News Source: Merge PR

Hillsong will be releasing a new Live album on July 2nd, 2013 called Glorious Ruins. Check out the album cover and track list!

Sixsteps Records

Release Date: May 21st 2013

Reviewed by Joshua Andre

David Crowder*Band- All This For A King: The Essential Collection (Amazon mp3/iTunes)

In Christian music, there are the bands and artists that play it safe, and the bands and artists that push the proverbial envelope and try to record beyond their capabilities, and they always try to surprise us and record the greatest album that they’ve ever done. Sad to say but some of my favourite bands are some that most listeners would place in the first group (the safe softer CCM artists), but that’s not to say that one person’s opinion is the absolute truth. There is leeway. But what we all can agree on is that the 6-piece rock and modern worship band David Crowder*Band, from Waco, Texas, is one of the greatest modern worship bands of the past 10 years, alongside Delirious?. Crowder and his 5 friends retired in 2011, but not before releasing a Christmas EP Oh For Joy, and the final studio album Give Us Rest or (A Requiem Mass in C [The Happiest of All Keys]). Now, shortly after The Digital Age (comprising of 4 ex-members of the DC*B) signed to Fair Trade Services announcing the release of their debut album Evening: Morning; Sparrow Records and sixsteps Records have released David Crowder*Band’s final greatest hits album All This For A King: The Essential Collection; with some of the strongest songs over their 15 year career, as well as some remixes, and an exclusive debut track from David Crowder’s new group simply called Crowder. If you haven’t heard of David Crowder and his group before (which wouldn’t be that many of you), then All This For A King: The Essential Collection is for you, as it has a bit of everything, and enough for massive fans (including myself) to love about it!

As far as greatest hits go, this 14 track album is a great representation of the varied, adventurous and experimental career of David Crowder*Band. Crowder has always included an element of worship in his musically and lyrically challenging and confronting songs, and throughout the one hour track list, worshipping Jesus is the main theme. “O Praise Him (All This For A King)”, probably the most famous song by the band, is the opener (and rightly so), starting off with a captivating piano riff, and slowly building into a worship anthem that declares God above any other, that ‘…He is holy, Hallelujah…’, and that He is worthy, the Almighty, and fully in control. The lyrics of ‘…how infinitely sweet, this love so rescuing, oh how infinite and sweet, this love so rescuing, as one, we sing….’ are the best part of the song for me, as we get an insight into a band that is describing the unconditional love of God, and that it is always rescuing us even when we don’t deserve God’s love, mercy and favour. “Our Love Is Loud” is a larger-than-life rocker, with plenty of guitars to keep me dancing, as Crowder sings out that our love for God is bigger than anything else on this earth, and that when we sing out with that love in our hearts, our song to Him gets louder.

The jovial, upbeat and worshipful “Here Is Our King”, where we are met with a declaration and statement that God is our King, and ‘…He is our God who’s come to bring us back to Him, He is the One, and He is Jesus…’; and the slower and lyrically creative “Wholly Yours”, with plenty of imagery and electronics, synth and guitars- both from A Collision, are included, which are both some of my favourite Crowder tracks. “Open Skies”, from Illuminate is a straight up worship track, that classifies Jesus as the God of open skies, meaning that God of everything. In fact I am reminded of David when I listen to this mesmerising and God-breathed track, as this sounds like something written from the Psalms. And representatives from the 2007 album Remedy that are present are the hit single “Everything Glorious” and “The Glory Of It All”. “Everything Glorious” is the pinnacle of modern worship music, and probably one of my favourite worship songs over the past 10 years- I love it so much because it describes the majestic power of God and that ‘…You make everything glorious, and I am Yours…from glory to glory, You are glorious…’. “The Glory Of It All” is more subdued and quiet, but the song does build to an epic orchestral like crescendo and highlights the forgiving qualities of God and why He is so good. Crowder also outlines the gospel message and the fact that ‘…at the start, He was there…in the end, He’ll be there…’. Every time I hear this song, I get goose bumps, and the music and words take on another level; the song is definitely Holy Spirit anointed! Well done David Crowder and friends for giving me songs to enjoy!

Another highlight of mine is the John Mark McMillian cover “How He Loves”. We sing the vertical worship anthem quite often in church, and I love Crowder’s version that surpasses the original. With such heart, conviction, emotion and brutal honesty, especially when Crowder cries out ‘…Heaven meets earth like an unforeseen kiss, and my heart turns violently inside of my chest; I don’t have time to maintain these regrets when I think about the way, that He loves us…’; this is the way to record a cover, do the original song and artist justice, and become the artist that ‘owns’ the song. Crowder has sent a benchmark and a precedent for future artists wanting to record a cover; and not only should up and coming artists look at Crowder, but also maybe at Michael W Smith for “Above All”, and Kari Jobe for “Revelation Song”. Yet “How He Loves” is David Crowder*Band at their best, and the other representative from Church Music is “SMS (Shine)”. A radio ballad with electronic effects to create variety, this track delves into hopelessness and asking God to come in and help during a dire situation. To match with the vulnerable and personal lyrics, the music video (which won a Dove Award) is one of the most creative music videos ever made; that is partly the reason why this song made the cut- and I agree with the label as the video alone makes this song seem different- when I hear it again and again, I tend to hear the story whereas prior to the video, I had a hard time translating lyrics into what the song was about. The last song from David Crowder’s career is the live version of “You Alone”. This is the song I didn’t know much about, and was probably one of those rare, bootleg-ish tracks that I did not really expect, yet the intense passion and raw emotion on the track is undeniable- the chorus speaks of God being Sovereign, and is simple in nature with Crowder giving God praise and calling him our Father, and Saviour. And it’s that simplicity that ultimately works. Well done David Crowder*Band for selecting 10 stellar tracks to include on this last best of album.

Would a ‘greatest hits’ album be one without any new tracks or remixes? I reckon not, and it’s nice to see David Crowder and his ex-band members include remixes of three songs that I have come to know inside out and love all the more; in fact these are remixed by other bands. “Shadows” is remixed by Family Force 5, “After All (Holy)” is remixed by Capital Kings, and “No One Like You” is remixed by The Digital Age. Of the three, I like “No One Like You” the best; the remix stays true to the original song, while the others are altered significantly through electronic effects and distortions. But all three are good, and is a nice way to introduce the new track “This I Know”, from Crowder’s debut album releasing in 2013. In this song, which opens like a country style hymn, complete with soothing keys and plucking acoustic guitar (or is that a ukulele or a banjo?), we are met with honest and intense emotion and passion, as David Crowder sings about his life before Christ and contrasts it to his life since Christ done a good work in Him. The song is one of my favourites on this disc- it’s something very unique that Crowder hasn’t done before when he was fronting the band. Country/folk/celtic/worship seems to be where David Crowder is drawn to next, and after this exclusive preview, I’m all for it, and will totally support David Crowder’s next venture.

David Crowder*Band have always impressed me with their unique representation of songs and the creative instruments. Who else is brave enough to use a Smule ‘I Am T-Pain’ iPhone app, or a Guitar Hero controller, or a Speak & Spell? Not to mention I will always remember the band for touring with their electronic drummer Steve-3PO. The band have also recorded in a barn numerous times. So that’s why I will miss David Crowder*Band- it was their quirkiness intertwined with their intense passion and faith. All This For A King: The Essential Collection embodies the band’s most famous hits and gives us a bittersweet farewell, and a exciting look at what is to come. While I will eagerly anticipate both The Digital Age and Crowder’s releases later on in 2013, nothing can really beat what David Crowder and his band have accomplished over the last 15 years. So, this album will be on my playlist for a very long time, and I think it should be on everyone else’s too. If you’re a fan of modern worship music, then All This For A King: The Essential Collection is for you!

Score: 4.5/5

Track Listing:

1. O Praise Him (All This For A King)
2. Our Love Is Loud
3. Open Skies
4. Here Is Our King
5. Wholly Yours
6. How He Loves (Radio Version)
7. You Alone
8. Everything Glorious
9. The Glory Of It All
10. SMS {Shine} (Radio Version)
11. Shadows (Family Force 5 Phenomenon Remix)
12. After All (Holy) (Capital Kings Remix)
13. No One Like You (The Digital Age Remix)
14. This I Know (New Crowder Track)

Favourite Tracks: O Praise Him, Here Is Our King, How He Loves, Everything Glorious, The Glory Of It All, No One Like You (The Digital Age Remix), This I Know

Songs that should have been included: …neverending…, A Beautiful Collision, foreverandever etc, Let Me Feel You Shine, Never Let Go, You Are My Joy

Yancy Ministries

Release Date: May 21st 2013

Reviewed by Joshua Andre

Yancy- Roots For The Journey (Amazon mp3/iTunes)

Yancy has been in the Christian music industry for the past 10 years, and has toured a lot with CCM’s biggest names, including Newsboys, Plumb, Sonicflood, Nichole Nordeman and Mutemath, as well as co-writing Avalon’s hit “I Don’t Want To Go”, and Jaci Velasquez’s “Something Beautiful”. Her heart for children’s ministry, as evidence from her ‘kid ministry based’ music, has been influenced by her younger years as a pastor’s kid, and Yancy has decided that the place that God wants her to move into is children’s music (like Aussie singer/songwriter Colin Buchanan). Countless albums, with various musical leanings from rock to pop, flowed out, from the albums Rock’N’Happy Heart, Loud And Clear, Stars Guitars And Megaphone Dreams, to her most recent album Jesus Music Box that released in March this year; and all of them predominately focused for children and young teenagers. Yet Yancy is now branching out and is now recording an album focused purely to adults, called Roots For The Journey. “…Roots for the Journey’ is incredibly different musically from what I’ve done these past few years. I’m so excited about this music that is unplugged, organic and simple. The songs are all based on scripture and the outcome is a really nice, chilled-out worship experience…”. While not necessarily the most recognisable, popular or promoted artist within the Christian music circle, Yancy’s strong and honest heart for Jesus has always been present and the same no matter what she is recording. Roots for the journey includes a myriad of instruments, from ‘…pianos and acoustics, glockenspiels, and upright bass, kind of a more unplugged sound…’, and the result is quite remarkable with an album that rivals many other high profile musicians as one of my favourite albums this year. While not necessarily the most promoted release in May (with new albums from David Crowder*Band, Shane and Shane, Amy Grant, Hannah Rose, Steve Hare and Finding Favour arguably the most publicised on social media), Yancy’s unique and courageous album is a must-purchase for anyone who has loved her music before or enjoy some laid-back musically simple yet rewarding and soothing songs rooted in Biblical truths about Christ. This album ends with the song “I Don’t Want To Go” (from Avalon’s 2001 album) so let’s see how Yancy goes at recording an album out of her comfort zone…

Almost all of Yancy’s songs on this album are recorded and sung in an acoustic light, with the keys and acoustic guitars the chief instrument, rather than the energetic and bouncy frenzy that was her music previously when directed to children with boundless vigour. Not that these songs now are not rooted in Scripture- they are- however the poignancy and calmness of these songs creates an altogether different effect, yet one that still undoubtedly possesses Yancy’s trademark earnest and honest emotion all throughout. “The Joy” is an honest and moving opener and delves into how our strength is derived from the joy of God, and that His presence can lift us up and get us through each day. Musically this song is similar to a lullaby, with the keys creating a restful, peaceful and gentle atmosphere. Even though the song may be repetitive lyrically, the theological strength is what makes “The Joy” enjoyable. “Safe” speaks about how ‘…The Lord is a strong tower, the righteous run in and are safe…so be not afraid…the Lord will keep you safe…’, and that in His presence, no harm can come to us. God’s love and arms are very secure; this song a timely reminder that when we fall, God will be there to shelter us and protect us, and guide us through the storms of life. Musically similar to the first track, “Safe” employs light percussion and beautiful piano riffs to accentuate the lyrics and the everlasting meaning behind them. The haunting and captivating synth bridge is a highlight as well.

“Creator” is driven by acoustic guitar strums and soft percussion, and lyrically reminds me of verses such as Psalm 139 and Jeremiah 29:11 that highlight to us that God knew us before we were born and has a perfect plan for us. It’s such a mind boggling and mind numbing song (in a good way!), as I am reminded that ‘…There is a plan beyond what I can see and it’s all for the glory of God…’. God knows everything about our lives, and even though it may be daunting, the fact that He has our life in the palm of His hand, is very reassuring and comforting. The powerful, prophetic, and anointed “Hope” is next, and is inspired by Isaiah 40:31 as well as Psalm 121. Both these passages mention a lot about God’s sovereignty and almighty power- and with the chorus declaring that our hope is in the Lord, what better way to sing to Jesus than to sing over Him a few Bible verses? It’s a short song, just over 2 minutes, but when we’re singing to God, who cares about the length, really? Yancy has covered many songs in her career, ranging from Aaron Shust to Chris Tomlin yet the hymn “His Eye Is On The Sparrow” is the pinnacle of her covers- with the arrangement of the 1905 song really touching and impacting. Vocally Yancy could never be better, and the 60’s and 70’s style electric guitar riff is mysterious as well, enough to keep my attention throughout the 5 minute length. One of the highlights on Roots For The Journey, I always thought that Audrey Assad recorded the best rendition of the hymn, but Yancy’s effort is truly sublime, and takes her singing to another level!

The next few songs flow into one another thematically, and tell as a story about God’s many talents and why we should follow and believe in Him. “Trust” is what we should do, and Yancy skilfully and with purpose sings about trusting God completely and giving our lives and surrendering all over to Him. The chorus is sung from God’s perspective, and words from Proverbs 3:5-6 are spoken over us. The reserved and quiet music once again places the vocals and lyrics in the forefront. “Healer” is a song of gratefulness and thanks, as Yancy quotes passages from Isaiah 53 in the verses, and sings out ‘…Hallelujah I am whole; because of Jesus death has no hold on me…’ in the chorus; with the song slowly becoming more and more spontaneous, complete with a stirring instrumental near the end. “White As Snow” is a well sung cover, that was originally recorded by Jon Foreman, and is basically some verses of Psalm 51, but paraphrased. I never knew the quoting of the scripture in song, with just the acoustic guitar and keys could be so potent and pacifying to listen to, yet Yancy brilliantly makes the song her own, asking God to wash her white as snow. With themes similar to Carman’s “Whiter Than Snow” and Esterlyn’s “White”, “White As Snow” gently reminds us that God’s almighty hand that makes our slate clean is at work in all of us- and that’s a surreal thought to grasp.

“Our God Reigns”, not to be confused with Delirious? famous song, is next, and is a re-recorded acoustic version of the song already recorded by Yancy on Jesus Music Box. As Yancy sings out and proclaims that God reigns victorious, and that He is faithful to the ages, I am in awe of her intense passion and fervour- she truly is a warrior for Christ. Sneaking in the whole Lord’s prayer in the bridge of the song is very neat, and shows us that at the heart of Christianity, is communion between man and God, and at the most purest form, the Lord’s prayer captures the emotion of adoration to Jesus perfectly! And the piano ballad “No Other Name” is another track re-recorded from her earlier discography, this time from Rock’N’Happy Heart. As Yancy sings about giving her life down fully to her God and King, and also singing that Jesus is Saviour and Lord, the line in the chorus that really impacts me is ‘…even in the bad times I will sing, cause Jesus is the name that’s above all things…’. This song could be challenging for someone to sing who is going through a really tough time, and could somewhat be blaming God for their Job-like circumstances, yet above all, “No Other Name” is the truth, and based on God’s word. Even when we don’t understand what is happening around us and for what purpose God has placed us where we are, we do know that He is sovereign and almighty, and that fact should be enough for us to sooth and ease us- He is God and we are not, so we can trust that God’s plan is bigger and greater than any that we could imagine.

Romans 10: 13, John 15:13 and John 3:16 make up the lyrical content of “Call”, a simple directive and plea to everyone to call upon God and be saved, and have your life changed around for the better. This song is bound to change lives with its in-your-face directedness; with Yancy’s charisma, passion and zeal reminding us that the Christian life is better than anything else we’ve ever experienced here on this Earth. The final song is “I Don’t Want to Go”, and was previously recorded by CCM vocal group Avalon in 2001. Yancy’s version is just as compelling and rich. The ‘rockiest’ song on the album; the album closer speaks about longing to be with God and only wanting to be where He is, and walk in the path where He wants us to go. Musically and vocally similar to the ‘original’ version 12 years ago (this song is in fact the original because Yancy was the sole writer of the track!), it proves that the classic songs are timeless, and this is a fantastic way for Yancy to end such a unique and compelling album that is great from start to finish.

“…Already, when I meet people in my life that are facing big mountains, fears or need answers I’ve been able to use these songs as a way to help strengthen their faith and help them meditate on what God’s Word says. I can’t wait to see how God uses these songs to strengthen the faith of those young and old…”. Yancy’s Roots For The Journey is unlike anything she’s ever recorded; and it’s a good thing she can surprise us by refusing to be labelled and placed in a box. No doubt her strength lies in recording music for children and young teens, yet this project is probably going to open up more doors, and into many more genres, touching and impacting more lives in the process. Sky’s the limit for Yancy’s music in the future. And I’m sure wherever she goes will be Holy Spirit anointed. Well done for an enjoyable album, that probably is a bit left field, yet is needed in the CCM industry that time and time again releases albums with similar themes and music. Yancy’s ‘lullaby’ album for adults is a breath of fresh air and I can’t wait to see what God has in store for her next!

Score: 4.5/5

Track Listing:

1. The Joy
2. Safe
3. Creator
4. Hope
5. His Eye Is On The Sparrow
6. Trust
7. Healer
8. White As Snow
9. Our God Reigns
10. Call
11. No Other Name
12. I Don’t Want To Go

Favourite Tracks: Safe, Creator, His Eye Is On The Sparrow, White As Snow, Our God Reigns, I Don’t Want To Go

Check out the brand new music video for Manafest’s “Fighter” off the album Fighter that released via BEC Recordings in 2012. Check out the first version of the music video here!

Check out the official lyric video for “I’m Down”, from The Almost’s upcoming album Fear Inside Our Bones, releasing June 11th! What do you all think of the song?

Check out the video of Jon Lewis from Hyland explaining the inspiration behind the newest single “More Than Famous”, from the album Finding Our Way.

Check out the acoustic video of Hyland’s newest single “More Than Famous”, off the 2012 album Finding Our Way.

Relient K has officially announced that Collapsible Lung will be released  on July 2nd, 2013! Take a look at the artwork below!

Thanks to Eric Martin for the news tip.

Check out the official lyric video for Hawk Nelson’s “A Million Miles Away”, from the most recent album Made, which release via Fair Trade Services early April this year.

Check out the behind the scenes video of Duncan Phillips and Michael Tait of the Newsboys explaining their inspiration and theme of their new single “Live With Abandon”, from their brand new upcoming album releasing September 10th.