P.O.D. - Greatest hits: the atlantic years (2006)

Artist: P.O.D.
Album: Greatest hits: the atlantic years
Format: Audio CD MP3
Bitrate: ??? kbps

Track Listing:
1. Southtown
2. Boom
3. Going in Blind
4. Roots in Stereo
5. Alive
6. Youth of the Nation
7. Sleeping Awake
8. Rock the Party (Off the Hook)
9. Lights Out
10. Goodbye for Now
11. Execute the Sounds
12. Will You
13. Truly Amazing
14. Satellite
15. Set Your Eyes to Zion
16. Here We Go
17. If It Wasn't for You

Review of P.O.D. - Greatest hits: the atlantic years

When P.O.D. hit it big with the release of 2001's Satellite, the band seemed unstoppable. They dominated MTV, began to tour arenas, and sold over three million copies of that breakthrough album. We thought part of the reason for their success was a post-9/11 world ready for something different, something uplifting, something with a purpose. It turns out the foursome's popularity only decayed after that, with 2003's Payable on Death and 2006's Testify selling merely a fraction of their predecessor.

Now P.O.D. are free agents again—they're reportedly on the verge of announcing a new label partnership—but Atlantic Records was nice enough to compile a sendoff. Greatest Hits: The Atlantic Years recapitulates the band's days at the major label properly, paying attention to each of their four releases in relation to their own relevance and commercial impact.

There are three songs from their striking 1999 debut The Fundamental Elements of Southtown ("Southtown," "Rock the Party," "Set Your Eyes to Zion"), four from the smash Satellite ("Boom," "Alive," "Youth of the Nation," "Satellite"), only two from the embattled Payable on Death ("Will You," "Execute the Sounds"), and three from the return-to-form Testify ("Goodbye for Now," "Roots in Stereo," "Lights Out"). It's a well-rounded set, not exhaustively conclusive, but appropriate nonetheless.

As for exclusives, the only previously unreleased tracks are "Going in Blind" and "Here We Go"—neither is anything much to write home about, but both would've belonged swimmingly in the Testify sessions (the latter is actually a leftover from those sessions). Round that off with "Sleeping Awake" (from the Matrix: Reloaded soundtrack), "Truly Amazing" (from The Passion of The Christ: Songs), and a so-so essay by Mark Joseph (Faith, God & Rock 'n' Roll) in the liner notes, and you have the perfect anthology for the casual fan … not to mention a must-have Warrior keepsake.

Download P.O.D. - Greatest hits: the atlantic years (2006)

Youth Alive - All Of The Above (2006)

Artist: Youth Alive WA
Album: All Of The Above
Format: Audio CD MP3
Bitrate: ??? kbps

Track Listing:

1. "Can't Live A Day" (words and music by Matt Garner and Chad Blondel)
2. "Crazy" (words and music by Matt Garner)
3. "All of the Above" (words and music by Ben Blondel)
4. "No God Like Mine" (words and music by Chad Blondel)
5. "God of Miracles" (words and music by Matt Garner)
6. "Spirit of the Lord" (words and music by Matt Garner)
7. "Hungry for More" (words and music by Matt Garner)
8. "It is You" (words and music by Matt Garner)
9. "All I Am" (words and music by Chad Blondel)
10. "Shout Your Glory" (words and music by Chad Blondel)
11. "Sweetness/Can't Live a Day (reprise)" (words and music by Jim Adkins (Sweetness), Matt Garner and Chad Blondel (Can't Live a Day))
12. "Fall at Your Feet" (words and music by Ryan Armstrong)
13. "Tell The World (remix)" (words and music by Jone Vasu, Chad Blondel, Jonathan Douglas, Joel Houston and Marty Sampson)

Album Review

Just got it yesterday having picked up their previous record while in Aus last year.
More fresh praise and worship from across the ditch, aimed at teens and twenties and utilised in the popular Youth Alive events over in Aus.

Musically there is obviously an influence from Planetshakers and Hillsong (Henry Seeley and Reuben Morgan have been key figures in youth alive music for a while), bu there is a fesh element that stems from coming from over Perth way... and a warmer embrace of hip hop and r& as well as the rock flavour.

Like last time they used one secular song that then melds into one of their praise tunes... using Sweetness from Jimmy Eat World is cool, although I might be a bit biased. In other areas, the songwriting has developed from the last album meaning there are more winners on here in my opinion anyway...

It has a DVD too, which is cool to see what they're up to over there. Design, both of the packaging and on the DVD is pretty classy so it's nice to see more top of the line products.

11 live tracks, 2 studio tracs, a DVD with live footage, behind the scenes, promo stuff, a CD-Rom music book - there's plenty to check out.

Download Youth Alive - All Of The Above (2006) Part 1

Download Youth Alive - All Of The Above (2006) Part 2

Sonicflood - Glimpse (2006)

Artist: Sonicflood
Album: Glimpse
Format: Audio CD MP3
Bitrate: ??? kbps

Track Listing:
01. Your Love Goes On Forever
02. Open The Eyes Of My Heart
03. You Are
04. I Want To Know
05. You Resonate
06. God Is Here
07. Cry Holy
08. Everlasting
09. Lord Of The Dance
10. Infinite Love (new studio recording)
11. Save Me (new studio recording)
12. I Want To Know You Reprise

Album Review

With powerful songs like "Open the Eyes of My Heart" and "I Want to Know You", Sonicflood reinvented and reinvigorated the worship genre of Contemporary Christian Music. This month, the band that was nominated for two Grammy Awards and won two Dove Awards, releases their newest project. Since their last studio project, This Generation, released in 2005, Sonicflood has been traveling worldwide to reach all generations to issue a call to rise up and share your faith, performing concerts in Australia, Brazil, India, Ireland, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, Bahamas, Thailand and Turkey. As they toured, they recorded -- in both audio and video -- and the result is Glimpse: Live Recordings from Around the World.

"Its time for God's people to know that they are a part of something so huge and so wonderful and that right now we have brothers and sisters on the other side of the planet that love us and are praying for us," explains frontman Rick Heil. "When we went overseas this summer we had a chance to record the sounds of every crowd we worshiped with, and then blended them together to create a symphony of praise... it's beautiful! On top of sonically recording the concerts, we brought along an HD camera to capture the sights of putting this kind of extensive project together."

The concerts feature rock solid performances and are heavy on audience participation, as Heil pulls choruses from the masses for "Open the Eyes of My Heart", "You Are", and "I Want to Know You", achieving a surprisingly masterful aesthetic. It's always amazing how a group of a thousand or more people, perhaps none of which can sing well individually, can almost always pull off something beautiful when acting in concert with each other.

Beyond the nine tracks of live performances (blended together nearly seamlessly, so as to appear to be one concert instead of many), the album boasts two brand new studio tracks: "Infinite Love" and "Save Me" (a title that's getting used a lot of late by bands like Remy Zero and Maxeen.) Both songs are softer than the usual fare Sonicflood produces, with the former being more balladic than the latter, which does hammer a bit harder on the guitars during the chorus. The set also includes a bonus DVD, featuring the making of Glimpse as well as two music videos for "Everlasting" and "This Generation."

Capping off the CD is an unlisted bonus track, that fades in from the silence, continues for a little while, then slowly fades out again. Take from a live performance, the track is a snippet of the a cappella chorus of "I Want To Know You", as sung in Thai.

Many concert albums capture the audio of the event, but very few capture the essence of the experience as has Glimpse. As the album progresses, you can actually feel the spirit of the worship exude from the music. More got recorded onto this disc than mere soundwaves.

"What we see now is but a glimpse," says Heil of the group's mission touring with the International Missions Board as they begin the North American leg of travelling. "But soon we will see face to face. Worship takes us to greater and greater revelation and my prayer is that God would increase our expectation so that we might see His wonders as we worship Him with all our hearts!"

Reviews from The-trades.com

Download Sonicflood - Glimpse

Jeremy Camp - Beyond Mesure (2006)

Artist: Jeremy Camp
Album: Beyond Mesure
Format: Audio CD MP3
Bitrate: 256 kbps

Track Listing:
01. Tonight lyrics
02. What It Means lyrics
03. Beyond Mesure lyrics
04. Let It Fade lyrics
05. Feels Like lyrics
06. When You Are Near lyrics
07. No Matter What lyrics
08. Take Little Time lyrics
09. Everything lyrics
10. I Am Nothing lyrics
11. Give You Glory lyrics
12. Give Me Jesus lyrics

Album Review

Jeremy Camp has always been known to write songs from wherever he is in his life journey, be it in the midst of the heart-wrenching loss of his young wife (his debut album Stay), or the restoration following such a tragedy (his third project Restored). His new album, Beyond Measure shows the restoration even more clearly. It is full of hope and contentment, and overflowing thankfulness. Camp says, “This album shows even more what God has done in my life than Restored. It’s a little more personal to me, more like Stay, but musically and vocally it is leaps and bounds above both. This album is so diverse, but in such a good way. It’s ME. Period.”

Camp has released two singles to radio simultaneously, and this duo opens the record. Just as Stay and Restored featured their own quasi-hard-rock song, Beyond Measure’s rock gem is Tonight. The second single, What It Means, is beautiful alt-rock song, asking Jesus to show us how to live as a sacrifice.

The title track introduces the piano, an instrument that has not been previously used in Camp’s palette. Beyond Measure is a poignant and intensely personal ballad. It is listened to almost as a story book of Camp’s life: a story of loss, faith and grace. Let It Fade sounds a lot like most of the tracks on Restored, but it’s not bad having some continuity with the past.

Feels Like ventures into some new vocal territory, with increased falsetto during the chorus. While it is different, it suits the song, and Camp pulls it off to perfection. An ethereal track, When You Are Near is accompanied by a synth and special effects, and some more falsetto is featured.

Tucked in the middle of the album is No Matter What, another rock song. Featuring the lyrics “No matter what it takes I will offer everything I am. Even unto death I will follow,” it is certainly a bold declaration, and a standout track. Take A Little Time encourages believers to reach outside their comfort zones to impact the world around them: a reference to Camp’s involvement with international child sponsorship organization Compassion.

The lyrics of I Am Nothing are based on John 15:5, where Jesus says, “apart from me you can do nothing.” Camp, backed by soft strings sings, “I am nothing without your love. I’m completed by your touch.”

Give You Glory is Camp’s first bona-fide “worship song.” Though all his songs come from a real place of worship, Give You Glory is the first in the worship genre. The lyrics are vertically-directed, proclaiming the Glory of Jesus.

The album concludes with Give Me Jesus, a heartfelt plea for more of Jesus. Backed with only his acoustic guitar, Camp’s strong vocal capabilities shine. The song builds as his wife’s vocals, followed by a cello, are added to the mix. Give Me Jesus is a traditional African-American song, originally recorded by Fernando Ortega, and Camp gives it a noteworthy remake.

Numerous critics complained that his third record, Restored, was unoriginal and showed little musical growth. This is certainly not the case with Beyond Measure, and Camp’s maturation is evident in both the musical styles and the instrument arrangements. Beyond Measure is an uplifting album that will appeal to any previous fans of Camp’s work and those looking for transparent songwriting.

Download Jeremy Camp - Beyond Mesure

Disciple - Scars Remain (2006)

Artist: Disciple
Album: Scars Remain
Format: Audio CD MP3
Bitrate: ??? kbps

Track Listing:
1. Regime Change lyrics
2. Love Hate (On And On) lyrics
3. My Hell lyrics
4. Scars Remain lyrics
5. Game On lyrics
6. Someone lyrics
7. After The World lyrics
8. Dive lyrics
9. Fight For Love lyrics
10. Purpose To Melody lyrics
11. No End At All lyrics

Album Review

Disciple is seeking to spread their message and music to as many new faces as possible. “We want to play for more people than we have ever played for,” says Young. “We have never been in this thing for money and I hope we never will be, but at the same time we want to reach as many people as we can with our music. We feel that our songs are more than just music – we've seen them have a positive impact on people's lives. As a band, we feel like we have had the opportunity to do more and be a part of more than we ever dreamed. We are thankful for that. But we feel like we have so much more to give. Things have fallen into place for us. We've got the right team around us for the first time in our careers and we think we've made the right music. Again, I feel like we are just getting started.”

I remember reading in HM Magazine that their reviewer said in reference to their last album, "If this isn't the most successful album of Disciple's career, this reviewer will eat a bug." Well, I sure hope that the HM writer likes bugs because we at WMP will eat a dozen bugs if this doesn't become the most successful album of Disciple's career as of now! Let me be the first to say, this latest release from Disciple has brought me back as a diehard fan. As soon as the album kicks in with "Regime Change" you cant help notice the ferocious onslaught and chugging effects of the guitars and intensity behind the first track. The song is a clear showing that the band is back and in full metal focus with great guitar breakouts and drumming that pounds you in the chest. Disciple's last album didn't show or invoke any passion but this album does it enough to make up for it. The title track and my favorite track on the album, "Scars Remain", shows the intensity of this band with a passionate track that has their matured musicianship with their old school flair at the center. This track shows the modern feel of this band with amazing hardcore breakouts that I have not heard from Disciple yet. This album is raw metal and it is great to hear the original focus of this band on tracks like "Game On." "Someone" is an amazing track with a rawness during the verse that holds you into the track. The track shows a brutal intro filled with that same style in and out. The album is complex and diverse with compassionate ballads like "No End At All", even an acoustic influenced track on "After the World", with a the highlight being the true metal focus of Disciple. "After the World" may be one of the most mature songs I have ever heard from Disciple. Scars Remain is bringing Disciple back to what they were meant to do...tear your ear drums apart and rip open your heart!Lyrically was one of my biggest complaints on their last album. I felt the tracks were watered down and lost their intensity and focus. Well, scratch that off because this album brings not only the musicianship of this band back, but it does the same with the lyrical content and focus. This album gets real about people's pasts and embraces the loving grace of Jesus to get things right. All the songs on this album deal with real life and our journey to be closer with our spiritual life. Kevin is on top of the game as always and the passion in these tracks make you believe he means 100% of what he sings about.

This will be Disciple's top selling album to date...no questions asked. This album is full of passion and talent from music to vocals to lyrics. It is raw and emotional and you will believe and feel this album from start to finish.

Download Disciple - Scars Remain

Third Day - Christmas Offerings (2006)

Artist: Third Day
Album: Christmas Offerings
Format: Audio CD MP3
Bitrate: ??? kbps

Track Listing:
1. O Come All Ye Faithful
2. Do You Hear What I Hear?
3. Born in Bethlehem
4. O Holy Night
5. Angels We Have Heard on High
6. Silent Night
7. Jesus, Light of the World
8. Joy to the World
9. What Child is this?
10. The First Noel
11. Christmas Like a Child
12. Away in a Manger
13. Merry Christmas

Album Review

Christian band Third Day is known not only for their Southern Rock Sound but also for their worship oriented lyrics. This CD is no exception.

They have previous released two CD's in their "Offerings" series. Both projects have included studio tracks as well as live recordings. This release is no different. The live tracks feature very little talking, but the audience is obviously present. They hold up well to repeated listening.

The first track starts out with strong drums on "O Come All Ye Faithful." Yes, you read that right. Third Day has taken nine familiar Christmas carols and arranged them to fit their Southern Rock style. If this scares you, don't let it. Each song is still instantly recognizable, and I had no problem singing along on the first listen. While it sounds slightly different, it felt like Christmas to me, even in the middle of ninety-degree weather. Of course, part of making it a Third Day song is lead singer Mac Powell's trademark deep voice. I'm not sure what about his voice is so distinctive, but it immediately helps make this CD recognizable as a Third Day release.

"What Child is this?" is easily one of my favorite Christmas carols. Their version is quickly becoming a favorite. It starts with just acoustic guitar, but each verse keeps building until the final chorus. By that point, the full band is playing and it has become a driving rock ballad. I also like the fact that they use a little known verse for their second verse instead of the one we all know and already have recorded a million times.

They do a similar arrangement with "Do You Here What I Hear?" It starts out rockier then "What Child is this?" and it flat out rocks by the final verse. I absolutely love it, as does the live audience.

While they speed up "O Holy Night" slightly (it works well as a rock ballad), they keep "Silent Night" slow. In fact, they have a nice violin intro on that song.

Since I have quite a Christmas music library (I just love the holiday), I always pay special attention to the new songs. Here, there are four of them, none of which are from the City on a Hill Christmas project the band participated in. Three of them are great. "Born in Bethlehem" is a mid-tempo praise song to the Baby Jesus. The second verse moves from Christmas to Good Friday and Easter, something I love to tie together. "Jesus, Light of the World" has a similar theme. "Christmas Like a Child" speaks of the longing to recapture the joy of Christmas. Not the longing for presents, but remembering that the season is ultimately about Jesus.

Which brings us to the final song. "Merry Christmas" is yet another in a long line of potentially depressing Christmas songs. Band member Brad Avery's real life wait to adopt a girl from China inspires it. While the final verse does have a happy resolution, I find the first two verses very sad. I will be skipping this track most of the time, which also means skipping the hidden group sing of "We Wish You a Merry Christmas."

Still, this one track is not enough to ruin the CD overall. By putting their own sound on classic carols, Third Day has created a Christmas Offering I will look forward to listening to year after year.

Download Third Day - Christmas Offerings

Mute Math - Mute Math (Warner Bros Release, 2006)

Artist: Mute Math
Album: Mute Math
Format: Audio CD MP3
Bitrate: 192 kbps

Track Listing:

1. Collapse
2. Typical
3. After We Have Left Our Homes
4. Chaos
5. Noticed
6. Plan B
7. Stare At The Sun
8. Obsolete
9. Break The Same
10. You Are Mine
11. Control
12. Picture
13. Stall Out
14. Reset

Album Review
Mute Math’s Reset EP was a staple for those into a totally energizing, get on your feet musical experience, and Mute Math’s self titled debut LP is no exception. If you’re lucky enough to get a copy at their nationwide sold out shows or online, you’re mp3 player and stereo will feel more than privileged. The cover art boasts a band heavily involved in instrumentation, the focus is on their skill, not staring blankly at the camera trying to be poster boys for the next cover of NME. Paul Meany orchestrates the band by tying every sound together with his whisp-laden vocals.

The band has proposed classic moments on such tracks as “Chaos”, “Typical”, and “Noticed” with catchy anthem-like lyrics and electro samples mixed with light rapid drum movements provided by Darren King with the most excellent trademark of duct taping his headphones to his head during performances. "Obsolete" also stands out with an incredible jazz infused hook on the bass that melts in your mouth over and over again. Mute Math make melodies that mean something, make ballad worthy lyrics worth listening to for even the toughest guy or girl in the audience, and provide a unique raw appeal that the industry as a whole has been after for a long time. Mute Math are definitely a band worth watching, and possess music worth repeating to bring more pep to an otherwise stagnant day.

Download Mute Math - Mute Math (Warner Bros Release)

Newsboys - Go (2006)

Artist: Newsboys
Album: Go
Format: mp3
Bitrate: ??? kbps

Track Listing:
1. Wherever We Go
2. GO (I Want To Send You)
3. Something Beautiful
4. The Mission
5. Let It all Come Out
6. In Wonder
7. Your Love Is Better Than Life
8. I Am Free
9. Secret Kingdom
10. The Letter
11. Gonna Be Alright

Album Review
It’s finally here. One of the most anticipated releases of 2006 has finally been completed, and it’s sure to live up to the hype that’s been revolving around it. Creating one of the best albums of their career and stepping off of the infamous "worship bandwagon," the newsboys dug down deep into their rock roots and even added a little techno to mold their newest release, GO.

The album opens up like their most recent concerts, with the funky sounds of "Wherever We Go." The song proves that only the newsboys can get away with singing about animals partying it up when the band comes to town. Fun and upbeat, "Wherever We Go" is sure to give you the same amount of energy, if not more, than during their live show. Continuing with the "go" theme and introducing a bit of techno into the mix, "Go," recounts the stories of Jesus sending out the disciples. It follows His most used demand, "Go!" and encourages all Christians to live up to their expectations of spreading the Gospel.

The next song continues with the techno tune. "Something Beautiful" compares the love and conversations between God and His children with everyday things, including the feelings we get "when we laugh so hard we cry," and the sight of "the child on a wedding day, the daddy who gives her away." The lyrics get you smiling at the simple comparisons, and the sound will have you tapping your feet unconsciously.

"The Mission" is a retrospective look at some of history's greatest icons and their role in spreading the Gospel. Something like a history lesson is given, elaborating on the fact that the famous words of these icons help connect us to Jesus from more than 2000 years ago. Though times have changed, the mission has stayed the same, and "it’s here." The bell in the background adds an effect to this solid rock song.

Halfway through, GO slows down a bit for "Let it All Come Out" and goes into the U2-like "In Wonder." It dives into the most basic topic of Christianity, the fact that the power of God is completely incomprehensible and unfathomable. The repetitions of lead singer Peter Furler’s words, "such a wonder," get you trying to understand God along with him.

The newsboys bring back the techno sounds again with the most interesting song on the album, "Your Love is Better Than Life." You’ll hear sounds comparable to The Gorillaz, Aqua, and Eiffel 65 throughout the song while Furler’s monotone verses are reminiscent of INXS’ "Mediate." There is something about the feel and innocence of the song that proves that the members of the band aren’t perfect. Admitting that they "don’t know when it’s a ministry or when it’s a show, maybe neither, maybe both" helps bring them down from their pedestal that some Christians are prone to putting them on. The song explains that sometimes they just "don’t know."

The intro to "Secret Kingdom" may sound familiar, as it resembles newsboys’ classic, "Breakfast." Honestly, I can see this song becoming the next classic concert song. It could be the inclusion of whistling, but the chorus is just plain fun. The visuals of Peter’s actions while singing this song remind me of the days of "Take Me To Your Leader" being performed live.

Again slowing up the album, "The Letter (One of a Kind)" might be my favorite song. The chorus is fascinating, mesmerizing almost. The words are smooth and comforting, and it will get you feeling good about yourself – knowing that you are one of a kind, and no one can replace you in the kingdom. It leaves a good taste in your mouth and you’re sure to be singing it all day long.

"Gonna Be Alright" concludes the regular version of GO. Furler’s high-pitched vocals from, most recently, "The Orphan," come to surface again and provide a lullaby-like tune to the song. Though not ending the album with a bang musically, so to speak, the mixture of lyrics and soft sounds are consistent with the rest of the album in that it is comforting, yet powerful.

The studio version of "I Am Free" is also included on the album, and the power of the live version still exists. I’m even going as far as saying that it’s better in the studio than live.

Overall, I agree with drummer Duncan Phillips 100% when he claimed that the band was "bringin’ back the fun." GO has been playing non-stop on my media player and not one song has been skipped over or stopped short. With this album, the newsboys prove that they're still standing strong after 20 years in the music business, and they don’t show signs of slowing down any time soon. If you haven’t already, be sure to pre-order Go today. You won’t be disappointed.

Download Newsboys - Go

Pillar - The Reckoning (2006)

Artist: Pillar
Album: The Reckoning
Format: mp3
Bitrate: 256 kbps

Track Listing:
1. Everything
2. Awake
3. When Tomorrow Comes
4. The Reckoning
5. Tragedy
6. Last Goodbye
7. Angel in Disguise
8. Elysian
9. Crossfire
10. Resolution
11. Sometimes
12. Wherever the Wind Blows
13. Chasing Shadows at Midnight

Album Review

It was only a couple of indie projects before Pillar burst onto the Christian rock scene at the perfect time, riding closely on the trendy wave of hardcore nü-metal that P.O.D. helped start in 1999 with The Fundamental Elements of Southtown. Six years later, the Oklahoma quartet's lineup remains intact and continues to draw a strong following in America's heartland through a powerful presence on the rock tour circuit.

But rapcore rock is now considered passé and nü-metal isn't the hot commodity that it was six years ago. Nickelback and Audioslave are still creating a stir . . . Korn and P.O.D. less so. Where does Pillar's sound fit in all of this today, and do they have what it takes musically to carry their message for the long haul?

That's what I'm left to ponder after their fourth full-length project, The Reckoning. Say this much for Pillar—they're smart enough to keep from being confined to a musical fad. 2000's Above bore a strong resemblance to P.O.D., but now the two bands only compare in decibel level. As with 2004's Where Do We Go From Here, Pillar has embraced melodic hardcore with an emo-screamo bent, heard on tracks like "Last Goodbye," "Resolution," and "Chasing Shadows at Midnight." Whether that's good for the band is debatable—it's not a particularly distinctive style and the occasionally whiny vocal from Rob Beckley is less impressive than his deeper growls.

Better are "Awake" and the title track, catering a healthy helping of meat and potatoes hard rock akin to Audioslave and Nickelback, and the more intense hardcore of "Tragedy," reminiscent of Tool and Korn. Here the band sounds more in their element—stronger, more confident. Many will also be surprised by "Sometimes," which resembles a heavier Jimmy Eat World with a kickin' power pop sound that's quite different for Pillar, yet they pull it off and add a new tool to their kit.

Then there are the pop metal ballads, like "Angel in Disguise" and "Wherever the Wind Blows," the sort of fluff you'd expect more from Kutless and Building 429 (or Winger and White Lion). It's at this point you have to wonder whether the range is too broad. I'm mostly glad to see Pillar continually trying to evolve with the times, but there's a fine line between eclecticism and losing focus. It does admittedly help every song gain its own character, but you have to wonder if fans are comfortable with a band that sounds Korn-y one second and toothless the next. Or do they welcome it all as one big monster pop/rock spectrum?

Also of note are the album's lyrical subtleties. You won't find explicit mention of God here, yet there's never a question where Pillar is coming from either. For example, "Wherever the Wind Blows" is clearly inspired by Billy Graham's famous message about feeling and seeing the effects of the wind as a metaphor for God's presence. "Crossfire" is particularly striking, insightfully noting how easy it is to catch heat from not only non-believers, but fellow Christians as well: "I'd rather take a shot in the chest than take a shot in the back/At least I'll see it coming and I'll know where I'm standing at/To get shot down by your own such a crying shame."

"Tragedy" recognizes how we're our own worst enemy through sinful nature and "Chasing Shadows at Midnight" examines our pursuit of meaningless and material things. "Awake" is more hopeful with a dreamful longing for heaven, and "When Tomorrow Comes" leaves the troubles of the past behind by looking toward the future.

But then we have songs like "Resolution," one of those vaguely leave-your-fear-behind encouragements that's generic enough for everyone while ultimately saying nothing: "Don't let the moment pass you/Don't let distractions blind you/Don't let questions stop you/Don't let the answers miss you." Even more frustrating is "Angels in Disguise," with a seemingly self-explanatory title, but an extremely imprecise redemption tale about . . . well, I'm not sure exactly. Does the father abuse his family physically or emotionally? Is the girl the victim or her mother? All that's clear from this story without details is the girl takes action and ultimately forgives daddy.

The Reckoning amounts to a Christian album that's capable of reaching the non-believer, though some of the songs are too abstract for their own good. It's a polished effort from a capable band, yet it never quite settles into a sound that's clearly their own. If there's a pattern to all this, it's that Pillar still feels more like a trend follower than a trend setter, and yet I have to believe the core audience will come away impressed. I'd still like to see this band start a wave of its own.

Download Pillar - The Reckoning

Jaci Velasquez - On My Knees (2006)

Artist: Jaci Velasquez
Album: On My Knees: The Best Of Jaci Velasquez
Format: Audio CD
Bitrate: ??? kbps

Track Listing:
01. On My Knees
02. Un Lugar Celestial (Heavenly Place)
03. Imagine Me Without You
04. Every Time I Fall
05. God So Loved
06. I Will Rest In You
07. We Can Make A Difference
08. Unspoken
09. Lay It Down
10. Speak For Me
11. If This World
12. God Loves You
13. Adore
14. Just A Prayer Away
15. Show You Love
16. Center Of Your Love
17. Colors Of The Heart (Duet with Oleta Adams)

Album Review

Recently Word Records released three “best of” CD’s from the top of their artist roster. Nicole C. Mullen’s “Redeemer,” Jaci Velasquez and “On My Knees,” and Rachael Lampa’s “Blessed.” Individually, each of these leading ladies has had a unique impact on the pop, Latin, and R&B markets. All have been individually successful and through all of the transitions both at Word Records and within the Christian industry itself, the three have held their own.

There is not doubt that each is deserving of a “best of” collection although one often wonders about the motivation behind such a project. In recent history, it either meant another label shakeup or an artist sabbatical. However, in this case, and point in time, new rock acts are dominating the industries attention. If we’re lucky, as fans, the three leading ladies and Word are planning the next big take over of the airwaves.

Either way, for fans of Rachael, Jaci, and Nicole, the 17 song compilations are worthy of evaluation. And in the instance of Nicole’s collection the listening audience is gifted with the addition of two live recordings of favorites “Redeemer” and “Call On Jesus” which have not been released before.

I have collected a sampling of links to past reviews and interviews from Nicole and Rachael. As I began to search our archive I was shocked by the absence of Jaci’s music on our site. However, in our defense we can only cover what is passed our way, and each artist has at times had different publicist with exclusive and inclusive media lists.

Of the three, I have had the pleasure of meeting only Rachael in person. However, I did get the opportunity to interview Nicole over the phone which was a real pleasing and friendly experience. Hopefully the future of Alpha Omega News will be full of new reviews, interviews, and concert photos from Nicole, Rachael, and Jaci.

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Sarah Kelly - Where The Past Meets Today (2006)

Artist: Sarah Kelly
Album: Where The Past Meets Today
Format: Audio CD
Bitrate: 320kbps

Track Listing:
01. The Beauty Of It All
02. Still Breathing
03. Hold On Love
04. About Midnight
05. Between The Lines
06. Out Of Reach
07. What You Leave Behind
08. Fall Into You
09. In Your Eyes
10. Believe Again
11. Remember Me Well

Album review

This is an amazing CD, and from what I have read and know about Sarah Kelly, she too is amazing. “Where the Past Meets Today” is a musical jump from her Rockford Choir days and it is so cool to have heard her sing on both sides of the equation. The mind-blowing combination of a classic rock soundtrack and explosive vocals, reminiscent of 70’s icons like Grace Slick or Janis Joplin, paired with the CD’s spiritual side, make this the best album of the year in my opinion.

The soundtrack is amazing, and producer Mike Clink appears to have pulled some strings to get some non-traditional players on the album. Including Slash on guitar and some more instrumentation by Chris Chaney of Jane’s Addiction. Additionally, the album was recorded outside of the traditional CCM studios of Nashville and instead the work was done in L.A. where the musical environment has a different charge. The changes were noticeable, and the soundtrack stands out in a very positive way. However, the spiritual content of the album does not suffer from being away from the usual structure of CCM.

As quoted in the press materials Kelly states, “A Song is a way to speak, a voice beyond what you can normally say in life. This music gave me voice when I had none, and my prayer is to do the same for others.” Additionally, “My music career is just a means to an end to teach kids how to allow the Lord to speak to them through song. This is an all-consuming passion, and it’s why I have been placed here in this position.”

“Where the Past Meets Today” follows thematically with many of the artists that have influenced Kelly, as it is written deeply from the heart, expressing challenges, pain, exposing life’s most dark and dreadful secrets.

Where the Past Meets Today is a move forward for Sarah Kelly in many respects and a beckoning for further honesty in today’s church. I think you will be fully charged by the music and deeply moved by her spiritual strength in adversity.

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Skillet - Comatose (2006)

Artist: Skillet
Album: Comatose
Format: Audio CD
Bitrate: VBR

Track Listing:
01. Rebirthing
02. Last Night
03. Yours to Hold
04. Better Than Drugs
05. Comatose
06. Older I Get
07. Those Nights
08. Falling Inside the Black
09. Say Goodbye
10. Whispers in the Dark
11. Looking for Angels

Album review

Back with a bang, Skillet is set to release Comatose, their 8th studio record, and judging by the excitement growing in panheads across the country, it’s sure to be a classic!

Building off the success found in using strings on their previous record, Collide, Skillet ups the ante, and takes listeners to a level completely untouched by the band in previous attempts. Comatose is packed full of genius compositions, with hard-hitting lyrics to back it up. Skillet has never shied away from the ‘ugly’ things in the lives of listeners, Christian and non-Christian alike, and certainly prove themselves to be serious about tackling issues often ignored by the church (Suicide, poverty, self injury, to name a few), in this album.

The albums first single, "Rebirthing," dives right in and starts the record off with plenty of strings. With an intro intended to heighten the listener’s excitement, lead singer John Cooper comes in with a gut-wrenching scream to bring the intro to climax, allowing the music to flow in to the first verse easily. "Rebirthing" gives a great representation of the album and leaves listeners eager to hear the rest.

The following track, "The Last Night" continues to pack a strong punch in the strings department, much to my delight. One of the more lyrically impacting songs, "The Last Night" holds many of the more touching lines on the album. "Look me in the eye so I know you know I’m everywhere you need me to be," perfectly embodies the intensity in the emotion God feels when His children are unsure of where they are with their faith. He wants us to see how serious He is, and this line has led me to examine the solidity of my own faith.

While it’s packed full of gut-wrenching screams and guitar solos, Comatose makes sure to include slower, more reflective songs as well. "Yours To Hold," "The Older I Get," and "Say Goodbye" provide much needed, and perfectly placed breaks as you make your way through the album. With emotional lyrics, and vocals done by both John and Korey Cooper, "Say Goodbye" leaves you with two words in mind: power ballad! While I quickly admit to the song being semi-cliché, it’s definitely a solid song, and certainly draws the listener in to the emotion and desperation of the situation at hand.

One of the most notable songs on the album is the closing track, "Looking For Angels," which is mostly spoken-word. This completely drew me in from the beginning, as the honesty and desperation shown in this track is absolutely remarkable. "Looking For Angels" is very different from things Skillet has done in the past but with lyrics like, "When will we learn that wars, threats, and regrets are the cause and effect of living in fear," you can’t help but realize how much this song hits close to home. This track is not a downer though, quite the opposite. As the song nears its end, it becomes a call to action to change the world in any way you can. "What will you do to help someone along the way? Just a touch, a smile as you turn the other cheek? Pray for your enemies, humble yourself, love’s staring back at me."

The only weak point on the record, in my opinion, is the scarily pop-punk track "Those Nights," a song you’d expect to find on an album of the likes of Hawk Nelson or MEST. This track just seems to drag the album down, losing a touch of musical sophistication that I’ve always prided Skillet in having. The only other complaint is that at times, lyrics can seem a bit overdramatic, for want of a better word. Luckily, that’s a rare occasion and doesn’t take away too much from the record. In all reality, you have to get incredibly critical to find any real fault with Comatose.

As the final track comes to a close, I found myself immediately starting the album back up and still, after many listens, surprised and excited by what awaited me. This is a solid album through and through. A major step musically, as Skillet continues to mature their sound, and overall presentation of their message. If you’re looking for a good, solid album, with a beautiful blend of genius music compositions, poetic lyrics, and passionate vocals - Comatose is it!

Review from Ccmbuzz.com

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Hillsong United - United We Stand (2006)

Artist: Hillsong United
Album: United We Stand
Format: Audio CD
Bitrate: 192 kbps

Track Listing:
01. Intro
02. The time has come
03. Take it all
04. From God Above
05. From the Inside Out
06. Came to the Rescue
07. A Reprise
08. None But Jesus
09. Selah
10. FIre Fall Down
11. Revolution
12. Kingdom Come
13. No one like You
14. Sovereign Hands
15. The Stand
16. Selah
17. Hallelujah

Album review

The latest in a long line of youth-appealing worship projects from Hillsong United, United We Stand, is a largely Hillsong-by-the-numbers effort offering plenty in the way of familiarity without much in the way of originality. Everything one has come to expect from a United album is here - the live atmosphere, the big arrangements and a dogged insistence in rewriting the same worship song over and over.

One listen to United We Stand confirms it as a predictable successor to previous United efforts. The faster songs are catchy and energetic without managing to sound memorable, while the slower songs range from merely pleasant ("Came to the Rescue") to the excruciatingly drawn out ("Fire Fall Down"). Lyrically, the band never ventures beyond the expected either. The usual worship clichйs abound, as each song on United We Stand involves some variety of their typical "Live for You," "Tell the world about Jesus," and "Jesus, You are beautiful" lyrics.

Chronologically, the album sounds drawn out as well. United We Stand starts off briskly enough, with three energetic live numbers ("The Time Has Come," "Take It All," "From God Above") that prove why this band is a natural favorite among youth. It is not long however, until the album gets bogged down by momentum-robbing slow worship songs that seem unnecessarily placed together. United We Stand's bloated mid-section is capped off by the ten-minute plus "Fire Fall Down," and by the time it finally draws to a close, not even the enthusiastic "Revolution" can pick this album back up.

Hillsong United are not necessarily known for variety between albums and one could argue that their fans would prefer it any other way. There's nothing on United We Stand that we haven't already heard on Look To You or More Than Life. Nothing here is new, yet nothing is missing either. Those who know and love United will no doubt enjoy this, since their favorite worship band has once again delivered a familiar batch of songs that will please more than inspire.

Review from Jesusfreakhideout.com

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Hillsong Australia - Mighty To Save (2006)

Artist: Hillsong Australia
Album: Mighty To Save
Format: Audio CD
Bitrate: 192 kbps

Track Listing:
01. Take It All
02. The Freedom We Know
03. For Who You Are
04. You Alone Are God
05. At The Cross
06. From The Inside Out
07. Found
08. More To See
09. Adonai
10. I Believe
11. Oceans Will Part
12. None But Jesus
13. Higher with I Believe In You
14. Mighty To Save

Album Review

Here is a feast for the eyes as well as the ears - as the camera soaks up the spirit of Hillsong's major conference concert of the year. Inevitably, the pivot of the live recording is the wonderful singing and direction of Darlene Zschech, whose presence is everywhere to be seen and heard. But what a team! And what a gathering!
The massed ranks of expectant worshippers offer their sacrifice of praise in wave after wave, with alternating soloists and augmented band playing their hearts out for the lens. From spiky dance songs to tear-inducing prayers, the music simply pours over you track on track, with plenty of high roving panoramas and intimate close-ups to keep you glued. The team have again set the standard in "captured" live worship - everyone in the auditorium deeply in thrall to the Holy Spirit at work, with no sense of intrusion.
It is the kind of viewing which requires a prepared mind (and heart) as behind-the-scenes come to life, the Scriptures unfold, the personal stories get aired (mostly on the second CD of special features) and the music sweeps us up into being there. There is no doubt that Hillsong's influence on contemporary praise music sets it apart as the voice of worship across all generations, harnessing the very best in music, film production and graphics with consummate skill and - most importantly - sensitivity to the event . We get a glimpse of their range in the subtitles - English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Bahsa Indonesian, traditional Chinese, modern Chinese, Japanese, Korean (and occasionally, Australian!). Before long, these songs will be a part of your own weekly offering. This package rises way above entertainment.

Review from Crossrhythms.co.uk

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Hillsong Australia - Super Strong God (2006)

Artist: Hillsong Australia
Album: Super Strong God
Format: Audio CD
Bitrate: 192 kbps

Track Listing:
01. Rainbow
02. One Way
03. Royalty
04. Let Your Light Shine
05. God You Make Me Smile
06. Super Strong God
07. Let The Children Come
08. Heaven In My Heart
09. Radio
10. Jesus In My Life
11. Free
12. Look From Heaven
13. All I Need Is You - You Are My World
14. I Love You
15. I Believe In Jesus

Album review

15 lively tracks recorded in front of an appreciative audience, judging by the cheers that open the album. Those cheers are followed by four stomping openers, the best of which is probably "Let Your Light Shine", before things quieten down a bit with the excellent "God You Make Me Smile" and "Let The Children Come". The other standout tracks are the rock and roll "Radio", the reflective "Look From Heaven" and the final track "I Believe In Jesus" which dares you to make a stand. As you'd expect from an album made by the cash-rich Australian mega-church, the project is very well produced, with a very contemporary pop sound - my kids said it reminded them of McFly or S Club, so it's probably hit about the right spot. This is the type of CD that is intended to be played and played, the repetition of the simple, but affirming lyrics, intended to build up faith in our children. Good news for parents, it's an album that will stand repetition, perhaps on that long car journey, without reducing you to gibbering wrecks. And you are more than likely to have your faith built up too. You might even find yourself singing along.

Review from Crossrhythms.co.uk

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Cross Culture - Proof Positive (2006)

Artist: Cross Culture
Album: Proof Positive
Format: Audio CD
Bitrate: ???

Track Listing:
01. This Moment In Time
02. I Need It
03. Swing
04. The Way It Should Be
05. One Of These Days
06. Fly
07. Extraordinary
08. Can't Live
09. She Won't
10. Total Addiction
11. Wave

Album Reviews

If you're a hard core rocker, someone who exclusively enjoys funk, a fan who thinks "give me rap or give me nothing at all," or a person who likes a nice, neat label on the music you listen to, then Cross Culture won't be for you. However, if you like to expand your horizons, listening to music that blends so many stylistic aspects that you can't possibly call it, then you'll love Cross Culture's national debut release, Proof Positive. Justin David, Chris Wright and Dan Harris, collectively known as Cross Culture, bring a mixture of funk, rock, jazz, hard, melodic rock, gospel, alternative and rap to the table with a sprinkling of salsa and a large dose of lyrics that make you think.

It shouldn't be a bit surprising that their music comprises so many styles, since they are literally from three different and distinct backgrounds. Cross Culture really means cross culture. A Caucasian, a Hispanic American and an African American creating music together crosses many bridges in a cultural sense. I'm not sure who brought what, but there are some in your face musical moments followed by some almost delicate interludes - dramatic mood shifts done intelligently ... what a treat. You rarely find those two aspects blended together at all, and even more rare is finding it done well. No, they didn't reinvent the wheel, but they put some killer rims on it!

"Extraordinary" gently reminds us that Jesus sees us how we "want to be seen" ... as extraordinary. "One Of These Days" is a journey that speaks of our aspirations to grow and to become better people ... one of these days. Not a novel concept, but absolutely something that everyone can relate to. My third favorite track, "Can't Live," is so full of musical twists, turns and surprises that you won't be able to help yourself - you'll fall in love!

With a debut this strong, I'm wondering how in the world they will be able to top it when they do their sophmore release, but, with this much talent and passion for the Lord, I have no doubt that they will.

Reviews from Christianmusic.com

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Planetshakers - Pick It Up (2006)

Artist: Planetshakers
Album: Pick It Up
Format: Audio CD
Bitrate: ???

Track Listing:
01. Never Let Me Go
02. Pick It Up
03. Majesty
04. Shout It Out
05. Fall In This Place
06. Beautiful Saviour
07. I'm Forever Yours
08. Redeemer
09. I Will Live For You
10. Worship You Alone
11. Forevermore
12. Secret Place
13. God Of Miracles
14. Save Australia

Album review

Recorded live at Planetshakers Converence 2006 at Vodafone Arena, Melbourne this has more atmosphere than The Kop performing "Abide With Me". In fact, the football reference isn't entirely inappropriate as this noisy, atmospheric celebration is the praise and worship equivalent of a football crowd in full voice, full of pulsating passion but not the most beautiful or peaceful thing you've heard. The 14 songs here, penned by Planetshakers team members Mike Guglielmico, Matt Garner and Henry Seely are simple, catchy anthems declaring such things as "I'm gonna raise my hands/Gonna shout it out/Gonna tell the world/What it's all about" or "I'm taking up my cross/Laying down my life/All for the glory of your name."
And in an age where so many of our youth are drowning in oceans of hedonism or despair who could argue with such positive and potentially life changing sentiments? Occasionally, the need to keep the lyrics straight forward and simple have led the composer into unfortunate cliché ("My Saviour is living in me/Redeemer, Jesus he set me free"). But we can forgive the occasional lapse into doggerel when there's such vibrancy and unbridled joy caught here as the rock guitars howl, the drums pound and the crowd react adoringly to the Name Above All Names.
If you want musical subtlety or lyrical deep doctrine look elsewhere. But if you feel you want to be part of a Jesus Revolution that can begin to do battle against the strongholds of unbelief and secularism that grip our society, this double album could be a helpful kick start.

Review from Crossrhythms.co.uk

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Pillar - The Reckoning (2006)

Artist: Pillar
Album: The Reckoning
Format: Audio CD
Bitrate: VBR kbps

Track Listing:
01 Everything
02 Awake
03 When Tomorrow Comes
04 The Reckoning
05 Tradegy
06 Last Goodbye
07 Angel in Disguise
08 Elysian
09 Crossfire
10 Resolution
11 Sometimes
12 Wherever The Wind Blows
13 Chasing Shadows At Midnight

Album Reviews

Over two years after the bands amazing album, Where Do We Go from Here, Flicker recording artist Pillar is back with the bands fourth, full length album, The Reckoning. Thirteen tracks, almost fifty minutes long, and Pillar has them self another great album! The Reckoning is well worth the wait that many Pillar fans have had to endure since they’re last project.

Pillar is a Christian numetal-band from Oklahoma that is building a fanbase since their debut “Above” in 2001. After that two full-length albums followed in “Fireproof”(2002) and “Where do we go from here”(2004). Now, after 2 years of hard working with passion, the fourth album “The Reckoning” will see the light of day on the 3rd of October.

I have to admit that I hadn’t heard their music until this new album so I had to check out their previous albums and I can easily say that this is by far their best album to date.
This album has many different styles of rock, so there will be something for almost everyone here. The main part consists of course of heavy stomping numetalsongs. Opener “Everything” is a worthy opener with heavy guitarriffs and excellent vocals of frontman Rob Beckley. The album continues with the even better “Awake”. Listen to the great melodic riffs on this song, awesome. Screaming vocals are also part of various songs. Mostly I am not into that kind of singing, but it doesn’t bother me on this album, because it is has a minor role.

“When tomorrow comes” is more melodic than the band has even been in the past. The heavy slow rockin’ monster “The Reckoning” is followed by the uptempo, screamin’ “Tragedy”. If you thought you had heard some riffin’ until then, then I invite you to listen to the pre-chorus of this great song! One of the best songs of the album. The song is about our worst enemy. Most of the time we ourselves are our worst enemy.

The excellent powerballad “Last Goodbye” continues strongly. Let Rob Beckley tell us what this song is all about: ‘I was out with a friend who got a phone call that one of his sons was in a car wreck. On his way to the accident, he passed another wreck. As he pulled up to the first car wreck, he found out that his son was dead. Then he got a phone call that the wreck he had passed minutes earlier was his other son. So, both of his sons died in almost simultaneous car accidents. Take advantage of the opportunity to tell your spouse, parents, or kids that you care about them because you never know.”

“Angel in disguise” is a beautiful easy listening ballad with again strong and deep lyrics.
The heaviest riffs of this cd are surely on “Crossfire”. This song is destined to blow you away! After this the train races on with “Resolution” again a song with a great mix between powerriffs and melody.

When you thought you heard it all, then the band continues with the powerpop-song “Something”! Yeh right…powerpop! A very nice surprise.
“Wherever the wind blows” is again an excellent ballad that preceeds “Chasing shadows at midnight” the final song of this great album.

The band sailed a different course on this album than on the other albums, but they won’t let their fans down and they will gain a lot more! Highly recommended.

Review from Melodic.net

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Jars of Clay - Good Monsters (2006)

Artist: Jars of Clay
Album: Good Monsters
Format: Audio CD
Bitrate: 192 kbps

Track Listing:
01. Work
02. Dead Man (Carry Me)
03. All My Tears
04. Even Angels Cry
05. There Is A River
06. Good Monsters
07. Oh My God
08. Surprise
09. Take Me Higher
10. Mirrors & Smoke
11. Light Gives Heat
12. Water Under The Bridge

Album reviews

Jars of Clay have seen the world. They have seen poverty, they have seen oppression, they have seen injustice, and they have seen humans literally killing each other. They have joined the fight against these things, but more specifically, they have joined the call to bring Christians out of their comfortable complacency in order to join God in what he is doing with this hurting world.

So when Jars of Clay produces a prophetic album, they have earned that voice.

When Jars of Clay wrestle with God, I believe them. It sounds like my story. It sounds like the story so many humans have lived. They have this sinking suspicion that there is a God, but he has been lost in the pain of this world.

Good Monsters is full of powerful metaphors, honest questions, and the best music Jars of Clay has ever written. Yes, it is the best album in the band’s long and impressive career!

The opening track ‘Work’ clues the listener in to the fact that this is a much different album for Jars of Clay. It is a much harder sound, and it has this strange sound that you feel like you have heard before, but in fact you have not. Matching the music’s creativity is front man Dan Haseltine’s writing. “I have no fear of drowning/It’s the breathing that’s taking all this work.” ‘Work’ is ultimately about someone who finds faith in God inevitable, but at the same time that does not answer all questions. There are still issues with this world, and although you get the sense that Haseltine would never walk away from his faith, having faith is so much harder than it should be.

The second track, ‘Dead Man,’ puts the focus back onto humanity. Sure, having faith is extremely hard, but where is the problem? Is the problem that God is not fixing the world? Or perhaps the problem is us, humanity, that we are so pleased with our sin.

‘All My Tears’ is actually an early 90’s song, not written by Jars of Clay. But their rendition is worth a listen, and is a perfect follow to ‘Dead Man’ and ‘Work.’ Regardless of the questions and the failures, there is hope in this life and beyond. “Gold and silver blind the eye/Temporary riches lie/Come and eat from Heaven’s store/Come and drink and thirst no more.” This is not just a promise for heaven, this is a reality in the now.

‘Even Angels Cry’ is a further commentary on the pain in this world. But there is hope, “I saw a woman with ribbons in her hair/Old and lonely, so beautiful I had to stop and stare/The well will not run dry.” God is working. Don’t give up hope, not yet.

“Mirrors and Smoke” is a musically stretching song for Jars, but they pull it off masterfully. Leigh Nash, from Six Pence None the Richer, joins Haseltine on this song, and it is a perfect fit. “I’m feeling older than my years/I’m feeling pain inside my chest/It’s love that keeps me silent/It’s my silence you detest.” Haseltine shows us that it’s too easy and comfortable to leave all the injustices left unchecked in this world. After all, the Church has remained largely silent through many of the injustices in the world.

Who can blame them? Can we really make a difference? After all, “Rivers flow into the oceans/And oceans never fill.” But Nash’s comforting voice reminds us, “Rivers never fill the oceans/But oceans always feel/The waters reaching deep inside them/I guess they always will.”

This song is among the best writing Haseltine has ever done, with a running metaphor of a relationship between someone and God. It sounds more like a love story, at the heart, Nash’s voice providing answers to Haseltine’s questions. Our faith can leave us broken because we want so much more for our lives. Through all of that, God is calling us to a trusting relationship, and most importantly to partner with Him in this world.

‘Oh My God,’ is both the strongest track and a perfect summary of this album. Pain surrounds, but there is only one being worth calling out to, God. Everyone has called out to this being, and Haseltine provides a long list, from thieves to mothers to warriors, they all say, Oh my God. What is a person to do? “Oh, my God, can I complain?/You take away my firm belief/And graft my soul upon Your grief.” God wants us to hurt with others, because in that, we provide the community and the comfort that God wants. That we can cry out together, ‘Oh my God,’ and He will answer.

Jars of Clay issues a prophetic call to the Church, but a great comfort for those who are not in the Church. There is a God who cares, a God who listens, and a God who is waiting to act, if only people would join him.

Review from Hollywoodjesus.com

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Mute Math - Mute Math (2006)

Artist: Mute Math
Album: Mute Math
Format: Audio CD
Bitrate: 183kbps - 320kbps

Track Listing:
01. Collapse
02. Typical
03. After We Have Left Our Homes
04. Chaos
05. Noticed
06. Without It
07. Polite
08. Stare At The Sun
09. Obsolete
10. Break The Same
11. You Are Mine
12. Picture
13. Stall Out

Album Reviews

What began as a long-distance musical collaboration between friends Paul Meany and Darren King has turned into something much bigger for New Orleans-based buzz band Mute Math. After releasing a well-received EP, “Reset” in 2004, Mute Math built a loyal grassroots following based on their live show and overwhelmingly positive buzz among critics and fans. The band regrouped recently to record its first full-length, currently available only on the Internet and at the band’s shows on its appropriately named Album Release Tour.

Listening to the album, it is clear that Mute Math thrives on the collision of ideas and sounds that at first might seem incompatible, but ultimately mesh to form a cohesive and inspired piece of work. The band’s sound has been compared to that of U2, Radiohead, The Police, and other rock luminaries, but in the end Mute Math succeeds in creating a style and feel that is informed by influence, but still uniquely its own. Sure, singer Paul Meany’s voice recalls Sting, the lyrical themes and melodies owe a debt to early U2, and the more experimental tracks on the album bring Radiohead’s postmodern art rock dabbling to mind. In the end, though, Mute Math comes away with something distinctive by combining these elements of influence with the band members’ own vision, adding a mix of original keyboard sounds, drum machines, and other electronic flourishes to create an intoxicating atmospheric soundscape. The key to the Mute Math formula, however, might be the clear theme of hope and resolve in an environment of chaos that permeates each of its songs. While many so-called experimental artists struggle to inject any kind of identifiable meaning or message in their songs (whether it be positive, negative, or conflicted – see Radiohead, Bjork, and Beck for starters), Mute Math succeed in this arena by making message and theme a priority. Still, there is plenty of depth and complexity related to this overarching theme, both lyrically and musically, throughout the album that rewards the listener on repeated spins.

After a short, moody instrumental opening track, rocker “Typical” blasts through the speakers with a clean guitar punch, pounding drums, and Meany singing about achieving another level of existence beyond our current state. “Chaos” is close behind, and while the lyrics, title, and uneven verses of the song might suggest confusion, a purposeful resolve is readily apparent in Meany’s sharp vocal attack and the band’s pounding electronic barrage featuring skittish yet resonant drums, keyboard squeals, and heavy guitar riffing. The song is a prime example of the band’s ability to combine seemingly disparate elements to form something strong and unified. After an uneasy verse replete with gurgling keyboards and tripped-out drumming, the chorus is where the band truly achieves liftoff, ascending skyward with a heady sonic volley and impassioned, soaring vocals. On these two tracks, Mute Math come out with all guns blazing and it sounds huge.

However, the middle and latter parts of the album adopt a less frantic pace with somewhat more relaxed, groove-oriented songs such as “Stare At The Sun” that give the album a sense of musical balance, but unfortunately fail to capture the energy and urgency of the earlier, more upbeat songs. There are still plenty of strong vocal and instrumental melodies, but the songs tend to disappoint ever so slightly after early exposure to the full unrestrained force of the band’s musical and lyrical abilities. “Break The Same,” thankfully, does just what its title indicates, offering a steady rock beat and high-flying chorus just in time to save the album from sinking into a bit of a lull. Finally, stirring album closer “Stall Out” manages to achieve a weightlessness that simultaneously satisfies and leaves the listener wanting more.

As debut albums go, Mute Math has produced a clear winner which, with a little luck, will set the band on a course for mainstream success. When and how that success comes depends on the band’s timing and rock radio’s receptiveness to a band whose sound may not fit a conventional, ready-made-for-radio template. It’s clear that the band’s music is already well ahead of the other parts of the equation for success. Here’s hoping that’s a good thing.

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