Plugged ®

19 Apr 2010

Lucas Parry - Alive

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 Apr 2010

The Acclaim - The Time Is Now (EP)

Artist: The Acclaim
Album: The Time Is Now - EP
Year: 2009
Label: AM Music
Website: http://www.theacclaimmusic.com/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/theacclaimband
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/theacclaim
Twitter: @TheAcclaim
Buy: iTunes - Amazon
Sounds Like: Wilco, MuteMath, U2, Muse, My Morning Jacket, The Boxer Rebellion, Starfield, Edward Mote, Farewell Flight, Third Day, Angels & Airwaves
Rating: 4/5 ♥♥♥

“The Acclaim’s mission is to advance a movement of worship that embodies the cry of a generation whose lives have been set aside for the Kingdom of God among a depraved culture”. Formed by Michael Rabb (lead vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar), Luther Lessor (lead guitars), Drew Konzelman (electric guitar, mandolin, vocals), Andrew Hartung (strings, Theremin, fiddle), Aaron McMullen (drums, vocals) Derek Konzelman (bass, vocals) and David Konzelman (keyboards, vocals) are prepared for the release of their debut entitled “The Time Is Now – EP”. Michael Rabb wrote all the songs on the EP and this detail makes it even more interesting is the fact of listen them.

With features from MuteMath and Farewell Flight, the sweeping “Give It All” adds some synths on the road, giving all our lives to God. “Not Satisfied” reminds me to Angels & Airwaves, by those deep atmospheres where we can hear the desperate cry of the Church asking the Father for a new awakening: “We’re tired of standing here / We’re tired of holding on / We’re tired of holding still / Tired of singing empty songs”. This song also has a high national radio host. The acoustic guitars give way to “Anthem” with safe lyrics and guitar delays that resemble a young Third Day. Quickly, “Solid Rock” (originally by Edward Mote) shakes us with its creative and flexible chord progression. The impulsive “Urgency” arrays itself with passionate piano and melodies alerting the great need for God in our world today. Then, the track energy increases with the violins and drums to proclaim: “How long must we wait for you?”.

“The Time Is Now” is a positive first step to a successful career. While the songs lack the potential to compete with big bands like U2 or Starfield, this time The Acclaim has to mature over time. However, these 5 songs are a must in your music library; you may be able to surprise with the details in them.

“La misión de The Acclaim es avanzar en un movimiento de adoración que encarne el clamor de una generación cuyas vidas han sido apartadas para el Reino de Dios entre un cultura depravada”. Conformado por Michael Rabb (vocalista, guitarra acústica, guitarra eléctrica), Luther Lessor (primer guitarra), Drew Konzelman (guitarra eléctrica, mandolina, voces), Andrew Hartung (strings, theremín, víolin), Aaron McMullen (batería, voces), Derek Konzelman (bajo, voces) y David Konzelman (teclados, voces) está preparados para el lanzamiento de su debut titulado “The Time Is Now – EP”. Michael Rabb escribió todas las canciones del EP y este detalle hace que sea aún más interesante el hecho de escucharlos.

Con rasgos de Farewell Flight y MuteMath, la arrasadora “Give It All” agrega algunos sintetizadores en el camino, entregándole todas nuestras vidas a Dios. “Not Satisfied” me hace recordar a Angels & Airwaves, por aquellas profundas atmósferas en dónde podemos oír el grito desesperado de la Iglesia al pedirle al Padre un nuevo despertar: “We’re tired of standing here / We’re tired of holding on / We’re tired of holding still / Tired of singing empty songs”. Esta canción además logro una buena acogida en radios nacionales. Las guitarras acústicas abren paso a “Anthem”, con letras seguras y delays de guitarras que se asemejan a una joven Third Day. Rápidamente, “Solid Rock” (original de Edward Mote) nos sacude con su creativa y ágil progresión de acordes. La impulsadora “Urgency” se atavía de pianos y apasionadas melodías que alertan la gran necesidad de Dios en nuestro mundo de hoy. Luego el track se incrementa de energía con los violines y tambores que proclaman: “How long we must wait for you?”.

“The Time Is Now” es un positivo primer paso para una fructífera carrera. Si bien las canciones carecen del potencial para competir con grandes bandas como Starfield o U2, esta vez The Acclaim tiene que madurar con el tiempo. Sin embargo, estas 5 canciones no pueden faltar en tu biblioteca musical; tal vez puedas sorprenderte con los detalles que hay en ellas.

17 Mar 2010

Andrew Greer - Open Book

Artist: Andrew Greer
Album: Open Book
Year: 2009
Label: Mr Andy’s Music
Website: http://andrew-greer.com/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/andrewgreermusic
Twitter: @agreermusic
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store
Sounds Like: Elton John, Ryan Adams, Mat Kearney, Ginny Owens, Julie Lee, Cindy Morgan, Michael Buble, The Elms, The Who, Emmylou Harris, James Taylor, Greg Sczebel
Rating: 4/5 ♥♥♥♥

Andrew Greer discovered the secret to communicate with his Creator. It all started when he decided to move away from the noise of civilization and go into the mountains to compose with an 80 years old piano. Desperate to uncover the truth, he decided to surrender his perpetual anguish, his sin, into a dark night of the soul and pray for a morning of grace. All of these feelings and experiences gave birth to “Open Book”, produced by the same Andrew Greer and mastered by Matt Odmark (Jars Of Clay). The creativity of this album, involves a lyrical blend of deep, complex instrumental and sentimental vocal melodies, which transports the listener into different stages and levels of worship.

A vibe organ opens the album in “And To Our God” which reminds us that God is with us even in failure. Inspired by Psalm 22:11, this song is the answer for those days of weakness: “And to our God, and to the Lamb / Who says wherever you are / There I am / And to the hope, that this King brings / Into our lives, into our days / Into everything / And to our God”. With a melancholy feeling and captivating soul/piano, “Time Has No Meaning” sounds like Elton John and Greg Sczebel, reflecting the pain we feel at losing a loved one: “And everytime I look into the sky / I wonder when I’ll earn my own wings to the other side”. The concept might best be consolidated with Psalms 34:18. The album also has quiet, delicate moments, as in the case of “All I Need” which starts with a whispering violin, which together with the viola and cello remind me Angus & Julia. It is a spiritual journey where we find God’s mercy, a humble prayer, accurate for a night of communion: “Break me down into bread / Pour me out into wine / Until all that’s left, it is hardly mine / Use me up ‘til nothing’s left / Any less would be unkind / All I need is in you to find”. Don’t panic. “Mais Pour Amour” is a candid and beautiful combination of strings and violins interpreted in French and inspired by Psalm 94:18. Ginny Owens adds vocals to “You Came Pulling Through”, with touches of jazz into a hymn about perseverance and the immediate relief of God: “The only name I had to call it was you / And you came pullin’ through / In my how of desparation / You brought me pure inspiration”. I am fascinated with the variety of aspects of life that this album touches, such as in “Some Other Time (Avery’s Hymn)” where Andrew celebrates his new role as an uncle, celebrating the joy a newborn brings to home. The piano leads to perfection, while the lyric seems to be the paraphrase of Matthew 6:34 and sings: “But who knows what she’ll have to go through / What this old world can do / So Jesus hold her for dear life”. The sublime “Hymn For Living”, is mapping the deep love and great desire to be with our families, when distance intrudes into our destinies: “Had we know leaving was part of the giving / Then our hearts would ache less for the missing you”. One of the songs with more spring feeling and an organically perfection is “Gone Are The Days” that treats in an explicit and abstract way the fact of divorce, but also offers the solution. To recognize our mistakes and let the grace to take control of the relationship. The accordion, mandolin and Julie Lee’s voice adequately ambience the soul of the song: “We found each other in the wrong time and place”. Crossing the trail of country/black gospel, “Emmylou” is an ode to singer Emmylou Harris, whose voice and music were a great influence in Greer. The song shows us some lessons he learned through this inspiration. With similarities to The Elms and The Who, the dynamic “Learning To Live” talks about the triumphs and lessons of life. Also dedicated to her friend Sarah Conley, who was diagnosed with cancer. “Wait For Us” sings a sweet gospel melody, gently breathing into the following phrases: “Bring your peace in our lives / In your love conquer strife / For our hearts have suffered long / Through the tempest bring us home”. The lyrics become more personal, poignant and appropriate to face the suffering of our world (Romans 8:22-24). Childhood is the most unforgettable period of our lives, and “Remind Me” focuses on this age. A song of autumn, full of questions and sweet melodies that are complemented by the featuring of Cindy Morgan: “Should I ever forget the price that was paid past for me? / Should I ever forget this life so freely given to me? / Then I will sing our song of the reedemed / And should I ever forget? / Remind me”.

“Open Book” is a journey that explores various aspects of life from the viewpoint of a song. Andrew Greer has such a poignant melodies, like a baby first cry and this album brings all those feelings we as humans have to experience.

Andrew Greer descubrió el secreto para comunicarse con su Creador. Todo comenzó cuando decidió alejarse del ruido de la civilización e irse a las montañas a componer con un piano de más de 80 años de antigüedad. Desesperado por descubrir la verdad, decidió rendir su perpetua angustia, su pecado, entrar en una noche oscura del alma y orar por una mañana de gracia. Todos estos sentimientos y experiencias dieron a luz a “Open Book”, producido por el mismo Andrew Greer y masterizado por Matt Odmark (Jars Of Clay). La creatividad de este álbum, envuelve la mezcla de una lírica profunda, complejidad instrumental y sentimentales melodías vocales, que transporta al oyente a diferentes fases y niveles de adoración.

Un órgano apertura el álbum en “And To Our God” que nos recuerda que Dios está con nosotros aún en medio del fracaso. Inspirado en el Salmo 22:11, esta canción es la respuesta por aquellos días de debilidad: “And to our God, and to the Lamb / Who says wherever you are / There I am / And to the hope, that this King brings / Into our lives, into our days / Into everything / And to our God”. Con un sentimiento melancólico y soul/piano cautivador, “Time Has No Meaning” suena como Elton John o Greg Sczebel, reflejando el dolor que sentimos al perder a alguien amado: “And everytime I look into the sky / I wonder when I’ll earn my own wings to the other side”. El concepto podría consolidarse mejor con Salmos 34:18. El álbum también posee momentos silenciosos, delicados, como en el caso de “All I Need” que se inicia con un susurrante violín, que en conjunto a la viola y el cello me hacen recordar a Angus & Julia. Es un viaje espiritual en dónde nos encontramos con la misericordia de Dios, una oración humilde, precisa para una noche de comunión: “Break me down into bread / Pour me out into wine / Until all that’s left, it is hardly mine / Use me up ‘til nothing’s left / Any less would be unkind / All I need is in you to find”. Que no cunda el pánico. “Mais Pour Amour” es una cándida y hermosa combinación de cuerdas y violines interpretadas en francés,  inspiradas en el Salmo 94:18. Ginny Owens le añade coros a “You Came Pulling Through”, con pinceladas de jazz en un himno a la perseverancia y el socorro inmediato de Dios: “The only name I had to call it was you / And you came pullin’ through / In my how of desparation / You brought me pure inspiration”. Me fascina la diversidad de aspectos de la vida que este álbum toca, como por ejemplo en “Some Other Time (Avery’s Hymn)” dónde Andrew celebra su nuevo papel como tío, festejando la alegría que un recién nacido nos trae al hogar. Los pianos conducen a la perfección, mientras que la lírica parece ser la versión parafraseada de Mateo 6:34, y nos canta: “But who knows what she’ll have to go through / What this old world can do / So Jesus hold her for dear life”. La sublime “Hymn For Living”, traza un mapa sobre el amor profundo y el gran anhelo por estar con nuestras familias, cuando la distancia se entremete en nuestros destinos: “Had we know leaving was part of the giving / Then our hearts would ache less for the missing you”. Una de las canciones con un sentimiento más primaveral y orgánicamente perfecta es “Gone Are The Days” que trata de manera abstracta y explícita el tema del divorcio; pero también ofrece la solución. Reconocer nuestros errores y dejar que la gracia tome el control de la relación. Los acordeones, la mandolina y la voz de Julie Lee ambientan adecuadamente el alma de la canción: “We found each other in the wrong time and place”. Atravesando el sendero country/black góspel, “Emmylou” es una oda a la cantante Emmylou Harris, cuya voz y música fueron de gran influencia en Greer. La canción nos muestra algunas lecciones que aprendió gracias a esta inspiración. Con semejanzas de The Elms y The Who, la dinámica “Learning To Live” habla sobre los triunfos y enseñanzas de la vida. Dedicada además a su amiga Sarah Conley, que fue diagnosticada de cáncer. “For Us Wait” nos canta un dulce melodía góspel, que respira delicadamente en las siguientes frases: “Bring your peace in our lives / In your love conquer strife / For our hearts have suffered long / Through the tempest bring us home”. La lírica se torna personal, conmovedora y adecuada para enfrentar el sufrimiento de nuestro mundo (Romanos 8:22-24). La infancia es la más inolvidable etapa de nuestras vidas, y “Remind Me” se centra en esta edad. Una canción de otoño, llena de interrogantes y dulces melodías que se complementan con la participación de Cindy Morgan: “Should I ever forget the price that was paid past for me? / Should I ever forget this life so freely given to me? / Then I will sing our song of the reedemed / And should I ever forget? / Remind me”.

“Open Book” es un viaje que explora los diversos aspectos de la vida desde el punto de vista de una canción. Andrew Greer tiene unas melodías tan conmovedoras, como el primer llanto de un bebé, y este álbum reúne todos aquellos sentimientos que como humanos tenemos que experimentar.

16 Mar 2010

Joe Henschel - Capture Me

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15 Mar 2010

Before Their Eyes - Untouchable

Artist: Before Their Eyes
Album: Untouchable
Year: 2010
Label: Rise Records
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/beforetheireyes
Twitter: @bteband
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Merch Now
Sounds Like: Saosin, In Fear And Faith, A Skylit Drive, Greeley States, blessthefall , The Word Alive, Greeley Estates, Agraceful, Burden Of A Day, Secret & Whisper, Further Seems Forever, Demon Hunter, The Devil Wears Prada, Attack Attack!, A Plea For Purging, Spoken, The Becoming, Disciple, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Boys Like Girl, Drop Dead, Gorgeous
Rating: 5/5 ♥♥♥♥♥

Keeping its pillars of post hardcore with a spiritual message embedded in his lyrics, Before Their Eyes presents his new album “Untouchable” produced by metal guru Joey Sturgis (A Plea For Purging, Attack Attack!, The Devil Wears Prada). A year after the release of “The Dawn Of My Death”, the band proposes a refined extension of their familiar sound, but incorporating a southern rock wave, which adds a different color to this album. Nick Moore (vocals), Landon Tewers (guitar), Elliot Gruenberg (guitar), Hottman Jarrett (drums) and Anthony Damschroder (bass), propound us a new alternative through Rise Records, with contrasts of life in motion and the indestructible hope of man.

Expectations are lit with “Hey Dude!”, showing us post hardcore and very interesting vocal nuances, while the vocal from Nick Moore is becoming more solid. You can hear God’s voice telling you: “I’ve watched you slip away / Don’t say you haven’t changed / You know I’ve known you from the start / I’ve seen the worst in you / I see you leading them astray”. I am more than sure that we were all surprised with “Sing To Me”, first official single from the album. The versatility of the band is visible with this melodic pop track with a seasoned guitar line and a catchy, memorable chorus. It speaks of those sleepless nights of spiritual decadence, those moments when you need to hear God’s voice to remind you your identity: “Would you sing to me / Would you sing to me / ‘cause I can feel a part of me starting to break / And when you are away from me it’s harder to breathe”. With influences from Spoken and Mourning September, the inspirational “Not Alone” reminds us that there are too many needy people out there waiting an outstretched hand and a voice that makes them feel they are not alone: “There’s a hand to hold, You’re not alone / This pain gets old like cracks in stone / Just taking back control, Taking back control”. Playing the broad and confusing topic of love, “Love Is Misery” is perfect for those adolescents with a broken heart: “Give it up, give it up, it’s over / Broken down ‘cause we’re miles from sea to sea / I’ve had enough, had enough, I told her / So it’s over, love is misery”.  The melody is driven, full of optimism and concludes with a tasteful acoustic guitar on an octave lower. “My Match Your Fire” resembles the sound of The Becoming or Further Seems Forever, with lyrics that shamelessly reclaims a girl, as she has caused a disaster in the life of this young man singing: “What did I do to deserve this burning / You bring me down when I’m all I’ve got / I never know cause my mind keeps turning / Why oh why / You’re only happy when I’m not”. With the participation of Kristen Williams, a new-coming female talent, “Start With Today” has an exceptional, passionate duet. Acoustic guitars and synths that complement this whispering ballad with influences of Disciple and Skillet, not forgetting the sublime lyric: “I don’t want you to go / One million miles away / Let you know that it’s okay (let you know that it’s okay) / I will bring you back home / Shelter you from the wind / Light a path with a burning flame (light a path with a burning flame) / We can start with today”. Superb, unbelievable performance ending with a shocking guitar solo. That magical silence is interrupted by screams on “Bulletproof” which makes the second half of the album, a heavy and aggressive image. It’s funny how these guys can become so wild and abstract line, in something as divine as in the following lines: “Take it away, I’ll free you from blame / ‘cause you know that I wanted to but I just couldn’t look at you / Inside my veins, my anger sustains / Yeah you know that I wanted to and my aim was just hurting you / You’re not bulletproof”, the cry of God reminding us that we are humans and we need his direction. “Finding a Way” reminds me of Secret & Whisper, an impulse lyric and the similarity of guitar riffs that encourage us to not give up, be strong and find the way of salvation: “Every step that I take / Every movement I make / Nothing can stop me, no I will not break”. Those guitar and violin lines gave me some indescribable chills, they all are epic. The sweeping “Rick Vs Nick” is starred by Landon Tewers (screams) in a noisy symphony full of secrets, lies, truths and excuses. The enemy’s terrifying scream is heard in “Hell or High Water”, which tries to seduce us with his lies. The pulse of the song freezes for a moment and desperately proclaimed: “We can make it / We will survive / On the coldest night / I pray for you tTo keep pushing on / Even though my life has ended / There’s still a life after death”. But we know that our heavenly lawyer is interceding for us and the battle has been won. Finally, the acoustic version of “Start With Today”, provides the perfect ending to this unexpected and powerful experience.

The change must be our only constant, and Before Their Eyes has taken this phrase to heart. With “Untouchable”, the band’s audience is amplified and consolidated. Each song keeps you watching, and leaves you impressed with unexpected melodies and a resounding message.

Manteniendo sus pilares de post hardcore con un mensaje espiritual arraigado en sus letras, Before Their Eyes nos presenta su nuevo disco “Untouchable” producido por el gurú del metal Joey Sturgis (A Plea For Purging, Attack Attack!, The Devil Wears Prada). Un año después del lanzamiento de “The Dawn Of My Death”, la banda nos propone una refinada extensión de su ya conocido sonido, pero incorporando una onda southern rock, que le agrega un color diferente a este álbum. Nick Moore (vocalista), Landon Tewers (guitarra), Elliot Gruenberg (guitarra), Jarrett Hottman (batería) y Anthony Damschroder (bajo) nos plantean una nueva alternativa a través de Rise Records, con contrastes de la vida en movimiento y la indestructible esperanza del hombre.

Las expectativas se enciende con “Hey Dude!”, que muestra post hardcore y matices vocales muy interesantes, mientras que el registro vocal de Nick Moore se hace cada vez más sólido. Puedes oír la voz de Dios diciéndote: “I’ve watched you slip away / Don’t say you haven’t changed / You know I’ve known you from the start / I’ve seen the worst in you / I see you leading them astray”. Estoy más que seguro que todos nos sorprendimos con “Sing To Me”, primer sencillo oficial del álbum. La versatilidad de la banda es visible con este track de pop melódico, con una línea de guitarra avezada y un pegajoso, memorable estribillo. Nos habla de aquellas noches de insomnio espiritual, de decadencia, aquellos momentos cuando necesitamos oír la voz de Dios para que nos recuerde nuestra identidad: “Would you sing to me / Would you sing to me / ‘cause I can feel a part of me starting to break / And when you are away from me it’s harder to breathe”. Con influencias de Mourning September y Spoken, la inspiradora “Not Alone” nos recuerda que hay demasiada gente necesitada ahí afuera, que espera una mano extendida y una voz que les haga sentir que no están solos: “There’s a hand to hold, You’re not alone / This pain gets old like cracks in stone / Just taking back control, Taking back control”. Tocando el amplio y confuso tema del amor, “Love Is Misery” va dirigido a aquellos adolescentes con un quebrantado corazón: “Give it up, give it up, it’s over / Broken down ‘cause we’re miles from sea to sea / I’ve had enough, had enough, I told her / So it’s over, love is misery”. La melodía es impulsadora, llena de optimismo y se concluye con una acertada guitarra acústica en una octava inferior. “My Match, Your Fire” se asemeja al sonido de The Becoming o Further Seems Forever, con una desvergonzada letra que le reclama a una muchacha, como ella ha provocado un desastre en la vida de este muchacho que canta: “What did I do to deserve this burning / You bring me down when I’m all I’ve got / I never know cause my mind keeps turning / Why oh why / You’re only happy when I’m not”. Con la participación de Kristen Williams, un nuevo talento femenino con mucho futuro, “Start With Today” posee un dueto excepcional,  apasionado. Guitarras acústicas y susurrantes sintetizadores que complementan esta balada con influencias de Disciple o Skillet, sin dejar de lado la sublime letra: “I don’t want you to go / One million miles away / Let you know that it’s okay (let you know that it’s okay) / I will bring you back home / Shelter you from the wind / Light a path with a burning flame (light a path with a burning flame) / We can start with today”. Magnífica interpretación, increíble desenlace con un solo de guitarra estremecedor. Aquel mágico silencio, se interrumpe con gritos en “Bulletproof” que convierte a la segunda mitad del álbum, en una imagen pesada y agresiva. Es curioso como estos muchachos pueden convertir acordes tan salvajes y abstractos, en algo tan divino como en las siguientes líneas: “Take it away, I’ll free you from blame / ‘cause you know that I wanted to but I just couldn’t look at you / Inside my veins, my anger sustains / Yeah you know that I wanted to and my aim was just hurting you / You’re not bulletproof”, el grito de Dios recordándonos que somos humanos y que necesitamos su dirección. “Finding A Way” me recuerda a Secret & Whisper, en una impulsadora lírica y la analogía de sus riffs de guitarra que nos animan a no rendirnos, ser fuertes y encontrar el camino de la salvación: “Every step that I take / Every movement I make / Nothing can stop me, no I will not break”. Aquellas líneas de guitarra y violines me dieron unos escalofríos indescriptibles, son épicos. La arrasadora “Rick Vs. Nick” se protagoniza por Landon Tewers (gritos) en una estrepitosa sinfonía llena de secretos, mentiras, verdades y excusas. El grito aterrador del enemigo se oye en “Hell Or High Water”, que nos intenta seducir con sus mentiras. El pulso de la canción se paraliza por unos instantes y proclama desesperadamente: “We can make it / We will survive / On the coldest night / I pray for you tTo keep pushing on / Even though my life has ended / There’s still a life after death”. Pero sabemos que nuestro abogado celestial está intercediendo por nosotros, y batalla ya ha sido ganada. Finalmente, la versión acústica de “Start With Today”, proporciona el desenlace perfecto y poderoso para esta inesperada experiencia.

El cambio debe ser nuestro único constante, y Before Their Eyes ha adoptado esta frase muy a pecho. Con “Untouchable”, la audiencia de la banda se amplifica y consolida. Cada canción te mantiene a la expectativa, y te deja impresionado, con melodías inesperadas y un mensaje resonante.

9 Mar 2010

Reilly - Let June Decide

Artist: Reilly
Album: Let June Decide
Year: 2007
Label: Reilly
Website: http://www.reillytheband.com
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/reillytheband
Twitter: @REILLYband
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Store
Sounds Like: Act Of Congress, Article One, Yellowcard, Andrew Bird, The Beatles, Coldplay, Death Cab For Cutie, Martin Sexton, Nickel Creek, Regina Carter, Switchfoot,  U2
Rating: 3/5 ♥♥♥

Reilly is the result of fusion of pop/rock with the sophistication of classical violin. John Reilly (vocals/guitar) is accompanied by duo Noele (violin/keyboards/vocals) and Dan Huie (violin/guitar), and Matthew Bomberger (bass/vocals) and Jordan Lenhoff (drums), presented this 2007 its latest project “Let June Decide”, produced by Andy Hunt (Caedmon’s Call, Lori, Matthew Perryman Jones), who has come to capture the musical and lyrical maturity of the band in a fresh and surprising way. Having shared the stage with Switchfoot, Newsboys, Jars Of Clay, Leeland, tobyMac and BarlowGirl, his lyrics are both artistically and musically exquisite, written from a personal perspective that represents both the joys and struggles through faith in God.

With indie guitars and rhodes, “Limited Time” enhances John Reilly’s voice in a spectacular way, with an infectious melody that reminds us of the urgency of preaching the Gospel: “Can a city on a hill be hidden? / I’m going to shine because of you”. The violins take the role in “Dying For Life” that shows the pain that we have had to walked away from God in our own way: “Can you feel me up? / I’m dying inside for something real”. Then, “This Side Of Your Life” softens the pulse of the album, with prominent violins blend with the sweet voice of John in a masterful union. The song is about making decisions and stop seeing the past as our present: “I’ve got a new choice to make / I’m tired of my yesterdays looking just like today always the same”. The honest and sweet “Beautiful You” is a love song that takes different perspectives: “There’s a different plan for me / Something better that I cannot see / It can only be beautiful wherever you are / It’s a wonderful world I see when you’re in my eyes, in my eyes / I always lose sight of me when You’re in my eyes / I never wanna move, I never wanna find that I’ve wasted all my time away from / Time away from beautiful you”. The inspiring “Cry For You” talks about our dreams and how our motives may be confused with our inclinations: “You shine a white light into my blind eyes / And now I’ve seen You truly for the first time / This revelation of my desperation / Brings me to Calvary, it brings me to salvation / You resurrect me, You rearrange me / You make my heart beat to another symphony / And you pursue me like You think I’m worth it / And Savior, now I know that I do not deserve this”, says the captivating bridge. “Come To Me” calls us to reflect on our spiritual condition and how the innocence is overshadowed by the pride and wickedness in our hearts: “I see through broken glass / A world of innocence past / Can you take me back to Eden? / I’ve traded truth for lies, I’ve got no alibi / No excuses to remove this blame / Will you leave me here alone in my kingdom on my throne? / I need a mutiny”. A great mix between alternative rock and a symphony orchestra, which employs falsetto and violins in a sublime. “Turned Blue” is the story of a relationship between a Christian and an ordinary girl. Both have different paths, and now he sees things in a different way: ““But I’ve already turned blue knowing it won’t be the same way without you / But I’ve already turned blue knowing it won’t be the same day I’m used to”. The serenity prayer in the lyrics of “Run”, that asks God to teach us to have his heart, his mind, learn what he feels. Acoustic guitars are flooded with whispering violins sweetly singing: “Come as soon as the darkness comes / And as soon as the teardrops fall / I run. With dynamic violins, “Speak” becomes more soul/ acoustic folk, asking God to give us his direction hearing his voice. “Redeemed” is simply the legacy of Christ’s blood left in our world; the work of the cross gave us eternity: “Now I’m redeemed by the blood of the Lamb / The Lamb who was slain”.

The creativity and energy of each of the tracks on “Let Decided June” will penetrate your soul. Reilly has the perfect elements for building an album with perfection and magnitude that other successful bands could have. For an independent band, fame and recognition it’s almost an alien, yet they have been proposed to conquer the world with this innovative sound.

Reilly es el resultado de la fusión de pop/rock con la sofisticación de un violín clásico. John Reilly (vocalista/guitarras) se acompaña del dúo Noele (violin/teclados/voces) y Dan Huie (violin/guitarra eléctrica), además de Matthew Bomberger (bajo/voces) y Jordan Lenhoff (batería), nos presentaron este 2007 su más reciente proyecto “Let June Decide”, producido por Andy Hunt (Caedmon’s Call, Lórien, Matthew Perryman Jones), que ha llegado a capturar la madurez musical y lírica de la banda de una manera fresca y sorprendente. Habiendo compartido escenario con Switchfoot, Newsboys, Jars Of Clay, Leeland, tobyMac y BarlowGirl, sus letras son tanto artística como musicalmente exquisitas, escritas desde una perspectiva personal que representa tanto las alegrías como las luchas por la fe en Dios.

Con guitarras indie y rhodes, “Limited Time” realza la voz de John Reilly de una manera espectacular, en una melodía contagiosa que nos recuerda la urgencia de predicar el Evangelio: “Can a city on a hill be hidden? / I’m going to shine because of you”. Los violines toman protagonismo en “Dying For Life” que muestra el dolor que tenemos al habernos alejado de Dios y caminado en nuestra propia senda: “Can you feel me up? / I’m dying inside for something real”. Seguidamente, “This Side Of Your Life” suaviza el pulso del disco, con prominentes violines que se mezclan con la dulce voz de John en una magistral unión. La canción habla sobre tomar decisiones y dejar de ver el pasado como nuestro presente: “I’ve got a new choice to make / I’m tired of my yesterdays looking just like today always the same”. La honesta y bella “Beautiful You” es una canción de amor que toma diferentes perspectivas: “There’s a different plan for me / Something better that I cannot see / It can only be beautiful wherever you are / It’s a wonderful world I see when you’re in my eyes, in my eyes / I always lose sight of me when You’re in my eyes / I never wanna move, I never wanna find that I’ve wasted all my time away from / Time away from beautiful you”. La inspiradora “Cry For You” habla sobre nuestros sueños y cómo nuestras motivaciones pueden confundirse con nuestras inclinaciones: “Life Iis constant demonstration / We’re carbón copied replications”. Los pianos misteriosos y penetrantes de “June” aperturan con acierto a “Sunlight” que nos dibuja el sacrificio de Jesús como un nuevo amanecer que desvanece las sombras del pecado: “You shine a white light into my blind eyes / And now I’ve seen You truly for the first time / This revelation of my desperation / Brings me to Calvary, it brings me to salvation / You resurrect me, You rearrange me / You make my heart beat to another symphony / And you pursue me like You think I’m worth it / And Savior, now I know that I do not deserve this”, nos dice el cautivante puente. “Come To Me” nos llama a reflexionar sobre nuestra situación espiritual, y de cómo la inocencia se ha opacado por el orgullo y maldad en nuestros corazones: “I see through broken glass / A world of innocence past / Can you take me back to Eden? / I’ve traded truth for lies, I’ve got no alibi / No excuses to remove this blame / Will you leave me here alone in my kingdom on my throne? / I need a mutiny”. Una gran mezcla entre rock alternativo y una sinfonía orquestal, que emplea falsetes y violines de una manera sublime. “Turned Blue” es la historia de una relación entre un cristiano y una chica común y corriente. Ambos tienen caminos distintos, ya que él ahora ve las cosas de una diferente manera: “But I’ve already turned blue knowing it won’t be the same way without you / But I’ve already turned blue knowing it won’t be the same day I’m used to”. La serena oración en la lírica de “Run”, le pide a Dios que nos enseñe a tener su corazón, su pensamiento, aprender lo que Él siente. Las guitarras acústicas se inundan de susurrantes violines que dulcemente cantan: “Come as soon as the darkness comes / And as soon as the teardrops fall / I run”. Con dinámicos violines, “Speak” se torna mas soul/folk acoustic pidiéndole a Dios que nos de su dirección al oír su voz. “Redeemed” es simplemente el legado que la sangre de Cristo dejó en nuestro mundo, la obra de la cruz que nos dio la eternidad: “Now I’m redeemed by the blood of the Lamb / The Lamb who was slain”.

La creatividad y energía de cada uno de los tracks en “Let June Decided” se penetran en tu alma. Reilly tiene los elementos perfectos para forjar un álbum con la perfección y magnitud que otras exitosas bandas podría tener. Para un banda independiente, la fama y reconocimiento le es casi ajeno, sin embargo ellos se han propuesto a conquistar el mundo con este innovador sonido.