “I need You Holy Spirit“. The whispering rhodes and violins embrace the delicate “Marvelous” declaring that Jesus is the only one worthy of all glory, for the work he has done on the cross to bear our sins and deliver us with His blood. “Greater” encourages us to not fear or faint in adversity, because the name of Jesus appeases the storms. The sweet piano and sublime strings consume “Fall Upon Your Knees” that invites us to cry out to our Creator when our spirit is wounded and our hearts are full of sorrow: “He gives strength to the weary / He gives power to the weak / When you go to Him in secret / And lay surrendered at His feet”.

Kingsway Music surprises us once again with the quality and uniqueness of their releases and artists, and Miriam Webster is added this list. Whether singing or speaking, Miriam is known to bring the liberty of Christ to people through worship and the Word of God; her new album “Made Me Glad” is perfect for an intimate and powerful time of worship for those weeks of weakness.

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Probablemente al oír el nombre Miriam Webster, tu cerebro rápidamente lo asocie a Hillsong Australia. Así es, esta líder de alabanza, cantante y compositora está próxima a lanzar “Made Me Glad”, recopilando las mejores canciones de su carrera y agregando también nuevas composiciones. Producido por John Hartley, este álbum refleja la pasión por la Iglesia y el pueblo de Dios en canciones que ayudan a sus oyentes conectarse con el Padre Celestial.

“Mercies” apertura el álbum con la esperanzadora promesa de que Dios siempre oirá nuestras oraciones y que su gracia se renueva cada mañana (Lamentaciones 3:23). Seguidamente la sublime “Angel Of The Lord” se inspira en el Salmo 91, para recordarnos que al orar y confesar que el Ángel del Señor está a nuestro alrededor, iniciamos una guerra espiritual: “Surely the Angel of the Lord is around me / I have no cause to fear, my God will not forsake me / I am my Father’s child, no enemy can touch me / I will not die but live to tell what He has done”.  El disco también incluye un magistral dúo con la aclamada líder de alabanza de Hillsong, la apasionada Darlene Zschech en la inspiradora “Loving Kindness”, que exalta la inmensa bondad de nuestro Padre al levantarnos del pecado y llevarnos a su presencia. La celebración y júbilo llega con “Praise Him”, co-escrita Simeon Webster (hermano de Miriam) con dinámicas guitarras pop que glorifican las maravillas de Dios. Sin duda la canción más conocida de Webster es el titletrack “Made Me Glad” que reúne la perspectiva del álbum en magnitud: “Un día estaba hablando algunas palabras de alabanza a Dios y dije, ‘Me has hecho feliz’. Es como si Él hubiera grabado aquellas palabras y alabanzas, y me reveló que no importa dónde esté – en un hermoso hotel o en todo lo contrario – Jesús es el único que me hace feliz, y my alegría se encuentra en Él” nos comparte Miriam. La íntima y hermosa “Draw Near” nos canta que al estar en la presencia de Dios, todas las demás cosas desaparecen, todas las palabras sobrado y lo que hemos ganado no tiene valor comparado a Jesús. Simeon compuso “Peace” con la moción de la tranquilidad, la paz que Dios nos da al recibir su gracia: “He delivers me, sets my feet on a rock / Gives me beauty for ashes / I’ll sing a new song of His loving kindness / His unfailing grace / What a merciful Saviour / My heart will respond” y luego declara total dependencia en la dulce declaración: “I need You Holy Spirit”. Los susurrantes rhodes y los delicados violines abrazan “Marvelous” declarando que Jesús es el único digno de toda gloria, por la obra hecha en la cruz al cargar nuestros pecados y liberarnos con su sangre. “Greater” nos anima a no temer, ni desmayar ante la adversidad, porque al nombrar el nombre de Jesús las tormentas se apaciguan. Los dulces pianos y las sublimes cuerdas consumen “Fall Upon Your Knees” que nos invita a clamar a nuestro Creador cuando nuestro espíritu esté herido y nuestro corazón lleno de dolor: “He gives strength to the weary / He gives power to the weak / When you go to Him in secret / And lay surrendered at His feet”.

 Kingsway Music una vez más nos sorprende con la calidad y la peculiaridad de sus lanzamientos y artistas, y a esta lista se le agrega Miriam Webster. Ya se cantando o hablando, Miriam es conocida por brindar la libertad de Cristo a la gente a través de la adoración y la Palabra de Dios, y su nuevo álbum “Made Me Glad” es perfecta para un tiempo íntimo y poderoso de adoración para aquellas semanadas de debilidad.

2 Mar 2010

Robbie Seay Band - Miracle

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Artist: Robbie Seay Band
Album: Miracle
Year: 2010
Label: Sparrow Records/EMI CMG
Website: http://www.robbieseayband.com/home/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/reubenbidez
Twitter: @robbieseay
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store
Sounds Like: Brandon Heath, Peter Gabriel, Chris Tomlin, David Crowder Band, Tim Hughes, Bryan Adams, Keane, Travis, Coldplay, Delirious?
Rating: 4/5 ♥♥♥♥

The maturity that “Miracle” shows in the career of Robbie Seay Band is very evident. His albums have always been witness to the faithfulness of God, of our humanity and how both are intertwined in our lives. Produced by Robbie Seay and Tedd T (tobyMac, Mute Math, David Crowder Band), with some help from Dan Muckala (Brandon Heath, The Afters) and Matt Bronleewe (Chris Tomlin, Leeland), this new album continues walking along the atmospheric music edge, and offering unforgettable, honest lyrics from the heart embedded in the context of our community.

“Love Invades” opens with a compelling guitar riff reminiscent of U2, and sings about how the strength and wonder of God’s love can be shown in different ways, both in nature and people, feelings, pain: “Here we go, here we go / We believe it / Here we go / Raise your voice now, and sing it / For love, for love / We will praise / Oh, here we go / For the hope / We believe it / Here we go / All we know is to sing it / For love, for love / We will praise”. With similarities to the hit “Song Of Hope”, the second and current single “Awaken My Soul” is inspired by the story of the prodigal son. God expects us not only with forgiveness, He pursues us, “Oh God, Your rescue follows close / I have run as far has anyone could go / But Your love is calling me, love / Overwhelming, Your love / There’s no stopping it now”. I love the tune changes the song flirts. “Kingdom And A King” seeks to intensify our true mission as Church. The kingdom of God calls us to serve, give, love and pray: “For the kingdom and the King / For His glory we will sing / For the rescue of our souls / He has come / For the kingdom and the cross / Oh, the triumph and the loss / Love has broken through and now redeemed / For the kingdom and the King”. An instrument exit that shakes out and leaves you thinking about the message above. The passionate sequenced synths and drums on “Crazy Love” are wonderful. The lyric captivates with the message of second chances and forgiveness. “Restart your love / My heart, it’s all been saved for you / Oh, for you / Well it’s all been saved / It’s all been saved for you”, the bridge shows us the meaning of the song, that God can save a crazy love and bring together what has been lost. The first single “Miracle” is inspired by a true story. It is the fervent cry when you’re in the depths of life, when you need just to believe: “When the whole world seems to turn its back on me / All alone out on the sea / I need a miracle / When life don’t see seem to make sense at all / I believe You hear me when I call / I need a miracle”. Melodically resembles “Better Days” but with more acoustic features, adding pianos and greater intensity in the violins and guitars. “Your Love Is Strong” is a cover of the famous song by Jon Foreman, with an impassioned performance that follows worship. “Let Our Faith Be Not Alone” continues with the aim of spreading faith and hope. Quickly becomes a prayer for our church, which reminds us the history of our faith, the martyrs and saints, the thousands of years the church has shared the gospel and the good news, the reform: “Let our faith be not alone / May our hearts be not of stone / Give us souls that never close / To the grace that You bestow”. The sublime “We Are Not Alone” was written with Mia Fields (Hillsong United) and Taylor Johnson. Strong influences from Brandon Heath, with a message of unity and redemption. Robbie’s voice becomes the protagonist in “Long Way Home” with falsetto tones and incredible chords change. Written for those marriages in trouble, and reminding us that the decision to love and to admit our mistakes to God and our spouses, are moments that define the well-being or misery of our relationship. Breanne Duren (Owl City) makes his starring appearance in “Lament (We Cannot Wait)” with a breathy, gentle voice that reminds us of the intimate and desperate psalms of David the King. Today, earthquakes, disasters, famine, poverty makes us turn to God, back to the only hope in times of grief and pain. “Oh Love That Will Not Let Me Go” is a modern adaptation of the classic hymn. With the participation of Audrey Assad, new member of Sparrow Records who sings powerful statements on the security of love and salvation of God: “Rejoice my heart / Rejoice my soul / My Savior God has come to Thee / Rejoice my heart / You’ve been made whole / By a love that will not let me go”.

“Miracle” is as honest as previous albums, with compositions written on a lonely road or on a heartbroken evening at home. Robbie Seay Band has songs that reflect a deep and transparent look of life, in moments of hope, fear, joy and sadness.

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La madurez que “Miracle” nos muestra en la carrera de Robbie Seay Band es notablemente evidente. Sus álbumes siempre han sido testimonios de la fidelidad de Dios, de nuestra humanidad y como ambas se entrelazan en nuestras vidas. Producido por Robbie Seay y Tedd T (tobyMac, Mute Math, David Crowder Band), con algo de ayuda de Dan Muckala (Brandon Heath, The Afters) y Matt Bronleewe (Chris Tomlin, Leeland), esté nuevo álbum prosigue caminando al borde atmosférico musical, y ofreciendo inolvidables, honestas letras del corazón integradas en el contexto de nuestro comunidad.

“Love Invades” se inicia con un atrayente riff de guitarra que recuerda a U2, y que canta sobre cómo la fuerza y la maravilla del amor de Dios se muestra en diferentes maneras, tanto en la naturaleza cómo en la gente, en los sentimientos, en el dolor: “Here we go, here we go / We believe it / Here we go / Raise your voice now, and sing it / For love, for love / We will praise / Oh, here we go / For the hope / We believe it / Here we go / All we know is to sing it / For love, for love / We will praise”. Con semejanzas a la exitosa “Song Of Hope”, el segundo y actual sencillo “Awaken My Soul” se inspira en la historia del hijo pródigo. Dios no sólo nos espera con perdón, Él nos persigue: “Oh God, Your rescue follows close / I have run as far has anyone could go / But Your love is calling me, love / Overwhelming, Your love / There’s no stopping it now”. Me encantan los cambios de tonalidad con los que la canción coquetea. “Kingdom And A King” busca intensificar nuestra verdadera misión como Iglesia. El reino de Dios nos llama a servir, dar, amar y orar: “For the kingdom and the King / For His glory we will sing / For the rescue of our souls / He has come / For the kingdom and the cross / Oh, the triumph and the loss / Love has broken through and now redeemed / For the kingdom and the King”. Una salida instrumental que estremece y te deja pensando en el mensaje expuesto. Los apasionados sintetizadores y la secuenciada batería en “Crazy Love” son maravillosos. La letra nos cautiva con el mensaje de segundas oportunidades y perdón. “Restart your love / My heart, it’s all been saved for you / Oh, for you / Well it’s all been saved / It’s all been saved for you”, este estribillo nos muestra el significado de la canción, que Dios puede salvar un amor loco y reunir lo que se ha perdido. El primer sencillo “Miracle” está inspirado en una historia real. Es el ferviente clamor cuando estás en lo más profundo de la vida, cuándo necesitas solamente creer: “When the whole world seems to turn its back on me / All alone out on the sea / I need a miracle / When life don’t see seem to make sense at all / I believe You hear me when I call / I need a miracle”. Melódicamente se asemeja a “Better Days” pero con rasgos más acústicos, agregándole más pianos y mayor intensidad en los violines y guitarras. “Your Love Is Strong” es un cover de la famosa canción de Jon Foreman, con una apasionada interpretación que desprende adoración. “Let Our Faith Be Not Alone” continúa con el propósito de difundir fe y esperanza. Rápidamente se convierte en una oración para la nuestra iglesia, que nos recuerda la historia de nuestra fe, los mártires y los santos, los miles de años que la Iglesia ha compartido el evangelio y las buenas nuevas, la reforma: “Let our faith be not alone / May our hearts be not of stone / Give us souls that never close / To the grace that You bestow”. La sublime “We Are Not Alone” fue escrita junto a Mia Fields (Hillsong United) y Taylor Johnson. Fuertes influencias de Brandon Heath, con un mensaje de unidad y redención. La voz de Robbie toma el protagonismo en “Long Way Home”, con falsetes y cambios increíbles de tonalidad. Escrita para aquellos matrimonios en problemas, y recordándonos que las decisiones al amar y confesar nuestros errores ante Dios y nuestro cónyuge son momentos que definen el bienestar o desventura de nuestra relación. Breanne Duren (Owl City) hace su aparición estelar en “Lament (We Cannot Wait)”, con una susurrante y dulce voz que nos recuerda los íntimos y desesperados salmos del Rey David. Hoy en día los terremotos, los desastres, el hambre, la pobreza nos hacen volvernos a Dios, volver a la única esperanza en tiempos de aflicción y dolor. “Oh Love That Will Not Let Me Go” es una adaptación moderna del clásico himno. Cuenta con la participación de Audrey Assad, la nueva integrante de Sparrow Records que nos canta poderosos testimonios sobre la seguridad del amor y la salvación de Dios: “Rejoice my heart / Rejoice my soul / My Savior God has come to Thee / Rejoice my heart / You’ve been made whole / By a love that will not let me go”.

“Miracle” sigue siendo tan honesta como álbumes anteriores, con composiciones escritas en una solitaria carretera o en una acongojada tarde en casa. Robbie Seay Band posee canciones que reflejan una mirada profunda y transparente de la vida, en momentos de esperanza, temor, gozo y tristeza.

2 Mar 2010

Project 86 - Picket Fence Cartel

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Artist: Project 86
Album: Picket Fence Cartel
Year: 2009
Label: Tooth & Nail Records
Website: http://project86.com/portal.html
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/project86
Twitter: @project86band
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store
Sounds Like: Blindside, Dead Poetic, The Offspring, Deftones, Static-X, Marilyn Manson, Korn, Limp Bizkit, Rage Against the Machine, Sepultura, Led Zeppelin, Metallica, The Cure
Rating: 4/5 ♥♥♥♥

Who do you belong to? It’s the question Project 86 makes us on this new album “Picket Fence Cartel”. We all know that this band has a very particular sound, whether for Andrew Schwab’s wild voice, or Steven Dail’s resounding slaps (bass) and Randy Thompson’s roaring guitars, there’s always good reasons for each murdered album sounds great. It paints pictures and stories about the importance of seek beneath the surface. In addition it plotted how the power can corrupt even the purest heart, especially in the field of fame and that our souls are at stake. Produced by the genius Jason Martin (Starflyer 59, The Brothers Martin, Bon Voyage, Neon Horse), Ulrich Wild (Seether, Alice In Chains, Bon Jovi, Showbread) and by the same members of the band, so the result is wildly nice.

The album begins with “Destroyer” in a brutal crescendo that blends into the crunchy guitars, languid electronic accents that recalls Marilyn Manson: “Ready yourself for the end / Ready yourself because you cannot pretend / Ready yourself for the late, for the great / The Destroyer’s surrounded and cannot defend”. It has an atmosphere that burns slowly toward the apocalypse, as if Christ is condemning Satan while the Church echoes this sentiment. “The Butcher” (second single) tells the story of a man who threatens to kill Andrew with a knife, who never backs out: “Because there is no weapon / There is no blade / You wonder why I’m not afraid?  / I’ve erased all of my fear of the grave / You’ll never kill him that lives inside of me”. This reminds us that the Holy Spirit’s power can defeat any enemy and gives us the unwavering courage in the spiritual pursuit. The energy is concentrated in “The Spectacle Of Fearsome Acts” that sings about the shy chance to live this life and the consequences that our actions cause: “When evil rears its head, it’s life and death / Like david sowed his seed and his family bled”. Disturbing pianos and guitars that bleed through biblical figures like David and the destruction that he took for his sins. The first single from the album “Dark Angel Dragnet” percolates with drums, synths, powerful guitar riffs, addictive chorus and a devastating lyric: “Cancel my ticket booked to fire / Choirs of angels sing my name / Machete to that destination / New Destiny will curse the flame”. It screams the devil on doomsday, when he is being captured and ironically we shouted: “Enjoy those sips of sour poison / While I sit back and watch it rain”. The predominance of punk sentiment drums and guitars fuse in “Cold And Calculated” which recalls the sleepless nights that sin and the consciousness has made us live: “There is a reason you cannot sleep / You found the wages you’ve sown in greed / There is no solace in what you seek / You found that although you have gained it all you had to sacrifice”. This formula is reminiscent of Static-X and Marilyn Manson, but curiously in the final seconds the pulse gets down to give us a kick in the face with that unexpected departure. “Cement Shoes” opens with a simple guitar that slowly leads us to an alarming chorus: “ “Desperate / We will proclaim / That on our knees / We’re not ashamed / So we bow it to / Kneel before you / Just like a child here I’m not ashamed / No, we’re not ashamed”. Stickily nice tune that focuses on the power of Christ that holds us, but we also can be condemn. With dark synths “A John Hancock With The Safety Off” reminds us of the chaos that exists in media, but despite all this anguish and anger is replaced by our hope in Christ: “Cure the radio / Cure the airwaves / Cure the video / Cure the satellites”. Melodic and lyrically reminiscent of Mudvayne and System Of A Down. Once again the heartbeat of the album increases with “Two Glass Eyes”, whose main theme is about not being drawn by the charms of the world and cries out to God for his rescue, like a psalm: “Rescue me / Separate my desires / Capture these wicked men and release  my mind”. Punk trying to flirt with the guitar riff in a devastating heavy metal, which progresses to “Cyclonus”. Inspired by Ephesians 6, in a hypnotic, poisonous, sinister smile and a distorted terrifying voice Andrew gives us singing: “Devastator / Complicator / Bringer of pain / Why won’t you fly away?”. With a more commercial sense, “The Black Brigade” is a beautiful picture of Schwab’s repentance: “Straining on to run without remorse / Casting off mistakes that came before / In my mind I see a hallowed door / Open arm embrace, I’m reaching for”. The guitars seem to exploit and the background vocals are almost unforgettable. Finally, “To Sand We Return” is the perfect ending for this album. With an epic acoustic intermediate that reminds us of God’s sovereignty, and the obsolete humanity apart from God: “Who do I belong to? / Unchanging / Unbreaking / Unfailing / Creator / Immortal / Eternal”. With all the pleasures of this world, only a rock remains being constant and unchanging, Jesus Christ.

It has been over 7 years, but Project 86 stills conquering us with his energy and raw honesty. Tooth & Nail, as we do, doesn’t get tired of supporting this amazing band. “Picket Fence Cartel” and its 11 songs, explore the spiritual aspects that the band had never covered. In conclusion, the veteran rock band knows what he does, and this time gives us a strong emotion and dynamics fragrant with a message of redemption that will impress old and new fans.

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¿A Quién le perteneces? Es la pregunta que nos hace Project 86 en este nuevo álbum “Picket Frence Cartel”. Todos sabemos que esta banda tiene un sonido muy particular, ya sea por la salvaje voz de Andrew Schwab (vocalista), o los retumbantes slaps de Steven Dail (bajo) y las rugientes guitarras de Randy Torres, siempre hay motivos de sobra para que cada disco suena asesinamente bien. Nos pinta imágenes e historias acerca de la importancia de mirar debajo de la superficie. Además nos grafica como el poder puede corromper incluso el corazón más puro, especialmente en el ámbito de la fama y entonces nuestras almas están en juego. Producido por los genios Jason Martin (Starflyer 59, The Brothers Martin, Bon Voyage, Neon Horse), Ulrich Wild (Seether, Alice In Chains, Bon Jovi, Showbread) y por los mismos integrantes de la banda, así que el resultado es furiosamente agradable.

El álbum comienza con “Destroyer”, en un brutal crescendo que se confunde entre las crujientes guitarras, lánguidos acentos electrónicos que recuerdan a Marilyn Manson: “Ready yourself for the end / Ready yourself cause you cannot pretend / Ready yourself for the late, for the great / The Destroyer’s surrounded and cannot defend”. Tiene una atmósfera que se quema lentamente hacia el apocalipsis, como si Cristo le diera condena a Satán mientras que la Iglesia hace eco de este sentimiento. “The Butcher” (segundo sencillo) nos cuenta la historia de un hombre que amenaza matar a Andrew con un chuchillo, quién nunca se echa atrás: “Because there is no weapon / There is no blade / You wonder why I’m not afraid?  / I’ve erased all of my fear of the grave / You’ll never kill him that lives inside of me”. Esto nos recuerda que la fuerza del Espíritu Santo puede vencer a cualquier enemigo y nos da el inquebrantable coraje frente a la persecución espiritual. La energía se concentra con “The Spectacle Of Fearsome Acts” que canta acerca de la escasa oportunidad de vivir esta vida y las consecuencias que nuestros actos provocan: “When evil rears its head, it’s life and death / Like david sowed his seed and his family bled”. Inquietantes pianos y guitarras que sangran a través de figuras bíblicas como David y la destrucción que tuvo por sus pecados. El primer sencillo del álbum “Dark Angel Dragnet” se infiltra con tambores, sintetizadores, riffs poderosos de guitarra, un coro adictivo y una lírica arrasadora: “Cancel my ticket booked to fire / Choirs of angels sing my name / Machete to that destination / New Destiny will curse the flame”. Es un grito al diablo en el día del juicio final, cuando éste está siendo apresado e irónicamente le vociferamos: “Enjoy those sips of sour poison / While I sit back and watch it rain”. El predominio de tambores, y guitarras con sentimiento punk se fusionan en “Cold And Calculated” que nos recuerda las noches de insomnio que el pecado y la conciencia nos ha hecho vivir: “There is a reason you cannot sleep / You found the wages you’ve sown in greed / There is no solace in what you seek / You found that although you have gained it all you had to sacrifice”. Esta fórmula nos recuerda a Static-X o Marilyn Manson, pero curiosamente en los últimos segundos el pulso desciende para darnos una patada en el rostro con aquella inesperada despedida. “Cement Shoes” se abre con una simple guitarra que lentamente nos conduce hacia alarmante coro: “Desperate / We will proclaim / That on our knees / We’re not ashamed / So we bow it to / Kneel before you / Just like a child here I’m not ashamed / No, we’re not ashamed”. Pegajosamente agradable melodía que se centra en el poder de Cristo que nos sostiene, pero que también nos puede condenar. Con oscuros sintetizadores “A John Hancock With The Safety Off” nos recuerda el caos que existe en los medios de la comunicación, pero a pesar de toda esta angustia y enojo se sustituye por nuestra esperanza en Cristo: “Cure the radio / Cure the airwaves / Cure the video / Cure the satellites”. Melódica y líricamente nos recuerda a Mudvayne y System Of A Down. Una vez más el palpitar del álbum se incrementa con “Two Glass Eyes”, cuyo tema principal es no ser arrastrados por los encantos del mundo y grita a Dios por su rescate, tal y como un salmo lo haría: “Rescue me / Separate my desires / Capture these wicked men and release  my mind”. Punk que intenta coquetear con el riff de guitarra en un devastador heavy metal, que progresa hasta llegar a “Cyclonus”. Inspirada en Efesios 6, en una hipnótica, venenosa, siniestra sonrisa y una aterradora distorsionada voz que Andrew nos emite al cantar: “Devastator / Complicator / Bringer of pain / Why won’t you fly away?”. Con un sentimiento más comercial, “The Black Brigade” es una hermosa imagen de Schwab arrepintiéndose: “Straining on to run without remorse / Casting off mistakes that came before / In my mind I see a hallowed door / Open arm embrace, I’m reaching for”. Las guitarras parecen querer explotar, y las voces de fondo son casi inolvidables. Finalmente, “To Sand We Return” es el desenlace perfecto para este álbum. Con un épico intermedio acústico que nos recuerda la soberanía de Dios, y la obsoleta humanidad separada de Dios: “Who do I belong to? / Unchanging / Unbreaking / Unfailing / Creator / Immortal / Eternal”. Con todos los placeres de este mundo, sólo una roca sigue siendo constante e invariable, Jesucristo.

Han pasado más de 7 años, pero Project 86 sigue conquistándonos con su energía y su cruda honestidad. Tooth & Nail, al igual que nosotros, no se cansa de apoyar a esta sorprendente banda. “Picket Fence Cartel” y sus 11 canciones exploran aspectos espirituales que la banda nunca había abarcado. En conclusión, la veterana banda sabe lo que hace, y esta vez nos ofrece una emoción intensa y dinámica embalsamada de un mensaje de redención que impresionarán a viejos y nuevos seguidores.

Blindside, Dead Poetic, The Offspring, Deftones, Static-X, Marilyn Manson, Korn, Limp Bizkit, Rage Against the Machine, Sepultura, Led Zeppelin, Metallica, The Cure.

27 Feb 2010

Sanctus Real - Pieces Of A Real Heart

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Artist: Sanctus Real
Album: Pieces Of A Real Heart
Year: 2010
Label: Sparrow Records/EMI CMG
Website: http://sanctusreal.com/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/sanctusreal
Twitter: @Sanctus_real
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store
Sounds Like: U2, Switchfoot, Foo Fighters, Jimmy Eat World
Rating: 5/5 ♥♥♥♥♥

When I first heard “Forgiven” last year, I said: “This is gonna be a very good album”. Fortunately I was right. Sanctus Real has earned itself an important place in the Christian market, with striking songs like “I’m Not Alright”, “Don’t Give Up” and “We Need Each Other” with which they received a Grammy nomination for best album gospel of the year. Anyway, this year “Pieces Of A Real Heart” preserves the essence of the band, but it incorporates a diverse instrumentation and musicality. Also shows flashes of joy and harrowing struggles these guys have experienced, in a refreshing level of honesty and unwavering commitment to think over their listeners with inspirational and above all, real songs. Working with renowned producers Chris Steven (tobyMac, Matthew West), Jason Ingram (Bebo Norman, Tenth Avenue North) and Rusty Varenkamp (Leeland, David Crowder Band, Mute Math), this album is the result of maturity and growth as composers, musicians and Christians.

“Forgiven” (first single) examines the theme of forgiveness in a simple and deep way. “The work of forgiveness is the key of our growth and maturity as disciples of Jesus” says frontman Matt Hammitt. It is a declaration of faith with open arms to receive the grace of God, through sweet vocals and a wise banjo: ““In this life, I know what I’ve been / But here in Your arms, I know what I am / I’m forgiven / And I don’t have to carry the weight of who I’ve been / ‘Cause I’m forgiven”. The impulsive “These Things Take Time” encourages us to remain persevering in our prayers, because God never fails his promise. The clean guitar and the dynamic melody stated us: “And I’m wondering why / Sometimes the truth ain’t easy to find / I want to know all the answers / But I’m learning that these things take time/ Yeah, these things take time”. There are moments when hope gets out of hand and doubt invades our hearts, that’s when our confidence embraces our faith in God, it tells us “The Way The World Turns” which has a thousand voices declaring: “Oh, it’s the way the world turns / Oh, and I keep on turning to You”. Predicted as the second single, “Lead Me” is inspired by the request of Sarah (Matt’s) to her husband and begs him to be a better spiritual leader in their marriage and with their children: “Lead me with strong hands / Stand up when I can’t / Don’t leave me hungry for love, chasing dreams / But what about us / Show me you’re willing to fight / That I’m still the love of your life / I know we call this our home / But I still feel alone”. One of my favorite tracks (if not the best) is “The Redeemer”, which reminds us that God unconditionally really has our hopes and dreams in his power, in his hands. With an incredible chorus, perfect harmonies and one of the best performances that Hammitt could show us: “But I’m still a dreamer, a believer / Oh, I’ve lost my faith in so many things, but I still believe in You / ‘Cause You can make anything new”. The album speeds up your pulse with “Take Over Me”, with a powerful guitar intro reminiscent Anberlin or Stellar Kart, and a message of holiness and surrender to God: “I want You to take over me / Oh, I want You to take over me / I don’t want to be part of the resistance / I want to be part of the release / So I want You to take over me”. The acoustic plucking becomes a formidable electric guitar on “I Want To Get Lost”, is the cry of our heart trying to caught in our lies, and we want to escape but we can’t. With an interesting and unpredictable chorus that says: “So I want to get lost, I want to get lost in Your arms / I want to get lost and lose my way into Your heart / ‘Cause there’s so many voices telling me how to get lost in this life / So right now, I want to get lost in You before I lose myself”. Electric pianos open “‘Til I Got To Know You”. Is infectious, relaxing, and talk about insecurities and questions that we as Christians have about the incomprehensible grace of God: “‘Til I got to know You / I was out of place ‘til You found a way to break through; it’s true / I was just a skeptic ‘til I got to know You / You (I was insecure; I had something to prove) / You (But now I know I am loved by You)”. The song concludes with a fun electronic sequence. “Dear Heart” is a letter written to our hearts inspired by Jeremiah 17:9 that sings: “Oh, heart, you’ve let me down / Chasing love where it can’t be found / Heart, we’ve fallen out / ‘Cause all of your emotions have led me to doubt / Tell me who’s going to save us now?”. With sweet banjos, guitars and a very interesting country/folk sound. The charming and explicit “I’ll Show You How To Live” shows us the voice of God as in Psalm 139:16 spoke us. He heard the sound of our first breath when we were still in the womb of our mother, and now he wants to teach us how to behave in life, walking by his hand and living in complete happiness: “So come with me, I’ll show you life even better than this / Come with me; I’ll show you love you didn’t know could exist / Better than your first crush / Better than your first kiss / Oh, I’ll show you how to live”. Finally, “Keep My Heart Alive” starts with pianos and violin in an atmosphere of worship, a call to believers to not allow the bustle of life blow out the relationship with our Creator: “I’m so tired of politics and all this bad news / I’m so tired of chasing the moment instead of chasing You / I let the world wear me down / I’m desensitized”.

This musical experience has been amazing. Each song has so much sincerity as talent, inspirational lyrics that penetrate your heart and make a change in your lifestyle. For those who have enjoyed Sanctus Real previous albums, and especially if you like bands like Switchfoot, U2, Foo Fighters or Jimmy Eat World, this album will easily become your favorite. And prepare your ears for March 9, the day that “Pieces Of A Real Heart” will be released worldwide.

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Cuando el año pasado oí por primera vez “Forgiven”, me dije: “Éste será un muy buen albúm”. Afortunadamente no me equivoqué. Sanctus Real ha sabido ganarse un relevante lugar en el mercado cristiano, con impactantes canciones como “I’m Not Alright”, “Don’t Give Up” o “We Need Each Other” con el que recibieron una nominación al Grammy por mejor álbum góspel del año. De cualquier manera, este año “Pieces Of A Real Heart” que conserva la esencia de la banda, pero le incorpora una diversa instrumentación y musicalidad. Además nos muestra destellos de la alegría y las luchas desgarradoras que estos chicos han experimentado, en un nivel de refrescante honestidad e inquebrantable compromiso de hacer reflexionar a sus oyentes con canciones inspiradoras, y sobre todo, reales. Trabajando con los reconocidos productores Chris Steven (tobyMac, Mathew West), Jason Ingram (Bebo Norman, Tenth Avenue North) y Rusty Varenkamp (Leeland, David Crowder Band, Mute Math), éste álbum es el resultado de la madurez y el crecimiento como compositores, músicos y cristianos.

“Forgiven” (primer sencillo) examina el tema del perdón de una manera profunda y sencilla. “El trabajo del perdón es la clave de nuestro crecimiento y madurez como discípulos de Jesús”, dice el vocalista Matt Hammitt. Es una declaración de fe que recibe con brazos abiertos la gracia de Dios, mediante dulces coros y un acertado banjo: “In this life, I know what I’ve been / But here in Your arms, I know what I am / I’m forgiven / And I don’t have to carry the weight of who I’ve been / ‘Cause I’m forgiven”. La impulsadora “These Things Take Time” nos anima a mantenernos perseverantes en nuestras peticiones, ya que Dios nunca falla sus promesas. Las guitarras limpias y la dinámica melodía nos declara: “And I’m wondering why / Sometimes the truth ain’t easy to find / I want to know all the answers / But I’m learning that these things take time/ Yeah, these things take time”. Hay momentos en que la esperanza se nos escapa de la mano y la duda invade nuestros corazones, es ahí cuando nuestra confianza abraza nuestra fe en Dios, de eso nos habla “The Way The World Turns” que cuenta con un intermedio de mil voces declarando: “Oh, it’s the way the world turns / Oh, and I keep on turning to You”. Pronosticado como el segundo sencillo del álbum, “Lead Me” está inspirado en la petición de Sarah (esposa de Matt) a su esposo, y le implora ser un mejor líder espiritual en su matrimonio y con sus hijos: “Lead me with strong hands / Stand up when I can’t / Don’t leave me hungry for love, chasing dreams / But what about us / Show me you’re willing to fight / That I’m still the love of your life / I know we call this our home / But I still feel alone”. Uno de mis tracks favoritos (por no decir el mejor) es “The Redeemer”, que incondicionalmente nos recuerda que Dios realmente tiene nuestras esperanzas y sueños en su poder, en sus manos. Con una coro increíble, harmonías perfectas y una de las mejores performances que Hammitt nos ha podido mostrar: “But I’m still a dreamer, a believer / Oh, I’ve lost my faith in so many things, but I still believe in You / ‘Cause You can make anything new”. El álbum acelera su pulso con “Take Over Me”, con un potente intro de guitarra que recuerda a Anberlin o Stellar Kart, y un mensaje de santidad y entrega a Dios: “I want You to take over me / Oh, I want You to take over me / I don’t want to be part of the resistance / I want to be part of the release / So I want You to take over me”. El punteo acústico se transforma en una formidable guitarra eléctrica en “I Want To Get Lost”, es el clamor de nuestro corazón al encontrarnos atrapados en nuestras mentiras, y queremos escapar pero no podemos. Con un interesante e impredecible coro que nos dice: “So I want to get lost, I want to get lost in Your arms / I want to get lost and lose my way into Your heart / ‘Cause there’s so many voices telling me how to get lost in this life / So right now, I want to get lost in You before I lose myself”. Pianos eléctricos aperturan “’Til I Got To Know You”. Es contagioso, relajante, y habla sobre las inseguridades y preguntas que como cristianos tenemos acerca de la incomprensible gracia de Dios: “‘Til I got to know You / I was out of place ‘til You found a way to break through; it’s true / I was just a skeptic ‘til I got to know You / You (I was insecure; I had something to prove) / You (But now I know I am loved by You)”. La canción concluye con una secuencia electrónica muy divertida. “Dear Heart” es una carta escrita a nuestro corazón inspirada en Jeremías 17:9 que nos canta: “Oh, heart, you’ve let me down / Chasing love where it can’t be found / Heart, we’ve fallen out / ‘Cause all of your emotions have led me to doubt / Tell me who’s going to save us now?”. Con dulces banjos, guitarras y un sonido country/folk muy interesante. La encantadora y explícita “I’ll Show You How To Live”, nos muestra la voz de Dios tal y cómo en Salmos 139:16 nos habló. El oyó el sonido de nuestro primer aliento aún cuando estábamos en el vientre de nuestra madre, y ahora nos quiere enseñar cómo conducirnos en la vida, caminar de su mano y vivir en plena felicidad: “So come with me, I’ll show you life even better than this / Come with me; I’ll show you love you didn’t know could exist / Better than your first crush / Better than your first kiss / Oh, I’ll show you how to live”. Finalmente “Keep My Heart Alive” se inicia con pianos y violines en una atmósfera de adoración, un llamado a los creyentes a no permitir que el trajín de la vida apague la relación con nuestro Creador: “I’m so tired of politics and all this bad news / I’m so tired of chasing the moment instead of chasing You / I let the world wear me down / I’m desensitized”.

Esta experiencia musical ha sido sorprendente. Cada canción posee tanta sinceridad como talento, inspiradoras letras que penetran en tu corazón y hacen un cambio en tu estilo de vida. Para aquellos que han disfrutado de los anteriores discos de Sanctus Real, y sobre todo si gustas de bandas como Switchfoot, U2, Foo Fighters o Jimmy Eat World, éste álbum se convertirá fácilmente en tu favorito. Y Preparen sus oídos para este 9 de marzo, el día en que “Pieces Of A Real Heart” será lanzado a nivel mundial.

16 Feb 2010

The Rocket Summer - Of Men And Angels

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Artist: The Rocket Summer
Album: Of Men And Angels
Year: 2010
Label: Island Records
Website: http://www.therocketsummer.com/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/therocketsummer
Twitter: @therocketsummer
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store

Bryce Avary continues with the success predicted some years ago with the release of their fourth album, “Of Men and Angels” coming out this February 23. With an incredible lyrical and spiritual vision, as well as his witty musical talent, this new album is as honest and genuine as his creator. Ironically, “You Gotta Believe – EP” was the first review posted on this blog, giving us as shown in a masterful work of art, keeping the energy, creativity and positivism of his previous projects. Co-produced by CJ Eiriksson, with the support of Island Records, the inspiration of “Of Men And Angels” is the perceived reality, in which “sometimes things are actually worse than they are supposed to be”.

A subtle acoustic guitar pervades our attention on “Roses”, with a booster beat on drums. It talks about broken hearts, mountains of fear, faith and screams in the chorus: “Keep holding on / Oh like God is holding on these roses”. Next, the fervent “You Gotta Believe” (first single) features splashes of emo/powerpop/punk with a message of security, hope and faith: “Whatever the cost, whatever I lost / Whatever I gained, whatever I fought / I knew I was tested, and I am the furthest / From what you think it is worth it”. The guitar riffs resound with the rush of drums and background vocals shouting: “You gotta believe”. The romantic story behind “Hills And Valleys”, accompanied by a charming piano and claps, tries to survive in times of shortage of love: “I wanna know / Just how sweet this tastes now / No, If at first I did not go / Through better times / Through better places / I’ll stay and learn, with new battles / But for now we’re here”. In search of a purpose to life, “I Want Something To Live For” encourages us to put aside our fears and find our motivations in love, something that our parents and we pride ourselves. “Walls” was released to CHR radio as the second official single from the album. The song touches on topics such as depression, and rapidly it becomes an anthem on the piano with babbling violins delivering the strength in following lines: “I’ll help you break the walls down / I’ll help you break the walls down / And bust you out / And take you home / Believe you me, you are not alone / I’ll help you break the walls down”. A total radio hit, and many memories to The Fray or Thriving Ivory. The ingenious “Pull Myself Together (Don’t Hate Me)” teaches us to accept the grace that God gives us, and learn through Him from our mistakes. It is the turn of titletrack “Of Men And Angels”, with perhaps more spiritual point of the entire album: “Here I am again Lord, tasting hints of fame and I don’t want it anymore if it’s not you that I gain”.  Phrases like these reflect the sincerity of the heart of Bryce: “The tongues of men and angels I speak but lack love, oh love will I stab you in the back”. The sticky “I Need a Break (But I’d Rather Have to Breakthrough)” remains the sound that we have previously heard with a fast beat, trading melodies and catchy phrases. However, “Nothing Matters” breaks this pattern, touching issues such as generosity and selflessness through a hymn that calls yours consciousness through spoken, and through the guitars and vocals. “Japanese Exchange Student” compares the life of a success artist due to the experience of a student in a foreign country. Traits of Relient K and The Summer Set. The melancholy “Tara, I’m Terrible” is supported with an acoustic sound, quiet evening. It is a sincere honesty to face a girl, somehow excusing the faults of a love poet. “Hey!” gets you out from your seat to the dance floor, or garden behind your house. Using a kind of ‘beatbox’ in the introduction, pianos and an unpredictable melody. Similarly, “Let Go” chooses to lighten the pulse of the metronome, without obscuring the rhythmic piano in a deep and fun song that aims to retain the love in our arms. The instrumental piano and guitar solve very well the intention and feeling of the track, and unexpectedly ends with some slight strings. “This Is Refuge” has a blues soul with a motivating and driving melody, which explodes in the chorus, saying: “This is a refuge / This is hope”. Finally “Light” follows a masterly outcome, to give God control amid despair and rejoice in the pain: “Save me / ‘Cause I need it / And I can’t help but feel desperate / My desires, they seem / Were coming to their endings / But I will trust it’s not the end / But a great beginning”.

It has been proven one hundred percent; The Rocket Summer has been created and designed for success. This talented singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist has discovered the appropriate hooks to achieve the wonder “Of Men And Angels”. In an interview, Bryce commented: “I wanted to do a genuine and honest album, written from my heart and personal experiences that are both lyrically and musically the best thing I’ve done and that hopefully will be an album that can move and affect people. I am grateful and I want to do this for the right reasons”.

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Bryce Avary prosigue con el éxito profetizado hace algunos años con el lanzamiento de su cuarto álbum “Of Men And Angels” próximo a salir este 23 de febrero. Con una increíble visión lírica y espiritual, además de su ingenioso talento musical, éste nuevo disco es tan honesto y genuino como su creador. Irónicamente, “You Gotta Believe – EP” fue la primera reseña posteada en este blog, dándonos como muestra una magistral obra de arte, manteniendo la energía, creatividad y positivismo de sus anteriores proyectos. Co-producido por CJ Eiriksson y con el apoyo de Island Records, la inspiración de “Of Men And Angels” representa la realidad percibida, en la que “a veces las cosas son en realidad peor de lo que supuestamente son”.

Una sutil guitarra acústica invade nuestra atención en “Roses”, con un impulsador beat en la percusión. Habla sobre corazones rotos, montañas de temor, fe y grita en el coro: “Keep holding on / Oh like God is holding on these roses”. Seguidamente, la ferviente “You Gotta Believe” (primer sencillo) salpica rasgos de emo/power y pop/punk con un mensaje de seguridad, esperanza y fe: “Whatever the cost, whatever I lost / Whatever I gained, whatever I fought / I knew I was tested, and I am the furthest / From what you think it is worth it”. Los riffs de guitarra retumban con la apresurada batería y los coros de fondo gritando: “You gotta believe”. La romántica historia detrás de “Hills And Valleys”, se acompaña de un coqueto piano y palmadas, que intentan sobrevivir en las épocas de escasez de amor: “I wanna know / Just how sweet this tastes now / No, If at first I did not go / Through better times / Through better places / I’ll stay and learn, with new battles / But for now we’re here”. En la búsqueda de un propósito para la vida, “I Want Something To Live For” nos anima a dejar a un lado nuestros miedos y encontrar nuestras motivaciones en al amor, algo de lo cual nuestros padres y nosotros mismos estemos orgullosos. “Walls” fue lanzado a las radios de formato CHR como el segundo sencillo oficial del álbum. La canción toca temas como la depresión, se convierte rápidamente en un himno al piano con balbucientes violines que entregan la fortaleza en las siguientes líneas: “I’ll help you break the walls down / I’ll help you break the walls down / And bust you out / And take you home / Believe you me, you are not alone / I’ll help you break the walls down”. Todo un éxito de radio, y muchas remembranzas a The Fray o Thriving Ivory. La ingeniosa “Pull Myself Together (Don’t Hate Me)” nos enseña a aceptar la gracias que Dios nos regala, y por medio de Él aprender de nuestros errores. Es el turno del titletrack “Of Men And Angels”, con tal vez la letra más espiritual de todo el álbum: “Here I am again Lord, tasting hints of fame and I don’t want it anymore if it’s not you that I gain”.  Frases como estas reflejan la sinceridad del corazón de de Bryce: “The tongues of men and angels I speak but lack love, oh love will I stab you in the back”. La pegajosa “I Need a Break (But I’d Rather Have a Breakthrough)” se mantiene en el registro que anteriormente hemos oído, con un acelerado beat, melodías comerciales y frases pegajosas. Sin embargo, “Nothing Matters” rompe dicho esquema, al tocar temas como la generosidad y el desinterés a través de un himno que te llama a conciencia en aquel intermedio hablado, y mediante las guitarras y coros. “Japanese Exchange Student” compara la vida de un artista rumbo a la fama con la experiencia de un estudiante en un país extranjero. Rasgos de Relient K y The Summer Set. La melancólica “Tara, I’m Terrible” se respalda en un sonido acústico, tranquilo, vespertino. Es una sincera cara de honestidad hacia una muchacha, excusando de alguna forma los defectos de un enamorado poeta. “Hey!” te saca de tu asiento hacia la pista de baile, o al jardín detrás de tu casa. Empleando una especie de ‘beatbox’ en la introducción, pianos, una melodía impredecible. Del mismo modo, “Let Go” opta por aligerar el pulso del metrónomo, sin opacar los rítmicos pianos en una profunda y divertida canción que pretende retener el amor en nuestros brazos. El instrumental de piano y guitarra, solucionan muy bien la intención y sentimiento del track, e inesperadamente se culmina con unos ligeros violines. “This Is Refuge” tiene un alma blues, con una melodía motivadora e impulsadora, que estalla en el coro al decir: “This is a refuge / This is hope”. Finalmente “Light” desprende un magistral desenlace, al entregarle el control a Dios en medio de la desesperanza y regocijarnos en el dolor.: “Save me / ‘Cause I need it / And I can’t help but feel desperate / My desires, they seem / Were coming to their endings / But I will trust it’s not the end / But a great beginning”.

Está comprobado al cien por ciento, que The Rocket Summer ha sido creado y destinado para el éxito. Éste talentoso cantante, compositor y  multi-instrumentista ha descubierto los ganchos adecuados para lograr la armonía de “Of Men And Angels”. En una entrevista, Bryce comentó lo siguiente: “Quería hacer un álbum de canciones genuinas y honestas escritas desde mi corazón y de las experiencias personales que son tanto lírica como musicalmente lo mejor que hecho, y que será un álbum que ojalá, pueda mover y afectar a la gente. Estoy agradecido de hacer esto y quiero hacerlo por las razones correctas”.

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

5 Feb 2010

TobyMac - Tonight

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Artist: TobyMac
Album: Tonight
Year: 2010
Label: Forefront Records/EMI CMG
Website: http://www.myspace.com/tobymac
Buy: iTunes - Amazon

‘Tonight’ continues TobyMac’s legend, through the fourth album with a wonderful blend of rock, pop, urban and hip hop sounds and styles that have placed the first single “City On Our Kness” as #1 on Billboard . The album was produced by the same TobyMac along with help from Chris Stevens (Portable Sounds), Jamie Moore (Ayiesha Wood, Stephanie Smith) and Dave Wyatt (aka “D-dub) and the result of over two years of musical composition and lyric is delusional.

We start with the titletrack album “Tonight”, featuring John Cooper of Skillet. A fierce guitar breaks into the home, with a dance beat that recalls Michael Sembello and his frenetic “Maniac”, all joined in a hymn of hearts revolutionaries who seek their promised land: “We wanna rise / We wanna touch the other side / We wanna soar / We wanna reach right out for more”. It could not miss the classic CHR sound which flirts with pop and rap, as in “Get Back Up” which reminds us that it is never too late to start over, and that the love of Jesus has always been calling us back: “This is love callin’, love callin’ / Out to the broken this is love callin’ / I am so broken / This is love callin’, love callin’”. Then we have the sparkling “Funky Jesus Music” with the appearance of Beckah Shae and Siti Monroe. The infectious rhythm is adorned with trumpets and vocal effects fusing with a roaring electro/pop that identifies the freak side of the project. “City On Our Knees” is really about a moment. A moment that we all come together to a place where there’s no judgment, but really love. And we choose to recognize one God together. And it’s really a reminder that that moment could be right now, tonight. And in that moment judgment falls by the wayside, we choose to step across the line, whatever side we’re on. Love fills in the cracks and makes up the difference. The song has been nominated for a Grammy award as the best gospel song, and the reasons are obvious: “Tonight’s the night / For the sinners and the saints / Two worlds collide in a beautiful display / It’s all love tonight / When we step across the line / We can sail across the sea to a city with one King / A city on our knees”. Furthermore, “Showstopper” reminds us the beginnings of Toby as a soloist, with powerful guitars, a creative and fun rap that combines perfectly with a strong progressive rock. This song must be brutal on live, savage. The transparent “Changed Forever” reflects the desire to see the face of God and be changed forever, said melodiously by Nirva Ready at the R&B with traces of spicy Soul/Pop chorus: “Then I saw your face / Just a glimpse of Your face, and my whole world changed / I was changed forever / it’s a whole new game”. Positive and push it lyric of “Hold On” is surprisingly, dedicated to a girl in a weary world of confusion: “Wake up to the rising sun / Thank the Lord for the things He’s done / Lift your eyes to the hope that’s ever true / Wanna see you smiling girl / You’re a light in this jaded world / Wipe away those tears / This one’s for you”, culminating with fascinating synth fading giving way to another inevitable performance. “Loud n Clear (TruDog 10)” is a hilarious intermediate by the Toby’s 10 years son. Very creative and funny. “Hey Devil” is captivating. With scraps of Family Force 5 and Neon Horse, shows us a versatile and amazing vocal evolution of Toby. While each sentence pulls away all the junk that the devil has tried to put in our hearts: “You’re a beauty and A beast / You’re the pressure never cease / You’re the straight other side / And they say you never sleep”. Caricature pianos are at “Wonderin’” with the participation of Matt Thiessen vocalist of Relient K, which gives the relaxing touch that requires this kind of songs. Simple and superb lyric: “We didn’t know what to do / But you were lookin’ at me, and I was lookin’ at you / And we were thinkin’ it odd, but we were thankin’ our God / For the hope that He put down deep in our hearts”. Proclaiming dependence on God, “Captured” with phrases that seem pulled from a passionate psalm of the Bible, a thousand voices screaming to be closer to God, to be captured by his love, that flows His grace in our veins. A paragraph that has me perplexed: “If I should die before I wake / I pray the Lord my soul to take / And if I should get a peaceful sleep / I wanna wake at my Father’s feet”. The album gets personal with “Start Somewhere”, which demonstrates the hectic life of a young man who now realizes his actions, and apologizes to God and all those who hurt one day: “But here I am, and there you are / The space between us is not so far / I’m reaching out my hand in love / Before the fading sun, forgive me for what I’ve done”. Trumpets, scratched vinyl, an unforgettable rhythm. Suddenly, Israel Houghton appears on stage with “Break Open The Sky”, giving the reggae feeling that the project lacked: “Break open the sky / Won’t You turn off gravity so we can fly? / We wanna see Your face / So tear the roof off this place / Jesus, break open the sky”, heralding the second coming of Christ and his church revival.

TobyMac’s versatility is endless, is renewed in time, is gaining consistency on each album and the result is seen in ‘Tonight’. “I try to write songs that take a snapshot of what I’m living, things that I struggle with whether my relationship with God or with my friends”, confides a veteran. “This is not to put a rainbow in what we feel”. Part of the promotion by offering only the best variety to your audience, ‘Tonight’ will be available this February 9 in physical and digital formats also include bonus remixes and a behind the scenes video. What a good start this year and there’s more to come.

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‘Tonight’ continúa la leyenda de TobyMac, a través del cuarto álbum con una maravillosa mezcla de sonidos y estilos rock, pop, urban y hip hop que han ubicado al primer sencillo “City On Our Kness” como la #1 en la revista Billboard. El álbum fue producido por el mismo TobyMac con la ayuda de Chris Stevens (Portable Sounds), Jamie Moore (Ayiesha Smith, Stephanie Woods) y Dave Wyatt (a.k.a. “D-dub) y el resultado de más de dos años de composición musical y lírica es delirante.

Empezamos con el track que le da nombre al álbum “Tonight”, con la participación de John Cooper de Skillet. Una feroz guitarra irrumpe al inicio, con un dance beat que recuerda a Michael Sembello en su frenética “Maniac”, todo sumado en un himno de corazones revolucionarios que buscan su tierra prometida: “We wanna rise / We wanna touch the other side / We wanna soar / We wanna reach right out for more”. No podía faltar el clásico sonido CHR que coquetea con el pop y el rap, como en “Get Back Up” que nos recuerda que nunca es tarde para volver a empezar, ya que el amor de Jesús siempre ha estado llamándonos de regreso: “This is love callin’, love callin’ / Out to the broken this is love callin’ / I am so broken / This is love callin,’ love callin’”. Seguidamente nos encontramos con la chispeante “Funky Jesus Music“ con la aparición de Beckah Shae y Siti Monroe. El contagioso ritmo es adornado con trompetas y efectos vocales que se fusionan con un rugiente electro/pop que identifica el lado freak del proyecto. “City On Our Knees es acerca de un momento”, dice Toby. “Un momento en el que todos nos juntamos en un lugar donde no hay juicio, sino amor real. Y en dónde elegimos juntos  reconocer a un solo Dios. Y es realmente un recordatorio de que ese momento podría ser ahora, esta noche. Y en ese momento el juicio cae fuera del camino, optamos dar un paso a través de la línea, desde cualquier lado en que nos encontramos. El amor llena las grietas y hace la diferencia”. La canción ha sido nominada al Grammy por mejor canción góspel, las razones son más que obvias: “Tonight’s the night / For the sinners and the saints / Two worlds collide in a beautiful display / It’s all love tonight / When we step across the line / We can sail across the sea to a city with one King / A city on our knees”. Por otro lado, “Showstopper” nos hace recordar los inicios de Toby como solista, con potente guitarras, un creativo y divertido rap que se combina a la perfección con un enérgico rock progresivo. Esta canción en vivo debe ser bestial, salvaje. La transparente “Changed Forever” refleja el anhelo por ver el rostro de Dios y ser cambiados para siempre, declarado melodiosamente por Nirva Ready en el coro R&B con rasgos de picante Soul/Pop: “Then I saw Your face / Just a glimpse of Your face, and my whole world changed / I was changed forever /  it’s a whole new game”. La impulsadora y positiva lírica de “Hold On” es sorprendente, dedicada a una muchacha en un agotado mundo de confusión: “Wake up to the rising sun / Thank the Lord for the things He’s done / Lift your eyes to the hope that’s ever true / Wanna see you smiling girl / You’re a light in this jaded world / Wipe away those tears / This one’s for you”, culminando con fascinantes sintetizadores que se desvanecen dando paso a otra infaltable performance. “Loud n Clear (TruDog 10)” es ese hilarante intermedio a cargo del hijo mayor de Toby. Muy creativo y gracioso. “Hey Devil” es cautivante. Con retazos de Family Force 5 y Neon Horse, nos muestra una versátil y sorprendente evolución vocal de parte de Toby. Mientras que cada frase desecha toda la basura que el diablo ha intentado meter en nuestros corazones: “You’re a beauty and A beast / You’re the pressure never cease / You’re the straight other side / And they say you never sleep”. Pianos de caricatura encontramos en ”Wonderin’” con la participación de Matt Thiessen vocalista de Relient K, que le entrega el toque relajante que exige este tipo de canciones. Simple y magnífica lírica: “We didn’t know what to do / But you were lookin’ at me, and I was lookin’ at you / And we were thinkin’ it odd, but we were thankin’ our God / For the hope that He put down deep in our hearts”. Pregonando dependencia a Dios, “Captured” con frases que parecen sacados de un apasionado salmo de la biblia, que grita a mil voces estar más cerca de Dios, ser capturados por su amor, que de nuestras venas fluya su gracia. Un párrafo que me ha dejado perplejo: “If I should die before I wake / I pray the Lord my soul to take / And if I should get a peaceful sleep / I wanna wake at my Father’s feet”. El álbum se torna personal con “Start Somewhere”, que demuestra la vida agitada de un joven que hoy toma conciencia de sus acciones, y le pide perdón a Dios y a todas aquellas personas que un día dañó: “But here I am, and there you are / The space between us is not so far / I’m reaching out my hand in love / Before the fading sun, forgive me for what I’ve done”. Trompetas, vinilos rayados, un ritmo inolvidable. De pronto, Israel Houghton aparece en el escenario con “Break Open The Sky” dándole el sentimiento reggae que le faltaba al proyecto: “Break open the sky / Won’t You turn off gravity so we can fly? / We wanna see Your face / So tear the roof off this place / Jesus, break open the sky”, que anuncia la segunda venida de Cristo y el avivamiento de su iglesia.

La versatilidad de TobyMac es inagotable, se renueva con el tiempo, va adquiriendo consistencia en cada álbum y el resultado lo vemos en ‘Tonight’. “Intento escribir canciones que tomen una foto instantánea de lo que estoy viviendo, las cosas con la que lucho, ya sea mi relación con Dios o con mis amigos”, nos confiesa el veterano. “No se trata de poner un arco iris en lo que sentimos”. Parte de la promoción al ofrecer sólo la mejor variedad a su audiencia, “Tonight” estará disponible este 9 de febrero en formatos físico y digital, además de incluir bonus remixes y un video detrás de cámara. Que buen comienzo de año, y aún hay más.

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

25 Jan 2010

Bethany Dillon - Stop & Listen

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Artist: Bethany Dillon
Album: Stop & Listen
Year: 2009
Label: Sparrow Records/EMI CMG
Website: http://www.myspace.com/bethanydillonmusic
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store

The fifth album from Bethany Dillon reflects the musical growth, and her faith, love and passion. ‘Stop & Listen’ is a compilation of the heart through sweet melodies and songs of worship that recorded a spiritual development. Colored by delicate acoustic guitars and slightly dragged by a slow rhythm that gives a message full of experiences and lessons. Produced by Marshall Altman (Brooke Fraser, Warren Barfield, Matt Wertz), it carry the work of this woman to a new level, both lyrically and musically.

“Get Up And Walk” introduces Bethany in the same category of Sarah McLachlan by warm vocals, an addictive rhythm that weaves a powerful spiritual message about the life-giving work of Christ. It’s a song inspired by stories of healing of the New Testament, and reminds us that God is still restoring the broken, while encouraging you to overcome our weaknesses and walk into the light: “You break through my deafness / Swing open the curtain and I find the courage to get up and walk / I forget my weakness / For you’ve answered my loneliness / And through the mud on my eyes / I can see my hope has come”. Then, we find “Everyone To Know”, the first single from the album written with Ed Cash, and it has a powerful feeling that encourages our silenced hearts to recognize that the love of God is the only salvation and we must take our testimony as a command that will bring life to our world: “To all of those who are searching / Come find what you seek / It is the Truth that we all / Truth that we all need”. Based on the story of Hosea and the challenge of being faithful in difficult circumstances, with one of the best vocal performances, emotional, interspersed with some maturity that resembles Colbie Caillat and whispers: “You have called me out of shadows / Out of darkness into light / Hemmed in by the hands of mercy / I’m completely satisfied”. Co-written with Ben Glover and Joy Williams, the song “Stop & Listen” refers to Martha and Mary of the Bible. While Martha was busy for chores, Mary would rather be at the feet of Jesus and listening; often rewards come in moments of meditation and devotion. Must exist in us the need to stop and take a time in our troubled schedule. Stop and listen to the sublime voice of God: “But I’d be a fool to forfeit / The chance to take a moment / For you to rise like the dawn / Over my cold, tired heart / What I thought I had lost / Finds me when I stop / Stop and listen”. The struggle we have to balance in our lifes between God and our marriage is shown in “Say Your Name”. No matter how much our lifestyles change, God is the same and yet we can know him: “Still I reach for you / When I am afraid / And this breath that comes from you helps me say your name”. Continuing the theme of taking time to be closer to God, “So Close” unifies a wonderful, simple instrumentation that recalls the early work of Bethany. Attempts to resolve the distance between the pilgrims of our pride and God are embodied in the following lines: “Still, I’m so close to being so far away from you / Though I know no one on their own makes it through / My soul clings to the dust / So in your life, let it be enough”. The image of a woman, who touched the hem of Jesus’ garment and was healed by faith, is told in “Reach Out” which ends with: “I feel like something has changed”. Confessions of insecurity, pride and lack of love are summarized in a prayer called “Deliver Me” with phrases such sincere and profound: “Deliver me from my hateful thoughts / I’m Committing murder in the Presence of God / Break my heart just like David’s was / With a weeping, pregnant widow in my house / How can I despise my brother / When I killed your only begotten son?”. Fogging of with acoustic guitars, “The Way I Come To You” talks about how Jesus took our sin and set us free by the wonderful gift of forgiveness and the eternal freedom we now have through him: “You drank the cup that was all filled  up / With my punishment and shame / From the garden to the empty tomb / The way I come to You forever changed “. Almost finishing the album and inspired by Isaiah 55, “In The Beginning” is a poem full of depth where we can appreciate the wonderful work of Bethany in the composition. Finally, the acoustic version of “Everyone To Know” gives the final touch to the album, with the help of Shane Barnard (Bethany’s husband), playing perfect harmonies and culminating this unforgettable spiritual serenade.

The only purpose in ‘Stop & Listen’ is to show the heart of a passionate woman of God. Sticky pop that uses guitars and soft voices whispering beside a simple and penetrating lyrical. If you like the work of Meredith Andrews, Ginny Owens, Nichole Nordeman and above Colbie Caillat, no doubt that Bethany Dillon has enough features to be your next partner on an autumn afternoon.

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El quinto álbum de Bethany Dillon refleja el crecimiento musical, así cómo su fe, amor y pasión. ‘Stop & Listen’ es una recopilación del corazón a través de dulces melodías y canciones de adoración que registran un desarrollo espiritual. Coloreados por delicadas guitarras acústicas y ligeramente arrastrado por un ritmo pausado que proporciona un mensaje lleno de experiencias y lecciones. Producido por Marshall Altman (Brooke Fraser, Warren Barfield, Matt Wertz), transportan el trabajo de esta mujer hacia un nuevo nivel, tanto lírica como musicalmente.

“Get Up And Walk” introduce a Bethany en la misma categoría de Sarah McLachlan mediante voces cálidas, un ritmo adictivo que se entrelaza con un poderoso mensaje espiritual sobre la obra vivificante de Cristo. Es una canción inspirada en historias de sanidad del nuevo testamento, y nos recuerda que Dios aún sigue restaurando al quebrado, mientras nos anima a superar nuestras debilidades y caminar en la luz: “You break through my deafness / Swing open the curtain and I find the courage to get up and walk / I forget my weakness / For you’ve answered my loneliness / And through the mud on my eyes / I can see my hope has come”. Seguidamente encontramos a “Everyone To Know”, primer sencillo del álbum escrito con la ayuda de Ed Cash y que posee un sentimiento impactante que anima a nuestros silenciados corazones a reconocer que el amor de Dios es la única salvación y que hay que tomar nuestro testimonio como un mandamiento que traerá vida a nuestro mundo: “To all of those who are searching / Come find what you seek  / It is the Truth that we all need”. Basada en la historia de Oseas y el desafío de ser fiel en las circunstancias adversas, junto a uno de las mejores performances vocales; emotiva, entrecortada y con cierta madurez que se asemeja a Colbie Caillat y que susurra: “You have called me out of shadows / Out of darkness into light / Hemmed in by the hands of mercy / I’m completely satisfied”. Coescrita con Joy Williams y Ben Glover, la canción “Stop & Listen” hace referencia a Marta y María de la biblia. Mientras que Martha se afanaba por los quehaceres, María prefería estar a los pies de Jesús y escuchar; y es que muchas veces las recompensas vienen por los momentos de meditación y devoción. En nosotros debe existir la necesidad de frenar y tomar un tiempo en nuestro turbado horario. Detenernos y escuchar la sublime voz de Dios: “But I’d be a fool to forfeit  / The chance to take a moment / For you to rise like the dawn / Over my cold, tired heart / What I thought I had lost / Finds me when I stop / Stop and listen”. La lucha que tenemos al equilibrar nuestras vidas entre Dios y nuestro matrimonio se ve mostrada en “Say Your Name”. No importa cuánto cambien nuestros estilos de vida, Dios es el mismo y todavía podemos conocerle: “Still I reach for you / When I am afraid / And this breath that comes from you helps me say your name”. Continuando con la temática de tomar tiempo para estar más cerca de Dios, “So Close” unifica una instrumentación simple y maravillosa que recuerda los primeros trabajos de Bethany. Los intentos por resolver la distancia entre los peregrinos de nuestro orgullo y Dios se plasman en las siguientes líneas: “Still, I’m so close to being so far away from you / Though I know no one on their own makes it through / My soul clings to the dust / So in your life, let it be enough”. La imagen de la mujer que tocó el borde del manto de Jesús y fue sanada por fe, es relatada en “Reach Out” que culmina con: ”I feel like something has changed”. Confesiones sobre inseguridad, orgullo y falta de amor se resumen en una oración llamada “Deliver Me” con frases tan sinceras como profundas: “Deliver me from my hateful thoughts / I’m committing murder in the presence of God / Break my heart just like David’s was / With a weeping, pregnant widow in my house / How can I despise my brother / When I killed your only begotten son?”. Empañado  de guitarras acústicas, “The Way I Come To You” habla de cómo Jesús tomó nuestros pecados y nos hizo libres con el maravilloso regalo del perdón, y ahora tenemos libertad eterna a través de él: “You drank the cup that was all filled up / With my punishment and shame / From the garden to the empty tomb / The way I come to You forever changed”. Casi terminando el álbum e inspirada en Isaías 55, “In The Beginning” es un poema lleno de profundidad en donde podemos apreciar el maravilloso trabajo de Bethany en cuanto a la composición. Por último, la versión acústica de “Everyone To Know” le da el toque final al álbum, con la colaboración de Shane Barnard (esposo de Bethany), interpretando armonías perfectas y culminando esta inolvidable serenata espiritual.

El único propósito en ‘Stop & Listen’ es mostrar el corazón de una mujer apasionada por Dios. Emergente pop que utiliza suaves guitarras y susurrantes voces junto a una lírica sencilla y penetrante. Si te gusta el trabajo de Meredith Andrews, Ginny Owens, Nichole Nordeman y la anteriormente mencionada Colbie Caillat, no hay duda que Bethany Dillon posee las suficientes características para ser tu siguiente compañía en una tarde de otoño.

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

22 Dec 2009

Abandon - Searchlights

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Artist: Searchlights
Album: Abandon
Year: 2009
Label: Forefront Records/EMI CMG
Website: http://www.myspace.com/abandontx
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - MusiChristian Store

With the released of ‘Searchlights’, the band Abandon, formed by Josh (vocals), Justin (guitar), Bryan (bass), Steve (lead guitar) and Dave (drums), strengthen its innovative sound. Supported by Forefront Records (EMI CMG) and after 2 EP’s (of 6 songs each one) have added 3 brand new ones that make the end result a fantastic job. They deliver a modern and alternative rock sound with the mission of reaching today’s youth with a positive message, driven by strong guitar riffs and vocals that complement pop rock with influences from Sanctus Real, U2, Radiohead, Coldplay, Mutemath and The Killers. Produced by acclaimed producer Christopher Stevens (Mandisa, Stephanie Smith, tobyMac, Audio Adrenaline, Shawn McDonald, Delirious?) extending a rare combination of a spiritual message with an artistic relevance.

Thanks to “Hold On”, they have reached the #1 position in Rock and CHR formats. With environmental keyboards, synthesizers, pianos and roaring guitars, this song shows a teenager struggling through the breakup of his family, and how his heart pleads for a savior: “Hold On / Someone will find you / Somebody loves you / You’re not drowning this time / Look for the searchlights”. The wonderful “Song For The Broken” delivery solution in the quest of a savior, quoting from Matthew 5:1-12. The catchy choruses are very reminiscent of Leeland, U2, Muse and Coldplay. In “Confession”, we find similarities to Delirious?, The Fray and Switchfoot, providing an alternative rock, and great echo voices backgrounds. Besides a guitar stellar job and a message about overcoming our pride, put our sin before God and surrender to him. “Be Alive in Me” is a vulnerable revival prayer that cries out to God to ignite the weak dying fire in our hearts: “I need you here so we can talk it out / I’m giving you the things that pull me down / Jesus, can you teach me how to stand / And if I fall, I want to fall into your hands / So heal my jaded soul / ‘Cuz I want to feel the weight letting go”. The captivating lyrics of “Here We Are Now”, talks about God being a refuge to all who come to Him. It’s simply sublime, saying: “I ask myself what can I offer You / Can you use someone who already feels used / Have all my mistakes let you down / Can you turn my failures around”. The masterful vocal performance on “Providence” is amazing, along with a lyric regarding Peter’s denial, and aggressive rock that asks God to take control of our ways. Slightly influenced by electronic and dance-pop touches, “City Lights” metaphor makes appearances that claim to be good, but which nevertheless are full of darkness. “Safe In Your Arms” sings about finding security in God: “I am safe in your arms / When I’m weak, You carry me / You’re my strength, you’re my safety”. The message of thinking less of yourself and more about the characteristics of God, a slow building from drums, a memorable melody, the energy and dynamism of “Atmosphere”, are commented on by Josh: “It’s all about the atmosphere of God, the power of his presence. Less me, more of Him healing comes when you are in the atmosphere of God”. It’s the God’s time, speaking to us in “Here Waiting” and promising to be with us yet when we want to run from him: “You can run but I’ll be here waiting / For your return when you get frustrated / I’m the only one who loves you without condition”. Following worship sound, “Your Love Lifts Me Up”, encourages believers to ensure that Christ’s love keeps us alive. “Hero” is a beautiful song, cemented with piano tears lost in the air, summing up the wonderful work of salvation: “There he Goes, a hero. / A savior to the world. / Here he stands with scars in his hands. / With love he gave his life so we could be free. / The Savior of the world”.

Abandon could be defined as an electrical pulse which you can’t escape, a constant stream of creativity and deep worship. ‘Searchlights’ is the best example of how talented is this new but experienced band that shares a legacy that the world has gradually been forgotten: the love and selflessness summarized in one word, Jesus.

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Con el lanzamiento de ‘Searchlights’, la banda Abandon, conformada por Josh (vocalista), Justin (segunda guitarra), Bryan (bajo), Stevan (primera guitarra) y Dave (batería), consolidan su innovador sonido. De la mano de Forefront Records (EMI CMG), y luego de 2 EP’s (de 6 canciones cada uno) han agregado 3 totalmente nuevas que hacen del resultado final, un trabajo fantástico. Nos entregan un moderno y alternativo sonido rock con la misión de llegar a los jóvenes de hoy con un mensaje positivo, impulsado por enérgicos riffs de guitarras y voces pop rock que se complementan con influencias de Sanctus Real, U2, Radiohead, Coldplay, Mutemath y The Killers. Producido por el aclamado productor Christopher Stevens (Mandisa, Stephanie Smith, tobyMac, Audio Adrenaline, Shawn McDonald, Delirious?), extendiéndonos una rara combinación de un mensaje espiritual con una relevancia artística.

Gracias a “Hold On” han alcanzado la ubicación #1 en los formatos Rock y CHR. Con teclados ambientales, sintetizadores, pianos y rugientes guitarras, esta canción muestra a una adolescente que lucha a través de la ruptura de su familia, y de cómo su corazón implora por un salvador: “Hold on / Someone will find you / Somebody loves you / You’re not drowning this time / Look for the searchlights”. La maravillosa “Song For The Broken” entrega la solución a la búsqueda de un salvador, citando frases de Mateo 5:1-12. Los pegajosos coros recuerdan mucho Leeland, U2, Muse y Coldplay. En “Confession” hallamos semejanzas a Delirious?, The Fray y Switchfoot, proporcionando un rock alternativo, y un gran eco con voces de fondo. Además un trabajo estelar en la guitarra y un mensaje acerca de superar el orgullo, colocar nuestro pecado delante Dios y rendirnos a él. “Be Alive In Me” es una vulnerable oración de avivamiento, que pide a gritos que Dios encienda el débil fuego que se apaga en nuestros corazones: “I need you here so we  can talk it out / I’m giving you the things that pull me down / Jesus, can you teach me how to stand / And if I fall, I want to fall into Your hands / So heal my jaded soul / ‘Cuz I want to feel the weight letting go”. La cautivante letra de “Here We Are Now”, habla sobre Dios siendo  refugio a todos los que vienen a Él. Es simplemente sublime al decir: “I ask myself what can I offer You / Can you use someone who already feels used / Have all my mistakes let you down / Can you turn my failures around”. La magistral interpretación vocal en “Providence” es alucinante; junto a una letra referente a la negación de Pedro, y un agresivo rock que le pide a Dios tomar el control de nuestros caminos. Ligeramente influenciado por toques electrónicos y dance pop, “City Lights” hace metáfora con las apariencias que pretenden estar bien, pero que sin embargo están llenas de oscuridad. “Safe In Your Arms” nos canta sobre hallar protección en Dios: “I am safe in your arms / When I’m weak, you carry me / You’re my strength, you’re my safety”. El mensaje de pensar menos en uno mismo y más acerca de las características de Dios; una lenta construcción basada en tambores, una melodía memorable y la energía y dinamismo de “Atmosphere”, son comentadas por Josh: “Todo se trata de la atmósfera de Dios, la electricidad de su presencia. Menos de mí, más de Él. La sanidad viene cuando estás en la atmósfera de Dios”. Es el turno de Dios hablándonos en “Here Waiting“, y nos promete estar con nosotros aún así nosotros queramos correr de Él: “You can run but I’ll be here waiting / For your return when you get frustrated / I’m the only one who loves you without condition”. Continuando con un sonido worship, “Your Love Lifts Me Up”, anima a los creyentes al asegurar que el amor de Cristo nos mantiene vivos. “Hero” es una hermosa canción, cimentada con lágrimas de piano que se pierden en el aire, resumiendo la maravillosa obra de salvación: “There e goes, a hero. / A savior to the world. / Here he stands with scars in his hands. / With love he gave his life so we could be free. / The Savior of the world”.

Abandon se podría definir como un pulso eléctrico del cual no puedes escapar, un constante torrente de creatividad y profunda adoración. ‘Searchlights’ es la mejor muestra de lo talentosas que es esta nueva pero experimentada banda, que comparte un legado que el mundo ha ido olvidando poco a poco: el amor y el desinterés resumidos en una sola palabra, Jesús.

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

14 Dec 2009

Seabird - Rock Into Rivers

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Artist: Seabird
Album: Rock Into Rivers
Year: 2009
Label: Credential Recordings/EMI CMG
Website: http://www.myspace.com/seabird
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Seabird Store
“Don’t You Know You’re Beautiful” (Single) [iTunes - Amazon]

The success of “Don’t You Know You’re Beautiful” absolutely terrific. Seabird has earned the respect of his audience through his debut ‘Til We See The Shore, and this year promises to consolidate its sound with “Rock Into Rivers”. His music has captivated the attentions of shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Numb3rs and Pushing Daises, placing songs like “Rescue” and “Let Me Go” in the eye of criticism, with favorable results. “Rock Into Rivers” has the support of producers like Paul Moak (Mat Kearney, Phillip LaRue and Sixpence None The Richer) and Matt Hales of Aqualung. On this album the work of Aaron Morgan (vocals) gives vitality to every song, making this cd a skillfully executed and a comfortable experience from beginning to end.

“Don’t You Know You’re Beautiful” opens the album, “Cause you’re not by yourself / I’ve been right here all along / Don’t have to be alone / Because you’ve always know / Wherever your heart is my home “. This catchy song full of indie/pop is the letter of God’s creation, a girl trying to be on foot while his family falls apart around her. “It’s about a girl who bears the burden of parental divorce on their men. She begins to believe the lies being overpowering, as if it were his fault. It is the desire to let him know the truth and discover who has the ability to live beyond their problems”, said Morgan about this song that is currently competing in the CHR/AC format radio. With strong influences from Keane and Aqualung, the song “Believe Me” becomes more personal. A passionate promise of being a husband and father who knows he should be, that is contrasted with strong piano and vocal ensemble in a rousing chorus. The magical and enchanting “Sing To Save My Life” spilled devotion and impeccable performance of Aaron, with a crescendo structure that gives a memorable and interesting twist to the project. “Trust” makes reference to a remarkable spiritual theme using a beat similar to Maroon 5. The whispering piano in “The Good King” refers to the story of a king, and how he sees life through the eyes of his her daughter. A message of celebration to God, despite the problems we face. It serves as a painful reminder that God is always nearby, even when things go wrong or when we are judging ourselves for our sins: “In His eyes, you ain’t done nothing wrong”. The beautiful melodies on “Baby I’m In Love”, is the song of Aaron Morgan to his wife, who remembers seeing his pregnant wife becoming into an incredible mother, even before the birth of his daughter. The compelling chorus of this song drives you to repeat again and again the same song. With a quiet acoustic guitar, “This Is Home” points to influences from Rufus Wainwright and transformed from “Lovers In Japan” (Coldplay) by moving the 3 minutes, a glorious change. “The Sound Of You And I” like the previous track, is favorites to continue the love story in a series of primetime television. Full of upright pianos, delicate, and a peaceful Glockenspiels accordion in the background. Colliding the way, “This Road” challenges the dark and difficult road that we sometimes have to go through in life, while challenging our pride and our position by pointing out that life is temporary and how long we lose the thought that we are invincible and so take life lightly. Definitely one of the best songs is “Finally Done Right” with a guitar riff in the introduction, a perfect melody, aggressive, contagious, relaxing. The album closes with “Rock Into Rivers”, which tells the familiar story in the dark evening by a poetic lyric. The song gets inside the head of a historical figure at the time of their personal failure with phrases like: “I’ll make you shiver when I turn rocks into rivers”. The dark drama of this poem, remember the footsteps of The Fray and Keane but with a charm and self-sufficient style to make this second production preferred by listeners.

With Indie, Brit Pop/Rock, fascinating melodies adorned with pianos and, “Rock Into Rivers” is an impressive recording, backed by lush arrangements and an ocean of dazzling talent. “For this album I think we wanted to mature both musically and lyrically,” says Aaron. “We have families now and are experiencing different aspects of life, and we think that our audience has matured with us as well. We want to continue making songs that inspire people to change and grow. There is a musical progression in these songs, they may be a little less poppy but at the same they definitely showcase our rock sensibility.”

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El éxito que “Don’t You Know You’re Beautiful” está logrando es totalmente formidable. Seabird ha sabido ganarse el respeto de su público a través de su debut ‘Til We See The Shore, y este año prometen consolidar su sonido con Rock Into Rivers. Su música ha cautivado a los productores de series como Grey’s Anatomy, Num3ers y Pushing Daises, colocando a canciones como “Rescue” y “Let Me Go”, en el ojo de la crítica con resultados favorables. “Rock Into Rivers” cuenta con la colaboración de productores cómo Paul Moak (Mat Kearney, Phillip LaRue y Sixpence None The Richer) y de Matt Hales de Aqualung. En este álbum el trabajo de Aaron Morgan (vocalista) le da la vitalidad a cada canción, haciendo de este cd una confortable y hábilmente ejecutada experiencia de principio a fin.

“Don’t You Know You’re Beautiful” apertura el disco, “Porque no estás solo / He estado aquí todo el tiempo / No tienes que estar solo porque siempre sabrás / que en dónde está tu corazón ahí estará tu hogar”. Esta pegajosa canción llena de indie/pop es la carta de Dios hacia su creación, una chica intentando estar de pié mientras que su familia cae en pedazos alrededor de ella. “Se trata de una chica que carga el peso del divorcio de sus padres en sus hombres. Ella empieza a creer las mentiras que la agobian, como si fuera su culpa. Es el deseo por hacerle saber la verdad, y que descubra que tiene la capacidad de vivir más allá de sus problemas” comenta Morgan acerca de esta canción que se encuentra actualmente compitiendo en las radios de formatos CHR/AC. Con fuertes influencias de Keane y Aqualung, la canción “Believe Me” se torna más personal. Una promesa apasionada de ser el esposo y padre que sabe que debe ser, que se contrasta con enérgico pianos, y un conmovedor reparto vocal en el coro. La mágica y encantadora “Sing To Save My Life” derrama devoción y una impecable performance de parte de Aaron, con una estructura crescendo que da un giro memorable  e interesante al proyecto. “Trust” hace notable alusión a un tema espiritual utilizando un beat similar al de Maroon 5. El susurrante piano en “The Good King”, hace referencia a la historia de un rey, y de cómo ve la vida a través de su hija. Un mensaje de celebración a Dios, a pesar de los problemas que nos aquejan. Sirve como un doloroso recordatorio que Dios está siempre cerca, incluso cuando las cosas van mal o cuando estamos juzgándonos a nosotros mismos por nuestros pecados: “En sus ojos, tu no hiciste nada malo”. Las melodías hermosas en “Baby I’m In Love”, es el canto de Aaron Morgan hacia sus esposa, que recuerda ver a su esposa embarazada convertirse en una madre increíble, incluso antes del nacimiento de su hija. El cautivante coro de esta canción te impulsa a repetir una y otra vez la misma canción. Con una plácida guitarra acústica, “This Ain’t Home” apunta a influencias de Rufus Wainwright y se transforma de Lovers In Japan (Coldplay) al pasar los 3 minutos, un cambio glorioso. “The Sound Of You And I” al igual que la canción anterior, son favoritas para continuar la historia de amor en una serie de televisión de horario estelar. Colmadas de erguidos pianos, delicados glockenspiels y un sosegado acordeón de fondo. Colisionando el trayecto, “This Road” desafía los oscuros y difíciles caminos que a veces tenemos que atravesar en la vida, mientras que reta nuestro orgullo y nuestra postura al señalar que la vida es temporal y cuanto tiempo perdemos al pensar que somos invencibles y por lo tanto tomamos la vida a la ligera. Definitivamente una de las mejores canciones es “Finally Done Right”, con un riff de guitarra en la introducción, una melodía perfecta, agresiva, contagiosa, relajante. El álbum se cierra con “Rock Into Rivers”, que cuenta la conocida historia velada en la oscuridad a través de una poética lírica. La canción se mete dentro de la cabeza de una figura histórica en el momento de sus fracaso personal con frases como: “Te haré temblar cuando ponga las rocas en los ríos”. El oscuro drama de esta poesía, recuerda las huellas de The Fray y Keane pero con un encanto suficiente y propio como para hacer de esta segunda producción la preferida por sus oyentes.

Con Indie, Brit Pop/Rock adornado de pianos y melodías fascinantes, “Rock Into Rivers” es una impresionante grabación, respaldada por arreglos exuberantes y un océano deslumbrante de talento. “Creo que para este álbum queríamos madurar tanto musical como líricamente. Ahora tenemos familias y estamos experimentando aspectos diferentes de la vida, y creemos que nuestro público ha madurado con nosotros. Queremos seguir haciendo canciones que inspiren a la gente a cambiar y crecer” nos comparte Aaron Morgan.

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