Planetshakers’ "Momentum: Live In Manila" EP Releases Today!
Album Review: Planetshakers' #LetsGo
In the span of just less than two decades, Australia-based Planetshakers has literally shaken the planet with their music. Driven by the desire to empower generations to win generations, the very core of their ministry is to seek the presence of God, first and foremost. And as for their latest album, #LetsGo, they are making a response.
#LetsGo is the second album of the band for 2015 (it follows the successful Outback Worship Sessions which was released in May), and the 33rd in their growing discography.
I was present on the two-night concert of Planetshakers here in Manila last August, and within those nights, Planetshakers played two of the songs on this record. I can still recall Joth Hunt, their lead vocalist, saying Let’s Go is the response for what the “This Is Our Time” season has brought to Planetshakers and to the church as a whole. Indeed, #LetsGo should be the response of each Bible-believing, Christ-worshipping individual, for God has called us to be His hands and feet.
While the #LetsGo DVD has only eight videos on it plus a behind the scene footage, the CD is composed of 12 new songs, one new cover of an oldie (I Just Want You), an intro, and a prayer by Pastor Sam Evans, overall, 15 tracks. Like the other title cuts of Planetshakers’ past albums (This Is Our Time, Endless Praise, Nothing Is Impossible to name a few), #LetsGo has also gained prominence. Given the fact that they have played it in each city that they have visited early this year, I won’t be surprised if it might also reach the peak “Nothing Is Impossible” had reached. Its very youthful vibe is a charm. Plus, it is lyrically rich and powerful.
If there is one lesson that I’ve learned from Planetshakers through the years, that would be to be not reserved in worshipping Jesus—to be sold out and all out for Him. Truly, songs like “Nobody Like You,” “All About You,” and “New Era” reflect which. Each is an addition to their praise party song library; but if you prefer intimate worship songs rather than EDM infiltrated praise cuts, #LetsGo has also a plenty of it. “Home” is the first in line; its anthemic atmosphere compliments the message of the song which is obviously based on the parable of the prodigal son. While “Just One Touch” is musically intense, “Stepping In”, and “I Just Want You” are much simpler and gentle. My favorite track in the album is “Glorious Collision.” Sung by Natalie Ruiz, this poetic worship ballad brings out a lot of power and emotion. Its faith-stirring, heart-piercing, powerful message conveys how our God could turn our life around.
The thing that I love the most about this album is, it is so flavorful and diverse. “Born To Praise,” a Gospel-infused hip hop which I seldom hear from Planetshakers, is a good indicator that they are stretching out their tents. Though I think the first line of its verse is a little bit feminine (maybe written for their Women’s conference), the song as a whole is a celebration of the glorious destiny each one of us has in Christ; and all I can say is, I am looking forward to hearing some more of this genre on their future releases.
At the end of the day, Planetshakers’ #LetsGo did not disappoint. Though all of the songs are lyrically-brilliant, I hope they would dig down on this department just a little bit deeper. Instrumentally, each track is unique and stunning. Overall, this album is pretty incredible and seriously, really, absolutely, their best yet since This Is Our Time!
Rating: 5/5
Gateway Worship's 'Walls' Releases in October
Gateway Worship is releasing their highly anticipated album Walls, which is the sixth live recording from the internationally acclaimed group.
The record will launch October 2 from FairTrade Services, and is produced by Walker Beach, Josh Alltop and Miguel Noyola of Gateway Worship Production, the project-available in both CD and DVD formats- features 13 selections penned by such leading worship writers as Thomas Miller, Kari Jobe, Cody Carnes, Rita Springer and Mark Harris, among others.
Some of the main features of Walls include the album opener, "Higher Than The Sky" (feat. Matt Birkenfeld); the title track (feat. Carnes); "Let The Heavens Open" (feat. Jobe); "Wait For You" (feat. Rebecca Hart); "Love Has Found Us" (feat. Anna Byrd); and the project's debut single, "Grace That Won't Let Go" (feat. Harris).
"It seems like there are walls everywhere. They may not be walls you can see with your eyes, but they are there. Massive, insurmountable walls. Political walls. Racial and cultural walls. Denominational walls. Walls of pride, selfishness, and sin. Walls. But the truth is, we were never meant to live like this-with walls dividing us, separating us. God's heart is, and always has been, for us to be united as one," said Gateway Church associate senior pastor Thomas Miller.
Gateway Worship is a group of more than 40 worship leaders, musicians and songwriters at Dallas' Gateway Church, one of the largest and most influential congregations in North America. The ensemble, which ministers to over 35,000 attendees and thousands more online each week, is committed to leading the Church body in intimate worship with an understanding of the power of the Word of God expressed in music. Throughout the past decade numerous Gateway Worship songs have ranked among the most popular in the world, according to CCLI (Christian Copyright Licensing International).
Walls, a FairTrade Services release, will be available for pre-order beginning Friday on iTunes and Amazon Music and includes a free instant download of the single "Grace That Won't Let Go." A new song download will be available each week with all pre-orders until the project's October 2 release.
SOURCE
Paul Baloche To Release "Christmas Worship Vol. 2" Oct. 2
One of today's most influential worship leaders, songwriters and artists, Paul Baloche, releases Christmas Worship Vol. 2 globally Oct. 2 through Integrity Music. The album features Christmas classics seamlessly married with vertical worship lyrics, and is an extension of Baloche's 30-year mission in ministry to equip worshipers and worship leaders with songs and resources that help them express glory to God.
Israel Houghton & New Breed Are Set To Release "Covered: Alive In Asia" July 24, 2015
NEW YORK-July 8, 2015-Last October, Multi Grammy®, Stellar and Dove Award winning gospel recording artist, Israel Houghton and his longtime ensemble NewBreed traveled far east to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ while recording their highly anticipated new album COVERED: ALIVE IN ASIA (RGM/NewBreed/RCA Inspiration). Recorded across Asia in stadiums located in Jakarta, Indonesia, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, Korea, Tokyo and Manila the remarkable worship experience birthed 13 new tracks and will be available on Friday, July 24. Pre-order COVERED: ALIVE IN ASIA today and instantly receive "In Jesus Name" and "Already Done" featuring Jonathan McReynolds.
Jesus Culture's Derek Johnson To Release Solo Debut April 7
NEWS SOURCE: Merge PR
February 25, 2015
NASHVILLE, TENN. - 25 FEBRUARY 2015 - Jesus Culture artist and worship leader Derek Johnson announces the release of his debut album, Real Love. His first solo project is slated to drop April 7 with Capitol Christian Music Group and Jesus Culture Music.
Real Love features 12 original tracks where Johnson utilizes his passion for message-driven songwriting to share his hope in the God of real and authentic love. He is a relevant voice to this generation for bringing intimacy and the joy of the Lord through praise and worship.
"My heart is to write songs that lead people to Jesus," Derek Johnson shares. "Whether they have a relationship with Him and know His love or they are still searching for truth, my desire is that anyone who hears these songs will be brought into a deeper understanding of worship and the God of real love."
Leading up to the release of Real Love, Johnson recently filmed three music videos for the singles that will release over three consecutive weeks, starting with the pre-order that begins March 17. The videos, captured at Sacramento's historic Old Sugar Mill, will accompany the following songs leading up to the full album's release: "The One We Love" (3/17), "Power In The Cross" (3/24), and "Real Love" (3/31).
(Photos below taken from video shoots held at the historic Old Sugar Mill, Sacramento, CA)
Derek Johnson has been featured on Jesus Culture's CD Emerging Voices, which hit No.1 on the iTunes Christian/Gospel chart. His song "I Belong To You" was also featured as a bonus track on Jesus Culture's 2012 album Live From New York (with Martin Smith), which received a Dove nomination for Best Event Album of the Year.
As a member of the Sacramento-based Jesus Culture team since 2009, he's led worship at every Jesus Culture conference since 2011 and has opened for Kim Walker-Smith and Jesus Culture Band at sold-out venues across the country.
REAL LOVE TRACK LISTING:
1. Our Salvation
2. The One We Love
3. Jesus I See You
4. Power In The Cross
5. I Belong To You
6. Real Love
7. Bright As You
8. My Great Love
9. Heaven Meeting Earth
10. Made To Last
11. Washed Away
12. Glory Come Down
Click below to view the Real Love album promo video:
About Jesus Culture Music: Jesus Culture Music is Sacramento, CA-based and led by Senior Team Director Banning Liebscher. Jesus Culture was formed through the momentum of a movement that is focused on equipping a generation to transform society by bringing people into an encounter with God's love through worship and discipleship. Jesus Culture Music albums capture the heart of this movement. Jesus Culture Music has sold more than one million albums worldwide since their debut project in 2005 and garnered more than 3.8 million followers on social media and over 34.5 million views on YouTube. Jesus Culture Music is a label that contains 12 artists including: Jesus Culture Band, Kim Walker-Smith, Bryan and Katie Torwalt, Chris Quilala, Kristene DiMarco, Derek Johnson, Justin Jarvis, Andrew and Mary Kat Ehrenzeller, Chris McClarney, Skyler Smith and Josh and Amberly Klinkenberg. To date, the Jesus Culture Band has recorded ten albums and released a total of 25 projects on their music label. The latest release from Jesus Culture Band, Unstoppable Love, climbed to No. 2 on the iTunes overall chart and debuted at No. 25 on the Billboard Top 200 chart and No. 1 on the overall Top Christian/Gospel Albums Billboard retail chart.
CONNECT WITH DEREK JOHNSON
jesusculture.com/artists/derek-johnson
jesusculture.com/artists/derek-johnson
Album Review: Hillsong Young and Free's This Is Living EP
Acclaimed for their ‘very different’ and energetic style in worship, Australia’s Hillsong Young and Free exist to win and lead the younger generation for Jesus with their electronic dance music (EDM). Led by Laura Toggs, daughter of Hillsong’s Senior Pastor, Hillsong Young and Free appeared in the scene in 2013 with their “We Are Young And Free” album—a record that saw two no.1 Christian Hits “Alive” and “Wake”. The album debuted at No.1 on the Billboard Christian chart as well as on the Praise and Worship chart. Far from Hillsong Worship and Hillsong United’s anthemic, pop-rock sound; Young and Free’s music is more on synths, electronic effects and swirling beats, which are attractive to the young folks.
Early this year, Hillsong Young and Free kicked off with a new EP “This Is Living”, featuring five tracks—three new (“This Is Living”, “Energy” and “Pursue”), one acoustic version, and a re-release from their debut record.
The title cut “This Is Living” is a collaboration with Christian hip hop artist Lecrae. Infused with energy and electronic dance vibe, this catchy track is pretty interesting and something that’s not heard much of in Christian music scene. The bouncy dance beats and swirling synths make the song alive.
Sung by Melody Wagner, “Energy”, the second track, is one built on massive electronic-synth foundation. Its title speaks for itself. It is the EP’s ultimate dance song, while “Pursue” is worship in dynamic instrumentation. Unlike the aforementioned cuts, this one is less in synths—just fair enough to make the song alive.
Making the electronic vibes completely absent, the acoustic version of “This Is Living” is a very good rest from the ear-tickling EDM. The melodious piano line is a cushion that stretches through the album conclusion, which is the reprise of “Sinking Deep” from their debut album.
Overall, “This Is Living” EP is a very delicious foretaste to Hillsong Young and Free’s upcoming releases; and I know greater things lie ahead for this group as they make the praise of God glorious for all ages.
Rating: 4.9/5
Disclosure: A review copy of This Is Living was provided for review by House of Praise, from whom you may purchase the album.
Album Review: Wake Up The Wonder by Elevation Worship
A year ago, I discovered the music of Elevation Worship. They have welcomed 2014 with a new album, Only King Forever, and now, to end the year, they are offering us “Wake Up The Wonder”, their newest. I don’t know how they write their songs, but their passion for it is so stunning, that they have to release two albums in one year, having only nine months in between; where songs are all original and freshly-written.
Wake Up The Wonder is an album like no other. The musicality of the songs is unique and new to my ears. The messages of each cut are biblically-sound, and the vocals are perfect. Each track declares the salvation and victory in Christ which brings revival and hope. There are no album fillers, all 14 tracks are worth listening to—all prime cuts. “For The Lamb”, the twelfth track is my most favorite in the entire album. The theological truth found on its lines is so rich. You’ll surely love to sing it time and again.
I love how the album flows. I must say that there is no album that has ever affected me this way. The worship on “Wake Up the Wonder” is simply astounding and I don’t know how to express all of my feelings on this review. It’s unexplainable. I commend the whole team behind this project. Before the year ends, they have brought us new songs that will be cherished by the church for the coming years.
Album Review: Rend Collective's The Art Of Celebration
The Art Of
Celebration is a humble attempt to bring back the often disregarded element in worship:
celebration. As the group describes, it’s what the Psalmist calls “a joyful
noise”. Boasting 13 tracks, this latest offering from Rend
Collective gives a very positive and light vibe to the soul.
The first track,
Joy, marks an energetic start. Its first line “we’re choosing celebration” is
what the album all about. With a greater energy and tempo, Burn Like A Star
stands out off the album. It calls us to shine brighter for Jesus, to change
the History for His cause. And on the other side, the message of the next song,
My Lighthouse, is Jesus shinning upon us. In the darkness, He is the One who
leads us through, our peace in our troubled sea.
Musically
speaking, The Art Of Celebration is superb in production. Embracing their
native origin, Rend Collective chose their Irish folk instruments to give life
to the songs. More Than Conqueror stands out in terms of this. The collective
instruments in a slow pace complement the message and the vocals. And speaking
of vocals, the most vocally-driven song in the album is All That I Am, an
exhortation of the life of worship found in Romans 12:2.Laying aside the folky
sound, Strength Of My Life, is the most mainstream-sounding
cut in the album; finely orchestrated but generic in structure.
The album ends
with its title track Boldly I Approach (The Art Of Celebration), which is kind
of ironic for me. I assumed and expected it to be the most joyous of all joyous
cut in the album, but in the end it’s the most solemn. The song is all about
the freedom that Christ has given to humanity when the veil was torn, when He
said, “It is finished”. It has given us the freedom and access to approach the throne
of Grace in worship. What I love most about this song is the theological
richness and truth found on its lyrics. It is the most “worshipful” track on
the entire album, and also my favourite.
Indeed, Rend
Collective is no longer an Experiment. So far, The Art Of Celebration is their
best and finest. Though some of the
songs are not lyrically and theologically in-depth, still, they afford us a
unique and different way of worship, with an element of celebration.
Disclosure: A review copy of The Art Of Celebration was provided for review by House of Praise, from whom you may purchase the album.
Integrity Music Announces Global Release For Worship Central Recording, Set Apart
NEWS SOURCE: Integrity Music
October 17, 2014
London's Worship Central return this fall with a new live recording that boldly reminds believers that they are Set Apart for the Kingdom of God. The 14-track album releases globally on October 27 through Integrity Music with availability in retail stores and through all major digital service providers including iTunes and Amazon.
Set Apart is a passionate follow-up to Worship Central's critically acclaimed album Let It Be Known, which was described by Worship Leader magazine as a "must have" and tapped as the magazine's No. 1 "Editor's Pick" for worship albums in 2013.
With Set Apart, Worship Central director Tim Hughes ("Here I Am To Worship") and team members Ben Cantelon ("Love Came Down"), Nikki Fletcher ("All Glory"), and Luke Hellebronth ("Spirit Break Out") deliver a new set of songs written both in and for the Church. The album also features guest co-writers including Dove Award nominee Benji Cowart and GRAMMY Award nominee Jason Ingram.
The resulting tracklist takes listeners from joy-filled praise to intimate moments of worship with songs like "Stand Up," a rousing call for unity, and the promise-filled "Dead Things To Life." The song "Enough Light" is a faith-building, slow burning anthem of encouragement while the songs "Let Go" and "The Way" are fuel for the journey, and the title track reminds believers that they are "Set Apart for our God above, Set Apart for the One we love."
The album ends with the ideal benediction, the prayerful song "Singing Over Us," a nod to Zephaniah 3:17, followed by the spontaneous worship song, "Wide Open Spaces," led by Tim Hughes. As the album closes, listeners hear Hughes declaring: "God is calling us to be his good news, God is calling us to be his love to a broken world… to a fatherless generation."
Worship Central have released two videos from the live recording of Set Apart through YouTube, with the title track available at "Set Apart" and the radio single available at "The Way". They will share these songs and others from Set Apart and their previous albums at the 2014 Worship Central conference slated for October 31-November 1 at Central Hall Westminster. The event, which offers a variety of workshops from the Worship Central training team, also features guest speakers and worship leaders Martin Smith, Bryan and Katie Torwalt, Louie Giglio, Jake Isaac and Mike Pilavachi. Additional information, including registration details, is available at http://www.worshipcentral.org/events.
Worship Central is a movement to train, equip and resource worship leaders, musicians and worshippers. Since its launch in 2006 under the auspices of Holy Trinity Brompton (HTB), the church that developed the groundbreaking "Alpha Course," tens of thousands of people have attended training events on three continents, and hundreds of thousands have visited Worship Central's website for practical resources. Tim Hughes writes, "…there's a real need to train worship leaders spiritually, practically and with good leadership skills. Our passion is to see the worship life of the local church around the world explode."
Additional information, including details related to Worship Central's conference and free online resources, is available athttp://www.worshipcentral.org.
Album Review: Bethel Music's You Make Me Brave
In the midst of uncertainties and hopelessness; a world of post-Christian culture, Bethel Music stands to declare the hope and power found in Jesus with their newest live praise and worship album, You Make Me Brave. This 12-track CD+DVD release was recorded live at Redding Civic Auditorium in California at one of Bethel Church’s Women’s Conference Nights; and because of that, all songs were sung by female vocals; including Amanda Cook, Kristene DiMarco, Jenn Johnson, Leah Valenzuela, Steffany Gretzinger, and Kari Jobe.What God has been impressing now to the hearts of the songwriters of You Make Me Brave is powerfully and prophetically manifested on its songs. Each track declares faith and victory in Jesus—captured in a thick atmosphere of pure worship. These songs are timely for every Christians who are fighting a good fight of faith to fulfill God’s great commission.
The title cut, You Make Me Brave, speaks of our nothingness and vulnerability before God. Written and sung by Amanda Cook, this track is a bold declaration of faith to a God that is for us and not against us; a perfect combination to Kristene DiMarco’s It Is Well, the next song. This is not a new rendition of Scriven’s classic hymn, but it delivers just the same message. The weight of the atmosphere of worship joined by heavy instrumentation, and DiMarco’s breathy vocals make the song my favorite cut.
Previously recorded at her latest live solo album, Majestic, Kari Jobe’s Forever is one of the album stand-outs. It is a good decision for them to add this magnificent track to the song line up. There is no doubt to the impact that this song is bringing to the congregation, for it is the longest worship moment on album, spanning eleven minutes and a half; this may not be your most radio-friendly choice but it really stirs the faith within. Other prime tracks include Gretzinger’s piano-laced We Dance, and Jenn Johnson’s faith-filled Come To Me.
Truth be told, tracks of spontaneous worships don’t really have functions, especially to the worship team. And You Make Me Brave has three of these. As a matter of fact, there are also lots of these on Bethel Music’s preceding albums. Yes, they are good to listen at, but I think they should not count them as songs on their future releases.
You Make Me Brave, literally, is both timely and timeless record for every Christians. It teaches us to trust in God whatever the situations are. It tells us to fear not as we navigate through uncharted territories; for God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). I believe, the songs on You Make Me Brave will speak powerfully to any listener; and will surely give strength to weary souls.
Disclosure: A review copy of You Make Me Brave was provided for review by House of Praise, from whom you may purchase the album.
Andrew Peterson to Release Retrospective Project November 11, 2014 After All These Years
NEWS SOURCE: Bozeman Media
October 2, 2014
October 2, 2014
Nashville, TN (October 2, 2014) ---- Singer/songwriter/author Andrew Peterson is sure to delight his faithful fans with his latest release, After All These Years.
It’s a body of work that showcases some of the most poignant songs from
his 18-year recording career. Produced by Harold Rubens (audio engineer
for Steven Curtis Chapman, Brandon Heath, Robbie Seay), After All These Years
presents many of Peterson’s previous songs with new production and
offers three new compositions: “After All These Years,” “To All The
Poets,” and “Everybody’s Got A Song.” The physical copy of the album
will feature eighteen songs, while the digital version will offer two
bonus tracks.
“After finishing the last Wingfeather book I knew it was time
to put out a new record, but I was creatively spent," explains Peterson.
"It seemed like a good time to put out a collection, maybe write a few
new songs and re-record a couple of old ones with some good friends. But
it quickly blossomed into a pretty massive undertaking—we ended up
recording twelve songs, which is even more than a typical record.
Getting into the studio with those guys and reliving all the songs
reminded me why I got into music in the first place. It was a huge
blessing.”
The first single to launch is the title track, “After All These Years,” which Peterson wrote as a song of gratitude as he looked back at God’s provision over the years: You never let go/you led me by the hand into a land of green and gold…your love endures forever, wherever I go/after all these years, that’s all that I know. Peterson’s classics that have been re-recorded for the new album include his first hit, “Nothing to Say” and “Faith to Be Strong” (Carried Along), “No More Faith” and “Isn’t It Love“ (Clear To Venus), “High Noon,” “The Silence Of God” and “After The Last Tear Falls” (Love & Thunder). More recent songs from Peterson’s latest projects are, “The Good Confession” (Resurrection Letters II), “The Reckoning” and “Dancing In The Minefields” (Counting Stars), “You’ll Find Your Way” (Light For The Lost Boy).
Coming up next for Peterson is his will be his fifth annual 2014 Hutchmoot event in Nashville, October 9-12. This will be followed by his 15th annual Behold The Lamb Of God Christmas Tour that runs December 3 – 20. For more touring updates on Peterson please visit online at www.andrew-peterson.com, www.facebook.com/andrewpetersonmusic or www.Twitter.com/AndrewPeterson.
About Andrew Peterson
The first single to launch is the title track, “After All These Years,” which Peterson wrote as a song of gratitude as he looked back at God’s provision over the years: You never let go/you led me by the hand into a land of green and gold…your love endures forever, wherever I go/after all these years, that’s all that I know. Peterson’s classics that have been re-recorded for the new album include his first hit, “Nothing to Say” and “Faith to Be Strong” (Carried Along), “No More Faith” and “Isn’t It Love“ (Clear To Venus), “High Noon,” “The Silence Of God” and “After The Last Tear Falls” (Love & Thunder). More recent songs from Peterson’s latest projects are, “The Good Confession” (Resurrection Letters II), “The Reckoning” and “Dancing In The Minefields” (Counting Stars), “You’ll Find Your Way” (Light For The Lost Boy).
Coming up next for Peterson is his will be his fifth annual 2014 Hutchmoot event in Nashville, October 9-12. This will be followed by his 15th annual Behold The Lamb Of God Christmas Tour that runs December 3 – 20. For more touring updates on Peterson please visit online at www.andrew-peterson.com, www.facebook.com/andrewpetersonmusic or www.Twitter.com/AndrewPeterson.
About Andrew Peterson
Andrew Peterson is a man of many talents with a successful recording and songwriting career, as well as being an award-winning author and the host of a highly popular online creative community known as the Rabbit Room (www.RabbitRoom.com). Peterson will be releasing his new studio album, After All These Years, in November 2014, while his last project, Light for the Lost Boy, received rave reviews from several media outlets hailing the project as “best album of the year,” and garnered two 2013 Dove Award nominations. His previous project Counting Stars debuted at #1 on iTunes, and #6 on Billboard. His single, “Dancing in the Minefields,” reached the Top 10 on the Christian AC chart, while the video for the song has received well over 1,000,000 views online. Peterson will embark on his 15th annual Behold the Lamb of God Christmas Tour in 2014.
Track listing for After All These Years:
1. After All These Years
2. The Reckoning
3. After The Last Tear Falls (2014)
4. All Things New
5. Don’t You Want To Thanks Someone
6. Lay Me Down
7. Faith To Be Strong (2014)
8. You’ll Find Your Way
9. Dancing In the Minefields
10. The Good Confession
11. Isn’t It Love (2014)
12. The Far Country
13. The Silence Of God (2014)
14. Holy Is The Lord (2014)
15. Romans 11 (Doxology)
16. Nothing To Say (2014)
17. No More Faith (2014)
18. To All The Poets
19. High Noon (Live, 2014)
20. Everybody’s Got A Song
Album Review: Citipointe Live's Wildfire
Shinning from Brisbane, Australia, Citipointe Live is one of the most passionate worship teams that I know. This amazing group has been resourcing the church with anointed worship songs for years now. Their biggest hit “You Reign” written by their Worship Pastor Aaron Lucas is simply astounding, and its message is still ringing in my ears. Devoted, their 2008 release is one my all-time favourite albums in my collection, and this year they are offering us their latest live praise and worship album “Wildfire”.Recorded live over several worship nights at Citipointe Church, this new album comprises 10 new songs; and unlike their previous albums which are CD+DVD releases, “Wilfire” only comes on CD.
What I love most about Citipointe Live is their blazing passion for Jesus and people; and this passion to make the gospel of Jesus known to all is extremely manifested on their preceding albums. More than ever, this thing is wonderfully woven to Wildfire.
Musically speaking, Wilfire offers a high variety of musicianship. The melodies and beat are so catchy. On Top Of The World, the opening song, sets the mood of the album on high. It literally brings you on the top of the world as Joel Ramsey sings. Its high energy will surely motivate you to sing and dance for Jesus. Other energetic songs are Wildfire, and Unstoppable. On the other side, Wilfire also offers atmospheric worship moments. Some of the songs that you shouldn’t miss are My Soul Yearns, Greater Is, If Not For Love, and Living Water. Chardon Lewis’ If Not For Love is my favourite cut off the album. Its powerful message is simply moving. Truthfully speaking, Lewis’ song is what I anticipate most on Citipointe Live’s album annually. His voice and different way of worship leading gives life to any song that he sings. Becky Lucas’ Living Water is my favorite in terms of musicality. I adore her fervent voice which is so unique.
Lyrically, Wilfire is rich. After listening to all its songs, I must say that God’s love, power, and finished work on the cross are Wilfire’s central theme. I commend Beau Lamshed for writing the anthemic and in-depth song, Lion. The rest of the album is brilliant and powerful. In sum, the worship on Wildfire is authentic, and contagious. Every track on this album is congregational, and it captures the heart of the people—and that is to sing of God’s great love.
I give thanks to the creative team of Citipointe Church. Without them, the unseen people, there will be no beautiful albums like Wildfire.
Mandisa Brings "High Energy and Inspiration" on Remix Project, Get Up: The Remixes, Available Now
NEWS SOURCE: The M Collective
October 1, 2014
October 1, 2014
Nashville, Tenn. (October 1, 2014) - GRAMMY® winner Mandisa brings a whole new element of "high energy and inspiration" on her first full-length remix album, Get Up: The Remixes,
available now. Featuring 11 remixes of her biggest hits - including
"Overcomer," "Stronger" and "Good Morning," all three of which Mandisa
has performed on ABC's Good Morning America - Get Up: The Remixes follows the success of her best-selling and critically acclaimed album Overcomer.
Breathecast.com praised Get Up: The Remixes for providing the
listener with "non-stop, feel good dance music" while Hollywood Jesus
was quick to call out "Good Morning (feat. TobyMac)" for it's "sweeping
background and club-ready groove." Soul-Audio.com called the album a
"musical B12 shot of energy, featuring soulful vocals alongside playful
yet creative new arrangements that give the music renewed life."
In less than two weeks, Mandisa will perform at the 45th Annual GMA Dove
Awards, where she is nominated for Artist of the Year, Pop/Contemporary
Album of the Year for Overcomer, Song of the Year, Contemporary
Christian Performance of the Year and Short Form Video of the Year for
"Overcomer." The show will be held at Lipsomb University's Allen Arena
October 7 and will air globally on the Trinity Broadcasting Network. Mandisa is currently on the "Thrive Tour" with Casting Crowns and Sidewalk Prophets. To see if Mandisa is coming to a city near you, visit mandisaofficial.com/home/tour.
About Mandisa
With more than 1 million records sold, GRAMMY® winner and and American Idol Season 5 finalist Mandisa is a voice of encouragement and truth to people facing life's challenges all around the world. In less than a year, Mandisa performed her three hit singles "Overcomer," "Good Morning," and "Stronger" on the highest rated morning show, ABC's Good Morning America (GMA.) Her performance of "Stronger" welcomed the emotional return of beloved morning host Robin Roberts. The NFL also welcomed Mandisa to perform the national anthem during a Sunday night NFL Network game to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness month where she was joined by members of the 49ers family who are survivors. Her album, Overcomer, released in 2013 and debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Christian Albums Chart, with the album's title track holding on to the No. 1 spot for twelve weeks on the National Christian Audience chart as well as the No. 1 position on the Christian/Gospel Core Digital sales chart for several weeks. This year, Mandisa was awarded a GRAMMY® for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album for her best-selling and critically acclaimed project Overcomer. Additionally, "Overcomer's" songwriters (David Garcia, Ben Glover & Christopher Stevens) won the GRAMMY® for Best Contemporary Christian Music Song. Her first full-length remix album, Get Up: The Remixes, is available now.
Get Connected with Mandisa
Website // www.mandisaofficial.com
Twitter // www.twitter.com/mandisaofficial Facebook // www.facebook.com/mandisaofficial
YouTube // www.youtube.com/user/MandisaOfficial Spotify // http://open.spotify.com/artist/0YPElKYjOD1sofFCtLdYj3
Album Review: Integrity's iWorship Now/Next 2014
One of the things that set apart the church today from its early years is Music. For nearly a thousand years, no one was permitted to sing in church. There was a decree made in 364 A.D. by the council of Laodicea that no lay person could musically intone a syllable in church. Until the time of a Czech Reformer by the name of Jan Hus who publicly challenged the directive. As a punishment, he was burnt alive at the stake. Today, the freedom of singing is very well practiced by the church. Not only can we sing, but we have such a plenitude of worship songs of different styles with various musicalities. There are so much songs and albums to choose from. We can worship while singing our choice of music. Just like in the time of King David, he used music as one of his expressions of worship to our God.
Indeed, we have come a long way. The church and its history are knitted into God’s amazing tapestry. As colourful as the church history is, is its music. As diverse as the Christian music is, so does this years’ Integrity’s iWorship Now/Next. Comprising 15 top worship songs from Darlene Zschech, Planetshakers, Paul Baloche, Martin Smith among others, this compilation is a fabric of various thread.
Indeed, we have come a long way. The church and its history are knitted into God’s amazing tapestry. As colourful as the church history is, is its music. As diverse as the Christian music is, so does this years’ Integrity’s iWorship Now/Next. Comprising 15 top worship songs from Darlene Zschech, Planetshakers, Paul Baloche, Martin Smith among others, this compilation is a fabric of various thread.
Simple treats await you as you reach Paul Baloche’s My Hope, Cory Asbury’s Ascribe, All Sons and Daughter’s Great Are You Lord, and Ryan Williams’ Come Like The Dawn. Each of these songs affords you a great time of worship with their simple musicality and straight-forward messages; ideal for quiet time devotions. On the other side of this are the praise party songs with Planetshakers’ Limitless, Worship Central’s Let It Be Known, and Martin Smith’s God’s Great Dance Floor. These tracks have two things in common. First, all are synths and electronic-effects-based, needless to say, sound effects and synths are very common on current worship songs. Second, these three are all album title tracks.
The City Harmonic is one the artists in Integrity Music Family which has a gift in writing in-depth songs. Last year, I had had a chance to write a review of their sophomore album “Heart”. I must say it is one of the best albums of 2014; songs are musically and lyrically brilliant. Their "Holy (Wedding Day)" from their debut album “I Have a Dream” is just that. It is simply moving and beautifully-written.
Whether you just want to hear the modern hits of worship songs on the radio or a worship leader looking for new songs without having a great expense, Integrity iWorship Now/Next 2014 is good for you. The great selection of songs and its variety in style give access to everyone in the church. Whatever your musical preference is, it is represented here. As the title goes, I know these worship songs of today (now), will stand the test of time and resource the church in the future (next). Strongly recommended!
Rating: 4.8/5
Disclosure: A review copy of Integrity's iWorship Now/Next 2014 was provided for review by House of Praise, from whom you may purchase the album.
Passion: Take It All {Album Review}
Passion albums have become something that many Christians
anticipate each year. One of the things that I really love about this team is
their passion. Every single song that
comes from them is literally heart-changing, touching, and faith-stirring. Many
of their songs have not only become my personal favourites but also our congregation’s.
This year’s Passion album ‘Take It All,’ captures the heart of the Jesus
generation united for His name. I do not know the story behind this album, but
in my mind it is a picturesque of people in total surrender, melting under the
light of the grace and love coming from Jesus. The entire album is
presented with a high level of musicianship and authenticity.
Starting with the lines “Whatever
is true, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is light, lead me in
Your way everlasting,” ‘Don’t Ever Stop’ opens the album with energetic
praise party. The lines of the song is obviously taken from Philippians chapter
four, verse eight. Its synths, powerful drum, and ripping guitar accompany
Chris Tomlin as he leads thousands of voices in praise.
The second track ‘Never Gonna Let Me Go’ describes the great and
saving love of Christ. This acoustic-based composition of Kristian Stanfill is very
congregational. I love the last part that tells “Whatever you’ve been, whatever you’ve done, come as you are, come into
His open arms...” It’s a perfect song to draw people to worship. After this
track comes the long, and ethereal worship moments. You will surely love to
worship while listening to ‘Let It Be Jesus’ sung by Christy Knockels. This is
my ultimate favourite cut on the album. The theme, musicality, and
lyrical-depth jive perfectly. I am so excited to line it up on my worship
setlist.
‘At The Cross’ is not
your favourite Hillsong classic. This new song is one of the moments you do not
want to miss. Chris Tomlin invites everyone to surrender everything at the
cross where love ran red. It is one of the stand-out tracks in the album. As
you reach the near-end point, Chris drops out almost completely. The way how
the crowd grabs hold of it is what I love most.
Biblical content is very
critical to a worship song. This important part should never be omitted, unless
the writer wants to create songs with cliché lines of “we love You, we adore
You.” Truthfully speaking, Passion’s
Take It All fell tothis common pitfall that is prone to worship albums. Some of
the songs in the album which I find generic, and have the cliché lines are ‘My Heart is Yours,’ ‘Almighty,’ ‘Mercy,’ ‘Worthy,’
‘This Grace,’ and ‘Sing and Shout.’ But still these are good to be had in the
album. Each song has brilliant instrumentations and are not just ‘album fillers.’
Overall, Take It All is
honest, raw, and passionate. I commend the heart of the Passion Worship
Leaders. Their love for God, heart for worship, and compassion for people are
extravagantly manifested in this project. Each track, from the first down to
the last, affords you a unique way to worship the Lord while being edified
spiritually.
Rating: 4.3/5
Track Listing:
1. Don't Ever Stop [feat. Chris Tomlin]
2. Never Gonna Let Me Go [feat. Kristian Stanfill]
3. Let It Be Jesus [feat. Christy Nockels]
4. At the Cross (Love Ran Red) [feat. Chris Tomlin]
5. I AM [feat. Crowder]
6. My Heart Is Yours [feat. Kristian Stanfill]
7. Almighty [feat. Chris Tomlin]
8. You Came To My Rescue [feat. Christy Nockels]
9. Mercy [feat. Matt Redman]
10. Come As You Are [feat. Crowder]
11. Worthy [feat. Matt Redman]
12. This Grace [feat. Kristian Stanfill]
13. Sing And Shout [feat. Matt Redman]*
14. My Heart Is Yours (Radio Version) [feat. Kristian Stanfill]*
15. Let It Be Jesus (Song Video) [feat. Christy Nockels]*
16. Come As You Are (Song Video) [feat. Crowder]*
17. Crushed By Grace [Louie Giglio Talk]*
*available on Deluxe Edition (CD+DVD)
Disclosure: A review copy of Take It All was provided for review by House of Praise, from whom you may purchase the album.
Wow Worship Lime {Album Review}
Wow series has been so famous for
the past few years. To be more specific, the series includes Wow Hits, Gospel,
#1s, and Worship. These compilation albums are made up of various CCM songs
from different artists, labels, and styles. Though many are questioning its
relevance, these albums do certainly sell millions of copies worldwide. For an
album collector like me, I do not give much attention to compilation albums
because I prefer getting the original artist’s album; especially of those that
I like.
Unlike Wow Hits, Wow Worship
albums are not being released annually. Its last release was in 2010 (Wow
Worship Purple) until this year—the new addition to the series is the ‘Lime’ Edition. It comprises 30 powerful
tracks (plus six on the deluxe edition) from today’s top artists.
After receiving it from House of
Praise along with three other new albums, I paid the least attention to it
because it is really not my type as I stated earlier. But when I start gazing
upon its track list written in the cover, Wow! By looking to its song line-up, I
must say that this one makes a great collection, more inspired and well-planned
than the Hits series. This new edition has several of my favourite worship
songs, and I can’t believe that it is possible to a find an album like this.
I am sure that the songs in this
album have already been known and sung by many Christians through the past
years since the last Wow Worship edition. Nine of the songs in the album, which
are noted as new recordings are actually new covers. Songs include White Flag, Lay Me Down, Stronger, Christ Is
Risen, From the Inside Out, Holy Spirit, Jesus Son of God, The Stand, and Always (mostly are Hillsong originals).
Among these covers, I find White Flag,
Stronger, From the Inside Out, and The
Stand better than their original releases.
Mostly, the songs that are
included in this edition are the standouts on their respective albums. The opening
songs on discs one and two, Our God (Chris Tomlin) and Cornerstone (Hillsong
Live), respectively, has been sung probably hundreds of times in churches on
Sundays around the world. Both are album title tracks. Hillsong United’s Oceans
(Where My Feet May Fail) has been rising in popularity since its release in
2011. This K-Love Fan Award-winning song has been one of the most loved tracks
in their Zion album. In addition to its in-depth lyrics, Taya Smith’s voice
suits perfectly to the mood of the song; and that makes the song so
irresistible to sing.
Wow Worship Lime cannot be
completed without the very popular Matt Redman-hymn 10,000 Reasons. Because of
its powerful appeal and compelling message, I must say that this is his biggest
hit since The Heart of Worship. Another popular song that is good to be found
in the album is David Crowder Band’s How He Loves, which is also included in
Wow Hits 2010.
I have numerous Wow albums in my
collection, and I listen to them the least. For Wow brand to survive in the
future, they should be smarter and meticulous on choosing the songs. For an
album collector like me, Wow albums are last on my list. But for those people
who want to listen to new songs without being so extravagant on buying numerous
albums, compilation projects like these are good to be had.
Overall, Wow Worship Lime is a very
strong and indeed powerful compilation album. I have never encountered a
collection project where songs are as well-picked as this one. Heartfelt,
enjoyable, and great are some of the words to describe the album. I am hoping
that the future releases from Wow are as good as this one.
Rating: 5/5
Track Listing:
DISC 1:
Our God [Chris Tomlin]
God’s Not Dead (Like a Lion) [Newsboys]
10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord) (Radio Version) [Matt
Redman]
Lord, I Need You [Matt Maher]
Oceans (Where Feet May Fail) [Hillsong UNITED]
How He Loves (Radio Version) [David Crowder Band]
Redeemed [Big Daddy Weave]
Love Came Down [Kari Jobe]
White Flag [Building 429]*
Glorious Day (Living He Loved Me) [Casting Crowns]
One Thing Remains [Kristian Stanfill]
Open Up the Heavens [Vertical Church Band]
Your Great Name [Natalie Grant]
Forever Reign [Chris August]
Beautiful Things [Gungor]
Lay Me Down [Rush of Fools]* [BONUS]
Stronger [Dara Maclean]* [BONUS]
Revival [Soulfire Revolution] [BONUS]
DISC 2:
Cornerstone [Hillsong LIVE]
Christ Is Risen [Tenth Avenue North]*
From the Inside Out [for KING AND COUNTRY]*
Your Love Never Fails [Jesus Culture]
Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies) [Passion]
Overcome (Radio Version) [Jeremy Camp]
Holy Spirit [Francesca Battistelli]*
Give Me Faith [Elevation Worship]
Never Once [One Sonic Society]
Jesus, Son of God [Brandon Heath]*
Not For a Moment [Meredith Andrews]
The Stand [Hillsong Young and Free]*
The Power of the Cross [Matt Hammitt]
God is Able [Patrick Ryan Clark]
Waiting Here For You (Radio Version) [Christy Nockels]
Always [Rhett Walker Band]* [BONUS]
Cast My Cares [Tim Timmons] [BONUS]
Break Every Chain [Tasha Cobbs] [BONUS]
Disclosure: A review copy of Wow Worship Lime was provided for review by House of Praise, from whom you may purchase the album.
