Plugged ®

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.

29 Jun 2010

Dr. Seahorse - Symptons Of Trend

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Artist: Dr. Seahorse
Album: Symptons Of Trend
Year: 2009
Label: Mirth Records
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/drseahorsemusic
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/drseahorsemusic
Twitter: @drseahorsemusic
Buy: iTunes - Amazon
Sounds Like: Trevor Davis, Justim Timberlake, The Postal Service, Michael Jackson, Owl City, Suhonen Marcos
Rating: 5/5 ♥♥♥♥♥

Trevor Davis and Suhonen Marcos join together in an accidentally exquisite musical adventure. The duo began to dream of since June 2007 with an electronic project and fresh influences from the brazen sound of Michael Jackson, down to the babbling harmony of The Postal Service.

This bizarre fantasy designed to “Symptoms Of Trend” where Trevor away from self-conscious in a simple acoustic sound, operates with full vocal agility, while his teammate machines energetic rhythms and smooth sounds of percussion. From the first strings in “6th Day” that seem an homage to the classic “Singing In The Rain”, to the titletrack “Symptoms Of Trend” with a seductive melody reminiscent of Justin Timberlake. Even the sublime roars in “Invisible Lion” become a mix of emotions by declaring that a man should be as dependent as a child if he wants the strength to remain true. The finest moments come with “One With The Weeds” and “Reason Why”, each with a particular magic, brimming with amazing vocal and lyrical talent. The romantic “Made Me Whole” pours almost vanished passion between the Marcos’ sequences; as if this were not enough, “Help Me Out”  dopes with those electric pianos, and those chords lost in the silence of the night.

“Dreams can become prayers” and Dr. Seahorse is complemented by the mysteries of this winter cold.

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Trevor Davis y Suhonen Marcos se unen en una aventura musical accidentadamente exquisita. El dúo empezó a soñar desde junio del 2007 con un proyecto electrónico y fresco, influenciándose desde el desvergonzado sonido de Michael Jackson, hasta llegar a la balbuceante armonía de The Postal Service.

Esta extravagante fantasía concibió a “Symptoms Of Trend” dónde Trevor lejos de cohibirse en un mero sonido acústico, se desenvuelve con total agilidad vocal, mientras que su compañero maquina ritmos enérgicos y suaves sonidos de percusión. Desde los primeras cuerdas en “6th Day” que parecen un homenaje al clásico “Singing In The Rain” hasta el titletrack “Symptoms Of Trend” con una seductora melodía que recuerda a Justin Timberlake. Incluso los rugidos sublimes en “Invisible Lion” se convierten en una mezcla de emociones al declarar que un hombre debe ser tan dependiente como un niño si desea la fuerza para permanecer en la verdad. Los momentos más delicados llegan con “One With The Weeds” y “Reason Why”, ambas con una magia particular, rebosando talento vocal e increíbles líricas. La romántica “Made Me Whole” derrama pasión casi desvanecida entre las secuencias de Marcos, y como si fuera poco, “Help Me Out” nos dopa con aquellos pianos eléctricos y esos acordes perdidos en el silencio de la noche.

“Los sueños se pueden convertir en oraciones”, y Dr. Seahorse se complementa con los misterios de este frío de invierno.

21 Apr 2010

Sixteen Cities - Sixteen Cities

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Artist: Sixteen Cities
Album: Sixteen Cities
Year: 2010
Label: Centricity Music/EMI CMG
Website: http://sixteencities.com/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/sixteencities
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/sixteencities
Twitter: @sixteencities
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store
Sounds Like: The Fray, Jars Of Clay, The Afters, Death Cab For Cutie, Brandon Heath, Tenth Avenue North, Hawk Nelson, Leeland, Bebo Norman, Rush Of Fools, Stellar Kart, Me In Motion, Satellites & Sirens, Abandon, Newsboys, Revive
Rating: 5/5 ♥♥♥♥♥

As I promised, Centricity Music gives us in this first part of the year, highly anticipated debut of another of their new members. Sixteen Cities, formed by Josiah Warneking (vocals, piano), Joshua Miller (guitar), Dustin Erhardt (lead guitar), Chad McCutchen (drums) and Joel Warneking (bass), are influenced by bands like The Fray, Jars Of Clay , The Afters and Death Cab For Cutie. The selftitled album features production by Jason Ingram (Brandon Heath, Meredith Andrews, Tenth Avenue North), Steve Wilson (Hawk Nelson, Leeland) and Rusty Varenkamp (Bebo Norman, Rush Of Fools).

The adrenaline starts with “Just Want to Dance”, showing the band’s strengthened faith. Many times our trust in God fades, we missed our first love; and this song encourages us to believe that while everything around us may change, God never did: “You are the same unchanging God that made me free”. Then we met with the harsh but honest “Save Me From Myself”, which through powerful guitars sincerely declare that our heart is not strong enough to walk alone in life, and definitely needs God: “You save me / Save me from myself / ‘Cause there is no one else / I’d lean on / You save me / You save me from myself / There is no one else to set me free”. Quickly, we find the first single, “Sing Along” who joyfully gives praise to God for the wonderful creation that he designed: “I love the way the stars shine for You / And every single mountain bows down / I love the way the universe is singing Your song / So I’ll try to sing along”. I met Sixteen Cities listening to “Pray You Through”, that suddenly became an anthem about the strength that we give to those who struggle with the petitions, especially if their problems are so difficult that mere words won’t provided the remedy: “I’m all out of words / There’s nothing I could say to you / To take away the hurt / So let me pray you through”. Many times we hesitate to surrender our destiny to serve God, but His grace gives us the conviction that everything we do is always worth the trouble. That is the message of “Only After You”, featuring insightful guitar riffs and piano, and that reminds me Stellar Kart. Then, “Come As You Are” arrays with contemplative pianos with the voice of God calling us to their presence, regardless of our condition: “Come to Me and I will love you more than you have ever known / Come to Me and I will take you places you have never been before / I love you more”. Showing the great forgiveness of God, “Innocent” reminds us that even knowing that we’ll fail a thousand times, His grace will not let us down: “And you say to me that I’m already innocent / And I can’t believe you take me as I am / And I’m on my knees begging for forgiveness / I know I’m guilty but you make me innocent”. The energetic “Captured” explodes in total devotion. Pianos accurate and powerful voice of Josiah by declaring: “You are the only one who can save me / Save me from myself / I’m gonna need your help / Take me and break me / Until I stand before You holy / I can’t get enough / I’m captured by Your love”. With an upbeat message, “Someone’s Work Of Art” is God whispering the identity we have in Him, in the midst of disappointment and uncertainty: “You are someone’s work of art / Just the way you are / And you’re shining like the stars tonight / All the pieces of your heart / And the lovely scars / Are someone’s work of art”. With a similar message, “Bleeding For You” reminds us of the sacrifice of Christ as the reason for our suffering and pain are gone: “You are more than a heart simply beating / If only you knew / You can have this love that is bleeding / Bleeding for you”. Finally, the somber ballad “Winter” becomes a cry of redemption: “‘Cause I’ve been searching for the sun / But I don’t know if anyone / Can tell me how to find my way home / All the things that I’ve become / Are all the things I’m running from / I don’t want my heart to turn to stone / This cold has been so bitter / Can You save me from this winter?”. The pianos are intertwined with the strings and the sweet melody that desperately ends this recording.

“We started playing in high school leading worship on Wednesday morning, and we loved this experience”, explains the singer and keyboardist of the band Josiah Warneking. “When we graduated we were praying to find God’s will. We feel called to music ministry, but with no interest in the music industry. One or two weeks later we called a person of a ministry called Common Ground, which is basically responsible for organizing concerts, games and presentations of the Gospel in public schools. So we thought we would no longer continue singing options to students once they graduate, we opened the door to remain in front of hundreds and sometimes thousands of teenagers singing about Jesus”.

I have to confess I expected a little more flexibility in the sound of this album, but it is worth noting that the progression of each of its tracks is perfect. An acoustic and intimate adventure that fuses rock with pop fully ready to conquer the world. Sixteen Cities, as Me In Motion, have a prominent future.

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Como lo prometido es deuda, Centricity Music nos entrega  en esta primera parte del año el tan esperado debut de otro de sus nuevos integrantes. Sixteen Cities, conformado por Josiah Warneking (vocalista, piano), Joshua Miller (segunda guitarra), Dustin Erhardt (primera guitarra), Chad McCutchen (batería) y Joel Warneking (bajo), reciben influencias de bandas como The Fray, Jars Of Clay, The Afters y Death Cab For Cutie. El autitulado álbum cuenta con la producción de Jason Ingram (Brandon Heath, Meredith Andrews, Tenth Avenue North), Steve Wilson (Hawk Nelson, Leeland) y Rusty Varenkamp (Bebo Norman, Rush Of Fools).

La adrenalina arranca con “Just Wanna Dance”, mostrándonos la fortalecida fe de la banda. Muchas veces nuestra confianza en Dios se va apagando, echamos de menos nuestro primero amor; esta canción nos anima a creer que si bien todo a nuestro alrededor puede cambiar, Dios nunca lo ha hecho: “You are the same unchanging God that made me free”. Seguidamente nos encontramos con la cruda pero honesta “Save Me From Myself”, que a través de potentes guitarras declara con sinceridad que nuestro corazón no es lo suficientemente fuerte para caminar solos en la vida, y que definitivamente necesitamos a Dios: “You save me / Save me from myself / ‘Cause there is no one else / I’d lean on / You save me / You save me from myself / There is no one else to set me free”. Rápidamente, nos encontramos con el primer sencillo del álbum, “Sing Along” que gozosamente brinda alabanza a Dios por la maravillosa creación que Él diseñó: “I love the way the stars shine for You / And every single mountain bows down / I love the way the universe is singing Your song / So I’ll try to sing along”. Conocí a Sixteen Cities, por medio de “Pray You Through”, que en solo instantes se convirtió en un himno sobre la fortaleza que entregamos a aquellas personas que luchan con las peticiones, sobre todo si sus problemas resultan tan difíciles que las meras palabras no proporcionan el remedio: “I’m all out of words / There’s nothing I could say to you / To take away the hurt / So let me pray you through”. Muchas veces dudamos de nuestro destino al entregarnos al servicio de Dios, sin embargo su gracia nos da la convicción de que todo lo que hagamos siempre valdrá la pena. Ese es el mensaje de “Only After You”, que cuenta con perspicaces rasgueos de guitarra y piano, y que me recuerda a Stellar Kart. Luego, “Come As You Are” se atavía de contemplativos pianos junto a la voz de Dios que nos llama hacia su presencia, sin importar nuestra condición: “Come to Me and I will love you more than you have ever known / Come to Me and I will take you places you have never been before / I love you more”. Mostrando el gran perdón de Dios, “Innocent” nos recuerda que aún sabiendo que volveremos a fallar una y mil veces, su gracia no nos deja caer: “And you say to me that I’m already innocent / And I can’t believe you take me as I am / And I’m on my knees begging for forgiveness / I know I’m guilty but you make me innocent”. La enérgica “Captured” estalla en total devoción. Pianos certeros y la potente voz de Josiah al declarar: “You are the only one who can save me / Save me from myself / I’m gonna need your help / Take me and break me / Until I stand before You holy / I can’t get enough / I’m captured by Your love”. Con un impulsador mensaje, “Someone’s Work Of Art” es Dios susurrándonos la identidad que tenemos en Él, en medio de la desilusión y la incertidumbre: “You are someone’s work of art / Just the way you are / And you’re shining like the stars tonight / All the pieces of your heart / And the lovely scars / Are someone’s work of art”. Con un mensaje similar, “Bleeding For You” nos recuerda el sacrificio de Cristo como la razón para que nuestras penas y dolor se acaben: “You are more than a heart simply beating / If only you knew / You can have this love that is bleeding / Bleeding for you”. Finalmente, la balada sombría “Winter” se convierte en un clamor de redención: “‘Cause I’ve been searching for the sun / But I don’t know if anyone / Can tell me how to find my way home / All the things that I’ve become / Are all the things I’m running from / I don’t want my heart to turn to stone / This cold has been so bitter / Can You save me from this winter?”. Los pianos se entrelazan con las cuerdas y la dulce melodía que desesperadamente culmina esta grabación.

“Empezamos tocando en el instituto dirigiendo la alabanza los miércoles por la mañana, y nos encantó esta experiencia”, explica el cantante y teclista de la banda Josiah Warneking. “En el momento de graduamos estuvimos orando para encontrar la voluntad de Dios. Nos sentirnos llamados al ministerio musical, pero sin tener ningún interés en la industria musical. Una o dos semanas más tarde nos llamó una persona de un ministerio llamado Common Ground, que se encarga básicamente de organizar conciertos, juegos y presentaciones del Evangelio en escuelas públicas. Así que nosotros que pensábamos que ya no tendríamos opciones de continuar cantando a los estudiantes una vez graduados, se nos abrió la puerta de poder seguir estando en frente de centenares y, a veces, miles de adolescentes cantando sobre Jesús”.

Tengo que confesar que esperaba un poco más de agilidad en el sonido de este álbum, pero cabe resaltar que la progresión de cada uno de sus tracks es perfecta. Una aventura acústica e íntima que se fusiona con pop rock totalmente preparado para conquistar el mundo. Sixteen Cities, al igual que Me In Motion, tienen un futuro prominente.

5 Apr 2010

Nathan Morris - Just Me, Just You (EP)

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Artist: Nathan Morris
Album: Just Me, Just You - EP
Year: 2010
Label: Rytone Entertainment
Website: http://www.nathanmorris.net/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/nathanmorris
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nathanmorrismusic
Twitter: @nathanmorris
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store
Sounds Like: Nathan Walters, Secrets In Stereo, Lights, Owl City, Keane, Coldplay, Chris Brown, Ne-Yo
Rating: 4/5 ♥♥♥

Nathan Morris takes his personal experiences to produce genuine lyrics that are relevant to the listeners from various walks of life. Nominated as an independent artist of the year, and having sounded infinitely in the Starbucks internationally between 2008 and 2009 with his song “Closure”, while “Closer Like Me” was playing on some American Airlines flights. Last year was the beginning of a new era for Nathan Morris. Powered by acclaimed Grammy nominated, Dove Award winning and producer Ryan Farish, this year give us an advance of a renewed and fresh sound with “Just Me, Just You - EP”.

The titletrack “Just Me, Just You” quickly convinces us of the musical evolution of Morris. Ryan Farish added style and complemented the sexy voice of Nathan making a song with features of electro pop and R&B that is easily compared to well-known Ne-Yo. The lyrics talks about a boy regretted of his words, the mistakes he made in his relationship, and that all he wants is keep love away: “You got my heart in your pocket / don’t drop it”. I love the synths in the chorus and the vocal versatility of this track. The abstract “It’s Criminal”, guilty accused that girl who has stolen the heart and passion of our lives. Finally, “Lost Without You” is inclined to Chris Brown, with lovely lyrics and melody. No matter where we go, the faces we see, we are convinced that without this love we are lost.

Although, before Nathan Morris could be compared musically with Coldplay or Keane, the metamorphosis of his sound is positive. Now we could say that Nathan Walters, Owl City and Lights are his biggest influences, and his compositions include large-scale improved.

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Nathan Morris toma sus experiencias personales para producir letras genuinas que son relevantes para los oyentes de diversas profesiones y condiciones sociales. Nominado como artista independiente del año, y habiendo sonado infinitamente en los Starbucks a nivel internación entre el 2008 y 2009 con su tema “Closure”, mientras que “Closer Like Me” sonaba en los vuelos de American Airlines. El año pasado fue el inicio de una nueva era para Nathan Morris. Impulsado por el aclamado nominado al Grammy, ganador de los premios Dove y productor Ryan Farish, este año nos presentan un adelanto de un renovado y fresco sonido con “Just Me, Just You - EP”.

El titletrack “Just Me, Just You” rápidamente nos convence de la evolución musical de Morris. Ryan Farish ha agregado su estilo y ha complementado la atractiva voz de Nathan logrando una canción pop con rasgos de electro y R&B que fácilmente se comparan al experimentado Ne-Yo. La letra habla sobre un muchacho arrepentido de las palabras, los errores que cometió en su relación, y que lo único que anhela es impedir que el amor desaparezca: “You got my heart in your pocket / don’t drop it”. Me encantan los sintetizadores en el coro y la versatilidad vocal de este track. La abstracta “It’s Criminal” acusa de culpable a aquella chica que ha robado el corazón y la pasión de nuestras vidas. Por último, “Lost Without You” se inclina por Chris Brown, con una encantadora letra y melodía. No importa donde vayamos, los rostros que veamos, estamos convencidos que sin ese amor estamos perdidos.

Si bien, antes Nathan Morris podía ser comparado musicalmente con Coldplay o Keane, la metamorfosis de su sonido es positiva. Ahora podríamos decir que Nathan Walters, Owl City y Lights son sus mayores influencias, y cabe mencionar que sus composiciones han mejorado en gran escala.

31 Mar 2010

Paper Tongues - Paper Tongues

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Artist: Paper Tongues
Album: Paper Tongues
Year: 2010
Label: Catapult
Website: http://www.papertongues.com/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/papertongues
Twitter: @Paper_Tongues
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store
Sounds Like: Earthsuit, Queen, The Beastie Boys, Eminem, MuteMath, Ricky Skaggs, Kenny Rogers, Hank Williams Jr., Loretta Lyn, Conway Twitty, K’naan, Kings Of Leon, Wilco, The Roots, Jeff Buckley, Journey, James Brown, Talking Heads, Bloc Party, Red Hot Chili Pepper
Rating: 5/5 ♥♥♥♥♥

A&M/Octone Records presents us a powerful debut which I believe it will be one of the best in this 2010. Paper Tongues formed by Answan North (vocals), Devin Forbes (guitar), Joey Signa (guitar), Daniel Santell (bass), Jordan Hardee (drums), Clayton Simon (keyboards) and Cody Blackler (rhodes) fused rock ‘n’ hot roll with touches of hip hop, rap, funk and soul. The album was produced by the acclaimed Brian West (Nelly Furtado, K’naan, Savage Garden) with John Fields (Jonas Brothers, Jon McLaughlin, Jimmy Eat World, Miley Cyrus, Switchfoot, Demi Lovato, Pink), Billy Hume and Mark Endert (Green River Ordinance, Madonna, Maroon 5, Plumb), so you can be no doubting about the magnitude of this record.

The invigorating “Trinity” mix soul and rock with electronic in an anthem of our generation to become aware of the pain of our society, trapped by disbelief and poverty: “I am reaching from the depths of my soul / Hear me pleading I’m a child I’m the poor I am needing / To the drum you better believe it / Turn it up don’t say goodbye / And you know that time after time we will survive / That’s why I’m still alive”. The fiery “For The People” and his eclectic electronic sounds make you dance wildly exploding in the instrumental that takes hold of the rhodes and guitars. This track could be the emblem of the band in their quest to convince his listeners that they have been created to be the voice of his people: “I’m the voice above the noise and we need to rock it, so bring in the boys”. Breaking down the silence, “Ride To California” (first single) combines hip-hop hooks, and crunchy pop rock that will make you shake, but also reflect. This song summarizes and graphs the history of the band, which being poor they got to pursue their dreams to reach this long-awaited debut release: ““I’ve been up but I ain’t down / I’ve been lost but now I’m found / I need a ticket for sure / If you got another seat on the plane would you let me go”. The passionate “Get Higher” is full of spiritual experiences, and connects you with the soul of his improvised lyric: “You provoque a man to bow down / and I get on my knees and cry out / Everything I have is yours now”. Moreover, “What If” is questioned about our mistakes and emotions. “Soul” is the divine voice that reaches out to those failures, fear, hurt and heartbroken people wandering around the city: “I know you’re lost and need to be found / Just take my hand”. The infectious melody on the bridge of “Everybody” will remain etched in your brain for many days; it stated that as humans we need each other. The strident piano of “Strongest Flame” talks about a past love and shows the best performance of vocalist Aswan North with a wide melodic registration. “Rich And Poor” once again draws us the reality of our society, and reminds me the forgotten Earthsuit, with a seasoned and a bohemian hip-hop/rock melody. “Love Like You” ends this masterpiece, with a passionate song that sings about the blessing of finding the love of God or that special someone. A love that gives you the strength to survive in our shattered world. Poetry in motion.

“If the Beastie Boys associate with Eminem and asked MuteMath to back them up, then you get Paper Tongues”. These seven individuals have created something I’ve never heard before. Their music can heal lives, our society, a perverted politics and the hopeless heart of our artists. Each song encourages you to make new beginnings, second chances.

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A&M/Octone Records nos presenta un poderoso debut el cual estoy convencido será uno de los mejores de este 2010. Paper Tongues conformado por Answan North (vocalista), Devin Forbes (guitarra), Joey Signa (guitarra), Daniel Santell (bajo), Jordan Hardee (batería), Clayton Simon (sintetizadores) y Cody Blackler (rhodes) fusionan rock’n’roll con ardientes toques de hip hop, rap, funk y soul. El álbum fue producido por el aclamado Brian West (Nelly Furtado, K’naan, Savage Garden) junto a John Fields (Jonas Brothers, Jon McLaughlin, Jimmy Eat World, Miley Cyrus, Switchfoot, Demi Lovato, Pink), Billy Hume y Mark Endert (Green River Ordinance, Madonna, Maroon 5, Plumb); así que no te puede quedar duda de la magnitud de esta grabación.

La vigorizante “Trinity” mezcla soul y rock con electrónica en un himno de nuestra generación a tomar conciencia sobre el dolor de nuestra sociedad, atrapada por la incredulidad y la pobreza: “I am reaching from the depths of my soul / Hear me pleading I’m a child I’m the poor I am needing / To the drum you better believe it / Turn it up don’t say goodbye / And you know that time after time we will survive / That’s why I’m still alive”. La ardiente “For The People” y sus eclécticos sonidos electrónicos te llevan a bailar desenfrenadamente explosionando en el instrumental que se apodera de los rhodes y las guitarras. Este track podría ser el emblema de la banda en su afán por convencer a sus oyentes que ellos han sido creados para ser la voz de su pueblo, de su gente: “I’m the voice above the noise and we need to rock it, so bring in the boys”. Derrumbando el silencio y las etiquetas, “Ride To California” (primer sencillo) combina ganchos de hip-hop, rock y crujiente pop que te hará temblar, sacudirte, pero también reflexionar. Esta canción resume y grafica la historia de la banda, que al ser pobres consiguieron perseguir sus sueños hasta llegar a lanzar este ansiado debut: “I’ve been up but I ain’t down / I’ve been lost but now I’m found / I need a ticket for sure / If you got another seat on the plane would you let me go”. La apasionada “Get Higher” está llena de experiencias espirituales, y te conecta con el alma improvisada de su lírica: “You provoque a man to bow down / and I get on my knees and cry out / Everything I have is yours now”. Por otro lado, “What If” se cuestiona sobre nuestros errores y emociones. “Soul” es la voz divina que extiende su mano a aquellos fracasados, temerosos, heridos y acongojados que vagan por la ciudad: “I know you’re lost and need to be found / Just take my hand”. La contagiosa melodía en el puente de “Everybody” se quedará grabada en tu cerebro durante muchos días, que nos declara que como humanos nos necesitamos unos a otros. Los estridentes pianos de “Strongest Flame” hablan sobre un amor del pasado y nos muestra la mejor performance del vocalista Aswan North, con un amplio registro melódico. “Rich And Poor” una vez más nos dibuja la realidad de nuestra sociedad, y me hace recordar a los olvidados Earthsuit, con un avezado hip-hop/rock y una bohemia melodía. “Love Like You” culmina esta obra maestra, con una apasionada melodía que canta sobre la bendición de encontrar el amor de Dios o de aquella persona especial. Un amor que te da las fuerzas para sobrevivir en nuestro devastado mundo. Poesía en movimiento.

“Si los Beastie Boys se asociaran con Eminem y le preguntaran a MuteMath que los respalde, entonces obtendrás a Paper Tongues”. Estos siete individuos han creado algo que nunca antes he oído. Música que puede sanar vidas, una sociedad, una pervertida política y el corazón desesperanzado de nuestros artistas. Cada canción te anima a tomar nuevos comienzos, segundas oportunidades.

29 Mar 2010

Manafest - The Chase

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Artist: Manafest
Album: The Chase
Year: 2010
Label: Manafest Productions/BEC Recordings
Website: http://www.manafest.net/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/manafestca
Twitter: @Manafest
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store
Sounds Like: Linkin Park, The Beastie Boys, Eminem, P.O.D, Papa Roach, Three Days Grace, EPMD, Das Efx, Thousand Foot Krutch, KJ-52, Three Days Grace, Prodigy, tobyMac
Rating: 4/5 ♥♥♥♥

There are just a few Christian artists that have managed to succeed even in Japan. I just remember Krystal Meyers and Until June, so apparently, the Japanese know how to choose their idols. Manafest presents his fourth studio record entitled “The Chase” with an aggressive sound and a lyrical-musical evolution that energize the potential of Chris Greenwood. Joining forces with BEC Recordings, the album was produced by Adam Messinger (Chris Brown, Brandy, New Kids On The Block, Justin Bieber, The Cab) and provides us scratchy guitars, aggressive rhymes merged into rock and rap.

The album begins with the first single “No Plan B” with the participation Koie of Crossfaith that adds some depth to the song with an overwhelming cry that says: “And I know that this road is my destiny / I’ve got to stick to the plan / Cause there’s no plan B”. The savage “Fire In The Kitchen” features a bold Trevor McNevan with powerful guitars and drums with strong similarities to Green Day. While “Supernatural” is painted with features from P.O.D. adding solid violins and a sticky choir that talks about the power of God to save, and how He showed us the light when we were blind in our sins. “Every Time You Run” give us an inspiring message through the story of someone who had been running for a long time with its own forces, but eventually discovered that the only answer is Christ. Trevor expressed his most passionate vocal performance on this track, as we heard in songs such as “Forward Motion” and is rumored to be the third single released in CHR/ROCK formats. Moreover, “Bring The Ruckus” has a very particular attitude to musical influences from The Beastie Boys and Linkin Park. The second single, “Avalanche” features a driving dance/pop rhythm and has a shameless lyrical that cries for help amid the storm: ”Hey, cuz I’m the prodigal man of this avalanche / I’m going down, I’m going down down / Hey and if you turn me in, I’ll confess my sins / I’m going down, I’m going down down / before I’m six feet deep, I’m washing my hands clean / Just get me out of this avalanche”. The hilarious “Married In Vegas” has a very dynamic melody and some interesting riffs. Perhaps one of the weakest tracks of the album and voids, but is something I have repeated more than 3 times in one afternoon. “Renegade” once again shows the incredible chemistry between McNevan and Greenwood, the guitar work is devastatingly pleasant. We arrived to the titletrack “The Chase” that hypnotizes us with that upbeat rhythm and those touches of violin in the choir. “Better Cause Of You” and “Breaking Down The Walls” introduces us to Dustin Antsey (producer and bassist from the band Mindsight) in two master outcomes for the album. It is noteworthy that the Deluxe Edition of the album features 3 bonus tracks: “No Plan B (Feat. Koie from Crossfaith)” in a fierce alternate version which adds a new verse by Koie of Crossfaith, and finally the remix version of this song and the radio hit “Impossible” mixed by Kubiks.

“The Chase” adds many rock features to rap, with a more mature sound that shows that this boy is still chasing his dreams in the midst of the struggles of everyday life. “On this album I really worked hard at connecting my music with the emotions of people. I’ve learned to take real life experiences and have tried to create songs that paint realistic and common themes of people. I want the listener to feel like it’s them in the song” shares Grenwood.

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Son muy pocos artistas cristianos que han logrado tener éxito incluso en Japón. Solo recuerdo a Krystal Meyers y Until June y al parecer, los japoneses saben elegir a sus ídolos. Manafest nos presenta su cuarto proyecto de estudio titulado “The Chase”, con un sonido agresivo y una evolución lírica-musical que vigorizan el potencial de Chris Greenwood. Uniendo fuerzas con BEC Recordings, el disco fue producido por Adam Messinger (Chris Brown, Brandy, New Kids On The Block, Justin Bieber, The Cab) y nos ofrece rasposas guitarras, rimas agresivas fusionadas en rock y rap.

El álbum se inicia con el primer sencillo “No Plan B”, con la participación de Koie de Crossfaith que agrega cierta profundidad a la canción con un arrasador grito que declara: “And I know that this road is my destiny / I’ve got to stick to the plan / Cause there’s no plan B”.  La salvaje “Fire In The Kitchen” muestra a un atrevido Trevor McNevan junto a los potentes tambores guitarras con fuertes semejanzas a Green Day. Mientras que “Supernatural” se pinta con rasgos de P.O.D. agregando sólidos violines y un pegajoso coro que habla sobre el poder de Dios para salvar, y de cómo Él nos mostró la luz cuando estábamos ciegos en nuestros pecados. “Every Time You Run” nos dan un mensaje inspirador, a través de la historia de alguien que había estado corriendo durante mucho tiempo con sus propias fuerzas, pero que finalmente descubrió que la única respuesta es Cristo. Trevor expresa su performance vocal más apasiona en este track, tal y cómo lo oímos en canciones como “Forward Motion” y se rumoreo que será el tercer sencillo lanzando en formatos CHR/ROCK. Por otro lado, “Bring The Ruckus” tiene una actitud musical muy particular con influencias de The Beastie Boys y Linkin Park. El segundo sencillo del álbum, “Avalanche” cuenta con un contagioso ritmo dance/pop y tiene una desvergonzada lírica que pide ayuda a gritos en medio de la tormenta: ”Hey, cuz I’m the prodigal man of this avalanche / I’m going down, I’m going down down / Hey and if you turn me in, I’ll confess my sins / I’m going down, I’m going down down / before I’m six feet deep, I’m washing my hands clean / Just get me out of this avalanche”. La hilarante “Married In Vegas” tiene una muy dinámica melodía y algunos riffs interesantes.  Tal vez sea uno de los tracks más flojos y vacíos del álbum, pero tiene algo que me ha hecho repetirlo más de 3 veces en una sola tarde. “Renegade” nos demuestra una vez más  la increíble química entre McNevan y Greenwood, el trabajo de las guitarras es devastadoramente agradable. Llegamos al titletrack “The Chase”, que nos hipnotiza con aquel impulsador ritmo y esas pinceladas de violines en el coro. “Better Cause Of You” y “Breaking Down The Walls” nos introduce a Dustin Antsey (productor y bajista de la banda Mindsight) en dos magistrales desenlaces para el álbum. Cabe mencionar que la Deluxe Edition del álbum cuenta con 3 bonus tracks: “No Plan B (Feat. Koie from Crossfaith)” en una feroz versión alterna que agrega una nueva estrofa a cargo de Koie de Crossfaith, y por último la versión remix de esta misma canción y del éxito de radio Impossible mezcladas por Kubiks.

“The Chase” agrega muchos elementos rockeros al rap, con un sonido mucho más maduro que nos demuestra que este muchacho sigue persiguiendo sus sueños en medio de las luchas del día a día. “En este álbum he trabajado en conectar mi música con los sentimientos del gente. He aprendido a tomar experiencias de la vida real y crear canciones que pinten los temas realistas y comunes de las personas. Quiero que el oyente se siente como si estuviera en la canción” nos comparte Grenwood.

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.

26 Feb 2010

VOTA - VOTA

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Artist: VOTA
Album: VOTA
Year: 2009
Label: INO Records
Website: http://votaband.com/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/votaband
Twitter: @votaband
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store
Sounds Like: John Mayer, Switchfoot, Phil Wickham, Mat Kearney, Van Halen, U2, Queen, Switchfoot, Muse, Maroon 5, Sanctus Real, Tree63
Rating: 4/5 ♥♥♥♥

For some, the word VOTA may sound somewhat unknown. I’ll give you a hint. They used to form a band called Casting Pearls, and now they decided to adopt a new sound and of course a new label. INO Records took care to accommodate these guys, while Nathan Dantzler (Tree63, Relient K, Audio Adrenaline, Edison Glass, Subseven, Kids In The Way) was the delegate to produce the self-titled debut called VOTA. Pop/Rock is striking about each track with seductive electric guitars and influences from Foo Fighters, Switchfoot to Maroon 5, Sanctus Real, Hawk Nelson and even Newsboys. This new experience has delighted thousands of fans through the vibrant and versatile voice of lead singer Bryan Olesen and the awesome power the band comes to capturing on every song.

The first single “Hard To Believe” combines the band’s rock sound with elements of dance/electronic and synthesizers. “The more I think about what I really have in Christ, I become more bold and excited about life” says Bryan in this song of thanksgiving and joy for having the Lord in our hearts. Monstrous melodies and aggressive guitar riffs reminiscent of Sanctus Real, Tree63 on the melodic aspect and also Switchfoot or Foo Fighters on the music arrangements: “It’s so hard to believe / You’re here with me now / Make me feel so alive / I’ve got to let it out”. At first “Be Mine” has the appearance of a weak song, but the first verse breaks that thought with a rhythm infected by aggressive pop. But then it becomes more acoustic and atmospheric, with tons of musical dynamism. This song speaks of experiencing the true love between husband and wife: “How did I live life before you took over my heart / Nothing in life I want more to be in your arms”. The incredible “Love’s Taken Over” is infected by techno/pop melodies reminiscent of Tait and obviously dcTalk, adding some rock touches to declare total dependence to God’s love: ““I found a better life in your arms / I’m movin’ on with a brand new start / Nothing can stop what’s started in my heart”. The third single from the album “Honestly” is one of the best tracks on the album, and living proof of the immense vocal talents of Bryan in a flawless splendid performance. A piano ballad that resembles “Incomplete” by Backstreet Boys, and reminds us to be sincere, honest with each other to share the good news. The most touching moment and energetic is the bridge: “Let the light escape from these holes inside my soul / When I start to break, then grace begins to flow / Let the light escape from this wounded place inside my soul”. The crunchy guitars on “Not Finished” resemble Audio Adrenaline or U2. The guitar work is impeccable, stunning, while we can hear God’s voice saying: ““When the world’s crashing down / And time and luck have all run out / Well, come what may / You’re still gonna hear me say / I’m not finished with you”. Next, we find “I’ll Go” (second single) sounds like Sanctus Real, but with more pace-rhythmic rock sound. This song gives our service to God, our soul and heart, promising to go where He sends us: “When the world is in my hands / And I go on my own again / I know you’re still with me / When I feel your love is gone / No strength to carry on / I know you’ll never leave me”. The band also explores soulful/pop and dance/rock with “Give It To Me”, which probably sound like Maroon 5 and Franz Ferdinand. Aggressive tunes that ask God for a sign to know he stills with us in the midst of the problems: ““Give it to me / Give me a sign / Give me something real I can’t deny / Feelin’ asleep, buried alive / Bring me to life”. Then we ran into the passionate “Free To Fail”, fourth and current single from the band, sharing the message to submit our lives to God and have the confidence in knowing that He has given us life and freedom to fail, get up and live for Hi. Simple pop, but with an honest look at Christian life in the 21st century: “You are the one who’s given me more than I could repay / You lived youre life so I could live mine”. On the other hand “Save Ourselves” leans Coldplay and admits the impotence and futility of man without God: “Oh I see them now / The memories surround our hearts forever bound / No one could break our vow / Then the rain came pouring down and now”. The disturbing violins in the mysterious “Bye Bye” hover around dance/pop similar to Article One and (once again) Maroon 5, and says goodbye to that person or defect that prevents our heart to be happy: “Bye bye / My heart’s gone off on its own / Heartbreak / From love that always slips away / What brings a change of heart / Is my heart really mine / Does it beat just to take me over / Can it be satisfied”. Another highlight ballad is “In My Heart”, a sort of The Afters feeling, with violin moments dotted with worship lyrics: “In my heart I hear you sing / A sweet melody, your promise to me / Near or far I’m where you are / I know you’ll never let me go”. With a sequenced atmosphere, pianos, loops and features of Angels & Airwaves, “Everyday Is The First Day” talks about new beginnings through hope and grace of God: “I am hurting / I can’t breathe, help me / For heaven caught you in a way / Every day is the first day”. Furthermore, “Our Time” encourages us to take action to impact our world and its needs, be the hands and feet of Christ: “Whose hands a road to peace in war? / Whose ears leave hurting cries ignored? / Whose eyes will judge by what they see? / And whose heart cares for its own need?”. These last 2 are bonus tracks from the special edition of the album, adding also 3 Casting Pearls past successes.

This is an excellent debut for those who are looking to experience an intense and profound spiritual teaching immersed in unforgettable and powerful songs. “We encourage our people to consider how they can make a positive change in this world, either help out or simply live a life of character, integrity”, share the band. I must admit that it had not much expectation in reviewing this album, but now that feeling has made my heart explode. I declare myself as a VOTA fan.

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Para algunos, la palabra VOTA les puede sonar algo desconocida. Les daré una pista. Ellos solían conformar una banda llamada Casting Pearls, y que ahora decidieron adoptar un nuevo sonido y por supuesto un nuevo sello discográfico. INO Records se encargó de alojar a estos muchachos, mientras que Nathan Dantzler (Tree63, Relient K, Audio Adrenaline, Edison Glass, Subseven, Kids In The Way) fue el delegado en producir el autotitulado álbum VOTA. Pop/Rock que sorprende en cada track con seductoras guitarras eléctricas e influencias desde Foo Fighters, Switchfoot hasta Maroon 5, Sanctus Real, Hawk Nelson e incluso Newsboys. Esta nueva experiencia ya ha encantado a miles de seguidores, a través de la vibrante y versátil voz del vocalista Bryan Olesen y la impresionante energía que la banda llega a capturar en cada canción.

El primer sencillo “Hard To Believe” combina el sonido rock de la banda con elementos de dance/electro y sintetizadores. “Cuanto más pienso en lo que realmente tengo en Cristo, me vuelvo más audaz y emocionado con la vida”, nos comenta Bryan en esta canción de agradecimiento y alegría por tener al Señor en nuestro corazón. Melodías monstruosas y riffs de guitarras agresivos que recuerdan a Tree63 y Sanctus Real en el aspecto melódico y a Switchfoot y Foo Fighters en el musical/arreglos: “It’s so hard to believe / You’re here with me now / Make me feel so alive / I’ve got to let it out”. En un principio “Be Mine” tiene la apariencia de ser una canción débil, sin embargo la estrofa rompe ese pensamiento con un ritmo infectado de un pop agresivo. Pero luego se transforma en algo más acústico y atmosférico, con toneladas de dinamismo musical. Esta canción nos habla de experimentar el verdadero amor entre marido y mujer: “How did I live life before you took over my heart / Nothing in life I want more to be in your arms”. La increíble “Love’s Taken Over” se contagia de techno/pop y de melodías que recuerdan a Tait y obviamente a dcTalk, agregándole algunos toques rockeros que declaran total dependencia al amor de Dios: “I found a better life in your arms / I’m movin’ on with a brand new start / Nothing can stop what’s started in my heart”. El tercer sencillo del álbum “Honestly” es uno de los mejores tracks del álbum, y la prueba viviente del inmenso talento vocal de Bryan en una performance impecable y espléndida. Una balada piano que se asemeja a “Incomplete” de Backstreet Boys, y que nos recuerda ser sinceros, honestos unos con otros al compartir las buenas nuevas. El momento más conmovedor y enérgico es el puente: “Let the light escape from these holes inside my soul / When I start to break, then grace begins to flow / Let the light escape from this wounded place inside my soul”. Las crujientes guitarras en “Not Finished” se asemejan a Audio Adrenaline o U2. El trabajo del guitarrista es irreprochable, deslumbrante, mientras que podemos oír la voz de Dios diciéndonos: “When the world’s crashing down / And time and luck have all run out / Well, come what may / You’re still gonna hear me say / I’m not finished with you”. Seguidamente, nos encontramos con “I’ll Go” (segundo sencillo) que suena como Sanctus Real, pero con un ritmo más rockero y acompasado. Este tema le entrega nuestro servicio a Dios, nuestra alma y corazón, prometiéndole ir a dónde Él nos mande: “When the world is in my hands / And I go on my own again / I know you’re still with me / When I feel your love is gone / No strength to carry on / I know you’ll never leave me”. La banda también explora el soulful/pop y en el dance rock con “Give It To Me”, que probablemente te suene a Maroon 5 o Franz Ferdinand. Agresivas melodías que le piden a dios una señal para saber que sigue con nosotros en medio de los problemas: “Give it to me / Give me a sign / Give me something real I can’t deny / Feelin’ asleep, buried alive / Bring me to life”. A continuación, nos topamos con la apasionada “Free To Fail”, cuarto y actual sencillo de la banda, compartiéndonos el mensaje de someter nuestras vidas a Dios y tener la seguridad en saber que Él nos ha dado la vida y la libertad para fracasar, volvernos a levantar y vivir para Él. Pop simple, pero con una mirada honesta a la vida cristiana en el siglo 21: “You are the one who’s given me more than I could repay / You lived youre life so I could live mine”. Por otro lado “Save Ourselves” se inclina hacia Coldplay y admite la impotencia e inutilidad del hombre sin Dios: “Oh I see them now / The memories surround our hearts forever bound / No one could break our vow / Then the rain came pouring down and now”. Los inquietantes violines en la misteriosa “Bye Bye” oscilan alrededor de dance/pop similar al de Article One y (una vez más) de Maroon 5, y le dice adiós a aquella persona o vicio que impide que nuestro corazón sea feliz: “Bye bye / My heart’s gone off on its own / Heartbreak / From love that always slips away / What brings a change of heart / Is my heart really mine / Does it beat just to take me over / Can it be satisfied”. Otra balada sobresaliente es “In My Heart”, con una especia de sentimiento The Afters, con momentos de violines salpicado de letras de adoración: “In my heart I hear you sing / A sweet melody, your promise to me / Near or far I’m where you are / I know you’ll never let me go”. Con una atmósfera secuenciada, pianos, loops y rasgos de Angels & Airwaves, “Everyday Is The First Day” habla sobre nuevos comienzos a través de la esperanza y la gracia de Dios: “I am hurting / I can’t breathe, help me / For heaven caught you in a way / Every day is the first day”. Por otro lado, “Our Time” nos anima a tomar acciones en nuestro impacto con el mundo y sus necesidades, ser las manos y pies de Cristo: “Whose hands a road to peace in war? / Whose ears leave hurting cries ignored? / Whose eyes will judge by what they see? / And whose heart cares for its own need?”. Estos 2 últimos son bonus tracks de la edición especial del álbum, agregando además 3 éxitos pasados de Casting Pearls.

Este es un excelente debut para aquellos que buscan experimentar una intensa y profunda enseñanza espiritual inmersa en inolvidables y poderosas canciones. “Queremos animar a nuestros a considerar cómo pueden hacer un cambio positivo en este mundo, ya sea por echar una mano o simplemente vivir una vida de carácter, integridad” nos comparte la banda. Tengo que confesar que no tenía mucha expectativa al reseñar este disco, pero ahora este sentimiento ha hecho explotar mi corazón. Me declaro un fan de VOTA.

24 Feb 2010

Starfield - The Saving One

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Artist: Starfield
Album: The Saving One
Year: 2010
Label: Sparrow Records/EMI CMG
Website: http://www.starfieldonline.com/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/starfield
Twitter: @starfieldband
Buy: iTunes - Amazon - Official Store
Sounds Like: Hillsong United, Delirious?, Chris Tomlin, David Crowder Band
Rating: 4/5 ♥♥♥♥

Whenever Starfield launched an album, my expectation increases in larger scales. Whether his brilliant musical arrangements, his creative modern worship style, the harmonies or the passionate and heartfelt lyrics in each song. There’s always reason to amaze me with their work, and what a good gift for us summer with this amazing release. “The Saving One” was produced by the talented and veteran Ian Eskelin (All Star United vocalist) with each of the band members, delivering his particular signature of contemporary worship through personal confessions and songs of praise to our Savior.

The titletrack “The Saving One”, gives us a sort of modern hymn with strong guitar riffs, steady drums and a spiritual depth that preaches salvation: “No fear can hold me down / No darkness steal my joy / For blood has been poured out / The enemy destroyed / Death could not hold Him down / The cross was not enough / To steal away His throne / For He is God”. With a piano intermediate, and a desperate lyric about returning to the first love, first single “Rediscover You” is a prayer to God for us to rediscover the things of his kingdom: “I want to learn to pray / The way that David prayed / I want my soul to burn when I hear Your name / I want to feel like new / I want to hunger for You / Bring me back to life like only You can do / ‘Cause I don’t want to stay the same”. The single is already impacting AC & CHR radio formats with a large audience, and Tim Neufeld (vocals) confesses: “This song is a description of my walk with Christ, in the most honest way. I am desperate to rediscover the things of God. I long to be real and passionate. I want to learn to walk by faith, and I find incredible freedom in saying these wishes in the lyrics of this song”. With a nearly 60 second’s instrumental introduction, “Declaration Of Independence” where Tim and Jon Neufeld create voltage loads on their guitars, while Dave Lalonde explodes with the drums and James Johnson made their presence felt in every chord. Sounds like a dcTalk or Delirious? B-side. With a simple but delusional lyric: “I’ve had the revelation / This is my declaration / More of you, oh God, and less of me”. Using synthesizers and ingenious sequences, “No Other Savior” becomes a relevant worship song, extolling the attributes of Christ in an impetuous melody: “Sacrificed to death / For us, Your final breath / You died, the world to sabe / To overcome the grave”. The beautiful “Something To Say” grabs you in seconds, with the delicate piano and the eerie vocal performance from Tim in the choir, using sublime falsetto to externalize the confession of our doubt by believing in God when He seems distant and in the silence we can hear his softly voice: “I’ve got something to say / Right now it feels like You are slipping away / Like I am drowning in a crisis of faith / Like I was found, but now I’m lost in the fray”. I have not heard a song as sincere as this for a long time, honesty that strangely refreshes you. The intimate “Absolutely” transports you to an atmosphere of worship that gives our trust to God in an acoustic prayer of dependence and love: “Down upon my knees / I’m lost in worship / Humbled by Your majesty / What is there to say / But how I love You / Thank You for forgiving me”. Songs like “Overwhelm” incorporate powerful guitars, and once again an excellent vocal harmonizing: “Desperate for Your presence / I long for You alone / So dwell within me, Jesus / This temple is Your home / I am ready for this life to be consumed”. Quickly “Top Of Our Lungs” flirts with a hint dance/club/techno/glow and rock/pop interesting fusion. The message is about to declare his glory and fame throughout the earth, proclaim our redemption, our freedom: “We’re gonna shout His praise at the top of our lungs / We’re gonna dance for the glory of the risen Son / We’re not ashamed, not ashamed of the One we love / We’re gonna shout His praise at the top of our lungs”. For this we were created and it is our destiny. “Beautiful The Sound” continues exalting our God: “From the Earth, our voices will ascend / As an offering to You alone / May our praises echo without end / Join the angel choir around the throne”. Perfect components to become a radio success or to be played in a church service. The formidable and sweet “Father”, searches for identity, friendship, companionship, loyalty that only God can give us: “You are my Father / Your love will never fail me / A friend like no other / Your trusted arms will hold me / You are my Father”. Impressionable sumptuous harmonies and acoustic arrangements, we find on the acoustic version of “The Saving One” that consolidates it as a whole hymn.

These Canadians give us rewarding mix of honesty, poetic lyrics and haunting melodies with a personal perspective incorporated into worship. “The Saving One” is the right candidate for a fresh intimacy with God. These songs reveal a breach, reliance on God, and grace, the emotion is powerful, and many can easily identify with the confessions of need that these songs contain. Starfield has returned, and with great energy.

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Cada vez que Starfield lanza un álbum, mi expectativa aumenta en escalas mayores. Ya sea por sus geniales arreglos musicales, su creativo estilo modern worship, las harmonías o las letras apasionadas y sinceras en cada canción. Siempre hay motivos de sobra para asombrarme con su trabajo, y qué buen regalo de verano nos han. “The Saving One” fue producido por el talentoso y veterano Ian Eskelin (vocalista además de All Star United) junto a cada uno de los miembros de la banda, entregando su firma original de adoración contemporánea a través de confesiones personales y canciones de alabanza a nuestro Salvador.

El titletrack “The Saving One”, nos regala una especia de himno moderno con sólidos riffs de guitarras, constantes tambores y una profundidad espiritual que pregona salvación: “No fear can hold me down / No darkness steal my joy / For blood has been poured out / The enemy destroyed / Death could not hold Him down / The cross was not enough / To steal away His throne / For He is God”. Con un intermedio de piano, y una letra desesperada por regresar al primer amor, el primer sencillo “Rediscover You” es una plegaria a Dios por volver a descubrir las cosas de su Reino: “I want to learn to pray / The way that David prayed / I want my soul to burn when I hear Your name / I want to feel like new / I want to hunger for You / Bring me back to life like only You can do / ‘Cause I don’t want to stay the same”. El sencillo ya está impactando las radios de formato CHR y AC con una gran audiencia, y Tim Neufeld (vocalista) nos confiesa: “Esta canción es una descripción de mi caminar con Cristo, de la manera más honesta. Me encuentro desesperado por volver a descubrir las cosas de Dios. Anhelo lo real y quiero estar apasionado. Quiero volver a aprender a caminar por fe, y encuentro increíble libertad al decir esos deseos en la letra de esta canción”. Con una introducción instrumental de casi 60 segundos, “Declaration Of Independence” en dónde Tim y Jon Neufeld crean cargas de voltaje en sus guitarras, mientras que Dave Lalonde explosiona con las batería, y James Johnson hace sentir su presencia en cada compás. Suena como un b-side de dcTalk o de Delirious?, con una lírica simple pero delirante: “I’ve had the revelation / This is my declaration / More of you, oh God, and less of me”. Empleando sintetizadores e ingeniosas secuencias, “No Other Saviour” se convierte en una relevante canción de adoración, exaltando los atributos de Cristo en una impetuosa melodía: “Sacrificed to death / For us, Your final breath / You died, the world to sabe / To overcome the grave”. La hermosa “Something To Say” te atrapa en cuestión de segundos, con aquel delicado piano, y la estremecedora performance vocal de Tim en el coro, usando sublimes falsetes para exteriorizar la confesión de nuestra duda al creer en Dios, cuando Él parece distante y en medio del silencio podemos oír suavemente su voz: “I’ve got something to say / Right now it feels like You are slipping away / Like I am drowning in a crisis of faith / Like I was found, but now I’m lost in the fray”. No he escuchado canción tan sincera como esta en mucho tiempo, honestidad que extrañamente te refresca. La íntima “Absolutely” te transporta a una atmósfera de adoración que le entrega nuestra confianza a Dios, en una oración acústica de dependencia y amor: “Down upon my knees / I’m lost in worship / Humbled by Your majesty / What is there to say / But how I love You / Thank You for forgiving me”. Canciones como “Overwhelm” incorporan potentes guitarras, y una vez más una excelente armonización vocal: “Desperate for Your presence / I long for You alone / So dwell within me, Jesus / This temple is Your home / I am ready for this life to be consumed”. Rápidamente “Top Of Our Lungs” coquetea con un ligero matiz de dance/club/techno/glow y rock/pop interesantemente fusionados. El mensaje es sobre declarar su gloria y su fama por toda la tierra, proclamar nuestra redención, nuestra libertad: “We’re gonna shout His praise at the top of our lungs / We’re gonna dance for the glory of the risen Son / We’re not ashamed, not ashamed of the One we love / We’re gonna shout His praise at the top of our lungs”. Para esto fuimos creados y es nuestro destino. “Beautiful The Sound” continúa enalteciendo a nuestro Dios: “From the Earth, our voices will ascend / As an offering to You alone / May our praises echo without end / Join the angel choir around the throne”. Componentes perfectos para convertirse en todo un éxito de radio o para ser tocada en un servicio de iglesia. La formidable y dulce “Father”, busca la identidad, la amistad, la compañía, la fidelidad que solo Dios nos puede dar: “You are my Father / Your love will never fail me / A friend like no other / Your trusted arms will hold me / You are my Father”. Impresionables arreglos acústicos y fastuosas harmonías, hallamos en la versión acústica de “The Saving One”, que la consolidan como todo un himno.

Estos canadienses nos dan gratificante mezcla de honestidad, letras poéticas y melodías cautivantes con una perspectiva personal incorporada en adoración. “The Saving One” es el candidato indicado para una fresca intimida con Dios. Estas canciones revelan quebrantamiento, dependencia de Dios, y gracia; la emoción es poderosa, y muchos fácilmente se identificaran con las confesiones de necesidad que estas canciones contienen. Starfield ha regresado, y con mucha energía.