Album Description

The November 9 release of Passing Through is poised to expand on Randy Travis' recent success with his new country album. Produced again by friend and long-time collaborator Kyle Lehning. Passing Through is a superbly produced collection of country songs that reflect Travis' faith...not to mention his unmistakable voice! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Remember the guys in your school who were too smart and sarcastic for their own good? Put guitars on them with a punk-pop penchant and you’ve got Relient K, Canton, Ohio’s most famous import since the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The band’s third release is a thoroughly enjoyable romp of rambunctious buzz-saw guitars and smart-aleck lyrics churned out by singer Matthew Thiessen. Who else could get away with lines like "Let’s get emotional girls to wear mood rings/ So we’ll be tipped off when they’re ticked off" in the wildly clever "Mood Rings," or "Hoopes I did it again/ Relationships are something I can’t comprehend" from the suburban-boredom tribute "Hoopes I Did It Again." Yet, the band never loses sight of its faith in these matters, always finding God at the end of their collective ropes. The tight rhythm section of bassist Brian Pittman and drummer Dave Douglas shine again, laying a foundation upon which Thiessen and Matthew Hoopes blaze away on their 6-strings. Maybe all that time in the principal’s office did do the guys some good!--Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (193)

Relient K on a Roll
Relient K, a group of Christian pop-punkers, is at it again! They've just released their third full-length album, the amazing "Two Lefts Don't Make a Right... But Three Do" on March 11th of this year. The band, who has two other full-length albums., "Relient K" and "The Anatomy of the Tongue in Cheek", and several small EP releases, sounds more mature in this CD, and the lyrics are more in-depth, fun, and possibly even more spiritual!
Their first track (and first single) off the CD, "Chap Stick, Chapped Lips, and Things like Chemistry", is one of the more fun songs on the album. Telling the story of Matt Thiessen,, the lead vocalist's, adventure on the Batman ride where his cell phone fell into the lake beneath the structure, the song tells of how Thiessen, who wrote all the songs on the CD, doesn't want to mess up his relationships with those of whom he relates.
One of the more spiritual songs on the CD is "Getting Into You", which happens to be one of my two favorites. It tells of Thiessen's early-Christian period where people were asking him, "Do you know exactly what you're getting into by becoming a Christian?" Then Thiessen realizes that since God "got to" him in "a way words can't describe", then he knows that he must be the one that keeps God alive. Another 'Jesus-focused' song is "From End to End", which is targeted at non-Christians who won't bother to hear the message of Christ. With words like, "Hey, hey, can you hear anything I say? You search for the short-cut, you live life, but for what? I love you and hope you will find the truth some day," it's not too "tsk-tsk, you bad non-Christian", but more, "please just listen, because I love you".
Most of the songs on the album are about girls and relationships with them. The fun-and funny- "Mood Rings" talks about girls who are over-emotional. It advises those particular girls to wear mood rings to let their boyfriends know exactly what they're feeling at the moment. The I-can't-believe-I-did-it vibe in "College Kids" tells how Thiessen wished he hadn't gone to college, due mainly to the out-of-control parties, lack of money, unwilling-to-date college girls, and the feeling that after spending all that money, the tests were the only parts that mattered. "Over Thinking", another relationship song, is about how Thiessen wished he had never had experience with a girl who ended up being a "negative end", when all he wanted was his dream girl.
My other favorite song, if you were wondering, is the fifth track, "In Love With the 80s (Pink Tux to the Prom)". This absolutely hilarious take on the decade of all decades is so fun to sing along with! With lyrics like, "When you're the president of the Breakfast Club, and you're not hesitant to fall in love, to fall in love, 'coz you throw it away to fall in love with the 80s." The perfectly composed music even sounds like 80s music!
All in all, this third album by the unstoppable Relient K is very worthy of your purchase! Even the secular music-loving person will fall in love (with the 80s and) with the band! You can purchase this CD at your local Christian music/book store, Circuit City, or music store nation-wide.

Paige Varner

Their best CD yet
Relient K's latest CD is definitely their best. Not only does it feature some incredibly funny songs, there are some really deep worship pieces too. The green cover (at least of the one I bought) is so typical of Relient K and the others are, too. (You can buy this disc with a variety of funny covers)

The sound quality is fantastic. Matt Thiessen is the lead vocal for just about every song, with the others in fine support. The instruments don't get too loud and don't dwarf the lyrics, instead they are in perfect support.

As far as songs go, there are a number of powerful personal pieces, most of which point to the trials Christians face in their day to day lives. Try, screw up, get up brush off and try harder is the name of game. You'll also enjoy funny pieces "College Kids" and "In Love with the 80s" (oh, so true...)

Definitely their best CD yet, and I am looking forward to much more in the years to come.

Relient K- The best group i've heard of in a long Time
Two Lefts don't make a right... But three do was the first Relient K cd I ever bought and is has been a year since I bought it and It has never gotten old. I Think that Matt T. (the singer/songwriter of the group) is such a great songwriter!! He is so random and that's what makes relient K so great!! They can be funny and random but then they can be serious. I love that none of their songs sound the same. I have a lot of CD's that the songs sound the exact same and it's just boring but Relient K is Definitly NOT boring! I'd recemend this Cd to EVERYONE because their cds aren't "preachy" but at the same time it plants a seed in people's heads about what christianity is all about so GO AND GET THIS AND ALL OF THE OTHER RELIENT K CDS!!!

You don't have to be "spiritual"
I took a chance with this cd and it was deffinetly worth it. I am not a spiritual person by no means, but I musy say that this cd it great. I bought it only listening to a few of their songs and I had to head to the gospel section of my best buy to get this.

chap stick, chapped lips and things like chemistry, mood rings, falling out, forward motion, and in love with the 80s are the songs i heard that made me buy this cd. There are several other songs that make this cd deffinetly worth buying.

GET IT

The Best Group to Come Around
This band has inspired me and has connected to me on so many levels. They have an original sound and incredible knack for linguistics. I love all the inside jokes and just the simplicity and clearness to their sound. It is most certainly worth buying! ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Simply Soul Stirring, Spirit-Filled and Amazing!
You may have had the privilege of seeing Vicki Yo'he on TBN. Recently she sang during praise and worship at my church. Not only does she have an electrifying and commanding voice, but you can feel the anointing and presence of God upon her. So, I was so excited when I had the opportunity to review I Just Want You.

You need not see or hear Yo'he in person or on T.V. when you can purchase a CD that should be the staple of every true worshippers CD collection. The song, Because of Who You Are will usher you into the presence of God and keep you there all day. The lyrics, the melody and Vicki's voice take you to places you have never experienced before in worship music. The song Mercy Seat is so powerful and explosive you will barely be able to contain your audible expression of love and adoration for the Lord. It is just that moving and powerful. I could go on about this wonderful, inspiring and soul moving CD, but I don't want to just tell you about it, I want you to experience it for yourself. You need not wait for Sunday service to worship the Lord; you can begin today by picking up this CD. Your soul and spirit will thank you.

Reviewed by M. Lorraine for The GOOD GIRL Book Club and wwww.goodgirlbookclubonline.com

Absolutely Amazed by this CD
Initially when I kept hearing the song "Because of Who You Are" being played on the radio I thought what a beautiful song. So I logged onto amazon, typed in the title and up popped Vicki, who knew such a little person could have such a big voice. The soul in her voice brings you to an amount of unstoppable praise. If you love the Lord and find yourself in a humbled place, get this CD it will keep you in his will.

Holy of Holies
This is without a doubt the BEST. I would rate it 10 stars. You are ushered into the throne room, gentley layed at the feet of the Lord and you don't come out. I have personally let 5 people listen to the CD and all have rushed out and purchased it. It may take several listenings to hear past each song; the songs minister to your soul. This CD makes the "Throne Room" seem as if it's standing in the outer court, while "I Just Want You" takes you to the heart of God. Their is caution, do not listen while driving or operating heavy equipment. This CD will never grow old or become outdated because the words and emotions are timeless.

Blessed
I just purchased this CD after hearing "Because of Who You Are" and knew I needed it as part of my sanctuary time. The lyrics in each song will speak to your heart and give you a deeper longing to do nothing more than WORSHIP. Take the time and really listen to Vicki's powerful voice and the message in each song. Everything about this project will take you to the next dimension in your worship. Stand still and be BLESSED!!!

INCREDIBLE!!!
This CD is amazing... and nothing short of powerful! Buy this CD and worship, worship, worship! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

From Sweden With Love
The Boy's return to their roots with the re-release of their debut album. Originally released in Sweden than distributed here in America thanks to Solid State Records. BlindSide purchased their masters and have given a new fresh look and feel to their first two records. The band is all over the place with this album moving from alternative rock riffs to modern rock grooves and some hard rock as well. The singing shifts from melodic to screaming without warning. It's a bit jumbled and the songs move from really good to really not so good. It's not until their sophomore effort that we truly see the band come into their own. I won't say this record will blow you away but if you're a fan you'll enjoy hearing the very unique evolution of this now great band.If I had to rank their four records It would be as so.

A Thought Crushed My Mind4.5/5
About a Burning Fire4/5
Silence 3.5/5
Self Titled 3/5

Looking back on this record I find myself enjoying it more and more than I did the first time around and it's nice to see that the spark of potential was there from the very start and it was certainly not wasted on future records.

Great way to witness the evolution of a powerful metal band
The Good
The best part about having both of the Blindside re-issues is that you get to hear how they evolved and defined their sound. On their self-titled debut, Blindside struggle with finding their sound. You can hear that they become torn between sounding sort of like Clutch or sort of like Shadows Fall. "Invert" comes barreling at you like a 16 wheeler out of control on a steep hill (long way to go for a simile), with its monster riffs and manic vocal delivery. It's almost like Blindside is messing with you on "Born". The track takes a completely different direction with more subdued vocals and minimal distortion. The track is defined by a simple guitar lick.

It's back to releasing the fury on "Empty Box". This time theirs a soulful bass line matched by heavy breakdowns. A meaty chugga-chugga riff runs rampant on "This Shoulder". The vocals are melodic yet still edgy. "Teddy Bear" has a clean arpeggio lick and somber drum rhythm. By the time the chorus kicks in, the riffs become thunderous and driving. It's nice to be able to compare the four demo bonus tracks to their final product.

On A Thought Crushed My Mind, Blindside have settled on what they want to sound like (more like Shadows Fall). It's also apparent that they had a bigger production budget when this was originally released. "Vow of Silence" is everything but silent. It's pure assault of heavy distortion and furious vocals. It's amazing that vocalist Christian Lindskog's lungs haven't exploded. "King of the Closet" is a tale of vampires that chugs along with breakneck unruliness.

"My Mother's Only Son" briefly flirts with the soulful sounds of Blindside's debut, but reverts to the angst they so relish in. Think bass riffs take hold of "Nara". The intensity builds when the guitars and vocals kick in. Instead of including demos with this reissue, Blindside decided to include two hard to find 7" vinyl releases and two previous unreleased tracks. If you want to hear a completely different side of the group, listen to the final track "[Phatbeat 1303]".

The Bad
Nothing

The Verdict
The Blindside reissues are a great way to witness the evolution of a powerful heavy metal band. It will also hold over their fans with demos and unreleased material, until their new album is released later this year.

Generating A Pattern?........................
Notice how this album like Silence is very mellow. Whereas in A Thought Crushed My Mind has all the screamo effects of About A Burning Fire. Blindside is still one of my favorite Christian rock bands around. This was very cool of them to remaster and redistribute their first two albums. The new added tracks are actually the band's demo songs from when they first started out. It sounds like they were in someone's garage when they recorded it. Still a good CD though. Keep up the good work guys. I'll be patiencently waiting for you're next new album. ... Read more

Reviews (24)

ITS ALIVE!!
I Love this CD. Finally a CD with praise and worship that is living. All the words to the songs have substance to them. Its hard for me to pick a favorite but maybe I'll say "You've won my affection". If you're looking for a FRESH and REFRESHING worship experience then this one is it!!! Truely its Alive!!

Are you looking for a good Praise and Worship CD?
Your search is over. Israel Houghton and his band, together with New Breed, have done a fantastic job with this album. It is a powerful worship experience. These are songs that come from the heart to praise God for all He's done and for how wonderful He is. My favorite songs are "Who is like the Lord," "You are good," "Trading my sorrows," "I lift up my hands" and "Your latter will be greater." But don't stop with the music, because praise and worship comes from the heart!!

A true Worship Experience
This is an awesome album. It is a blessing to you and a worship experience. Israel Houghton is a powerful minister and he leads you into a worship experience like no other. Every song on this CD is awesome, so don't fear buying it. I saw Israel and New Breed live and this album is exactly the same experience minus the visual aspect. I encourage every Christian who wants to enter into worship to get this CD!

sorry.....
This is the REAL last thing, "There's A Lifting" is a beautiful worship track with great musicianship. C ya

Beautiful.....
Understand that this album is heavy yeah.......I like the first track "Who Is Like The Lord" nice tune. I like the Dre bit in the tune along with the chords and the vocals are great. The next tune "You Are Good" is one of those tunes to get down and praise God. I love the worship Medley (track 7) that takes me into the presence of God along with track 8 "I Exalt Thee". I like the way such a familiar tune was changed up a bit. But my favourite track has to be track nine......beautiful worship song that even young people can get into. I was playing it to my lil sis the other day and she loved it.....im telling u track 9 never stops being played. This album is lovely and should be bought at all costs, thanks Israel you've aquired a new fan! ... Read more

Amazon.com's Best of 2001

Sweet surrender's always been the subtext of gospel music, but thevelvet punch of this superstar jam band will knock out secular audiences aswell. The Word features John Medeski of Medeski, Martin and Wood andyoungblood trio the North Mississippi Allstars,but its star is Robert Randolph, a 23-year-old from New Jersey who is the newgod of pedal-steel guitar. Randolph earned his chops in the Pentecostal church,performing the so-called "Sacred Steel" music well documented by the Arhoolielabel (see Sacred Steel, Vol. 2 for asample). He plays like an amalgamation of Duane Allman, Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck,John Coltrane, Buddy Emmons, Bo Diddley, and Mahalia Jackson. In short, he'sbrilliant, so full of rock & roll energy, improvisational fire, and sonicacrobatics that the other great musicians on this disc mostly stay out of hisway. Randolph has a seemingly divine gift for on-the-fly harmony as he splitsthe difference between Sunday tent meetings and Saturday juke crawls on "KeepYour Lamp Trimmed & Burning." In the Allman Brothers-style jams,Randolph plays both Dickey Betts and Duane to Medeski's organ, handling sweet,clean scales and rich, mellow slide slurs. But his vocabulary extends wellbeyond American-roots music. "Blood on That Rock" ends in a free-improvmeltdown, and elsewhere his snaky lines sound like Middle Eastern holy singing.All of which makes The Word worth heeding. --Ted Drozdowski ... Read more

Reviews (42)

A Jamfan MUST HAVE
During a summer when there is no mega tour; when everything seems like a brady bunch rerun you've seen 304 times: Out comes THE WORD. Fresh, innovative and uplifting; FUNKY, soulful and creative... it's all in The Word. Joyful Sounds and Waiting On My Wings have irresistable riffs that tattoo on the brain for days. Blood on That Rock and I'll Fly away are spacey, layered and complex while changing tempo and pitch lay in the hands (and foot) of the Pedal Steel guitar master, Robert Randolph: who hadn't played outside of his church band more than a handful of times before this project. If you have any inclination toward: Phish, String Cheese, Deep Bananna Blackout, Medeski, Martin & Wood, Allman Brothers, BB King, Hendrix, Clapton or straight up GOSPEL BLUES ROCK- You must have THE WORD.

"The Word" is Great!!
The first time I'd heard of this band was a few weeks ago. A friend who had seen them at The Birchmere in Virginia and another friend who is a rabid Robert Randolph fan, tipped me off. Their advice and having just recently seen the North Mississippi Allstars live for the first time, had me eagerly anticipating the release of the this CD. That anticipation of this all instrumental recording was well rewarded! The Allstars provide a rock-solid foundation for the fabulous pedal steel guitar work of Robert Randolph and the keyboards of John Medeski. Though I'm not a fan of Medeski, Martin and Wood, Medeski's playing in this context is outstanding. The group calls this a "gospel record" and indeed it is based on the bluesy, gospel style of music played in House of God churches. Robert Randolph learned his chops playing in the church, where the steel guitar is a featured instrument. There are several songs where Randolph and Luther Dickinson, of the Allstars, trade guitar licks that are reminiscent of the Allman Brothers in their heyday. Other songs have a Hawaiian slack-key guitar sound. This is a great CD and one that I highly recommend purchasing. I hear these guys are fantastic live, so if you have a chance to see them, do NOT pass it up!

Skip this album
I am amazed by the number of great reviews The Word received from enthusiastic listeners. Personally, I thought that this album was a sorry attempt at gospel jam. Bottom line: good musicians playing together don't necessarily make a good album.
The songs barely hold together while they are in full force, and seem to carry on through pure momentum. And they don't quite "end" - they just sort of screech to a halt. This kind of playing is expected from barroom bands and pickup jams - not the best players today's jam scene has to offer.
John Medeski's playing will disappoint any fan of the groove trio Medeski, Martin, and Wood. When he is audible at all, his playing is tasteless and uninteresting. The great Robert Randolph is at his worst, unfortunately, on pedal steel. His playing is painfully out of tune for much of the album, and serves as a clear example of why this album [is not my favorite]. It appears that The Word was little more than a pickup jam session at a studio, that judging by the recording quality, was miked with one microphone dangling in the middle of the room. This is easily the worst-recorded album I have heard in five years.
While there are some decent points on The Word, among them track 7 (I'll fly away), and track 3 (blood on that rock), most of the album sounds completely unrehearsed. Granted, sometimes this works - a famous example being Kind of Blue, which consisted entirely of first takes. But here it most certainly doesn't. The band sounds lost from start to finish, from the drummer's bizarre, misplaced time changes to Medeski's frightened keyboard work. I write this review because, as a fan of all musicians involved, I was extremely disappointed with The Word.

Finally, all my complaints against The Word could be put aside as poor recording, planning, and rehearsal, if there was something redeemable behind it all. There isn't. Randolph's playing is out of tune and annoying, from the piercing repeated notes for four or five measures, to the cheesy blues riffs he passes off as soul- they sound like they are out of the Mel Bay Guitar Manual. I love Medeski and Robert Randolph, and I am an avid blues, soul, gospel, and jam listener. But this album comes up short in every respect.

One of the best commercial releases of 2001
The Word, comprised of John Modeski (Modeski, Martin & Wood), Robert Randolph and the North Mississippi All-Stars, has supplied us with an amazing combination of rock, funk, jazz and even gospel. Learning to play the Sacred Steel (his steel-pedal guitar) in church, Robert Randolph will be a household name through his driving sound. It is music that attracts music lovers of all generations and tastes. One of the best I own, and certainly the best new cd of the past couple of years.

Eat a Peach 2002
Its different,but it really reminds me of Eat a Peach. A highly competant sacred Steel player who reveres SRV playing with group of musicians in the same midset. This is a jamming album that really cooks. A very pleasant surprise. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

AVALON ROCKS!!!!!
As a teen, I've grown a bit picky about my music, and while I don't own this cd YET, I know almost every song on it and I must say, the songs are enough to entice me to buy it. Avalon's always had really good music, and I can't think of a better investment than to buy their greatest hits. Testify to Love will never grow old, and Avalons music constantluy shows a genuine passion and love of Christ. Great music!

Testify to Love: The Very Best of Avalon
Nobody can question the talent and inspirational singing of Avalon. I have all but one of their CD's. That is why I am disappointed with this release.

If you have none of their previous CD's, I recommend this one. But if you are like me and have all of their CD's, it is disappointing to pay all of that money when you only get 2 new songs, and the rest of the songs are not even new releases of their old music - they only placed those old songs on the new CD.

This was disappointing for me. The best contemporary group in the country, selling their old music on a new CD. That requires very little effort. Next CD, I hope that Avalon will sing 13 or 14 new songs, and not sell us their old songs that avid listeners already have.

Bryan

Amazing music from a great group of singers.
Testify to Love was the third CD I bought by Avalon.. the first was 'A Maze of Grace'and 'In a Different Light'. I have since bought two more of their CD's because I find them inspirational, great to listen to and wonderful for lifting your spirits. So their music may be considered good to dance to.. what is wrong with that! All the songs on this album are GREAT!! I would recomment this CD to all lovers of Christian contemporary music, especially those who buy music for the upliftment of their hearts and souls. I am sixty five years old and do not consider their music only for the younger generation but for all those who are 'young at heart'

There Should Be A Rule About Bad Bands Taking Good Names...
Now a good band can't be called Avalon because of this travistry. So this is like a crappy christian gospel/pop band that sucks like Britney Spears and her men. I found this when looking for Marion Zimmer Bradley's Avalon books. I find it sort of funny that a christian band would take its name from a mythological island of paganism. Perhaps another example of christianity trying to take something over and christianize it and make it its own, sort of like xmas.

I was looking for something like Blackmore's Night, but what I got was an earful of excrement from an alpaca.

Definatly the Very Best
This album is a very decent one with many popular pop songs that this group came out with. It's a good cd but I'm not really into pop, more rock but it was definatly worth the money I spent for it. If you love pop, buy this! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

sux ass
this cd sux ass, christian rap is a complete waste just like christian rock. Its not cool its not hardcore its weak.So stop pretending that christian rap is so hardcore and get a life
-peace

THE REAL ENCORE
While Eminem's newest album "ENCORE" was a huge disappointment, KJ-52 manages to completely surpass his secular counterpart in EVERY way. It's wonderful to FINALLY hear a Christian hip-hop album that doesn't end up CORNY.

I'm a HUGE fan of artists like Immortal Technique, Kanye West, Common Sense, Nas, Blackstar, Dead Prez, Jin, and KRS-One. They're all DEFINITELY talented, but sometimes it feels nice to listen to CLEAN, Christ influenced hip-hop.

KJ-52 EVOLVES greatly from his past albums by mixing a HUGE variety of Hip-Hop styles, from oldschool to Rap/Rock Collabos. He's a wonderful performer LIVE, but i've NEVER been able to sit through one of his albums UNTIL NOW.

"FIVE TWEEZY" 5/5
if you enjoyed the goofy song "KJ FIVE TWO" on his last album, you'll LOVE this. It's alot better, with an extremely catchy hook!

"ARE YOU REAL?" 4/5
Reminds me of a Linkin Park song. Great intensity and features Micah from Kutless!

"ROCK WITH IT" 3/5
If you're a fan of OLDSCHOOL Hip-Hop, you'll absolutely adore this song.

"GOD" 4/5
The lyrics and verses are PERFECT. What kills the song is the awkward Chorus by Rebecca St. James. It jus' doesn't seem to fit right. The beat is reminiscent of "THE BOY IS MINE" by Brandy and Monica.

"BEHIND THE MUZIK" 3/5
Has a westcoast feel. Sounds like Nate Dog could've done the hook!

"THANK YOU" 3/5
This is the heartfelt "gitty" track you'd expect on ANY Hip-Hop CD. It's nice, but not unique.

"JESUS" 2/5
Another oldschool style song. Not as good as "ROCK WITH IT" tho'.

"RIGHT HERE" 5/5
This song grew on me pretty easily. Great message, and a WONDERFUL mix of Jeremy Camp's original version!

"VIDEO GAMES" 4/5
Not the greatest beat, but it's such a fun song. KJ will probably never top the oldschool masterpiece "47 EMCEES," but it's always fun listening to him use pop culture references to the "CARTOON NETWORK" and "47 POP STARS."

"PLAIN WHITE RAPPER" 2/5
Another mediocre song that never really had my interest. Funny title tho'.

"THINGS I LIKE" 3/5
i didn't like this song at first, until i really understood the message. Typical Chorus, with highly formulated verses.

"LIFE AFTER DEATH" 5/5
intense song. Serious tone with an eye opening message.

"NEVER LOOK AWAY" 4/5
A nice listen. Brynn Sanchez's voice is SoOoOoOthing. =)

"FOR THE LADIES" 2/5
Hate the beat and chorus, but it's still a great message for ladies. But i'd recommend "PRINCES AND FROGS" by Superchic[k] to girls i meet.

"I CAN CALL ON YOU" 4/5
if you listen carefully to KJ's verses, you can feel the passion in his flow. This is definitely a heartfelt song.

"CRY NO MORE" 5/5
An important song for anyone who's ever been molested or raped. A song that can heal and mend broken hearts.

"ONE" 4/5
This is a song MEANT to be heard LIVE. What makes this song great is the END. KJ preaches an incredible message.

"HE IS ALL" 4/5
A great closer to an already well-crafted album.

ALBUM RATING: 5/5
So far, this is the best Hip-Hop album i've heard this year. Every true hip-hop fan needs this album in their collection. And if you minister to youth who listen to alot of rap garbage like 50 Cent, Chingy, and Nelly... BUY THEM THIS ALBUM. "The Message is in the Music."

KJ-52 Simply The Best Representin'
Wow...what can I say. I become a fan of KJ after album one. He is a phenomenal story teller which is what makes is his witnessing so powerful. Clever lyrics and beats to bounce to make every single track he does playable again and again.

He is able to take complexity of life and weave stories with the simplicity of faith and salvation in ways that just ministers to the heart but delivers a good time all at that the same time.

What really comes across is the relationship he has with Jesus. It clearly translates well. This young man is speaking from his relationship with God. He is very much in touch with heart for reaching the lost and serving his Lord.

KJ, you go son...you inspire me. Thank you for delivering such quality music for everyone.

My God continue to bless you and may also experience the financial (yes...I said money...money is not evil and christians should have plenty of too!) success from your projects that you so deserve. Just don't forget to tithe! :-)

This is recommend 4 Em fans or Non-Em fans
I definitely recommend this if they want the real Christian side of the Eminem not the one that's talks real wild and dirty which ya'll mean. I think he's such a genius and such a spirit-filled Christian with a lot of sense of being the best Gospel rapper out there. You gotta check him out man! 'Cuz he representing Christ than Em himself. Everybody should put down Eminem 4 a minute and into KJ-52. 'Cuz KJ-52 would change your spirit. I luv u Pastor KJ-52, u're da man. Keep up the good spirit and may God lead u. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Love it!
Great songs sung by a wonderful children's choir. You'll love listening to the CD as much as your child does. I highly recommend it. It was a pleasant surprise from the usual children's music.

Great for kids and adults!!
This is one of the best tapes for children that I have come across yet. My one year old loves to dance to it, and it is also great for keeping him entertained on long car rides.
Another plus: It doesn't drive me crazy. The kids singing the songs are cute without being overly sweet and annoying. I don't mind listening to this one.

Just Terrific
I heard them online and thougt it would be good for my daughter and I was right. This CD contains Children singing very clearly and the music is a clasic. This is a great CD for anywhere. My daughter listens to this CD and the Toddler Tunes and Silly Songs CD's constantly. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Because they were raised in a churchgoing household and nourished with the sounds of such gospel legends as Commissioned and the Winans, it is no great mystery as to why Erica and Tina Atkins have become the sister-act duo of the hour. Their singing/songwriting is laden with a soulful confidence borne of supreme talent and a joyful testimony that springs from firsthand knowledge of God's redemptive goodness. Mary Mary found its genesis when the Atkins sisters met up with producer-songwriter Warryn Campbell. Their initial success in song publishing crested when Yolanda Adams recorded two of their songs on Mountain High... Valley Low. After this, it was just a matter of sorting out the best record deal. Thankful unites the dancing soul and the grateful heart. The blending of Erica and Tina's perfectly strung voices, and the finely crafted hip-hop/gospel flavor brings this genre to a new level. Celebration vibes in such songs as "Shackles (Praise You)" and "I Sings" stir images of packed-out dance floors bumping to the groove and lost in a swirl of colored lights. In contrast, a reflective side dives deep into the intimacies of following Jesus. The assured declaration of "Can't Give Up Now" and the tender beauty of "Be Happy" convey the heart of what keeps the Atkins sisters impassioned. One listen to this debut release makes it clear that Mary Mary has bypassed rookie status. This CD should come with a "Satisfaction Guaranteed" sticker. --Israel Button ... Read more

Reviews (85)

Lets Make It Happen Through Jesus
Hi, Sis. Marva! We were coming from Convention in Philly back to Brookyln a late night, when i first began to hear the THANKFUL. It lifted me, from track to track. The music allowed me to indulge in the goodness of His word: made me envision my self dancing. ( i love to dance). This album isn't secular music because secular is not religious, this cd is. It aint no Shirley Caesar annointing, but GOD has blessed them. It can help young ladies, and Sisters find themselves, and have a sense of identity, some one to look up to (especially the young new teens growing up who crave after Wordly music because they feel gospel oldies are too drag, you kna' mean?)they need to mimic something good, to walk after it. I think it help young people see you aint too beautiful to Praise The Lord. When you see all the beautiful women only singing secular, and only Old Grown Ladies & Men singing Gospel your gonna feel like you need the world to Have fun, when the Bible says rejoice in the Lord! Only GOD can and will beautify the meek with Salvation. And we need some thing for our young sisters growing to identify themselves with. To know GOD is unlimited. Just do it in truth. And it will proser. (Ps.1:3c)KJV> We all now how hard it is growing up a Christian. Let us ever encourage them. You Go Erica & Tina, Lift up His Name. Take Up your Cross, Workout your Salvation with GOD. It's you alone at the Judgement Bar. Let us do it becasue We Love to sing for GOD. We enjoy singing to/for the People too. And truely if this record has even brought one person closer to Salvation, it wasnt in vain. ((My favorite Track is #3 What a Friend In Jesus)) Later For Now... When's the Next album coming Ladies? No time to Slow down Now. It's Harvest Time! Love In All. -ONM

Mary Mary are NEW and HOT !
At First when I bought the cd and listened to it I did not like the first few songs but after I listened to it again I liked them,the best songs to me are number 2.)I SINGS 4.)SHACKELS 5.)CANT GIVE UP 9.)SOMEBODY(I love this song,it makes me smile) 11.)ONE MINUTE 12.)STILL MY CHILD AND 14.)WADE IN THE WATER.Theses women can really sing and have very powerful voices.I Would recommend anybody to buy this cd because its real nice and very up lifting.

A solid first release...better than the second
This is a cd worth getting. Mary Mary's Thankful is what gospel R&P at is finest looks or sounds like. This cd is jammed packed with hits that you know and hits that you are yet to love. Do yourself a favor and get this while you can, its a better offering than their sophmore cd which is still worth a purchase.

Can't wait for their 3rd cd to drop. C'mon girls we're anxiously waiting

Thank you Mary Mary
This is a good C.D so buy it. I'm from Ft.Pierce Fl. The realist state. My email address is kre@.com so holla at a girl.

Very Thankful!!!
It's rare that I come across a CD that I can play all the songs nonstop without skipping a song. I mean they really put in some work for their debut. The mixing of the songs was perfect. I really enjoyed Shackles. At first I really didn't feel Shackles but once I took to the time to hear the words of the song I was hooked. Then came the song "Can"t Give up now". After hearing that song I knew I had to get their CD. Once I got it I felt like I found gold. This cd is just beautiful. It has different styles of gospel which I enjoy. I hope you enjoy this Cd like I did. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Much has been made in press circles about Joseph Rojas and his real-life story of redemption. While there is no denying the authority he holds when he sings about how God has changed his life, it's time to focus his music. Once Upon A Shattered Life, the band's sophomore effort, is truly a breakout release and one worthy to be heard. There are many assets to this group's music including Rojas' powerful vocal presence, much akin to the likes of Mac Powell (Third Day) or Bart Millard (Mercy Me). Newcomer Ray Fryoux lays down a bed of steady beats and anchors a solid rhythm section with bassist Joshua Schwartz. Meanwhile, Jeremy Holderfield provides riveting guitar work throughout, especially on tracks like "Shattered Life" and "Chris' Letter." Smooth rockers like "I Believe" and "Brand New Man" display a simplicity and catchiness reminiscent of Jeremy Camp or Switchfoot. But while Slumber's modern rock sound may draw parallels, this band makes its own mark on tracks like "Make Believe" and "Back in Time," showcasing an offset rhythm and creative guitar work. The band can even bring it down as it does on the two softer closing numbers, "Masquerade" and "Oceans from the Rain." The release is a confident step forward for the band both creatively and (hopefully) commercially and should propel them into the upper echelons of Christian music. --Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Good but not great
I recently saw Seventh Day Slumber at a Skillet concert in Knoxville, TN. I bought there CD when I was there and I thought they were great at the show and very hard rock and sounded like 12 Stones or Demon Hunter but when I bought there CD I found the studio found them more sounding like Kutless or Everyday Sunday. That isn't at all a bad thing just not what I expected. After I got over that I found it to be a very good album the only thing I thought it was missing was that one great song that makes the CD complete. Its a bunch of average to good songs but its missing that one really good song that completes the package on a good album. It sounds to me like a collection of B-Sides. Still very good and I would recommed it to any Christian Rock fan who likes music in the middle between say Kutless and Skillet there right in the middle.

I like Slayer and Black Sabbath
O.K. here's coming from a 30 year old life long metal head; buy this album. I love heavy metal but the lyrics of typical heavy metal are often harsh (not always) but it's nice to be able to include some pros into my music without compromising the heavy metal music that I like so much. It's positive heavy metal, go figure. But please if you grew up in the 80's, don't even think about this band being another Stryper, oh no, not even close. If you have kids who like heavy metal, slip this into their CD player...I know I did.

good release
singning with a major christian label was the best thing for sds to do !!!

good work guys!!!!!!!

Powerful vocals, lyrics and music - A must buy !
This is one of the best CD's that I have purchased over the past year !!!

I would highly recommend this if you have a friend who loves great rock music but needs to hear about Jesus love. No condemnation here at all. Just Jesus love for you no matter where you are in this road called life !

Powerful vocals, thought provoking lyrics, and awesome instruments makes this CD a must buy for yourself and for others.

great
im not big with christian music but these guys make it better than what people think rock on ... Read more

Album Description

As the winner of the Gospel Dream talent search and a background vocalist for gospel superstar CeCe Winans, Benita Washington has enthralled audiences across the country with her undeniable talent. Produced by acclaimed gospel producers Roger Ryan and Asaph Alexander Ward, Washington's debut album IT'S A NEW DAY showcases her incomparable vocals and captivating performance style with 12 incredible songs, including several recorded live at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Nashville, TN. ... Read more

Reviews (46)

She is a Queen in her own !! Go CeCe
This is a very peaceful quiet album...
Thankyou CeCe,you are amazing
Jesus is good and real.For those of you
who buy the album there is also a dvd included
with the "No One" and "Alabaxtor Box" performance
I was looking for a little more on this album
but its ok because she has another
album to come out in mide 2004 its going to be a
up beat album like her self titled cd she bought
out in 2001.

But anything from CeCe is good
This is a special album...you will get in a peaceful
mode and can feel Gods presence if you are a true
believer in christ.Oh yeah CeCe is also AMAZING in live
concert what a blessing.
my sister and I got a chance to see her when she
came to Norfolk,Virginia at Ted Constant Center near ODU
university,she is also beautiful and radiant.

GOD Bless
In all your ways ackknowledge Jesus

Throne Room Praise!
This is CeCe at her best and at her most personal. It is high praise and worship at its peak. I had the blessed opportunity to praise God with CeCe at a local church a week before Throne Room was released. The congregation was caught in the Spirit and left that place with bellies full of praise! This is an awesome praise and worship CD. It leans more toward the traditional side, but is a true blessing for lovers of contemporary gospel as well. It hits you dead center. Listen for yourselves and be blessed!

I'm a gospel bass player (getting back into playing..
I'm a gospel bass player (getting back into playing for a God praising Artist.
http://www.jaxsn.com

cece is great.
buy this cd

jaxsn

jaxsn music recording studio
hartford, CT 860-724-7448

Presence of God
If you are looking for a peaceful, quiet, alone time with the Lord, I would suggest this CD. CeCe's voice is so soft and soothing and helps you enter into the presence of the Lord. This is a must have.

Awesome Worship
If you have a strong desire to worship God, but don't know how this is the CD for you. It teaches, it touches you, and it brings change in the atmosphere of wherever you play it. Her previous CDs show the progression of her growth in God and she has reached new levels on this CD. If you truly have your heart tuned to the Lord, you will be able to pass the gates into the holy of holies on the first track and will remain there until the end. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

What a wonderful CD to give as a present!
I love giving this cd as a gift, to teachers or childcare providers, or new moms. It's kids' music you can stand to hear over and over (and some of us know just how rare that is), and feel good about exposing kids to traditions and musical concepts they might not otherwise encounter. We listen to the numbers songs in the car, we sing the shoo-fly song when we go walking--it's been a gift to my little family to have these songs added to our lives.

Sweet Honey in the Rock is Fantastic!
Although folk isn't a style a music much heard by anyone but its devotees, there can be some real treasures in this section. Sweet Honey in the Rock is one of them. As a young teenager, I find that this music doesn't fit into the "fuddy-duddy" image that young people today think of as Folk. Sweet Honey provides you with cool, soulful tunes, with beat and fire to spare. Try listening to "Young and Positive", and see if that doesn't bolster your self-esteem. The complex harmonies appeal to me especially, since I am a singer, but to the uninitiated ear, they are pure ecstasy. This is a rare and amazing gem in the soup of today's music! ... Read more

Album Description

A Stellar Nominated CD Over 250,000 Sold ... Read more

Reviews (78)

Absolutely Awesome!!!
These two CD's have changed my life. I have been brought to an entirely different level of praise and worship. I was listening to disc 2 (the Inner Courts - worhip) while at work one day, and I was literally on the verge of being laid out in the floor - AT WORK!!! I must tell you that this CD will be an absolute blessing to you, your family, your friends, your church, and anyone else who listens to it. If you want to truly be in God's presence and to feel the anointing, you MUST purchase this CD. Shekinah Glory, I pray that the anointing on your ministry will be stirred up and renewed each time your CD is played in a home, a car, an office, or on the radio. I pray God's continued blessings upon each of you individually and the ministry as a whole. It is apparent that God has called you to the forefront of the battle against the enemy at this time, and I pray that you will given the physical and spiritual strenght, wisdom, and patience to endure it all. Continue to be blessed!!!

Join true worshippers&praise teams in God's Kingdom!
Heard the title cut aired on Emmett Powell's gospel program, and always had to stop whatever I was doing to take part in the worship experience with The Almighty. I was led to get this CD and see what else was waiting. It exceeded any expectation. Have shared with family the awesomeness of the God's anointing on this project from start to end. This release guides you into an orderly ordained and protected place in time with God. Nearly impossible to play one cut. I loaned this CD to my child, and it was never returned. Not a word from her yet if it will be! I was compelled to consider it a gift and bought another copy. That is how fruitful their ministry has become. Get your own and plan to buy two! Seriously! May you have great time with God, too.

Love that song
Praise is what I do is an awsome song!!!!!!!!!

Best Worship CD Ever!!!
After listening to the 2 CDs originally, I've found myself not listening to much of the 1st Cd. However, everyone that I know, including myself, listen to the 2nd CD.......over and over and over again! I have that CD playing at night-on repeat! The title song-"Praise Is What I Do", done by Elder William Murphy, III, is off the chain! I get a chance to hear him every wednesday and sunday-he's our praise and worship leader(New Birth-Atlanta), and let me tell you-I think he had a wonderful encounter with The Most High! Please, please, please get a copy of this CD in your collection-it's an instant Classic! The Manifested Presence of God was definitely in the house when they recorded this Worship CD!

A Blessing
I listen to this CD daily on my way to work. My favorite is "Praise is What I Do" and "I Worhip you/In the Spirit". Very inspiring and gives me that inspiration needed daily ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Wow: Great CDS
This cd has all the latest in popular Christian music, it is a good sampling of all kinds of different artists. It is awesome to sing along to music that is pure and upbeat. Wow 2004 has Relient K, Jars of Clay, Stephen Curtis Chapman, and many more popular Christian artists. All in all, this cd has great music, great artists, and a great message.

not exactly WOW....more like wow
I have been a fan of CCM since 1997, and a purchaser of a good deal of WOW CDs. Usually, I am impressed with the song selection and the overall mix of different styles and subgenres. It takes a great effort to get so many different styles and subgenres that encompass Christian music on one album. For the most part, I enjoy each song on its own merit. What was the disappointment for me in regards to the latest WOW offering was the sequencing of songs. On the first disc, there is too much uptempo poppy songs for me to take - and I am a definite adult contemporary fan. The second disc is much like the same, except it is all rock. I definitely dig the rock songs(rare for me), but again, it is one fast and hard song after another- different tempos are needed. I think that if the songs were more evenly distributed out along both discs, the album would be more enjoyable. As far as the songs themselves, a good 95% of them are good or great. Just better sequencing is needed.

Still, WoW is the best way to sample the genre as a whole, or to discover an artist that you may not even given thought to listen to before. This is especially true if you live in a place where the CCM market is almost nonexisent, such as where I live in north east PA.

Great CD but it could be better.....
I bought wow 2003 only a month before I bought this one. I have to say, if you want more ~MOVING~ songs get Wow 2003. But for the best sounding songs, this is your cd!

Excellent for young adults
Many of the songs are close to the hip-hop genre. Just a little too much funk for my taste. Lyrics are nice and geared more to the personal experience of worship than the out and out praise. Teens can identify with this album very well.

Not too shabby
This CD is one of my favorites. It really captures God's amazing love for us and the Christian spirit. ... Read more

Album Description

After two acclaimed full-length indie releases andextensive touring in Europe and the U.S., Blindside hassigned with Elektra for their major label debut. Silencewas produced by Howard Benson (P.O.D., Sepultura, Motorhead and many more). Their style is simple but explosive, with a lot of complexity swirling around underneath. 2002. ... Read more

Reviews (84)

Good album but a definite change.
I have loved Blindside for ages, and their first cd blew me away. It was a frantic and wholly original piece of work that blended punk with hardcore and didn't weaken either genre. This cd continues softening their sound to something very radio friendly (which is the one thing the first wasn't).

Although I greatly miss the old Blindside who brought us such inescapably great songs such as King of the Closet and Invert, Silence is a good cd. It still features some harder vocals, but they're spaced out a great deal, and even the heavier sounds aren't anywhere near hardcore. However, if I did not have to compare them to their older harder sound, I would have to give the cd four stars (which I am) for it's complexity and thoughtfulness. Especially captivating are the lyrics that are even better than previous cd's beautiful words. Christian's writing has always been exceptional, but in the cd his skill absolutely shines.

In my opinion, the cd is a bit over produced, Blindside has enough talent that they don't have to hide behind the skill of their producer, and some of the songs seem a bit dwarfed by the multitude of effects.

Overall, a good album, but not quite what anyone expected.

Good singer, bad songs.
This band wastes this singer's ability to sing. After hearing the song "Pitiful" and buying this album, I expected more, but they released "Pitiful" so people would buy the album and then filled it with filler. They have a good singer, but bad songs. Perfect example of why people download. 3 good songs on the whole album. Here is my song by song review:

1. Caught A Glimpse - Really good song with a good hook to it.
2. Pitiful - First single and an awesome song in which the
singer screams and sings with good melody.
3. Sleepwalking - Good song with good melody.
4. Cute Boring Love - Bad song that leaves you waiting for a
hook that never comes.
5. The Endings - Another bad song with a hook that is not catchy
6. You Can Hide It - Plain song that has nothing to catch your
attention.
7. Thought Like Flames - Starts off good, but then dies when the
unmelodic hook comes.
8. Time Will Change Your Heart - [Bad] attempt at writing a
hardcore song.
9. Painting - Too much unnecessary screaming and overall bad
song.
10. Midnight- Good buildup, but bad hook.
11. Coming Back To Life - Pure filler.
12. She Shut Your Eyes - Pretty good song, but nothing great.
13. Silence - Slow and boring song.

"Silence" by Blindside
This is my personal favourite album right now. From the crushing opening track, Caught A Glimpse, to the ever so well done closer, Silence. Although Blindside are a Christian band and I dont consider myself religious, they manage to not let that interfere with their music. The top 5 songs, in my opinion are in order:

1. Sleepwalking
2. Paintings
3. The Endings
4. Midnight
5. Pitiful

If you have never heard Blindside before, that is a crime against humanity. Download any songs you can, or, even better, go buy the albums About A Burning Fire, A Thought Crushed MY Mind, S/T Album and Silence. You wont regret it.

Blindside
Scilence is a great cd. The best song on here is Pittiful. Highly recomended.

Awesome (Not Garbage!)
This cd is awesome. Don't listen to Mr. Milwaukee who considers himself a "music fan". He wouldn't realize how good this album is if it bit him in a hurting place. With the incredible tracks of Pitiful, Sleepwalking, Time Will Change Your Heart, Cute Boring Love, Caught A Glimpse, and the rest of the album this cd is not garbage. Only somebody with a brain half the size of a grain of sand would write "Horrible band, AVOID AVOID AVOID!!! Saw them in concert, complete utter garbage" about the Swedish Christian rockers Blindside. I don't think this guy actually saw them live because I saw them live and they played one kick-(insert a word of your choice here) show. I guess the only way that you could consider this garbage is if you were hearing impared like our good old friend from Milwaukee. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

flat tunes with biblical twists
The worst part of this CD is that all the songs sound the same: similar arrangements with the same girl's chorus mostly drowned out by the music. Annoying to some (like me) are the Christian messages grafted onto traditional songs: "Finger, nose, and toes all work for Jesus." Please. Not sure where we picked it up, but it was a mistake.

Wholesome, Fun Music at a Cheap Price. A "Must Buy"!
This is good, fun music at a great price. This CD is especially good for the car. My young ones have really enjoyed this over the years. At this price it's a must buy, especially for toddlers and preschoolers. Good for ages 1-9.

Five stars considering the price. Four stars if it were priced over $10. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Get ready, get ready, get ready! He-Motions is Here!
I purchased this CD at TD Jakes' 2004 MegaFest in Atlanta. With my cup already running over from the Word I received there, I was even more blessed listening to the He-Motions CD. As a young man who grew up w/o his biological dad, this CD spoke to the very issues that confront me day to day as a man, as a brother, as a husband and as a father. Never before has a music CD touched the core of my inner-being like this CD did on my ride home from Atlanta. I cried. I laughed. I shouted. I prayed. I am more encouraged and ready to confront my manhood issues. Thanks be to God for the Bishop TD Jakes and the vision and ministry he has given him.

Purchase this CD, along with the He-Motions Book, for every man that you know. They will truly be blessed. From the intro to the final narration, there is word for you! ... Read more