Reviews (3)

A Spectacular Collection
My newly christian friend picked this up for pretty cheap and it has turned out to be an inspiration. Although all the songs are not by the "normal" artists, it is still powerful to hear these songs by ANY artist! This is truly a very complete worship collection, our worship team actually does a good number of the songs on the cd.

I'd say about 85 % of the tracks are enjoyable, some of the "new" ones are not that great. There is NO way to resist the urge to lift your voice in praise when you hear soars with lyrics like "Beautiful one, I love you", "Crucified! Laid behind the stone, you lived to die, rejected and alone. Like a rose, trampled on the ground. You took the fall and thought of me, above all!", or "You set my feet to dancing, you set my heart a fire, in the presence of a thousand kings you are my one desire."

No matter the artist, this CD is pure and honest praise at it's greatest. A very complete compelation that which will almost certainly have you worshiping in no time.

Favorite Tracks:
God of Wonders - Rebecca St. James
Be Glorifed - Tim Hughes
Better Is One Day - Charlie Hall
Above All - Rebecca St. James
Forever - Chris Tomlin
Beautiful One - Tim Hughes
Lord Reign in Me - Benton Brown

Groundbreaking? Try Wallet-Breaking
Okay, so let me get this straight. An ALL MIGHTY AND POWERFUL worship cd with "Blessed Be Your Name"? Check! "Enough?" Check! "We Fall Down?" Check! and (drum roll) "Here I am to Worship?" Check... WAIT A SECOND, this version isn't sung by Chris Tomlin, it's by this other wannabe who originally wrote the song. We don't want to hear that version, we want the other one that was really great from the 14th Passion CD! Impulse buyers, raise them ears and listen to what I'm about to say... look at the song list to see if you don't already have those songs on your other five million "Ultimate Praise and Worship Cd Albumns of (enter year here)". Come on, seriously, the Worship Together franchise is trying to rip us loyal, niave, and gullible christians off. They tell you that there are "NEW UNRECORDED SONGS NEVER BEFORE RELEASED IN NORTHEN AFRICA!" but that's not true. You've heard them all before. There is no original worship material. It's a rehash of the great 2000-2002 worship era, and they are trying to get some more scrilla out of us. But let's at least review a couple of "unreleased songs" that appear on this cd. The first is "O Praise Him"... yup this one is new. It's never been released, oh wait! IT WAS RELEASED 3 months beforehand on the Illuminate cd (I personally like the "Turn an ear, to KLOVE and hear" version better). Second, we have "Better is One Day". My response, you Better get four year old cd, Passion:Better Is One Day. Third, and I have to quit because I'm mad I threw away hard earned money, is a song they could've ACTUALLY claimed to be unreleased since it would come out two months later. That is "Undignified" from the new David Crowder Band's EP, Lime. I actually saw this cd on a roadtrip, saw Undignified by DCB(remembering my DCB concert expereince when they played this Redman song) and a store saw me impulse-buy this sucker to death. If you have ever seen DCB in concert... this is NOTHING like that version. I would bet money that the Insyderz wouldn't rush production on this song with so much punk potential... It's not even funny... but of course DCB was forced to release a crappy studio version. I can't seriously say a good thing about this cd. My advice would be to buy either David Crowder's Illuminate cd, Worship Together cd I Could Sing of Your Love Forever vol.1, ANY Passion cd, or just wait for a new Chris Tomlin, Tim Hughes, David Crowder Band and Matt Redman cd to come out because they'll have newer rehashed version of half the songs on this cd. I give it one star because I can't find "0 star".

Groundbreaking? More like Wallet Breaking
Okay, so let me get this straight. An ALL MIGHTY AND POWERFUL worship cd with "Blessed Be Your Name"? Check! "Enough?" Check! "We Fall Down?" Check! and (drum roll) "Here I am to Worship?" Check... WAIT A SECOND, this version isn't sung by Chris Tomlin, it's by this other wannabe who originally wrote the song. We don't want to hear that version, we want the other one that was really great from the 14th Passion CD! Impulse buyers, raise them ears and listen to what I'm about to say... take four dollars and spend that towards the four songs that you don't already have on your other five million "Ultimate Praise and Worship Cd Albumns of (enter year here)". Come on, seriously, the Worship Together franchise is trying to rip us loyal, niave, and gullible christians off. They tell you that there are "NEW UNRECORDED SONGS NEVER BEFORE RELEASED IN NORTHEN AFRICA!" but that's not true. You've heard them all before. There is no original worship material. It's a rehash of the great 2000-2002 worship era, and they are trying to get some more scrilla out of us. But let's at least review a couple of "unreleased songs" that appear on this cd. The first is "O Praise Him"... yup this one is new. It's never been released, oh wait! IT WAS RELEASED 3 months beforehand on the Illuminate cd (I personally like the "Turn an ear, to KLOVE and hear" version better). Second, we have "Better is One Day". My response, you Better get four year old cd, Passion:Better Is One Day. Third, and I have to quit because I'm mad I threw away $17, is a song they could've ACTUALLY claimed to be unreleased since it would come out two months later. That is "Undignified" from the new David Crowder Band's EP, Lime. I actually saw this cd on a roadtrip, saw Undignified by DCB(remembering my DCB concert expereince when they played this Redman song) and Target saw me impulse-buy this sucker to death. If you have ever seen DCB in concert... this is NOTHING like that version. I would bet money that the Insyderz wouldn't rush production on this song with so much punk potential... It's not even funny... but of course DCB was forced to release a crappy studio version. I can't seriously say a good thing about this cd. My advice would be to buy either David Crowder's Illuminate cd, Worship Together cd I Could Sing of Your Love Forever vol.1, ANY Passion cd, or just wait for a new Chris Tomlin, Tim Hughes, David Crowder Band and Matt Redman cd to come out because they'll have newer rehashed version of half the songs on this cd. I give it one star because I can't find "0 star". ... Read more

Reviews (30)

Dylan's Eighties--More Intelligent Than His Critics
This CD, including the excellent "Groom's Still Waiting at the Altar," truly isn't as great as the best of Dylan's work of the sixties; after having rewritten musical history by his mid-twenties, however, Dylan really had nothing to do but experiment. Beginning in the late seventies, he began to experiment by concentrating upon gospel music. An often overlooked factor in this period was that Dylan was far more interested in gospel music than in evangelical Christianity. As evidence, I would submit that the religious motifs of which he sang during this period were not very different from those of the blues material which he covered in his debut album. "Shot of Love," in all fairness, contains some truly fine, well-crafted gospel efforts, including "Property of Jesus" and "Every Grain of Sand." One can understand this album only if one is familiar with the gospel of the blues giants who have influenced Dylan to a large degree.

A really solid Dylan album
This album epitomizes the Dylan sound of the eighties before it had been glossed over by the pop- sounds of that decade's forgettable style. The songs mark dylan's eighties love affair with more rhythm oriented music as his voice faded further. Songs on this album possess the simple catchy tunes which works on his two other notable eigthties albums- Infidels and Empire Burlesque posess ( i do not include Oh Mercy as an eighties album)- after a dissapointing and mediocre effort on Saved and a half baked Slow Train Coming ( first half good)- this album captures the best of the Street Legal period ( until Oh Mercy)- sparse lyrics as seen on Lenny Bruce act as a ballad, Heart of Mine is a catchy tune with rather good lyrics, Property of Jesus sums up the hard, gritty religious lyrics that seemed persisitent in his relgigious tunes, with a good melody to add. Dead Man, Dead Man is similarly good. Songs like Watered Down Love and In The Summertime are reminiscent of Dylan's honest, ramblings; songs of how love should be...yet these songs become common quickly and are actually represented best on this album. Every Grain of Sand forshadows the few moments of poetry brilliance to be seen during the eighties. All in all- with the bootleg series- this is the best of Dylan in the eighties.

The Wrath of God Never Sounded So Good
1981's "Shot of Love" is the last, hardest-rocking, and most accessible of Bob Dylan's trio of "Born-again" albums that began in 1979, and many fans call this the best of his Christian-oriented albums, all of which were (and still are) widely criticized. All the scorn and empty accusations of judgemental dogma that Dylan took may have fuelled all of the roughness and energy that packs the album, making it one of the most realistic, down-to-Earth Christian albums ever made.
It's ironic that "Shot of Love" may be the easiest for non-Christian fans to enjoy, because it still has God written all over it, starting with the quote of Matthew 11:25 in the liner notes. This album is full of a sense that a God-less society is falling apart, but Dylan pulls off the task of turning the end of times/Armageddon stew into vigorous, enjoyable rockers (case in point, 'Trouble'). In the blistering title track, Dylan speaks of those who mocked his God, and desires an escape from all the condemnation he took, and from the morbid side of the world in general. 'Property of Jesus' is self-explanatory, and 'Watered Down Love' seems to speak out against organized religion blocking man's relationship with God. Amidst the rocking world-gone-wrong of 'The Groom's Still Waiting At the Altar,' Dylan assures the listener that "God has mercy on them who are slandered and humiliated," a great anthem for any weary Christian, and the feeling that the world is falling apart is evident throughout this album; 'Dead Man, Dead Man' shares the same message of an earlier song 'When You Gonna Wake Up' and describes "politics of sin" and those who "curse God with every move." On the ballad-like 'In the Summertime,' he speaks of "Fools they made a mock of sin" but things get brighter as he sings of a gift that will "be with me unto the grave, and then unto eternity." Also in this song, Dylan seems to address his audience and/or his critics; Did you respect me for what I did, Or for what I didn't do, or for keeping it hid? Did I lose my mind when I tried to get rid of everything you see?"
Only two songs here don't bear a Christian-oriented message (at least one that's not as obvious as the other songs). The simplistic, sad piano-and-vocal 'Lenny Bruce' finds Dylan doing something that Christian bands today should be doing more often; Lenny Bruce was not exactly what you'd call a "Christian role model" but who says Christian music has to only give sympathy to Christian martyrs? And Bruce was a martyr in his own field, and the song named after him is a forthright, straight salute to the lost comedian. 'Heart of Mine' meanwhile is a song of self-exploration, like the closing ballad 'Every Grain of Sand,' probably the most recognized tune on the album, and a pleasantly mild end to a mostly rollicking set of songs. Here it appears that Dylan was consciously bringing an end to his "Christian era" because obviously he still had other messages to deliver. It is a poignant bridge that connects the end of the Born-again era to the beginning of the ups and downs he would take throughout the 80s.
"Shot of Love" is the one album that other Christian bands should use as their blueprint; it is full of both the anger and the peace that accompany the decision to find faith. For fans of Dylan and not the faith however, it is still a welcome return to craftiness and daring that made such classics as "Bringing It All Back Home" and "Blonde on Blonde" so incomparable to other artists.

Load Up The Syringe With Bob, Friend
Not a classic record, but very solid - "Shot of Love," "Heart of Mine," "In The Summertime," and, of course, "Every Grain of Sand." Among his religious records, it's the most musically upbeat, and the sound is fairly organic, unafflicted by the tragic production values of some of the other early 80's albums.

If you're an established Dylan fan, you should feel confident about picking this one up. If you're not an established Dylan fan, I implore you to go directly to Blood On The Tracks, and click the buy button on the best album you'll buy all year.

Some Nice Songs, But not Mr. D¿s Best Work
Ringo Starr plays drums on "Heart of mine," the second best song on the record. "Every Grain of Sand" and "In the Summertime," are nice tunes. "Property of Jesus," is kind of interesting, "Lenny Bruce" and "Dead Man, Dead Man" would have been better off, off the record, but "The Groom is Still Waiting at the Alter," the best song on the record, is a balls to the wall rocker, reminiscent of "Like a Rolling Stone." What a great song, however, wonderful as the song is, it doesn't quite save the record. But I do think the CD is one you'd want to own, even though it has kind of a hodge podge feel to it. Four Stars.

Reviewed by Stephanie Sane ... Read more

Reviews (22)

Change Your World by Michael W. Smith
This is by far Michael's most awsome album. With just one listen you will become addicted to his music! I was instantly turned on to Modern Christian music when first hearing him. I even went to one of his concerts at the time, in Virginia, AND IT TURNED OUT TO BE THE TAPEING OF THE LIVE CONCERT FOR THE VIDEO OF THIS ALBUM! Michael W. Smith is truely an inspiration, and this is just one of a number of his great efforts (and certaily his BEST! ) A MUST BUY!

One of my favorite Christian albums ever.
This cd from 1992 is Christian music at its best. I always get sentimental when I listen to it. The sound was very fresh, and was kind of a trend setter for the early 90's. I reccomend this album for anyone interested in classic Christian music. Favorite songs; Picture Perfect, I Will Be Here for You, Color Blind, Friends.

Smitty's creative peak!
To put it very simply; this is musically the best MWS album. There's so much happening in the music and I still to this day find new stuff in there, it's amazing. This CD really was "contemporary" or actually ahead of it's time when it came out. Given the right promotion this album could have been an even bigger mainstream hit than "Go west young man". Oh, well...
Lyrically there have been more inspired albums, but still Wayne Kirkpatrick is doing a great job.

Let's hope and pray Michael's upcoming mainstream pop album on JIVE Records will be in this vein. Maybe a producer like Dallas Austin could update Michael's sound a bit, it has become VERY adult comteporary as of recent. Less guitars, piano and strings would do him good. :-)

MICHAEL W. SMITH - CHANGE YOUR WORLD
This was a good buy. Delivery was good and condition of CD, case and artwork was very good. Would have preferred more Christian songs on it but Michael W. Smith sure has talent but he is left far behind by Steven Curtis Chapman or Dallas Holms!!

Every song a winner
Is there a bad song on this album? I can't find one. What I do find are a lot of stellar, not-to-be-missed tracks like "Picture Perfect" and "I Will Be Here For You". The somewhat overlooked "Cross Of Gold" carries an insanely catchy chorus and important message, while "Somewhere Somehow" represents a beautiful duet with Amy Grant. The album also features an updated and improved version of the classic song, "Friends". How can you go wrong? ... Read more

Reviews (115)

A Definitive Worship Album.
Sonicflood's self-titled 1999 debut is the only album released by it's original line-up. The band was formed out of the ashes of a band called Zilch which consisted of members of DC Talk's backing band. The original line-up featured on this CD is lead singer Jeff Deyo, keyboardist Jason Halbert, guitarist Dwayne Larring and drummer Aaron Blanton. Bass player Otto Price was also a member of the original band but opted not to join full-time. He still is on the album as a studio guest.
Upon its release in early 1999, "Sonicflood" (the album) became a runaway success and helped pave the way for a new movement in Modern Praise and Worship music. Suddenly, there were Worship bands forming everywhere and many other artists who had been in the business for awhile began to jump on the Worship train as well.
Why was this album so successful? Because it was something new, different and fully annointed. Besides the original songs "Holy One", "I Have Come To Worship" and "Carried Away", the band offers some outstanding rocked-up versions of "In The Secret" (aka "I Want To Know You"), "Open The Eyes Of My Heart", "Holiness" and Matt Redman's classic "The Heart Of Worship". There are also some notable appearances from Out of Eden's Lisa Kimmey who duets with Jeff Deyo on "I Could Sing Of Your Love Forever" (originally by Delirious) and DC Talk's Kevin Max who provides guest vocals on a tremendous rendition of Bill Gaither's "There's Just Something About That Name".
It is without wonder why Sonicflood's first album struck a chord with so many people. It was and still is a great album and the band's original line-up was its best. After the release of this album, the band added a new bass player Rick Heil. By mid-2000, Jeff Deyo would be forced out of the band which in turn lead to the other three original members leaving. Sonicflood now exists in name only with bassist Rick Heil now singing lead vocals, Todd Shay on guitar, David Alan on keyboards, Brett Vargason on drums and Heil's own bass spot taken by Tom Michael.
The great memories of the original Sonicflood still remain though with this album and its live follow-up "Sonicpraise". "Sonicflood" is definitely a must-have addition to anyone's Worship music collection. It is one of those albums which will probably still be listened to 10 years from now.

This is a great worship CD with an awesome sound.
BUY THIS CD!!! Sonicflood is truly an awesome experience. If your looking for something to bring you to "the heart of worship", this is the CD for you. It has many of today's great worship songs; songs that will bring you into a state of worship no matter what your feeling. The words just carry you away. And although this is a great worship CD, it doesn't have that "praise and worship" kind of sound that you normally associate with that kind of music. Sonic Flood has a unique and amazing sound that is simply captivating. Great sounding music with a great message that can have an amazing impact on your life. It's AWESOME!!!

2 CD that have the same songs, sort of.
This is great R&R music.

OK. Lets clear up some confusion. There is SonicFlood SonicFlood CD and there is SonicFlood SonicPraise. They both have essentially the same songs. If you just want the music go with SonicFlood. If you want an emotional experience I can't describe adequately, buy SonicPraise.

If you really want to thank the band, buy both as I did!

Are we clear?

Why only 4 stars? I am tough on giving out 5 stars. My 5 star rock bands are Skillet, Newsboys and Audio Adrenaline. But Sonic Flood is right there.

More like flooded music.
Yeah at first your like hey I'll check this out......then after you hear the CD your like....whoa....I need to cut off my ears with a sharp, rusty razor blade then plug the holes with corks. Actually I didn't like this CD but hey...why does my opinion count? Because it's a free country! The songs basically repeat themselves just like rap but instead it's soft worship rock. What the hell is this? Soft worship rock? Rock is meant to be hard and heavy. It is written people! Music like this should not be made and if you want to hear this religious bull sh*t go to church and worship that crap!
Yeah I know what most people are thinking right now. Since I put down there band I am going to burn in hell. Oh well....at least I'll be warm HA HA HA!!!
Anyway if you want to listen to religious music just go to a church, these guys should just put down there guitars and drum sticks and go shoot themselves in the head. They don't deserve to be in a band.

666 > Pick Up Sticks : )

SonicFlood ~ -0 stars out of 10 stars

Quite possibly the best album on the market
SONICFLOOD's debut album is simply unbeatable. Every single song has me tapping, bouncing around, drumming on the table, and eventually on my feet dancing. This album is not only the best Christian Rock album I have ever heard, but it blows away any other music I have ever heard. I hesistated to write a review because words can't do it justice.

1. Invocation - Jeff Deyo's short prayer invites one to join in worship of the Lord Jesus Christ whose power is demonstrated by the sheer power of the music to come.
2. I Have Come to Worship - SONICFLOOd's first song is a rock n' roll cover, wasting no time in showing that this group can take any good song and pump it full of power and passion.
3. Holy One - This is the prayer every Christian wants to pray after experiencing the awesome grace of God, captured in a sweet rhythm.
4. I Want to Know You - A simple worship song turned smash hit due to the endless energy and genius skills of the band. This song has not been matched by any other I've ever heard on the radio.
5. My Refuge - This is a SONICFLOOd original, starting somewhat like a traditional worship song and exploding into the worship experience that SONICFLOOd never fails to deliver.
6. I Could Sing of Your Love Forever - The rock and roll turns slightly softer as one of the members of Out of Eden joins Jeff Deyo for a beautiful duet in a Delirious? cover.
7. Holiness - Yet another worship song turned into an amazing worship experience, mostly through the violin climax at the conclusion.
8. Carried Away - The lyrics of this one roll like the ocean (pardon the pun, but you have to hear it to know what I mean) to drive home the idea of immersing oneself in the greatness of God. A good follow-up to "Holiness."
9. Something About That Name - Believe it or not, this one's a Bill Gaither cover, which is the only reason it's probably the weakest song on the CD. But it's still a good song, and Kevin Max of DC Talk harmonizes excellently with Deyo for a cool-sounding chorus.
10. I Need You - This is the most meaningful song to me, and it remains my favorite. The simplicity of the lyrics melt together with the strength of the music, along with harmony thst is a testament to what makes SONICFLOOd what it is. This is my life's creed: "Love, I need Love, You are Love, I need You."
11. Open the Eyes of My Heart - Leading us to the end of the album, the group once again displays remarkable rock n' roll energy in this worship cover.
12. The Heart of Worship - Deyo and a guitar close this worship experience by focusing on what worship really is, and after the song, the band discusses who they are and why they do what they do.

I felt that a play-by-play was the only way to somewhat capture the essence of the band, and even now, I see that I failed to do even that. This group is now completely different, with a change in every member and the record label after their second release, SONICPRAISE. If you don't get this CD, you have no idea what you're missing.

Jeff Deyo has a solo CD, "Saturate," which I recommend, because the passion of SONICFLOOd has found a home in his new band. Aaron Blanton, the sweet drummer, is with a group called By The Tree. The other two members are now doing production work for worship artist Matt Redman. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

AMAZING
The first time I put this cd in I thought maybe Dan the lead singer for Zao had started a new band but its an all new band with a VERY strong likeness to Zao, now don't get me wrong here...I HATE bands that copycat other bands however I think this is just the new "trend" in this style of music. The vocals range from Zao screeches to clean vocals and it is done pretty good and THAT is what makes this band stand out as they aren't something "new" only something Improved and done right! Now Zao doesn't really change vocal styles mid song etc, only the screech vocals sound like Dan from Zao here. For the most part this band isn't a copycat band but rather just a band with a GOOD polish and good songs. If you like this new genre style musically then this is a good cd to devour as the harsh vocals mix well with the clean vocals here instead of clashing like quite a few other bands in this "scene" have a problem with.Check it out its pretty good stuff! I must say that this is ONE of my albums of the year so far! AMAZING

This is some good stuff
Haste the day earned my appreciation after I saw them live with Norma Jean in Kansas City,MO. They were the opening band, but they put on the best show out of all the bands there(beloved,norma jean, dead poetic). Their breakdowns are so intense, and the melody incorporated into this band is beautiful. The only thing I dont like about haste the day is the fact that their lead vocalist sounds exactly like Zao's current lead vocalist. I think that too many hardcore bands nowadays try to do the "throaty zao type" screams. Whatever happened to originality? Anyway, regardless of the un-original lead vocalist I still give this CD 5 stars, because it's just that good.

!buy this!
honestly people, this is on of the best hardcore/metalcore bands i've ever heard. i saw them play a show recently with as i lay dying and zao, and they fit in perfectly. they really know what they're doing, being new to the whole scene, in terms of mathematics, general sound, and... i guess all i can really say is blending all the elements of hardcore into one band. they are great interacting with the crowd, too. for fans of norma jean, dead poetic, zao, living sacrifice, etc... you will not be disappointed! go see them live!

Not to bad for rookies!
This cd is good for a begining band! They can scream to sing to scream again! The drum and guiter work is great. Its great to hear somebody from my area of where I live which is in Indy that can actually rock you! Its not the best I've ever heard in the metal scene but its a really good cd for a band that has never released a full length cd. I was impressed but I can see alittle room for improvement. Thats ok though there young! They have a full career ahead of them! Oh also kotos to the the art work also it looks nice! Check them out there on tour all year and look for them on Headbangers Ball w/there forth coming vedio for the Closet Thing To Clouser.

Reall Good
This is really good thrashy hardcore metal, ala a combo of norma Jean, ZZZZZZao and Dead Poetic. Plus the cover art is cool. Scream along. ... Read more

Amazon.com

When Skillet's John Cooper sings about "worldwide Jesus domination" on the opening track of Alien Youth, you get the feeling he's leading a force seldom seen (or heard) before. That's certainly the case for this fascinating release with few parallels in the Christian music world. Grinding guitars, spacey keyboards, and machine-gun drums are all held together by Cooper's keen sense of melody. It's a lead-heavy release with blast-off tracks like "Rippin Me Off," Skillet's harsh message for Marilyn Manson, plus "Earth Invasion" and "Kill Me Heal Me." Yet Skillet softens the sonic blows with kinder and gentler gems like "You Are My Hope," "Thirst Is Taking Over" and "Will You Be There?" No doubt Cooper and his bandmates have claimed new ground in the name of their Lord. It might be worth catching a ride with this generation of Alien Youth. --Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (60)

Wow...
I fell in love with Skillet when I heard the song Alien Youth. It was abnormal. Different. Loud. Exciting. CHRISTIAN!
One thing that makes me worry about buying a CD is by how many songs I'd actually like, because I'd hate to spend around [$$] for a CD that I only like 2 or 3 songs from. But, I received this CD for Christmas and gave it a shot.
The first track was Alien Youth and got me in the mood to listen to more. Each song had a different sound, yet all had something similar in which makes you able to tell that it is Skillet. Most are loud and rockin'! But I found around 1 or 2 slower songs...but that's about it.
If you are looking for a Christian CD with music style you like (and assuming it is the head-banging, music-rockin, type), I do believe you'd like this CD. But you don't have to take my word for it, check out Amazon's sound samples and check it out for yourself!
Here's an update: I recommended this CD (and Invincible by Skillet) to this guy friend who listens to punk-rock, and he really enjoyed it! So, keep that in mind if you can't decide if you'll like it. =o)

Skillet Does it Again!
One word. ROCKIN'. Nothing more, nothing less. As a precation, do not listen to this album for the first time at full volume. Repeat, DO NOT! "Alien Youth" rocks harder than anything Skillet has done in a while, but maintains the lyrical integrity fans have come to love. Although John Cooper scarcely sings on this album (the vocals are better described as a screaming), the message still stands, and God comes out on top again. The title song comes from the verse in Peter where he encourages Christians to be "aliens," or foreigners, to the secular world. "Alien Youth" narrates the domination of those aliens taking control of the world, an analogy of Christians being aggressive witnesses. Comical to some, but encouraging to the rest. This album is comparable to some of the harder rock bands in the secular market (Disturbed, Linkin Park) and not unlike the sounds of POD and Project 86, with a Skillet techno-twist, of course. And there are some slow songs for those of you who can't dwell in the distortion and screaming. Don't get me wrong, I love this album, and it is surely worth a try, if you dare.

the best skillet cd
i just got this cd the other day and i have to say this is one of the best rock cds that i own.john cooper is just flat out amazing...track by track here is my review

1.an amazing opener,fast paced,plenty of hype 9/10
2.this one is not the best,but it is still a good song 7/10
3.electro-rock...nice song. 9.5/10
4.praise and worship before it was the thing 8/10
5.here is an awsome song...very strange,but still awsome. 10/10
6.personal fav. 11/10
7.outstanding song about having a thirst for christ. 10/10
8.this one has a cool vibe to it.nice song. 8/10
9.well,this one is about as close to nine inch nails as you can get.not my fav. 7/10
10.not bad,pretty cool...YOU SAY THAT GAD IS DEAD BUT YOUR RIPPEN ME OFF. 8/10
11.nice slaw song. 10/10
12.same here 10/10

Prepare for the Earth Invasion
This has to be one of the best Christian music CDs out there. One reason why Alien Youth is such a great CD is because it is so unique. How many Christian Indrustrial/Electronic/rock bands are there out there? Still thinking? That's 'cuz Skillet is the only one... or was... I was dissapointed in Collide, but this review is for Alien Youth, so anyway. There's a few hard hitting songs like Vapor, Earth Invasion, Eating Me Away, etc. and a few softer ones like You are My Hope, Will You Be there, etc. Overall Skillet retains a good mix of electronica/industrial and rock, and combined with worshipful lyrics this is CD definitely stands out from the crowd. It's one of my favourites.

You Say God Is Dead, But Skillet Says NO!
The First album I ever got by these guys was "Collide" and it was just great. All of the songs on "Collide" Are Awsome and all of them speak to you in a different way. "Alien Youth" is an absolutly perfect name for this album. The first song named "Alien Youth" hits your ears with grinding guitars and talented drumming. With the first words of this track "The Aliens Have Landed" you know this is not your normal avarage everyday christian band, they are better. Skillet porves that they can rock with the best of them and also prove that they have the talent to keep making albums for years to come. As you skip through every track on this album has a Post-Industrial sound to it almost as if they where on the verge of making a Nine Inch Nails album that is centered around the love of GOD! By far the best tracks on the album are "Stronger" and "Rippin Me Off". At first listen on Stronger it sounds as if he is trying to say he is God, but at a closer listen he is saying that with God he is Stronger than the Devil. This song also has a Nine Inch Nails-ish sound to it with the synth and guitar and vocals all roled into one. The musical talent of Skillet has greatly imporved from there first album wich in my opinion was a weak way to start off a carrer in music. You can definatly tell that in the song "Rippin Me Off" that they are mocking the Nine Inch Nails song "Heresy" by saying "You Say God Is Dead But Your Rippin Me Off. You Can't Infect My Mind With Your Vanity". I used to be a big fan of Nine Inch Nails, and this band has showen that you can still be christian and play great Industrial music. In conclusion this is the best Skillet album I have ever boughten and if you are a fan of Skillet and do not already have thsi album then PICK IT UP! You will not be disapointed by this album. Skillet if for fans of Nine Inch Nails, Rob Zombie, Creed, Thousand Foot Krutch, Blindside, Three Days Grace, The Blank Theroy, and Korn. There are many more bands that if you like them you would like Skillet. So Take my word for it, This is a GREAT Album. ... Read more

Amazon.com

It's amazing what gathering healthy record company resources can do for good music. As evidenced with the first incantation of Fireproof, a band can work hard as an independent and release a quality product only to see it reach a relative few ears. With MCA behind them, Midwestern metalheads Pillar have re-released Fireproof with improved production and mixing and a final product as good as anything on the market. Even though the stylistic references to Limp Bizkit ("Light at My Feet"), P.O.D. ("Fireproof"), and Linkin Park ("Echelon") are frequent, they strike out enough of their own turf with a rock-solid rhythm from bassist Kalel and tastefully sharp guitar licks from Noah Henson. Singer Rob Beckley carries the vocal intensity and range to match his bandmates' raw power. He's also down with the bass-heavy groove as you'll hear on "Stay Up," a rapid-fire duet with rapper KJ-52. With Fireproof, Pillar rises to the forefront of today's best Christian rock bands. Isn't it funny how a new suit of clothes can make the man, or in this case, the band? --Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (20)

the perfect album
this cd blew me away. i didn't think it was possible, but it's even better than the original fireproof cd from last year - completely flawless! a lot of the songs are really juiced up, but some sound so different. "a shame" is almost a different song altogether, and it's better than before. i love the new effects for "behind closed doors" and "hindsight". there are even 2 remixes of "fireproof" on this cd. and the dvd is incredible. you need to buy this.

Awesome Christian Lyrics + Hard Rock
If you are looking for a band with awesome Christian lyrics and the heavy metal sound, then look no further. You have stumbled across one of the greatest Christian Heavy Metal bands. Better than P.O.D. (who don't have the GREATEST of lyrics [i own their newest CD]) and Blindside is Pillar! Pillar has some of the greatest lyrics! And these lyrics ACTUALLY make sense! Don't believe me? Buy this CD and find out for yourself, soon you'll be back here typing up your own review...

Go ahead! Grab this amazingly priced cd!

Rocks............just not as hard as i thought it would
this is a very good rap rock cd, but by the way ppl were talkin about it, i thought it was goin 2 b harder. 4 all u normal pp this is a nice cd 2 headbang 2 (about as hard as linkin park), but 4 metalheads like me, this cd is a nice relaxing break from death metal and thrash

This one is good, but Where do we go from Here is Amazing!
This album was the breakthrough album for Pillar, but the newest album, Where do we go from Here is by far the best. It's coming out June 15, but you can listen to a stream of it here. If you are a fan of Pillar, you will love the newest album but if you are deciding where to start with Pillar, I would definitely go for Where do we go from Here.

Pillar = Christian Linkin Park
This is my sincere opinion, and actually I would rank meteora similiarly (3 stars), because both feature catchy (not deep) tunes, and lyrics that don't require a second's thought to interpret. I will always listen to Linkin Park instead, because I prefer rehashed teenage angst to preaching. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Jars of Clay admirably stretched the boundaries of Christian pop music when their self-titled debut scaled the charts in 1995. Two releases later, the group's peculiar yet appealing brand of alt-acoustic-Christpop remains a study in irony: relatively simple on the outside, brooding and introspective on the inside. If I Left the Zoo returns to form with a renewed focus on songwriting; the disc is a stripped-down and more organic effort than the richly layered but equally rewarding Much Afraid (1997). The opening song "Goodbye, Goodnight," with its lighthearted accordion and mandolin, quickly sets the tone. While the tune itself is a sprightly sing-along, lyrically the Jars hit you with end-of-the-millennium social commentary ("Raise a glass for ignorance / drink a toast to fear / The beginning of the end has come / that's why we all are here"). The oddly attractive "Unforgetful You," the bittersweet "Famous Last Words," and the melodic rocker "Can't Erase It" are sure-fire radio hits. While the playful, digestible quality of the band's music is undeniable, they've become equally effective as songwriters for a generation. --Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (191)

whatever!
I've been reading the reviews for this CD, and I'm amazed at what some people are saying.. This is JARS OF CLAY we're talking here--their songs are all about God, NOT human love. Even if these songs are mainstream hits, they retain their Christianity, and Jars of Clay are by no means sellouts. That said, I'm really proud of these guys for stepping out of their mold. They easily could have stayed in their very comfortable and highly popular debut sound, but they chose to grow, and I applaud their efforts. I love how much fun they had with this album.. My favorite song is "Unforgetful You," which illustrates the JOC fun side, but the album is full of awesome songs. The lyrics run deep, the music is diverse and impressing, and all in all, this album is unmistakably Jars of Clay. I loved the first few singles, then was confused (overwhelmed, perhaps), when I heard the entire album, with the slower, introspective songs for the first time. The more I listen to it, however, the more I love it. This CD is totally worth the money!

If I Left the Zoo
Jars of Clay visits the zoo in this excellent compilation of soft rock hits that has now won them a few much due awards and a bit more spotlight.
The talented quatrain displays their beautiful gifts starting with Goodbye, Goodnight. The listener gets a feeling of a catchy song about going off to war. Unforgetful You a number one chart topping soundtrack song for the teen flick staring Melissa Joan Hart, is a playful love song with the band's original tone and beat. Collide, No One Loves Me Like You, Grace and River Constantine round out the slow songs. Sad Clown is an extremely slow but very good song, although it strikes the listener as also very sad. Famous Last Words "I'm not ready yet." A personal favorite, and in my opinion second only to the hip and energetic cut I'm Alright (that comes in on the album just in time to save it from becoming too slow) but slightly beating out Hand a medium paced tub-thumper.
All the songs on this particular album are intelligent and entertaining but also slow, for me, only in respect to the fact that my favorite music selections are of the hard rock or even hard alternative persuasion including but not limited to: Incubus, Creed, Third Day, Switchfoot, Everclear, Goo Goo Dolls, Meet the Frantics, Dexter Freebish, Audio Adrenaline, Dc Talk, Fuel, Jimmy Eat World, and Newsboys. Some of my slower rock favorites are as follows: Vertical Horizon, PFR, Our Lady Peace, Riley Armstrong, Caedmon's Call, The Elms, and Sunday Drive.

This CD has a lot of powerful stuff but it just doesn't pack the punch listeners might expect or want from hits like Flood off their first major self-titled release.

AWESOME!
This is a CREATIVE Christian band...So many other Christian Bands attempt to take a secular group's style and make it Christian, to attract secular listeners. Jars of Clay can attract any crowd, Christian or non-Christian because of their unique sound and creative lyrics. This CD is one of my favorites...all of their CD's are awesome but this one really speaks to you...the lyrics are deep and poetic. No clichés here. At times their sound goes from Jazz to pop and from Rock to Blue Grass / Gospel... Their great vocal harmony gives them a professional polish. In addition to vocal talent, this band mixes all sorts of untraditional instruments with traditional rock instruments...They successfully blend accordions, toy pianos, organs with drums and guitars...Their sound is fresh and their spiritual music reaches out to you... They're awesome.

falls short of expectations
I'm all for expanding your horizons and adding new musical influences to the reportoire but JOC overstay their best intentions on this release. In several articles leading up to this release, Dan and Co. claimed they really wanted to introduce similar concepts to their music that helped create their own passion for the art(s). I definitely recognize the country western influence immediately (ie: mandolin and such) but the classic typecasted JOC sound still has a place in all of JOCs fans' hearts, and they just didn't take into consideration that the new sounds should have been incorporated by paying homage to the foundation by which they have become a Christian household name. These guys are amazing live, and I haven't found (contrary to many other reviews) that much of a bluesy & C/W influence in their live set. It appears to take the safe approach, with special emphasis placed on that original JOC sound that can be found on their two first landmark albums, Self-Titled and Much Afraid. The exception of course would be the fact that they can express themselves artistically by extending many of their classics and turning a short number into a legendary jam session filled with tastes of their musical influences. This still appears to be absent of any definitive exploration into other musical genres. Yes, they experiment but mostly while paying attention to the very reason they have come to make it this far - the first two albums.
Zoo is a compilation of misdirected intentions, or unfulfilled efforts. This is of course my opinion based on seven years of following their work. Certainly not a blind claim. Furthermore (JOC offerings in their most pure state) is a much better investment, and NOT because it can also be considered a greatest hits compilation. Any JOC enthusiast will tell you that there are several GH-caliber types of songs that made it off the collection.
Order Furthermore today, at least before you try out Zoo.

great cd
This cd is absolutly wonderful! The lyrics and outstanding music are simply refreshing. Every Jars of Clay cd I have bought is among my favorite cds! They are just a great band and all of their music is great. This is music I can groove to while driving, listen to as I go to sleep, or while I surf the web! Once again, the song writer has mangaged to turn out thought provoking lyrics and combined them with cool background music. Must buy this cd. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

WITHOUT A DOUBT THE GREATEST GOSPEL SONGWRITER OF OUR TIMES
As so many of us can say "I grew up on Andrae's Music!" Listening to this album takes me back to my teenage days. We just couldn't wait to hear what new music Andrae would come out with. His music has always been on the cutting edge, but has always stayed true to God's annointed word. Even today he still continues to listen to God and spread his message. Thankyou Andrae. If you don't have this recording, you're missing out. Get it & BE BLESSED!!!

The Kirk Franklin of the 70s-Great stuff
When I was a kid, our youth choir was known as "The Disciples" and we modeled ourselves on Crouch & co. "Though It All" Jesus Is The Answer" and "Take Me Back" were all part of our repotoire.(Ironically, Crouch and crew were criticized as Kirk Fraklin is today for making their music "too modern." Even though I'm no longer with the church, I still love this music and it's sincere praise of God.

cornerstone
The songs on this recording are what I concider to be the cornerstone of Christian music as we know it today. With songs such as "Through it all", "Jesus is the answer", and "Take me back" to his credit, (which are all personal favs of mine), Andrae Crouch has established himself as the trend-setter for many gospel artists who have come along since. Without the songs Mr. Crouch put out on recordings such as this, gospel music WOULD NOT be where it is today, period! ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

This is the one, the album Michael W. Smith has always wanted to make. Put simply, Live the Life is a masterpiece. The Christian music star has finally meshed his impressive songwriting skills and limited but effective singing with a tasteful producer's ear. The anthemic "Missing Person" sets the tone: Smith is playing for keeps. Guitars, not keyboards, play a large role on this release, as evidenced by Smith's cowriting with the vastly underrated Brent Bourgeois on "Live the Life," "Don't Give Up," and "Matter of Time." On the rest, Smith shares songwriting duties with master musician Wayne Kirkpatrick. Each number carries a depth unparalleled and showcases Smith's maturation. Fast, slow, happy, sad, quiet, and loud: you have it all on Live the Life. --Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (131)

Beautiful album--highly recommended
What can I say? I haven't listened to Michael W. Smith for years--I'm not even Christian. But this album contains some beautiful pieces with thoughtful lyrics. There are songs for people at every stage of life, every age, in many different situations. "Missing Person" speaks to the childlike sense of wonder, trust, and faith that so many of us buried under layers of skepticism and "reality" as we grew older. "Hello, Good-Bye" will bring tears to the eyes of anyone who has ever had to endure the loss of a child or sibling. "I Know Your Name" offers gentle encouragement for anyone--but especially adolescents--who are going through those feelings of isolation so prevalent during teenage years. My favorite is probably the haunting "In My Arms Again." Written for Titanic (and unfortunately not used), this song captures a little part of the longing that people feel when they have lost someone who they loved dearly. Also, in this age of global travel and networking, this track can help soothe the souls of those who are currently involved in long-distance relationships. It's worth buying the album for this song alone.

If you're looking for the teenybopper pop sound (which was--dare I say it--present on some of MWS's previous releases), this album is not for you. If, however, you're looking for well-done, inspirational contemporary music (not even going to say "Christian" here because you certainly don't have to be a Christian to appreciate this album), you've found it in "Live The Life."

Good for young and ancient people
Stupendous. Magnificent. Awesome. Beautiful. Amazing. This is MWS at his best. Live the Life is a wonderful CD that I would suggest to anyone. I especially like the title track, In my arms again(song written for the movie Titanic), For Rich(an instrumental piece written for Rich Mullins), and the sweet Hello,Goodbye(A song written for his friend's son Noah, who died after 2 and a half days). If you are famillar with his previous recordings, It's a lot different. If you compare it with i 2 eye, It's got way less percussion. Some of the songs are similar to I'll lead you home, and the first decade CD has a lot that sounds like it. His style I think he based off of Rich Mullin's songs, because some of it sounds a lot like his stuff, especially when you compare Step By Step and Live the Life. If you don't generally listen to Christian music, He's the old dude with glasses who sang, Go west, young man. He sounds much better then Backstreet Boys, N'sync, Five, 98 degrees, and all the others, believe me, I listen to the radio. Not to mention he writes his own songs, not like those preppy boy bands that get other people to write songs for them.... Sorry, That's a pet peeve of mine. He has a very up to date sound in this CD, and yet he still has a folksy sort of rhythm on some of his stuff, like Matter of Time, and Never Been Unloved. It's good for both young people(Hey I'm 12, and I've been listening to him since I was 2) and for old people(my MOM and DAD like his stuff.) He sounds a bit like Steven Curtis Chapman with a lower voice, not to mention he's got way more CD's out. And for the atheist guy who wrote a review, you're an idiot to be able to listen to this CD and not believe in Jesus. I'm a Jesus Freak, and he rocks.

Live The Life Review
This cd is one of my favorite ones that Michael W. Smith has released. I find a lot of the songs to be insightful, heart-felt, moving, and the level of emotional content on here is absolutely amazing. Listening to it, I can tell that a lot of work and thought was put into these songs. Anyone struggling with issues of faith, finding yourself, loss, anonymity, or uncertainty will probably get something out of this if they really listen. The songs I Know Your Name, Missing Person, and Hello Goodbye are my favorites, but I like the whole cd. If you want a good love song, there are a couple of them there too. If a good cry is more what you're after, Hello, Goodbye will certainly provide that, at least it did for me as it dealt with the loss of a child. Overall, I'm really glad I bought this. I have owned it for a long time, listened to it for a long time, would probably have worn it out if it had been a tape or if you could do such a thing to a cd. I find that each time I've listened to it I can draw out something new. If you are considering purchasing this, I hope you will be as inspired by it as I am.

A Top Notch Smitty Album!
I recently started listening to Michael W. Smith, and I asked for "Live the Life" as a Christmas present. I had read the reviews on Amazon[.com], and couldn't wait to hear this one. I was not disappointed! This album certainly lived up to all the positive reviews. Someone mentioned that this was the album Smitty was born to make, and I agree wholeheartedly! The songs are very spiritual, the melodies unforgettable. They range from spirited tunes, to lovely ballads. I very highly recommend this album to anyone who loves Smitty's music, and to anyone who has never heard him and would like to try out one of his albums. I guarantee you will love it!

Awesome!
I have been a Michael W. Smith fan for about 15 years, and this is by far my favorite MWS album. My very favorite song on this one is #10 In My Arms, with several others coming close (Live the Life, I Know Your Name, Missing Person). The production is so full and lush... really a great one! ... Read more

Reviews (14)

The ESSENTIAL Praise Music for the New Generation

I've had the British releases of these albums for three years now, and they are the ultimate praise and worship collection for today's generation. If you don't know much about Delirious, you may find that you recognize many of these songs from your church or youth group. This album will make you clap and dance, kneel and pray. This music has made a huge impact on my life. God touches people through these song and Biblical lyrics, especially young people who are burnt out and searching. You will find yourself free to be honest with God about most everything, and you will feel Him in your life. Many of these songs are like love songs to Jesus, and they remind me of how in love I am with God. Imagine great pop songs that are about eternal things, and this is the music you get. Need spiritual renewal? Want to sing to your Savior? This music is the best, there is just nothing like it.

The Sonic Tidal Wave
This is one of the best collections of worship music from one of the world's best worship bands! The songs are from all the mini-albums that Deliriou5? released when they were still a minor English band called "Cutting Edge" (name changed 1-1-96), plus a few songs after that. Their style (especially on albums after this one) is very similar to U2: lots of guitar and real music in the background. The CD jacket includes all the lyrics and the story of the band's formation and growth. As for the songs... there's not enough good that can be said about them! From peppy songs like "Shout to the North" and "I've Found Jesus" to the deeply heartfelt "You Split The Earth" and "Obsession," I could listen to this collection for hours. And of course, it includes what the jacket calls "THE song of that summer [1996]...a sonic tidal wave, a spiritual battering ram...'Did You Feel The Mountains Tremble?' ", which is without doubt the best song on the CD and one of my absolute favorite worship songs. In short, buy this CD!

this is what it's about
Not much to say, except that this is an album to get. It will have some songs that are familiar to most, and many that aren't. But that's the beauty of it. Martin Smith writes well, and expresses the feelings of his heart. He loves God, and desires nothing but to chase after Him. Such a yearning is what worship is about.

Awesome Modern Christian Worship Band
Simply put, this album is a great example of a modern worship band's ability to make great music. I have spent several years searching for Christian bands that can play music that appeals to me. Raised on alternative rock music, for years I considered Christian music weak. Delirious is one of the bands that has changed my mind.

I really like this album because it has so many strong songs, and a wide range of music from the band. I do not like every single song on both discs, but I am very impressed with the overall album. Songs like "I found Jesus", "The Happy Song", "I Could Sing of Your Love Forever", and "What is this thing called love?" really opened my eyes about modern Christian music.

I highly recommend this album to any Deliriuous fan, or anyone looking for a Christian band that is making great music these days. If you have never bought a Christian album before, take a chance with this one. It just may surprise you.

Passionate Worship
The Cutting Edge CD's represent probably the best worship music produced by Delirious right at the beginning of their life as a band. The CD has joyous songs of celebration like the Happy Song, I've Found Jesus and Louder than the Radio as well as intense songs like Obsession. The songs on these CDs are packed with energy and emotion. One of the best CD sets I've ever bought. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Amazing.
This cd is one of the most amazing I have ever heard. When at Starfield's concert for the first time, I heard them and ran to go but the cd, praying it was as good recorded as in person. I was not disappointed! These guys are the nicest you would ever want to meet (as there was also a meet n' greet line), the lyrics and music have changed my life, and I rarely listen to anyone else anymore... Though some people might think the style is pretty close to some other major artist around, they have a very original sound, the lyrics have so much meaning, but what I can't get over is the voice quality.. it is truly the most beautiful voice I have heard.

Passionate modern rock with a heart for worship.
Hailing from Canada as one of the top independent acts of 2003 and recipients of 6 Vibe Awards (Canada's equivalent of the GMA Music Awards / Dove Awards), Starfield brings their passionate sound to listeners in the U.S., having recently inked a deal with EMI/Sparrow records.

Truth be known, Starfield does compare almost too closely to some of the current top bands in the industry (Chris Tomlin, Delirious, Mercy Me and others come to mind), but they come off sounding so good that it really doesn't matter. Don't let the comparisons fool you into thinking that this CD lacks originality, because there is much worth noting here. Starfield's self titled debut is anything but boring. In fact, this is easily one of the most exciting albums of 2004. Comprised of brothers Tim and Jon Neufeld, John Andrews and Shaun Huberts, Starfield has penned lyrics which are thoughtful and clever, conveying truths and personal experiences with a personal God. The lyrics, at times, become conversational, as though you are listening in on a conversation between them and their Creator. The music itself is consistently catchy, layered with a variety of instrumentation, from streams of electric guitar, lush orchestration, subtle touches of cello, to bursts of acoustic guitar. The songs range from modern rock (Revolution), to acoustic ballads (Over My Head), to raw, beautiful worship fare (Cry In My Heart). Some may argue that this results in an uneven mix of rock and worship, but Starfield uses this to their advantage by creating a welcome variety of themes and sounds for the listener. The opening track, "Filled With Your Glory" is one of the best worship songs to be released this year. With contagious melodies and tight vocal harmonies, Starfield brings the listener on an enjoyable journey through 11 well produced tracks (Matt Bronleewe, producer). With much potential, it will certainly be exciting to watch Starfield continue to develop in years to come. Definitely one of the strongest debut's since Jars of Clay's self titled debut in 1995. Highly recommended.

Awesome Christian Band
I love this CD. I bought it on a whim, and hoped that I liked it and ended up loving it. If you like Jars, you will love this. I truely reccomend it and every song has become a favorite.

insightful and honest lyrics
Starfield's first release in the US tops their already successful independent releases in Canada. Brothers Jon and Tim join their talents with band members John and Shaun to create a sound that is both soothing and energetic. All of the songs are spiritually insightful. They are not manufactured but honest and real. The lyrics speak of our struggle to glorify God with our lives and the pressure of succumbing and living an "Ordinary Life," as one song is titled. "Tumbling After" expresses a lot of what I often try to but can't quite get into words: "I'm falling down, tumbling after you, I'm overwhelmed, tripping over simple truth, in all I've found, there's nothing that's more beautiful than what I've found in you." "Revolution" is the most upbeat song on the cd. Listening to it makes you want to get up and get moving to make a difference in this world. I highly recommend this cd. If you are looking for something uplifting with a great sound, you'll enjoy Starfield's self-titled debut.

Beautiful
This is a collection of beautifully written songs that are beautifully sung and masterfully produced. I purchased their first CD a year ago (independently released) and I still love it a year later. These songs come from a deep place and are amazing as art and as worship. ... Read more

Amazon.com

We've come to expect excellence from the WOW releases, which annually define the state of Christian music in the Word Entertainment world. WOW 2002 proclaims that all is well in the state and backs up the assertion with some 30 tracks. The red disc contains mostly hits tracks, while the gold disc features more adult contemporary numbers. It's nice to see Joy Williams's wonderful "Serious" single included on the red disc, as well as Nicole C. Mullen's underrated "Witness." One of the year's best singles, "All You Got" from Tait, also anchors the red disc. The gold disc's highlights include "This Day" by Steven Curtis Chapman, "We Delight" by Caedmon's Call, and Bebo Norman's "Cover Me." It's really hard to go wrong here, and if you're trying to show a skeptic that Jesus freaks can make mighty "joyful noise," this is the CD to share with them. --Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (40)

One of the best of the WOW Series.
Contemporary Christian music involves such a varied range of styles and mood that to offer a fair and enjoyable sampling is a tough task. In the past, the songs released on WOW anthologies have been conservative at best, profiling mostly the mainstream pop samples of the industry's top artists. With WOW 2002 (and its amazing 2001 predecessor -- which is why my review of this and 2001's issue are pretty similar), listeners who prefer their music a little louder and more energetic are, at last, given attention! Like 2001's sampling, the heavier tunes are mostly centered within one disc, whereas the more mainstream pop tunes on the other. This is an excellent idea, as people can have a "favorite" of the two discs based on their style. Overall the songs flow well together, and you're left with the sense that much care was taken to make this an overall enjoyable, and educational experience. It's a nice feeling to be able to praise God while at the same time slapping your hands on the steering wheel!

Severe disappointment
WoW has always catered towards the more popular groups, but this time was too much. I love all three dc Talk solo albums, but why put one song by each member? Then other groups get overlooked.

I also had many of the songs already, so I didn't think it was worth it to get the remaining tunes.

I would say this is a good sampler of the popular Christian market. However, some of the song choices are strange and aren't the artist/band's greatest hit.

I wouldn't give this CD much for creativity and surprise (other than a few strange choices that are supposedly last years "hit songs"); musically it represents the most popular in Christian music. And that is what WoW has always done in the past.

Decent
This album is decent. i would rather listen to 2003 of Wow, since there is way more music. This is a beginning set into the world, yet there is much rock music to be notice.

Not Wow, but Oh My Gosh 2002!
This was the first Christian CD I've ever got, and I immediately fell in love with it. It's how I came to learn about Christian artists and groups. I loved the track by Zoegirl, Elms, and Jennifer Knapp. I could listen to the whole thing for hours and not get tired of it. About 15 times better than Wow 1996 and diverse like nothing else. DEFINITELY a recommendation.

Good for alternative Christain
this is a great cd but the songs just don't fit with me. I like more worship songs like "Did You Feel the Mountains Tremble" and songs like that. Im not into the whole christian pop and alternative. Like I said it still has some pretty good songs you may like. If your an alternative Christain fan like "Newsboys" get this but if you like more worship I recommend the cd "I Could Sing of Your Love Forever," or "Wow Worship." ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Flashback to Nineteen Nine Five
...I normally do not review "old" albums, but I will make an exception with this masterpiece. The Grammy series has seen both ends of the spectrum and this editon is conpletely flawless. There is not one song on this album that I disapprove of. I did not listen to music back in 1995, this album makes me wish that I did. An analysis of these classic tracks:
1.Mariah Carey & Boyz II Men"One Sweet Day"A-.Beautiful,that is the only word to describe the powerful and masterful work.No wonder it was #1 for 16 Weeks in that year.
2.Coolio feat. L.V."Gangsta's Paradise"A+.This bangin' summer track was THE best song of 1995.Right from the chilling beat to the deep lyrics,this song is what rap should be.Surprising that the Academy was bold enough to give this a Record Of The Year nod.
3.Joan Osborne"One Of Us"A-.She may have been forgotten,but this song is easily a classic.Everyone knows the words to this inventive and inspired theological track.It does pose a very good idea about God.
4.Seal"Kiss From A Rose"A.The song may be ungainly in construction,but it is graceful in delivery.It is one of those songs that just plain resounds with you and uses some brilliant "images".
5.TLC"Waterfalls"A.Since Lisa Lopez has passed a way the group is in danger.The is one the best R&B songs of the '90s.The message seems verey heartfelt whlie the lyrics and horn arangments provide a perfect vehicle for it.
6.All-4-One"I Can Love You Like That"A.They may have been second compared to Boyz II Men, but this a superb and perfect slow dance song.Very well done.
7.Michael Jackson"You Are Not Alone"A-.In the midst of all his legal troubles,here is reminder of his talent.MJ singing R.Kelly's emotional lyrics make this a terrific song choice.
8.Alanis Morissette"You Oughta Know"A.It's no mystery why Alanis was such a huge hit with everyone.This song shows the kind of rage and straight forward attitude most females don't have. Truly a one of a kind song.
9.Brandy"Baby"A-.The song shrinks in comparison to "The Boy Is Mine" and "What About Us?",still it is very catchy and slick in it's production.
10.Hootie & The Blowfish"Let Her Cry"B.When "Cracked Rear View" sold 12 Million copies,no one predicted them to be on the bottom of the bargain bin now.This song is not original or spectacular,but it delivers what it promises to.

11.Shania Twain"Any Man Of Mine"A-.This early track from Shania may not have been her best,but it shows true talent and a lot of potential as an artist.
Bottom Line:****.A perfect album, shows that sometimes less can be more(it only has 11 songs). Grammy got it right way back in 1995!

Good Year
This was a good year at the Grammy's. Alanis, Mariah, and other created a good mix of music for this album, and I was glad to actually see some diversity at the award show. "One Sweet Day" "You Are Not Alone" "Any Man of Mine" "You Oughta Know" and "One of Us" are the sweet spots on the album. A good year for the Grammy's.

Memories Come to Life
my step sister would always come over to my house and play this CD non stop. i grew up on this CD, literally. I developed my ear for hip hop, my first true love. i remember rapping to Left Eye's rap from Waterfall in my living room. i still know every lyric to this CD even today. "Kiss from a Rose" by Seal and "One Sweet Day" by Boyz II Men feat. Mariah Carey are my favorite romantic songs ever. And "One of Us" literally changed my life. It made me think philosophically at such a young age. i was such a hip hop baby. I remember rapping in the car to "Gangsta's Paradise" over and over again until my mom yelled at me. This CD is magical in my opinion. its the ultimate CD for any collection and i advise everyone to have it.

Trip down memory lane 1996
This collection is full of nostalgic treats for those of you who cherish every year of your life, and this is somewhat a soundtrack to the year 1996, in my opinion. It was my freshman year of college when these songs were popular and each track brings back so many memories. 1996 was a very musically exciting year and this collection alone just doesn't cover it all. We had the alternative and grunge explosion, killer hip hop beats and the euro scene was arising, where it would become dominant in 1997. From Alanis to Coolio to Joan Osbourne to Hootie & The Blowfish and so many excellent artists of that year, this is a must-have for a sampling of what was great in 1996.

Good compilation.
Another great Grammy album. 11 good songs from the Grammy nominated songs of 1996. The categories are "Record of the year", "Song of the year" and "Best new artist". Featuring artists as diverse as Coolio and Shania Twain, it makes for a good mix. Something for most tastes. ... Read more

Reviews (30)

With or without this one...
I know this CD is for a good cause (God bless them all) and I enjoy most of the artists who are on it, but I'm not as impressed as I thought I would be. There are a few tracks on this album that do U2's music justice, but the rest kind of fall short. It's not because I'm a U2 snob, but I think that the best covers are when you take an awesome piece of music (which U2 has a lot of) and put your own spin on it. I think that too many of these bands, who are very talented in their own right, tried to be U2 instead of being themselves playing a U2 song. And in my opinion, NOBODY else (well, looks like I may be a U2 snob after all) can be U2. However, U2's music can be covered well if you're not afraid of doing your own thing and expressing the emotion/message behind the song instead of trying to imitate The Edge's guitar licks and Bono's vocal style. *climbing off soapbox* =)

Sunday Bloody Sunday - Pillar *****
Beautiful Day - Sanctus Real **
40 - Starfield ***
Gloria - Audio Adrenaline **
Grace - Nichole Nordeman ***
Love Is Blindness - Sixpence None The Richer *****
All I Want Is You - Jars of Clay ****
Mysterious Ways - Toby Mac **
Pride (In The Name Of Love) - Delirious? **
One - Tait ***
With Or Without You - Grits featuring Jadyn Maria ***
When Love Comes To Town - Todd Agnew *
Where The Streets Have No Name - Chris Tomlin **

terrible and disgustlingly bad
i would rather beat my face on a post than listen to these
terrible covers.
sanctus real and delirious are the only ones that dont
make me want to die.
why would anyone make a rapper sing a U2 song
im ashamed that i paid money for this cd.
all these covers are by terrible bands that have no talent
and wish they were as sweet as U2
i wish this cd was never born

Step Right Up! Who can do their best Bono impression?
I really wanted to give this album a 5 star rating, I did... but when you hear Grits cover... you just can't. Let's address what this album is really about. It's for every Christian artist to do their favorite Bono impression. With many dreams fulfilled, I won't even address the crappy remade versions (11, 3). So to start us off the list we'll skip to the second track because Pillar did a good job. 2. Beautiful Day- Sanctus Real: Horribly awful. I remember the first time I heard this song on KLOVE and just had that awkward feeling for them. "I hope they can rebound after ruining this song" 3. 40- Starfield: Sounds like U2, even drags the vowels out! A+ for effort. 5. Gloria- A.A.: Doesn't sound like U2, but just an amazing cover. The best song on this darn cd! 6. All I Want is You- Jars of Clay: Second greatest song on this cd. As my favorite band, I love having them redo a more boring and crappy U2 song. With a little drawl on the vocals, Dan almost sounds like U2, but still keeps his dignity by not OVERALLY copying Bono. Also, thank you for making this song the blues song it should've always been, BAD EDGE! 7. Mysterious Ways- Toby Mac: Crap, crap and THEN he starts to sing/rap. This is such an awful cheesy Bono impression it makes me laugh. It just sucks. But for humor factor alone I give it an A+ 8. Pride- Delirious?: This one is too easy. Marty, I give you an A+ for always sounding like Bono and showing your U2 pipes on this version! 9. One- Tait: You tried soo hard, but you just have a bad singing voice. Have never been a Tait fan, and ruining "One" doesn't help. 10. When Love Comes to Town- Todd Agnew: CRAZY good. This version is worth buying the album alone. He does his own version and it stands alone with the other top two as great covers (Dare I say SRV guitar lead?). 11. Where the Streets- Chris Tomlin: He tries, he tries really hard... he almost gets there, but Chris just doesn't sound like Bono. His band does, but if you are a Tomlin fan like me, you'll still like hearing his voice on this top 5 U2 song.

better and better...
With every listening, I like this album better and better. As is almost always true, when one loves an artist like U2, as I do, one most often loves their renditions of their songs best. But, by listening to these very different and very wonderful renditions of some of the best U2 songs ever, I now have an even better appreciation for the lyrics and the meanings of these classics. The cover artists chosen for this album are excellent. And, the fact that $.50 of each album goes to World Vision's efforts to fight AIDS in Africa makes this a deeply meaningful and worthwhile musical effort on many levels. I love it!

An Impressive Tribute.
U2 is considered the biggest rock band in the world, but it turns out the Irish rockers are also a big influence on Christian artists, after all they are considered one of the most spiritually aware bands of recent times. "In The Name Of Love" is both a tribute and interesting charity item, but one worth buying. What we get here is a very good album featuring talented musicians performing some U2 classics but with every purchase 50 cents are donated to World Vision to help fight the AIDS crisis in Africa. As an album it's very impressive and well-produced. Pillar kick things off with a heavy, crunching "Sunday Bloody Sunday" which has a Metallica vibe running through-out. A discovery here is the new band Starfield who deliver an inspiring rendition of "40" with lyrics U2 borrowed from the Pslams. Sixpence None The Richer show off their darker side with a stylish, brilliant "Love Is Blindness" which features some notable vocals by Leigh Nash which are very atmospheric, almost etheral. Some of the artists like Delirious and Chris Tomlin stay pretty much faithful to the U2 sound with their covers of "Pride (In The Name Of Love)" and "Where The Streets Have No Name" while Grits totally remix "With Or Without You" into some kind of R&B tune that has good vocals but doesn't fully deliver. Sanctus Real also disappoint with a Punkish "Beautiful Day," the feeling is that it's a style that doesn't fit with the song. Michael Tait does an excellent "One" that keeps the spirit of the original with Tait adding his own flavors, the same goes for Tobymac's funky "Mysterious Ways." Nichole Nordeman does a truly beautiful job on "Grace," she perfectly captures a sense of real emotion with the song. Audio Adrenaline rip through "Gloria," keeping the almost hymn-like aura but turning it into a scorching rocker. Jars Of Clay tone things down for a bluesy, midnight rendition of "All I Want Is You." What the album exemplifies is how contemporary Christian music is reaching a point where the production quality is getting just as good as what we find in the secular markets. "In The Name Of Love" is a great treat for U2 fans, a wonderful collection for fans of these artists and an interesting revelation for everyone else. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Outside of Michael W. Smith's masterpiece, Live the Life, only 1990's Go West Young Man has brought him his deserved commercial success. "Place in This World" was one of the year's top recordings and reached No. 5 on the pop charts, yielding Smitty's first crossover hit. More importantly, it was one of the few contemporary Christian music songs to reach such heights in the secular market. Smitty shows signs of diversity with the gospel-tinged "How Long Will Be Too Long" and the beautiful balladry in "Cross My Heart." "Seed to Sow" showcases an anthemic hook that's hard to ignore. Throughout the release, Smith enhances his signature keyboard sound with horns, choral groups, and hot guitar licks. Once again, he sets the standard for others to follow. --Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (16)

A melodic Christian pop album
I honestly haven't read what others have written about this CD yet. But I'd have to say that this is definitely Michael W Smith's best album. I have his greatest hits, but I don't feel that the songs for that CD were especially well selected. This album reveals all of Smith's talents; his ability to create contemporary pop with a message ("Place in This World," "Seed to Sow," "For You"); his ability to make stirring pop gospel ("How Long Will Be Too Long," "Agnus Dei") and his ability to extend his musical reach into hip hop (the sometimes silly "Love Crusade"). Wait on the greatest hits album and buy this first.

One of Smitty's better albums...
Michael W. Smith comes through with another passionate album in Go West Young Man.

While a couple of hits did make the pop music stations (Place in This World and For You as I recall), some other songs on this album hit a more personal, religious nature.

Seed to Sow is one of my personal favorites on this album. Along with Smitty's fantastic piano playing you have a group of children singing in their native language...quite a sound to hear!!

Angus Dei is a haunting yet touching praise song. This is not like his more recent albums, I'll Lead You Home or Live the Life, and yet its not like his earlier albums like The Big Picture and I 2 Eye. Instead, this album is more in-betweenish and will appeal to those that like the pop genre type of music. and yet are looking for something with a bit more of a religious theme.

Agnus Dei worth the price alone
I could listen to the first two minutes of Agnus Dei all day and not get tired of it. I usually feel that Michael is a better songwriter than performer; inevitably I like other people's versions of his songs better than his. And I do love the Charlie Hall version of this song on Worship Together V. 1. But, as with Smitty's version of Sing We Now of Christmas that opens with a child's voice, this is gorgeous stuff. How can you beat the sweet, pure voices of children singing praises?

The synth sounds are a little outdated now (in 2004), but little matter when the singing is so beautiful. And Agnus Dei in and of itself is a wonderful song, one of his best IMHO.

dated yet delicate
If the front cover of "2" looked like some sort of desperate attempt to become the 3rd member of WHAM, the album sleeve of "Go West Young Man" shows yours truly, Smitty, trying his best to pull off a Boy George.

When you put the CD in your stereo however, MWS makes a modest effort to pair christian lyrics with mainstream pop candy. Almost every track on hear is worth a listen. This stuff has sort of dated, but I will say that Go West Young Man sounds more fresh than the over-the-top poppiness of Change Your World.

The mainstream pop success (Place In this World, For You) was the newest crossover success since Stryper in the late 80's. Amy Grant practically one-upped Michael with her 1991 release "Heart in Motion", which had 2 no.1 singles among other tracks you still hear on the radio till this day. After that, Everyone from Jars of Clay to DC Talk to POD (Which donned no1 on TRL) has put a christian impact on a secular market.

BRILL in every way!!!
This was my first christian album and it is brilliant Go West youn man starts with galloping horses and then the funky love crusade kicks in at the bridge with michael raping. This album allso includes the top 5 hit place in this world which proves tht gospel does have the power to cross over. In my opion out Go west young man and live the life are the best smitty albums yet and any one that doest have go west, go west,south,east,north and get a copy Brilliant!!! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Michelle Tumes's sophomore release delivers what her debut, Listen,left fans longing for more of. This atmospheric journey invades the senses. Her musical meditations carry the intensity of the calm before a storm, lingering in the airy peacefulness of a euphoric dream. The vocals have both conceptual and intimate qualities. Enraptured melodies and soft texture convey a personal encounter with the loftiest truths in the universe with lyrics firmly fastened in an embrace of God's love. Though Tumes's music has been compared to the sounds of Enya, some of the tracks on this release move in a new direction. But even then, the wonder that permeates her music is not lost. Truly, if there is a sound in the heavens that can be heard with human ears, no one has come closer to capturing it than Michelle Tumes. She sings, "I'm with the angels"--and one cannot doubt it. --Israel Button ... Read more

Reviews (41)

Michelle is expanding further with this project.
Michelle's debut was excellent, and she's adding onto what she has already established through her music with Center of My Universe.

The songs "Immortal" and "Deep Love" have the closest resemblence to the style and mood of Listen, her debut project.

"Christie Eleison" has a similar flavor, but raises the bar and is my favorite song on the album. I think it may be hers as well.

I've had opportunities to speak with Michelle a number of times, and as we talked about this new album, she really seemed as if she wanted to grow the scope of her sound. And probably faster than most people would expect.

The song "Do Ya" is a fun breakout from the Michelle Tumes you thought you knew.

"Missing You" is a personal song reminiscent of the song "Christ of Hope" from her first album.

"Chant" comes from the style of music you'd find in her CD player at home any given day.

It's an excellent album, and I highly recommend it for anyone who appreciates a talent far beyond voice and piano talents of an artist. The production is solid and the blending of Michelle's voice with her own voice on the accompaniment vocal tracks brings out the best of her gifts.

Wonderful and magical, but forced?
"Listen" (Tumes' last release) is one of the most played albums is my collection. Michelle has a soothing sound, and her music is both inspirational and enchanting. Her songs always seem to fit the mood. After my delight with the first album, I knew I had to buy "Center of My Universe." This is a quality album.

The strength of the music is still there, and the songwriting is excellent. For the most part, it's still the Michelle Tumes I knew from "Listen." However, the pop track "Do Ya" and even the milder "Heaven's Heart" almost seemed somewhat forced. Because Michelle isn't a "Pop" artist, she doesn't get a ton of airplay. Is it possible that she was coerced into writing something that may get accepted by the masses? I hope not, but I fear that's the case. The songs are still good, but they don't have the flair that I'm used to. She sounds (in these couple songs) like a bunch of other women on Christian radio.

Apart from this, I was vary impressed. I listen to this album quite a bit and even find myself turning it up on those tracks I ripped on above. If you liked "Listen," get this album. In case you haven't heard Michelle's music, this album is not for you if you are looking for a real fast-paced high-energy album. Instead, if you are looking for meditative, relaxing and inspirational music, grab this CD. It really is good. A solid four stars.

Great music
I am not a cristian...but this she is a great artist. The first song i heard from her was, 'lovely' i had no idea she was a christian singer. I couldn't link the lyrics to christianity....anyways great music if you like Celtic or music like Enya

Excellent.
A fine effort from an indistputably great songwriter and singer. Would that she had continued in this vein and hopefully she will on her 4th CD.

"LAY ASIDE ALL CARES"
I was first introduced to Michelle via "Heaven & Earth: A Tapestry of Worship." Being immensely impressed with her, I remembered her name and face. As I was browsing through inspirational music one day, I came across this and excitedly grabbed it without hesitation. "Center Of My Universe" grows more meaningful and precious to me with each listen. Michelle has included a short, personal note about each song's meaning and/or where the inspiration came from. I love when an artist openly and courageously shares her heart like this! I feel like I know her through these notes and music.

Stand-out tracks are: "Lovely," "Immortal," "Chant," "Christe Eleison," (Latin for 'Christ, have mercy') and "I Wish For Peace," Michelle's prayer for this world. Also amazing, are "Deep Love", "Heaven's Heart", "Missing You" [o8E to all that have touched my heart--Love is forever!] and "With The Angels." My favorite track is "Immortal" and the main reason I am writing this review. I would like to thank you Michelle for this song that makes my "heart, soul and mind" (Mt.22:37) long and burn for Heaven! This song will be with me forever. It is a very rare occurence when I find a track that touches me so deeply.

"When seen through the eyes of God, the beauty of the world around us is more clearly defined. It is as though we are aware of the spiritual world beyond what we see in the physical realm. This lifts my spirit, because I am reminded that I will live eternally." (Michelle's notes on Immortal.)

"I walk; my soul is flying. I cry; but I'm rejoicing. I hunger; You're edifying. Bathed in light I roam this life 'til time takes me home. [Chorus: Immortal, immortal. Forever I will live Immortal, immortal, immortal.] I talk; my heart is singing. I kneel; and I'm ascending. I'm wounded; but You are healing. Earth is bright through Holy eyes that search from above. [Immortal Chorus] And my spirit's leaping Straight to the gates of heaven where I belong. My feet have journeyed longing to reach my home. I'll be safely home. I'll be safely home. [Immortal Chorus...]" ... Read more

Reviews (25)

A Truly Blessed Best Of!!
Originally posted on www.TheMetalCircus.com

A few months ago I had the chance to see Stryper at one of their Reunion shows when they came to New York. Since I was already a fan, I expected to enjoy myself. Given the fact that this was among the first shows the band had done in 12 years I expected the show to be full of the songs that made them popular. You see, around the time of the Reunion plans, a CD came out entitled "Stryper: 7 - The Best Of". I was very impressed by this release. Now that I have a copy, I can spend a little time on it on behalf of the Metal Circus.

I should clear up immediately that there are more than seven tunes on the CD. One would think there was only seven based on the title. However, this release has a full 18 which is impressive to say the least. I often find myself annoyed with greatest hits issues that have a few choice numbers and a mess of new songs. Stryper themselves have picked the selections and only added two unreleased songs. For that matter the unreleased tracks were played live on the Reunion tour that is to best of my knowledge still going on.

For this release the tracks were all remastered so there is a bigger more powerful sound to some of the heavier tracks. "Soldiers Under Command" is definitely one you wanna crank a little louder on the stereo (I always loved the drumming on that one in particular). "Free", "Honestly" and "Calling On You" also sound crisper due to the remastering. Like I said at the beginning, I was impressed. Since it is a greatest hits compilation there is little more I can say about it. I will add that the interior booklet is nice. Standout colors on the cover and back, interior depicts all the Stryper albums and provides the lyrics to their songs. I love when lyrics are included. Also there is a personal message from the band on the booklet back.

Here is the complete track listing listing:
1.Something (unreleased)
2.For You (unreleased)
3.Shining Star

4.Lady
5.All For One
6.In God We Trust
7.Always There For You
8.To Hell With The Devil
9.Calling On You
10.Free
11.Honestly
12.The Way
13.Soldiers Under Command
14.Makes Me Wanna Sing
15.Reach Out
16.From Wrong To Right
17.Loving You
18.Believe

This reviewer recommends the "Seven" CD for anyone who wants a good (and all album encompassing) scope of the Stryper sound and their career. Should anyone wish to venture further, allow me to make two personal recommendations: "Soldiers Under Command" and "To Hell With The Devil" are my favorites in the Stryper catalog.

You can find out more about Stryper and their goings on by visiting their website at www.stryper.com . You can also purchase the music I mentioned above at the site.there.

Great compilation-new songs a little disappointing
As a compilation, this one is much better than Can't Stop the Rock from a few years ago. It features many of the band's heavier, less commercial songs like The Way and From Wrong to Right. With this cd you also get Stryper standards like Honestly, Lady, THWTD, and Soldiers as well. The two new songs sound more like stuff Michael Sweet is doing alone now, and the lack of guitar solos was very disappointing. From the Expo videos it is obvious Oz has kept his chops up to do them, although I think that decision was probably Mike's. Overall, a great cd. Kudos to the band for including Believe which is as relevant now as it was the first time in came out in 91 when the Persian Gulf war was raging.

"Stryper Strikes Back": Awesome Greatest Hits Collection!
In the 80's these guys surfaced with popularity via MTV. They were misunderstood by some in the Christain community with their "Kiss-like" make-up,long hair and "head-banging music. However there was no doubt that Gods anointing and power were on them when their album "To Hell With The Devil" surfaced.

At the time, heavy metal bands were popular in mainstream America, and many of these carnal bands were actually promoting satan as their master. I believe the Lord raised up Stryper as a Spirit-filled alternative to those engrossed in heavy metal music. Music with real power and anointing! (A flood against the enemy). Glory be to God! This greatest hits collection is well produced, and very comprehensive, well worth your purchase!

THIS COLLECTION ROCKS!!
Stryper was one of the bands/artists that got me started listening to Christian music in 1985, along with Petra, Whiteheart and DeGarmo & Key. Now Stryper has commemorated their 20th anniversary with the release of "7: The Best of Stryper," the band's second "best of" collection." "7" is a much better collection than "Can't Stop the Rock," with more songs, a better song selection (handpicked by the band members themselves) and now the original recordings have been remastered. All five Stryper studio albums are represented here, with no less than 2 songs from each studio record. Also included is "Believe," one of the 2 previously unreleased songs added to "Can't Stop the Rock" in 1991. And 2 more songs have been added--"Something" & "For You," which gives the first new songs from Stryper in over 12 years. "7" is a great CD, as is the new "7 Weeks" CD. They kind of complement each other--one CD featuring Stryper's great studio work while the other showcases their great live sound. I look forward to more music from Stryper in the future.

Almost there....
I have loved Styper for a long, long time, and I couldn't wait for this new album to come out, mainly because it would include two never-before-released songs.

Upon first listen, I was a little disappointed. The two new songs, while quite good, are in the same vein as Michael Sweet's newer solo stuff, but have very little to do with Stryper (if anything). It doesn't even quite match up to his solo stuff, since it is as if, at the last second, they decided to throw more heavy guitar into the new songs to make them sound more like "Stryper" songs. This does not work here. I love Michaels solo projects (especially "Truth"), and these two new tunes would have done better to stick closer to that formula. If I pop in a Stryper album, I am in the mood for Stryper, not Mike's solo work. If Sting reunited with the police for some new creations, I would be stunned if the songs sounded no different from Sting's new-age, folksy, jazz-pop instead of sounding like the police. If a band reunites for a project, you figure it will at least sound something like what the band used to sound like.

Alright, that having been said, I thought that the choices made for the rest of the album were superb. You get almost all of the true fan-favorites, minus a few, but you cannot fit all of them onto one disc.

Pick up Michael Sweet's solo project entitled "Truth" for more music in the same genre as the first two songs on this CD, only with a little more creativity and with guitar solos on some of the songs. (He even screams on a couple of them as well!)

Over-all: four stars just short of five. ... Read more