Reviews (11)

TAIT CONTINUES TO ROCK
To all those Micahel Tait Fans and dc Talk Fans, LOSE YOUR LIFE is AWESOME! The title track is one of the best songs and has a feel of U2's "beautiful day" and "streets with no name". Tait mixes various styles of rock through out the album. When you hear "wait", the beat and groove of the drums makes you want to hear this one live! With such a great voice you know you will get a few ballad type songs and you won't be dissapointed. His voice can't do wrong. The album will grow on you very quickly and be prepared to want to listen to it over and over. The bonus Christmas Song is great also. Sure wish Tait or dc Talk would put out a full Christmas or worship cd too! ENJOY!!!!

TAIT STILL ROCKS #2
Hello Again,
I felt that I needed to say more about this CD and didn't with the last review. As I stated the first saw "Lose Your Life" has a U2 "ish" sound to it. After listening to this CD over and over and over I noticed it has a feel of Joshua Tree/Achtung Baby from U2. Then I realized the muisc has an 80's sound to it yet a 2003 feel to it. My favoite tracks are #1,5, 10, and 11. Track 5 called "God Can You Hear Me" ranks up there with the title track and track 11 is the best ballad type song on the CD. As I mentioned before, he has various styles of rock on this album but forgot to mention his cover of Eddy Grant's "ELECTRIC AVENUE". The intro to the song is great and I feel a much better version than the original. Maybe I'm biased but check it out for yourself. This CD is G R E A T !!!!! Once again Enjoy!

Great Start, Slips A Little At The End
I can't say enough good things about Michael Tait; this is a man that gives 110% everytime he walks on stage or into a recording studio. He has a great since of how to create the perfect ROCK & ROll song. The second song on this CD is proof of that; "NUMB" kicks out all that one could ever want in a rock song.

The first four songs on the CD are outstanding. "Lose This Life" starts off the musical journey - and grabs you right off the get go. After "NUMB", which I've already praised, the remake of "Electric Avenue" will stick in your head the rest of the day! Tait's version of this song is ten-times better than the original. The fourth song, Fallen, takes the tempo down a bit, but it is a very cool song.

The rest of the CD does not hold up with the first four songs. But the first four songs are worth the cost of the CD, so who cares!

See ya next review!
www.therunninggirl.com

Well, . . .
1. I don't know if the 3 -- Tait, tobyMac, and Kmax -- will ever achieve on their own what they could together as dcTalk. With dcTalk, Michael was in a position to take more risk. And more risk does mean more reward with Michael. An outstanding talent -- I wish he would let 'er rip.

2. Alternatively, Michael could go a different route. His rendering of The Christmas Song shows off his considerable vocal talent in a totally different way.

3. The band holds together well here -- for their first as a group. I agree that they are too subdued -- bring 'em out front with Michael and let them rip, too.

4. I'd love to see dcTalk back together. Together, they seemed very creative, as the music pushed out against the edges and the albums held together artistically.

5. Or I'd love to see Michael take more risk on his own musically.

5. In any event, this is worth a listen. I started out rating this as 3 stars, but after a few times listening to it, it's even better than I thought, and I've raised my rating to 4 stars. If you were a dcTalk fan, this will tide you over until . . . .

TAIT IS MAGNIFICENT ! ! ! ! !
What can I say about a band that has helped transform my families' lives since we first heard them a year ago. My family has constantly played their first CD "Empty" ever since we bought it. We first discovered the group when I, my two sons, and my wife saw them play at the Billy Graham revival in Oklahoma City in front of about 25,000 people. Everywhere we go in our car we now listen to it. I didn't think it was possible, but we now have played their new CD "Lose This Life" even more. I feel that, God willing, the group could launch Christian Rock into the mainstream music scene. With all of the crazy influences
attacking our society from programs like "Jerry Springer" and "MTV", it is very refreshing to see positive mainstream influences coming from a group like Tait and a movie such as "The Passion of the Christ." I highly recommend purchasing this CD. You will be hooked by the second to third time you play it and you won't be able to stop listening to it after that. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Wow 2000, a 30-song collection by contemporary Christian music's top artists, is the pick of the litter thus far. Since 1996, the Wow series has wooed and won a large youth-oriented audience, with each of the yearly discs going platinum in exponentially rapid time. Strongly committed to youth issues and preserving family safety and harmony, Wow products contribute a sales percentage to charity and Wow 2000's share goes toward four antiviolence organizations. Additionally, this year's discs are encoded with software that provides Internet access while screening out objectionable content. As for the music, Moms and Dads will have no quibbles. On the purple disc, Third Day and Caedmon's Call deliver country-inflected delights, tunes from Jennifer Knapp and Plumb beg for repeat plays, while Audio Adrenaline and the O.C. Supertones pump things up. The silver disc showcases favorites Jaci Velasquez, Rebecca St. James, and Sixpence None the Richer, who contribute their hit "Breathe." --Paige La Grone ... Read more

Reviews (50)

Great! Amazing! WOW!!
The WOW selection of Christian CDs is amazing. They have compiled CDs full of the best of today's contemporary Christian artists, and have done it successfully. With WOW 2000, you get a little bit of everything. From my personal favorite, dc Talk, to Chris Rice, to Third Day, Jaci Velasquez, Audio Adrenaline, Jars Of Clay, Michael W. Smith, etc. This list goes on and on. There is even a song by The W's from the show VeggieTales called 'The Rumor Weed Song' which is obviously geared toward little children but is great for people of all ages. The WOW collections have amazed millions of adults, teens, and children all across America. You can not go wrong by buying these collections. The songs are very spiritual and uplifting and are great for anyone who is trying to start a Christian music collection or for someone who is adding to their collection. I highly recommend this CD. If you enjoy this one, try the other WOW Christian compilations. Buy this one right away, you will love it forever!

Some outstanding tracks. . .
Some of the songs on these two CD's were GREAT, but some did not appeal to me (this is just MY opinion). My favorite songs are "I Want to Know You (In the Secret)," "Stranded," "Show You Love," "Can't Live A Day," and "Friend of Mine (Columbine)". Another good song is "Waiting Room". I recommend this CD to anyone who likes good Contemporary Christian music.

Another nice WOW album.
This has some really good songs on it. If you're like me and don't want to buy albums, and just get a bunch of the most popular songs for the year, then I highly recommend it.

READ THIS --K?
This was my first christian c.d. I am really glad i bought it because its such a wide variety of bands it helps you to know what bands you like. This is especially helpful if you are just starting out a christian music collection. N-E ways the songs are really good and there is one for every mood your in. Don't let the price scare you cause you get a ton of great music, and remember it is two c.d's. So be sure to consider this and at least put it on your wish list

Very impressive collection
This was the first Christian CD that I got, and it was a great choice. I recomend this CD to anyone starting of a Christian CD collection or as just an addition. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Interesting - but mainly for hard-core fans and collectors
The Newsboys now join the ranks of such artists as Jennifer Lopez, Linkin Park, and P. Diddy in that they have released a "Remix Album." What sets them apart is that they are only the second Christian artist to do this (Avalon was the first).

The Newsboys could have easily coasted through 2002 on the fumes of their excellent "Thrive," album - released earlier this year, but instead, they release "Newsboys Remixed," and a book - "Shine: Make Them Wonder What You've Got"; thus establishing them as one of the hardest working Christian bands... or any type of band.

What you get with "Newsboys Remixed" is 13 songs: 12 new versions of several of their hits and other tracks from previous albums, and one "mega-mix" which cleverly blends snippets from many Newsboys tunes.

The remixes feature techo/dance beats, and different atmospheres & tempos from their original versions. The problem - as with most remix albums - is that these reinterpretations do not improve on the original recordings. In fact, some tracks, such as "Joy" are rather formless and bland, while others, i.e. the remix of "Lord (I Don't Know) - differ only slightly from their original. Others seem overly long and could benefit from having a minute or two trimmed off.

However, their are several highlights: Fans of Moby will enjoy the trance-beats and gospel-vocal sampling of "It Is You." Elsewhere, the break-beats and slinky guitars make "A Million Pieces" a worthwhile listen, and the slow-mo take on "Entertaining Angels" brings to the surface a sense of longing not heard in the original.

Overall, an interesting and good album, but this will appeal mainly to hard-core Newsboys fans. If you're looking for a place to start with this band, try their 'Best of' album, "Shine: The Hits," or two of their best studio albums, the wildly eclectic "Take Me to Your Leader," or the flawless "Thrive."

An Impressive Remix Album
I was impressed with this remix album put together by the popular Christian rock band Newsboys, featuring a wide variety of songs from different albums. I have listened to a couple of Newboys albums including "Take Me to Your Leader" and "Love Liberty Disco" and I would say this album is better than either of them (although I really liked "Take Me to Your Leader). This remix album is a must-have for fans of the Newboys. You'll hear some of their best songs such as Shine, Million Pieces, Thrive, Entertaining Angels, and more in a new format, remixed. 4 stars

Why didn't they think of this before?
Why didn't they think of this in the first place? The remixes are all better than the originals. Basically, this contains every Newsboys hit with a remix touch to make it sound better. Buy it!!!

Techno? no, no...
It's kinda funny... people see the word "remix" and start thinking the word "techno". This isn't techno. I haven't heard the entire cd, just the samples, and I can definitely say that this is NOT techno. It's got some electronic elements and some bleeps and bloops, but that does not constitute techno. Also, I read someone say that this was the first major christian remix album. Somebody forgot Toby Mac's Momentum Remixed cd. All in all, I'd still say this sounds pretty sweet.

the BEST Christian techno
This cd fills a gap in Christian music and will turn on more unBelievers to the Newsboys music and message. These remixes are outta sight, many of them better than the original versions--especially "Thrive" and "Rescue." But if you do NOT like techno, you will NOT like this cd--so please DON'T buy it and give the band bad reviews on amazaon. ... This band is getting really, really impressive. As their impending secular success multiplies, my prayer is that they will stay "on message" and be used by God in a mighty way, which U2 managed to do only through their third recording. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The hard-rockin' Petra has been banging on guitars and drums for the Lord for more than 25 years. This 1990 release proved to be one of the band's most successful efforts and helped Petra win four Dove awards, including Group of the Year. Beyond Belief abounds with power chords, catchy hooks, and the kind of user-friendly rock that has made Petra a household name in the contemporary Christian music marketplace. When not shaking the walls, Petra slows it down for the title track and the wistful "Love," both handled ably by singer John Schlitt. Producers John and Dino Elefante (remember Kansas anyone?)let the boys go for the most part in rave-ups like "Armed and Dangerous" and "Underground," but listen closely to the Kansaslike keyboards on both tracks. --Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (34)

One of the greatest rock albums ever, Christian or Not
As the title of my review explains, this is a great rock album. Anyone who loves hard rock music needs to get this album. Even the ballads, such as the title track and the powerful "Prayer" are not the syrupy sweet tunes some Christian rock bands put on their albums just to get some airplay on Christian music stations. Instead they are well-crafted, well-performed softer songs, and with John Schlitt on vocals, you know there will be some power behind the vocals. Armed and Dangerous, Last Daze and Underground just rock, and there is plenty of strong guitarwork as well as the signature keyboards that have been around on every Petra album ever made, but which have had an extra zest to them since the Elefante brothers started producing. Petra does not waltz around their message like some other modern "Christian" rock bands, so expect no holds barred on the lyrics, as always. All in all, possibly the greatest Christian rock album of all time and one of the best rock albums, period.

Petra's defining moment
It seems amazing that it has been almost a decade since the release "Beyond Belief", by far the defining album of Petra's two decade career. The album is really their "Joshua Tree" or "Purple Rain", it presents the listener with a complete album from beginning to end from a veteran band hitting their stride. "Creed", the band's statement of faith, along with the ear candy "Beyond Belief", the moving "Prayer" and the rocking "Armed and Dangerous", makes this one of the most defining albums in Christian Rock history. After listening to this you will definitely agree with Hard Rock Cafe's decision to display Bob Hartman guitar at their diners. If you've ever wanted to know why Petra developed the following they did, buy this album. Passionate lyrics, heavy bass lines, steady drums and catchy guitar lines; what more could a rock fan ask for?

A GREAT CHRISTIAN ROCK ALBUM
Petra, one of the most famous christian rock bands of all time, the band who changed christian music forever, and their 1990 release Beyond Belief is one of their best. With their second lead singer John Schiltt their altogether sound changed, but for the better. The original singer had a way higher voice and in my opinion wasn't as good. Anyway, this is a great christian album and one of my personal favorites, although Petra is a great band, i don't like all of their cds. Mostly only stuff from the 90s. I saw them this year at Creation 2004, and although they are old they can still rock out. The only original member they had with them was Bob Hartman, and he was always with them, hes one of the best guitar players ever. Anyway, this is a great album and i highly reccomend it.

Goose-bumps
This is one of the only rock albums that I have ever heard that just hearing the name of the album "Beyond Belief", gives me goosebumps! This is the quintessential Christian rock album of all time. I love Whitecross, Stryper, White Heart, Mastedon, Guardian, etc., but nothing hits home like this album did for me, not to impune the great works by those other groups.

John Schlitt's voice peaks on this album, with every note of every song sounding purely amazing. The man has incredible chops, with notes that soar up into the rafters, but never more often than they should.

Bob Hartman's riffing smokes on this album. One of my favorite guitar solos of all time, from any band, is Hartman's beautifully crafted solo on "I am on the Rock". Whoa!!!

Ronnie Cates and Louis Weaver crank away on the rhythm and keep your heart pumping like never before. The only album where these two play harder on is "Unseen Power", but what they did in the context of this album is absolute perfection.

John Lawry has an amazing melodic sense on the keys, and a phenominal range and harmonic sense on his backing vocal input.

The lyrics are outstanding and the musicianship comes together brilliantly in what I think is Petra's top album of all time, and beyond that, one of the top rock albums of all time, though it has not recived much recognition outside of Christian music circles. This album needs to be heard by the secular market, if not for it's great uplifting and positive lyrics (which is really what matters the most), then at least for it's unsurpassed musicianship and mixing.

5+ stars!!!!

Beyond Belief- This album is not just music, it's a journey.
No, Petra is not Progressive rock, and bears no resemblance to the great bands like YES, and Genesis, but Beyond Belief still seems to have lyrics that are equal in writing to that of YES, which is quite a statement. Not so much in the all out rockers, like "I Am on the Rock", but in the ballad, "Prayer", and the soft to hard transition song, "Creed" do Bob Hartman's thoughtful, and highly emotional lyrics seep into one's soul. Hartman is probably one of the most tallented people in the business today, contributing to Petra with outstanding guitar and some of the best writing ever. "Prayer" on Beyond Belief and "Grave Robber" off of Not of this world are two of the most beatifully written songs I've ever heard. In my oppinion, it is safe to say that Bob Hartman is the Jimmy Page of christian music.

OK,lets see...

Armed and Dangerous- Great riffing, great solo.

I am on the Rock- One of Bob's best riffs up there with Judas' Kiss.

Creed- Excellent lyrics, and a tight transition from a slow and flowing feel to a shredding hard rock feel.

Beyond Beleif- Another one with great lyrics. An interesting power chord progression. Never cared for the chorus melody on this one but have grown to appreciate its way of getting increasingly more invoved instrumentally as the song progresses. love the guitar solo at the end.

Love- Decent ballad. Has some power to it.

Underground-Its topic is something rarely covered in CCM. Interesting, with yet another fantastic guitar solo.

Seen and not heard- Ok, the riff is quite simple but the drums add something to it. Something that KISS didn't add. Lyrics are very true. Maybe the vocals wouldn't have to be sung with the riff.

Last Daze-This is very 80's-ish but it has some cool bass to it, complete with lots and lots and lots of keyboards, and a little guitar solo at the end.

What's in a name-Very worshipful words that are sung. Has a great melodic bridge to it.

Prayer-This is a Hey Jude, and Stairway to Heaven for CCM. Although no guitar, it is an extremely powerful song, with lyrics that have gotten me closer to God. I can't and will never be able to say enough about this song. Wish I could write as well as you Hartman! May God bless you for being humble and being one for using the right motives to be involved in CCM. Schlitt, God has used you in a powerful way. Keep doing what you're doing. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Skillet's third release, Invincible, has the sort of momentum that pulls the listener's thoughts and emotions into it. Both the lyrics and music have a hard-hitting quality that plays off the other to create a no-nonsense production. Keeping in step with the electronic age, there is a heavy techno influence; buzzes and whirls often create what sounds like a musical Morse code. But, like a sledgehammer, the undulating drum loops, rolling bass lines, and chunky guitar patches drive this music forward. In addition to the intensity of the music, the lyrics pull no punches about the truths that they carry. Unfettered by compromise, straightforward messages announce the power and wonder of God's nature. As well, a believing response is presented in its most radical form. At times, the vocal inflections display an aggressive passion for Christ. Other songs revisit the pop euphoria of new-wave music. During the ballads, a more worshipful flavor emerges as lead singer John L. Cooper shares an intimate knowledge of God's love. It is not an easy task for music with this much energy to accurately convey the heart of the message it carries, but that is what Skillet has set out to do, and they show no sign of slowing down. --Israel Button ... Read more

Reviews (46)

Skillet is Invincible!
One of the few bands who get even BETTER with every new release. They are definately at the top of their game with the release of Invincible. The music varies from the intense White Zombie-esque "Powerful" to the slower "I Rest" and "You're the One" that compare to last album's "More Faithful." There's also a song at the end called "Angels Fall Down" that is beyond comparison. The song actually made me cry. The album "Invincible" blends incredible music with the uncomprimising lyrics that define the band. I give this album 6 out of 5 stars and will be listening to it for the next month straight. If you want an Incredible CD, get Invincible.

Skillet is Invincible!
This album rocks the house. It offers more techno, hard rocking beats than Hey You did. I recently saw Skillet in concert for the second time. They get better and better everytime I see them. If you like this album then definetely go see them live cause they rock it out live. Skillet rocks, and the new drummer, Lori Peters, and the New Guitarist Kevin Haaland are amazing. If you liked Hey You, I Love Your Soul, then you will definetely love this CD. Every song on it is awesome. Check it out.

absurd pop rubish
three words, and a waste of time. I am being brutally frank. Of course, I do understand if you are somehow fufilled by the transparent lyrics. Like the Passion, you get out of it what you are looking for, if you want something to keep you away from evil secular music.

For something of musical substance, check out Nine inch nails.

Skillet is Invincible
This is the album where Skillet really got it right. Even though Alien Youth was the CD that broke through Invicible is just as good, if not better. Skillet's lyrics are so full of hope on this album, and the music...is so great. There is no other band out there that could (I say that because I was dissapointed with Collide) put out this much voltage in such a way. Only Skillet.

This cd is amazing !!!!
This was a cd I bought for my wife, because honestly I hate christian music. I found this to be one of the first cds I have been able to swallow. I found it interesting that a heavy industrial tone can have some of the most positive lyrics I have ever heard in my life. This cd contains some very catchy synth lines and catchy bass lines. This is a cd for any walk of faith and you can dance to it too. ... Read more

Reviews (18)

This album ROCKS!
I grew up on Stryper. This album is a must have for everyone who loves 80's Heavy Metal! In God We Trust, along with Soldiers Under Command, and To Hell With the Devil are their best albums. If you don't have any of these YOU NEED TO BUY THEM ALL, THEY ARE GREAT! Stryper was the first christian band I ever listened to and they changed my view of music. Buy In God We Trust Today!

Way Overrated, stick with Soldiers or Against the Law!!!
I really dont understand why this album got so many good reviews... dont get me wrong I like Stryper, they are a very talented band and they have a unique style that they can call their own, but the songwriting on IGWT is just not as good as what is found on their other releases. Also there's very little 'Metal' on this album, just a bunch of 'cheesy' power-ballads and a couple of nervous-rockers that lack any feel or power. The Production is very good and the album went gold, riding on the coat-tails of their previous outing "To Hell with the Devil". Still, everyone with a brain knows that you cant judge an album on sales figures alone! The theme of the album also seems hypocritical considering the band's then current financial status. Honestly guys (pun intended), where's the beef?

A little overproduced, but still good 80's hard rock.
"In God We Trust" was Stryper's third full-length album, and their fourth record overall. Following up a successful platinum-plus effort like "To Hell With The Devil" is no easy task, but Michael Sweet & company remained undaunted. IGWT actually sounds rather overproduced, a little too slick, as the band co-produced this album with Michael Lloyd, who had produced many pop records before, but this was his first hard rock/metal record. But then again, a lot of hard rock albums released during the late 1980's were overproduced. Yet this does not make IGWT a bad record at all. Some outstanding songs include the title track (inspired by 1 Timothy 6:6-10), "Always There for You," "The Writing's on the Wall" and the two ballads "I Believe in You" and "Lonely." While IGWT may not be as good as THWTD or "Soldiers Under Command," it is still a very good record in its own right.

An album for die hard fans or collectors only
I have always thought Stryper was a very good band. Not because of their supposed message or beliefs, but because they really are good musicians. I know this album has mostly received bad reviews & a lot of accusations about selling out. The bottom line is IGWT is a lousy album in comparison to their prior & later albums. There are only two songs that come close to rocking. The title track & The Reign. The latter being harder but the former being the better. But neither of them have the feel of their earlier rock tracks. Even the ballads on the album lack the feel of their predecessors. The majority of the songs on IGWT are mid tempo that lack any real luster or direction. The only positive to having this album is if it completes your collection. Otherwise unless you are just a diehard Stryper fan, I would not recommend wasting your money on it.

Ye cannot serve God and Mammon
It's no accident that this album is named after a quote from American currency and brazenly advertises said currency on the cover. It reveals their true motive for using the religious image: they just want cold hard cash! In that respect they are perfect evangelists, playing the game of deception so well. Coming off as a Christian band they have a target audience of one billion people, and they knew that from the beginning. "Help us buy the Lord a Mercedes, a yacht, and a satellite dish by purchasing this album. Oh, and the Lord also loves blonde groupies!"
With a song like "It's up 2 U", using the type of spelling that the king of perversity Prince is associated with, they reveal what is really in their hearts: lust and greed.
"Keep the Fire Burning"--hmmm, are they talking about supporting the activities of Lucifer and recruiting members for his army? Sure sounds like it. Many of their songs can ostensibly be about Xian beliefs, but when you rummage through the words a bit you can see the unholy motives beneath them. Rock and roll is no place for the pious, so the presence of a so-called "religious" band is rather suspect. Just another gimmick to get cash and babes. And we all know how easily church-going girls give in to temptation!
"The World of You and I"--or, more accurately, "The World of U and I", meaning Unemployment Insurance, which they've been living off of for what, 15 years?
In the end, though, it's a safe bet that most of their fans from back in the day--the ones who shared the band's alleged religious views--have by now awoken from their brainwashing and abandoned the world of invisible men and fictitious saviours, leaving poor old reunited Stryper with no one to sing to. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Stryper..Still Rockin' Hard
Although Styper broke up in the early 90's due to changes in the music industry, "The Yellow and Black Attack" still remains a favorite of Stryper fans around the world.If you like this cd, I recommend the others by Stryper, as well as more recent cd's by ex-members of the band.Ex-Lead singer Michael Sweet went on to release a self-titled debut solo album, Real, and Truth. For a more mellow sound, I recommend Real, but for the true Stryper fan, Truth is a must have. Ex-Bass player Tim Gaines, and Ex-Guitarist Oz Fox, formed Sin Dizzy after their departure from Stryper. Their debut album, He's Not Dead, keeps the Christian message, but adds a modern, hard rock feel.Totally worth listening to!Ex- Drummer Robert Sweet, is now working on a new album with Valediction.From what I hear, it promises to deliver great things.Give Stryper a try, they still have alot of great hard rock in them! Don't pass up these four very talented and inspirational musicians.

Decent christian rock debut........
I must say this now and it will make my reviews (or Stryper's music) more readable. I am not religious in any way and I am certainly not a Christian. I got into Stryper in the 80's because I liked their ballads and some of the harder stuff from the other albums. I bought this AFTER I heard those. What I have noticed about their first two releases ('Soldiers Under Command' being the other) is the lyrics are way more religious. And most of the other songs are ballads. I don't know if they figured out that appealing to a wider audience sells more records (as in 'To Hell With The Devil' & 'In God We Trust') or just sold-out. Either way, I like their later stuff much better. That is not to say this is a bad album, whatsoever. It's just not my type of music. I feel like I am being preached at. That is my fault for listening to the record. But on this one, they sound really low-budget. The only two songs I like here are "You Know What To Do" and the ultra-sappy ballad, "My Love I'll Always Show". I would recommend getting their 2 later 80's albums, but if you are really into Christian hard rock, then check this out.

The record that started it all.
The original release of Stryper's debut record "The Yellow & Black Attack" in 1984 contained only 6 songs. Two years later, "Yellow & Black" was reissued with new cover art, plus 2 added songs--the acoustic ballad "My Love I'll Always Show" & "Reason for the Season," the song that Stryper had previously released as a Christmas single (with "Winter Wonderland" as the B-Side). Some of my favorite songs from "Yellow & Black" include "Loud n' Clear," "You Know What to Do," "From Wrong to Right," "C'mon Rock," & "Loving You." This was the record that started it all for Stryper, and is a must-have for any Stryper fan.

Para ser el primer disco está muy bueno
A pesar que solo son 6 canciones, todas están muy buenas, y que fue su primer disco. Es un disco muy bueno recomendable para todos los amantes del buen heavy, unos coros de lujo, liras muy melodiosas.

A true metal classic
Those of you who had more strict parents might be able to relate to this. When I was about 10 and I was getting into metal for the first time, my parents were paranoid about the messages in metal and wouldn't let me buy other bands that I like (i.e; King Diamond, Motley Crue). But because of Stryer's reputation they allowed me to get this album. And what an album it turned out to be... The whole band is rock solid in every department. The songs are all classics, and there is a passable amount of hard stuff here. Admittedly, I would sometimes fast forward (we didn't have CD players back then) past some of the ballads, but it was worth it. I still bust this tape out from time to time and jam along with it on guitar. One of the best metal albums ever, says I. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The newest in the Wow series of contemporary Christian music is asslick-sounding and solid as its successful predecessors. The two-disc set begins with asolid alterna-anthem (DC Talk'splaintively overwrought but super-catchy "Into Jesus") and ends with a kiss (Fernando Ortega's inspiring,Nashville-tinged "Lord of the Eternity"). The compilation's 33 tracks really do run thegamut: the polished, pure pop ofAvalon andPoint of Grace; Christian swing music; the atmospheric,spiritual sounds of MaireBrennan and JaciVelasquez; the spirited belting of rockerJennifer Knapp; a dance-pop act from the U.K.; the veteranconfessional singer-songwriter folk ofAmy Grant; Christian ska; and the late Rich Mullins's moving, visionarygospel-folk. CCM stalwarts and newcomers alike will be pleased by this release. --Mike McGonigal ... Read more

Reviews (91)

I LOVE it soo much!
I truly think that it's the best WOW CD in the whole series. The thing that I really like is that it includes two of Rich Mullins' songs. His music was soo awesome, that he really deserved to have two songs on this album. I love the fact that they actually included a Veggie Tale song! Although it's not my most fav. song of Veggie Tales, I still like it. I'm sooo happy that they included Michael W. Smith's song, "Love Me Good". It's sooo awesome; and that he sang in one of Rich Mullins' songs. That's just great. Well, there you go, to sum it all up, I LOVE IT! (did I mention The W's song? I totally loved that one too)

Not the Best of the Year By Far
Some of these songs were awesome. But who picks these songs for the Best of the Year Album? I have Never heard most of these played on the Christian radio! There is even a song about a car for cryin' out loud! The second (silver) cd is the better of the two. I'm just glad I can out filter the songs I don't like on my player. Its ok to be able to sample the artists, but most of the choices are, shall we say, lacking. Point of Grace and Avalon make this cd for me. To Jesus goes the Glory, so let's sing about Him and to Him. And why can't these WOW albums be the top twenty best of the year?? To the Artists: You can say the name Jesus, you're allowed.

A Great WOW for your collection
The only reason this album doesn't get 4 stars, is the inclusion of a few songs that I didn't feel mixed well into the collection. Namely, "His Cheeseburger." Don't get me wrong, the Veggietales are great, but the song on its own doesn't make much sense without the video.

However, the album is terrific regardless. It features one song that I am surprised didn't get more airplay "Strollin' on the Water". A very unique sound, that really resonates the longing to take those leaps of faith with Christ. To be fearless for God.

The Best of The WOW Ever
This is by far the number one WOW cd of all times. Its got some of the best bands ever on it, like the Newsboys,DC Talk(Before they broke up), Smalltown Poets, Jars of Clay, and Supertones. What a combination! The WOW cds are a great alternative to burning cds. Why do you burn cds? so that you can get all of your favorite songs on one cd. WOW allready has most of my favorite songs on it. So I can legally listen to them. What a great idea!

GREAT First tape.....
I absolutly love the first tape/c.d. in this set, the songs are well aranged to compliment and contrast each other. It's uplifting to listen to, and I never hit the skip button. However....the second tape, I don't like at all, and never even listen to anymore, I don't think the songs sound good together, and I just don't think they're as good as the first tape. But, in the end, I'd have to say that the first tape is worth paying for the full set. ... Read more

Reviews (44)

Album of the Year
I bought this album for the song Savior alone, but I found that every song on it is incredible. The older cd's I thought were almost pretty bad. I listened to this cd for 2 months straight, which is pretty good for me. I still can't put it down. I had the pleasure of seeing Skillet in concert with Pillar, Grits, Big Dismal and 12 Stones on the See Spot Rock tour here in Minneapolis. I was disappointed though, because they played a lot of their older stuff. Also, with so many bands, they didn't have ample time to play some of their greatest songs, including Under My Skin; a very powerful song and in the top 2 of the cd. A must buy for anybody, Christian or not.

Great Album....but not as great as "Alien Youth" Album
I am so glad to see Christian music really rockin' it now days unlike the early 90's. Back then, if you wanted to listen to rock...it HAD to be secular! God Bless bands like Skillet, who in my opinion is one of the best hard rock Christian bands around! I love their progressive, industrial sound and they are not afraid to mix it up with slow songs here and there. If you have never heard Skillet before, buy "Alien Youth" from 2001, it's better than "Collide". If you have all of the other Skillet albums, buying this album is a NO BRAINER! A few of my favorite Christian hard rock bands are East West, Stavesacre and Pillar(rap-core). If you haven't seen Skillet in concert.....you're missing out on a real treat. They rock HARD! They are such nice people too, when I saw them at the See Spot Rock tour they enthusiastically go out and mingle with the fans afterwards, they REALLY love what they do, the people who support them and above all....Jesus Christ our God!

Five Stars All The Way
I was reading people's reviews of this CD on this website when I came to a person's review who said they have fallen. I found quite interesting, the person had stated that Skillet has changed, which I don't disagree with them on that, and that they are now just like every other Christian, which I disagree with totally. Skillet is NOT like every other hard rock band. Take P.O.D. and Thousand Foot Krutch for instance, ALL of their music sounds exactly the same. Skillet at least has variety in their songs. Skillet;s songs are also about different things in life, their lyrics are the most catchy, brilliant lyrics I've ever heard. And unlike other bands Skillet actually has real musicians. I'm not saying other bands are't talented because they are but they are not good musicians they just play well. Good musicians know when to play and when to shut up. Other bands just show off all their stuff all at the same time and then it's just noise unlike Skillet.

this one will be big
skillet does it again...this is the hardest skillet cd yet and thats not a bad thing,skillet does it best with thier follow up to alien youth another awsome cd.while im not sure which one i like better,this cd has better lryics and an overall better sound,buy it today and believe me you will not be sorry.

AWSOME!!!!
Ok this album owns..

My friend, that has gotten me into all of my favorite bands told me one day about skillt. I downloaded one of their songs and loved it. I then bought the cd and the pleasure didnt stop there.

From what i've heard, Skillet hasnt always been that popular with their customers. But this cd absolutely blew away all of my other favorite cd's at the time. Once I got the cd I saw that 2 women were in the band because of the cover. I went to their website to find out what they played. Little did I know, one of the chicks was the drummer. The drum fills and beats blow me away. its amazing.

Anyone that has a taste in heavy rock should buy this cd! ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Great Live Stryper CD
Stryper has always been one of my favorite bands. I saw them five times in the 80's and again twice on this reunion tour. I actually thought they were better on this tour than in the 80's. They played tightly and well rehersed. This CD is a good representation of the tour. The sound is good and the performances are great. My only complaint is that I wish they had included more songs on the CD from their live set list. They did four or five more songs at the concert, including great versions of In God We Trust and You Won't Be Lonely. A look at the playing surface of the CD shows they had more room for additional songs. Calling on You, More than a Man, Reach Out, Soldiers, Honestly and The Way are amazing. To Hell with the Devil is my favorite Styper song, but probably the worst represented on the CD, as far as performance. Overall, a GREAT CD and I love jamming to it. I recommend this CD for any fan of great Rock N Roll. It is a winner!

FINALLY!!
I saw Stryper twice during the late 80's, during the THWTD & IGWT tours and I always thought they were a great live band. I always regretted that they never released a live album to showcase their live energy from that era. But "7 Weeks..." works nearly as well. It's great to hear so many old favorites again--especially "Reach Out" (A very pleasant surprise. This song was never included in the shows I saw during the 80's, and this is probably my overall favorite track on this CD), "More Than a Man," "Makes Me Wanna Sing" and "The Way." It may be about 14 or 15 years later than I originally hoped for, but a live release from Stryper is still very welcome. All we need now is a live DVD companion...

Stryper still rocks
I like to think I am fairly picky about what music I listen to. I am a christian, but usually don't listen to christian music because of its general lack of quality. Stryper however is the exception, and I think this live collection from their recent tour proves it. I saw them in Asbury Park, NJ in Nov. last year and it was one of the best concerts I've been to in my life. This CD shows not only how great they still sound, but how they sound even better now than 12 years ago. Not only can Michael Sweet still hit those high notes(including the jaw-dropping, 14 second note at the end of "The Way"), but he and Oz Fox also still have the ability to shred lightning fast guitar solos and the dual-guitar harmony between them is very tight and is added in places that actually improves the quality of the song, in this listener's opinion. The only time the pace really slows down during the concert is on their token ballad, "Honestly." While not a bad song, I don't really listen to this one cause after listening to so many heavy songs, I'm not really ready to listen to a song that's sounds like it's out of a school dance, but this is a guy's opinion. Then they cover "Winter Wonderland", which, though they do heavy it up, doesn't really seem to fit unless you were there or are in a Christmasy mood. These aside, the majority of the CD, for lack of a better term, rocks, and if you are a Stryper fan in any sense of the word(and maybe if you aren't)it will have you singing along on nearly every track. Very few CD's do that for me, and that's why I give it five stars. I can't stop listening to it.

The Return Of Righteous Metal!!
Originally posted on www.MaximumMetal.com

Late last year Christian Rockers Stryper reunited for a small tour of the States. It was the first time in twelve years as a band that they had done this. I was able to catch one of these shows when they hit New York City. As a matter of fact, there is a review of this show elsewhere on the Metal Circus site (check Conciertos). This CD entitled "7 Weeks: Live in America 2003" is a souvenir to the fans of Stryper music to mark this tour happening. I enjoyed seeing the band reunite because of their positive message in a time where the world is full of so much less than that. So as a result, I also enjoyed the aspect of having the performances represented on a CD to keep in my music collection.

The CD begins with the "Sing A Long Song" and everyones voice comes through nice and clear. The production is fine on this disk. I found the drums a little overpowering sometimes on the CD, but as a drummer this did not bother me all that much. The guitar work of Oz Fox is not lost amidst any of the songs, and pretty much every level is on an equal. No overproduction on the vocals as was sometimes seen on the studio releases, and not as much effects on them either which I enjoyed. Better t hear the band sing normally and in great harmony without the aid of too much processing. Some of my favorites on the CD are "More Than A Man", "Soldiers Under Command" and "Calling On You". OK, I also enjoyed "Honestly". The CD runs about 63 minutes which is not bad, but could have thrown a bonus track in there. At least a different tune that might have been done on another set of nights.

I did have a gripe about the book being so minimal. I would have liked it to include a lot of the pictures taken across the duration of the tour. Inside it opens to a two-page foldout which is in black and white. I felt it would have been nice to have a lot more of these pictures in color, with more than the two sentence liner notes about the tour. They do include the complete venue list so fans can see where they played. I attended the 3rd performance on the tour. I found the sound on the CD to be a little tighter bandwise since it was recorded a lot later on. At the third show there were of course light tweaks being worked out after so long an absence from live performance. I think it would have been smart to include a DVD of the live stuff from various locations if it was available, because these days so many bands are trying to include stuff like this to add to the value of the customer dollar.

Casual fans of the band can enjoy this release since there is no live Stryper album before this one. However, this is more for the fans who must have everything that is released. If this is a first time to try them, great go for it. Yet you might wanna grab the recently released "7: The Best Of Stryper" before you get anything else. The metal music arena and the world itself is a far different place since Stryper first came around. Perhaps it is good for their message of hope and love to have returned at this time. Check it out, and read more about updates and their activities by looking at the site link provided below.

Track Listing:
1.Sing Along Song
2.Makes Me Wanna Sing
3.Calling On You
4.Free
5.More Than A Man
6.Caught In The Middle
7.Reach Out
8.Loud N Clear
9.The Way
10.Soldiers Under Command
11.To Hell With The Devil
12.Honestly
13.Winter Wonderland
14.Closing Prayer

www.stryper.com

Outstanding live CD
First of all, Stryper ROCKS live! And this CD is the best live release they have ever done. It's better than the "Live in Japan" video; it's better than the (limited release) live Expo video from 2001. The sound quality is simply amazing! They have never sounded better. Michael can still hit those high notes. However, don't buy this CD expecting to hear the entire concert. They had to leave out "In God We Trust" and the two new songs "For You" and "Something" to make it fit on one CD. Also, I think there should be more photos of the band performing live in the booklet. But it's still a must buy. ... Read more

Amazon.com

There is a discernible spiritual energy present when voices are lifted up in praise to God. Even though FFH's sophomore major-label release is not billed as a praise and worship album, this energy is present on every track. The group's lead singer and principle songwriter, Jeromy Deibler, crafts his songs as expressions to God. An earnest conversational tone forms the prayer, praise, and petition that distinguish this album as a musical interaction with the Savior. Originally an a cappella group, there is no mystery about why the spirited blending of four voices decorate every song.With tenderness and exuberance, these accomplished vocalists carry the focus of the album. But by no means can the music be overlooked. Groovy acoustic guitar work layered over an immaculate drum production enlivens the project as it alternates between upbeat and gentle moods. FFH is said to have a sound that crosses generational boundaries. Finally, music that impels parent and child alike to shout "Turn it up!" --Israel Button ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Every song is wonderful!
I don't write too many Amazon reveiws but felt this was worth the effort. I was aware of some of FFH's songs but didn't really have much exposure until I saw them in concert with Point of Grace (ironically, we went to see PoG and ended up loving FFH).

Anyway this was the first FFH CD I purchased. Although I like all their CDs, this one I believe is the best. Every single song is wonderful. I would highly recommend this CD.

Found a place into my CD player...
To be honest I didn't care much for this CD when I first bought it. I had downloaded some FFH MP3s and was expecting songs more similar to their previous CD "I Want to Be Like You". I listened to it a few times anyway though and it grew on me. Not long after that I had some devastating events in my life and some of these songs became very important to me. "Every Now and Then" and Lord, Move or Move Me" both deal with those times when we are not able to find the words to pray and we need the strength of the Lord to get us through the day. "When I Praise" and "I'm Not Afraid To Love You" both speak about sharing our faith and not being ashamed of it.

I also liked that I was able to find the lyric sheets, explanations of the songs and the scriptural support for the songs on the bands website at: ...

Why 5 stars:?
The mix of music will keep you tapping your feet at times and somber and reflecting upon the glory of God at others. The lyrics are very powerful and the scriptural basis for each song is provided on their website. This CD is highly recommended!!!

"You Can Tell They Really Love The Lord"
The drums (courtesy of producer Scott Williamson, who produced this album and has worked with Point of Grace) snap, crackle and pop with groove and authority. FFH's tight harmonies flow in and out of sunny melodies, verifying the group's roots in a capella. Husband and wife Jeromy and Jennifer Deibler's lead vocals ache with vulnerability (Jennifer's vocals on "Your Love Is Life To Me" and "Why Do I?" are wonders, as is Jeromy's on the CD's centerpiece "Lord Move, Or Move Me") and leap with blessed assurance on "When I Praise" and "Daniel." After that, "There's a Place" is an exceptional album just for its sounds, let alone its message.

Ah, but its message! Intentionally or not, Deibler and co-writer Michael Boggs here have written a concept album examining Jesus' role as comforter and confidante and His love as safety, consistent with the group's role of winning souls to Christ. Deibler is unafraid to sing "please" as well as "thank you" to God, as in the aching "Lord Move Or Move Me" and "I'm Not Afraid To Love You." Having accepted and received the Comfort he always knew was there, Deibler and FFH leap into the exuberant "Because Of Who You Are" with snappy vocal trills at its end, while Jennifer responds with "You O Lord are a shield about me/You O Lord are my refuge..." opening "Be My Glory."

Hadn't bought a Christian rock album in nearly 20 years before a friend recommended FFH as a sincere, positive music alternative.(She also supplied my title quote.)It's a great soundtrack for a new way to live...thanks C&CJ for recommending FFH to me, I wholeheartedly recommend "There's a Place" to you. It's exciting, fresh Christian acoustic pop from a group whose best singing and ministering years are ahead of it.

Awesome!
FFH is my absolute favorite band of all. Their lyrics are so powerful and I listen to my cassette over and over again. I love all the songs, but my favorites are 'Why Do I', 'Found A Place', 'Because of Who You Are', 'When I Praise', and 'Your Love Is Life To Me'. Basically that is all the songs, and I could easily list all of them. 'When I Praise' is a really up-beat song and will put a smile on your face no matter what mood you are in. It makes you just want to throw your hands up in the air and worship. 'Why do I' is also a really powerful song and I think it expresses the everyday feeling that everyone has. Why would God love a little person like me? All the songs are great and I recommend this cassette for anyone.

Pray, Listen and Wait
If there is anything you are facing that is beyond you, pray about it, listen to the song, Lord Move, or Move me and Wait for God to answer your prayers. This song alone digs deep into a strong and spiritual filled life and hit the heart of god's love and mercy for our lives. Give it to God and wait for his will. Either He will move your challenge or he will move you. What an amazing way the writer captures a little vision of God. ... Read more

Amazon.com

It's a shame that Trouble never seem to get the credit or attention they deserve. Bounced from Metal Blade to Def American in the late '80s, for this album this Chicago-based quintet found a home with independent Century Media. Trouble's label really doesn't seem to matter, though: their ability to crank out some of the finest and heaviest psychedelic metal around never diminishes.

Plastic Green Head is prime stuff. While Eric Wagner's occasionally screechy vocals are an acquired taste, the superheavy gothic guitar riffage takes no getting used to. Trouble may have gone through their share of bassists and drummers, but the guitar duo of Rick Wartell and Bruce Franklin has remained intact and churning out some seriously damaging sludge since their self-titled Metal Blade debut back in 1984. Trouble does the midtempo throb grooves as well as Corrosion of Conformity or Monster Magnet, but they're versatile enough to pick up the pace when necessary. They even include covers of Carole King's "Porpoise Song" and the Beatles' "Tomorrow Never Knows" that suitably honor the original versions--though the heavy-handed psychedelic flair is pure Trouble.

That, in fact, is what makes this band so durable: their versatility and consistency. They've always maintained their sound without being afraid to modify and improve it. Plastic Green Head may not win them a ton of new fans, but it will certainly please the converted and those in search of a solid Sabbath-influenced buzz. --Adem Tepedelen ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Another band that didn't make it big
The 6th outing in 11 years, in much the same rocking vein of the prior releases, shows genuine interest in bringing a quality product to market.This is probably my favorite of the bunch, with good songs andsonic bliss.

I've been into music for 30 years, and up to 1998, I hadn't even heard of Trouble, until I purchased Martin Popoff's "The Collector's Guide To Heavy Metal".I picked up PGH 1st, then proceeded to find all 5 other discs before 1999 was over.

Do yourself a favor and stockup on all of their discs before they become rare, and for more unrecognized bands, the good read mentioned above.

Trouble - One of the Most Underrated Bands Ever
I got into Trouble a number of years ago when music stations on digital cable were just becoming mainstream additions to the cable lineup. I head Flowers off of this album that fair day and loved the vibe it was given to me. I quested desperately to find their work, but sadly always came up empty until finally a few weeks ago i found some, and this album happened to be one of them.

First off, what an album! Brilliant guitarwork, thumping bass and steller drumming spotlights Trouble at their tightest and most well oiled lineup maybe ever...while the vocals are screechy sometimes, while other times they are blissfully melodic. Requiem is one of the most beautiful pieces of music that i have ever had the priviledge of listening to, and for that I am very happy that I found this band. The title track is very fun and heavy, and the covers of Carole King and the Beatles are both fun and inspired works that are almost worth the cost of finding this gem.

Trouble is a band that constantly got written off in the savage undertones of other thrash bands like Metallica and Megadeth and the doom metal godfathers like Candlemass because they combined the doomy atmosphere of Black Sabbath with the thrash virtuosic guitarwork of a thrash icon. If you are a new fan, keep looking until you find every album by this act. Trust me, you shall not be disappointed!

a forgotten classic
I am a big fan of heavy metel cover songs.Type O Negative might have had the prize for there version of "summer Breeze"but the cover crown belongs, no doubt, to Trouble for there psychotic version of "The Pourpoise Song"Only a very few of you will recognise this gem as bieng the theme to another forgotten classic, the now infamous movie "Head"starring the Monkees.Carole King wrote this and I have attempted to find out how to procure writes to use a piece of this song in a short animation.Strangely enough this song, and Tomorow Never Knows (The Beatles) are not listed as bieng on the album, at least as far as the copywrite people are concerned, hmmmmmm, pretty wierd.This one song makes the whole album worth whatever one pays for it, it must be heard to be beleved, I am glad someone else sees the Monkees movie as something worth remebering, watch "Vanilla Sky"to hear this song yet again, Tomorow Never Knows is good too, but noone can touch the Pourpoise song cover for shear retro genoius.

Trouble, the group that gets no respect...
Since Trouble's self title album that came out at a time where if you wheren't Satanic, then you wheren't cool, since then they have stayed true to their musical intentions, keeping it interesting at the same time.Besttrack is the title track, Trouble is still around, and still doesn't getany respect.Their sound is like Black Sabbath, motorhead, Corrison ofComformity.

Trouble fans should enjoy this CD
A loud and heavy band that never got the attention they deserved, Trouble's "Plastic Green Head" pretty much picks up where "Manic Frustration" (which is no longer available) leftoff.Stand-out tracks include "Another Day", "Below me","Opium-Eater", "Long Shadows Fall" and an interestingversion of The Beatles "Tomorrow Never Knows".Anyone who is a fanof such bands as Black Sabbath, Soundgarden or Corrosion of Conformityshould not have a problem finding a place for this disc in theircollection. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Awesome new cd from the "new" Plus ONE!
I love this cd! I was a little doubtful at first when i heard that the three remaining members were going rock, but the result is great. The guys have matured musically and the lyrics to some of the songs have really touched me. Some of my favorites are Outlaw, Poor Man, Exodus and Circle, but come to think of it, i like all of them! The guys wrote all the songs (including their first single, Be love) except for one, a well known worship song. You should definately buy this cd-you won't be disappointed! Plus One, you are the best! And to conlude, three simple words: This cd ROCKS!!!

Friend of Plus One
This CD is great I like it a lot. It sounds different but I still like it. My cousion used to be in it Jeremy Mhire. It sounds great I love the songs now as punk rock.

Try it out!
I love this CD. I love the way Plus One weaves God into their songs (all of wich sound different from the others). When I originally got this CD I didn't care for it much. But I decided to give it a chance and it's what I listen to most of the time now. This group is so passionite about God. This CD is rounded toward the Rock side and even has maybe 4 lines of rap. The hardest song is poore man but it talks of Jesus showing a man down the correct raod which will lead to gold (heaven). Awsome CD and suggest it to just about anyone in their teens.

Excellent
this CD was passionate with the work that was put into it...
i don't like the fact that there are people out there that only liked PLUS ONE just because they are POP!! i like them for the lyrics and their excellent voices. you shouldn't be going for things because they have a beat. my advice is to look for music because they have heart in to their music and really want the world to know what they are saying and/or feeling. i say this is an excellent item, infact i love it more than their previous work. :-)

Great..it definatley growns on you!
When I 1st got the cd i thought " Yeah its alright." but now i have become hooked! The music begins to speak to you on a personal level and its use of metaphors make it even more unique. I highly recommend this Cd! If, when you buy the cd, you are not automatically pleased, give it time. I along with others have found that the music grows on you as you listen to it more because the words become more meaningful. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Michael W. Smith laid the foundation for his career back in the mid-1980s with a strong appeal and focus on the youth of America. Perhaps it should surprise few that this latest release, This Is Your Time, appears headed in that direction. Whether it's the return to Smitty's keyboard-driven, high-energy pop (thanks to coproducer Bryan Lenox, who also worked on Smith's Go West Young Man) or the lyrical preoccupation with young people finding their way in a troubled world, the release takes a page from some previous glories. The title track is the most gripping, a moving tribute to those students slain at the Columbine High School tragedy. Some of Smitty's best work here comes in the quieter pieces, such as "I Will Be Your Friend," "She Walks with Me," and "Anna." And again, he can rev it up with the anthemic "Hey You It's Me" and "I Still Have the Dream." But other than the pensive "Everybody Free," we see few signs of the mature and seasoned songwriting from the magnificent Live the Life release. One has to wonder why Smitty broke off the path to brilliance. --Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (97)

Fantastic!
Michael W. Smith is inspired. I've liked him since before I was a Christian and liked contemporary Christian music! He crafts such glorious pop songs that lift you up and encourage you (whether you are a Christian or not). This album is probably my favorite overall of his oeuvre. "Hey You It's Me" is sunny pop perfection - it makes me want to ride in my car with the windows down, smiling up into the sky. "Reach Out to Me" is a driving, heartfelt track that I really *feel*! "I Still Have the Dream," which is receiving play on Christian radio now, is so good that I was glad I already owned the album - I would have had to go buy it otherwise! It makes you want to just get up and dance. And the title track... breathtaking. It is so powerful, it brings tears to my eyes every time. "I Will Be Your Friend" is another great best friend anthem. Every song on this album is excellent, but I don't have the space to go one by one! Just go for it and buy this CD!

A Backtrack
Michael W. Smith has created another great album filled with great songs, and memorable musical moments. "God's Dance" is a great opener to this eclectic sort of collection, before the rocking "Hey You It's Me" comes on - reminiscent of Smitty's earlier days pounding the ivories. "Worth It All" and "I Will Be Your Friend" keep up the quality, and of course, "This Is Your Time" is a classic already. But after this, the album begins to sink. Three uneventful (and annoying) songs follow and the album never quite seems to get back on track - until the end - the "This Is Your Time reprise" will give you chills. The music and writing on this album is just not up to par with the masterpiece that LIVE THE LIFE was. The lyrics are more basic and more youth oriented than his previous album. It's almost as if Smitty has taken a step back - back to where he was with I'LL LEAD YOU HOME, which I will admit was a great album, but not as good as LIVE THE LIFE. Still, Smitty is one of the most talented men in Christian music, and his keyboarding is unparalled - as evidenced on this outing. Overall a good CD. Compared with LIVE THE LIFE, it is a little inferior.

Michael did good!
Not his best album in my opinion (but I like his love ballads more so then his other stuff) Which is why I rated it a four and not a five. The almost...salsa urban feel on the second or third track kinda threw me, and some of his lyrics seemed a little more shallow then in previous albums.

Theres a good 4 or 5 songs on here that I love to death. The rest well...maybe if I need to get happy. Buy this cd if your a hardcore fan. If your new to MWS, grab his "Decade" albums.

A must have album!
For most of Michael W. Smith's (Smitty) fans, this November, 1999 release is not considered to be one of his best. Many of them feel like it is a let down from the previous year's "Live The Life" album. Any maybe they are right. But in my opinion, "This Is Your Time" IS one of his best.

Named for the title track, which was written in honor of Cassie Bernall's brave admission to the Columbine killers, this was not an album made for the purpose of racking up sales. Instead, this was an album made for the purpose of sharing with us what was on Smitty's heart. The events of Columbine High School deeply affected Smitty, and it shows in the songs on this album.

The album is worth the purchase just for the title track and the extremely reprise at the end of the CD. Do not miss out on Smitty's sharing of his heart.

Another Great one by Micheal
Once again Micheal W. Smith hit the nail on the head with this CD. The song "This is your Time" is truely going to be classic tune, I simply love the bagpipes at the closing of this tune.
And all the other songs are going one time hits. ... Read more

Amazon.com

FFH built its foundation on an aggressive tour schedule, a commitment to sweet-sounding melodies, and a constant dedication to ministry. All three elements come to play on Have I Ever Told You, the group's third major-label release. They don't venture far into new musical territory, but FFH know what they do best: build concise pop around well-crafted harmonies. The opener, "Watching over Me," and the praise-and-worship anthem "We Sing Alleluia" capture this essence well. Producers Scott Williamson and David Hamilton don't mess with a good thing, though they do employ more keyboards and strings here than on previous FFH releases. The upbeat and playful "Astronaut" and the whimsical "Millionaire" are certainly changes of pace as well. But overall it's the tight singing arrangements and lyrics centered on one's relationship to God that placed FFH on the national stage, and they continue admirably in that vein on this pleasing release. --Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (24)

Another fabulous CD from FFH
I bought this album with high expectations of it being fabulous and I am glad to say that I was not dissapointed. This was yet another moving and uplifting album from FFH. Their honest lyrics really speak to your heart. Anyone who has ever complained about not having enough money needs to hear the song Millionaire. Perhaps my favorite song on the album (they are all great) is On My Cross. This song really makes you think about what Christ gave for us by dying on the cross. If you like FFH, buy this CD. If you've never heard of FFH, buy this CD. I guarantee that you will soon be a big fan.

Have I Ever Told you my review for their last album
Since FFH pretty much clones their first and second album with this outting with the exception of a couple of songs, I will clone my review for their last album with a few exceptions:

I enjoy FFH. When the first album came out, I was extremely impressed. I have a 3 song rule in that I gotta instantly like 3 songs before I decide to buy it. The first album went above and beyond that when I liked every song on first listen. I can't say that on the third album. Don't get me wrong. This is a good album with some great praise & worship songs. Their concert was also excellent. But I guess my only issue is that it sounds like a clone of the first and second album. The beats and music on most of the songs are identical. Lyrically they have made some great stuff (I smiled on Astronaut). They do some experimentation on a couple of songs and they sound ok.

Great Christian music!
FFH music is very good..especially for new followers of Christ. I am recommending their music to anyone who will listen...first to the words of Christ...then to contemporary Christian music to help them feel Gods presence at all times in their life.

Another great Cd
This CD is amazing. On most CDs there is atleast 1 or two track I have to skip because they are songs I don't like, but not with this CD. Song number 8 "Millionaire" really has inspired me and a friend of mine while we were having problems with what to do for the rest of our lives. Number 3 is absolutely wonderful, it makes me want to raise my hands every time I hear it. All songs here are beautiful and inspiring.

Great CD
Just a wonderful CD to get you into the Christian groove. I like "Watching over Me" and "Fly Away" ... Read more

Amazon.com

It's such a cliché to call any record a "stunning debut," but how else is one to respond to the first release by the frighteningly talented 19-year-old singer-songwriter Kendall Payne?Payne's music career is a fairy-tale success story: granted a third-stage gig at Lilith Fair's unsigned-acts showcase, she was offered soon thereafter a deal by Capitol Records and a song on the popular Never Been Kissed soundtrack. Payne's melodic, empowering songs deliver endearing there-are-big-problems-in-this-world-and-they-really-do-bother-me words that consistently avoid the banal trappings of her more cash-infused music-industry mates. The beautifully sung lyrics will appeal to most any teenager: they concern a teenage friend who lost her father, the societal pressures on women to look like supermodels, being compared with one's older sibling, and one's personal relationship with God. Payne's work fits easily into the late-'90s softer-sounding chick-with-a-guitar genre (Sixpence, Jewel) and displays a keen melodic sense (she wrote or cowrote all the songs), which, by any right, will bring future success. With a nondidactic yet powerful spiritual bent to the songs, Jordan's Sister will also please contemporary Christian music fans. --Mike McGonigal ... Read more

Reviews (69)

The Best
I bought this cd for the song "Supermodels".When I listenend to the whole CD I was hooked.This cd has some of the best songs I've ever heard.I like Britney and Christina but,this talented 19 yr old writes her own material. 1.Closer To Myself-This one of the best songs on the album. 2.Supermodels-This song is the reason i bought the cd. 3.Wonderland-Not my favorite but,still really good. 4.Hollywood-Great song 5.Honest-Beautiful song.It is absolutly great. 6.The Second Day-This is abeautiful song where her voice really shines. 7.It's Not The Time-This is a really good song. 8.On My Bones-This song is so honest and it has great lyrics. One of the best 9.Modern Day Moses-This is one that can get stuck in your head. 10.Perfect By Thursday-This is a sweet song. 11.Formerly Known As-Another Honset song by miss Payne. 12.Never Leave-REally good song 13.Fatherless At 14-THE BEST SONG ON THE CD. All in all bu the cd.You won't regret it.

A terrific debut!
I don't often buy a CD based on a review, having heard nothing at all, but I did pick up "Jordan's Sister" based solely on a magazine review. There are many comparisons to make ("Formerly Known As"--my favorite--sounds like Jann Arden, for example), but no matter who she sounds like, she still manages to find a unique voice through her songwriting. The messages in her music are honest and powerful, whether she sings about her strong faith in Christ or her disdain for sickeningly beautiful women. You'll do yourself a favor by giving Kendall Payne's debut a spin.

completely amazing
This album is so amazing. Kendall Payne is a talented songwriter and singer, she is so refreshing. I can't stop listening to it. I think everyone could really relate to her lyrics and touching songs. Can't wait for the next album!

Honest staying power
I bought this CD without having heard of Kendall Payne - one of my few "whim" purchases. I then left on a 14 hour trip back to college, and it didn't leave the CD player. Kendall has an amazing ability to write honest lyrics and fitting melodies. Her songs got me through some difficult times when I was 20, and now at 23 she still never fails to touch me. She covers a full range of emotions. For Christian listeners, she reminds us that we're not always going to be happy and life is going to hurt, but we will never be alone (see "Never Leave").

I'm ready for her next one!

great cd
This is just a Great CD! Not too Hard and not too soft. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Aptly titled Gold, this CD features the crème de la crème of the songs that have shaped the face of Christian music since the 1970s. The compilation pulls together many of the original recordings that spent time in the spotlight, providing a snapshot of what is imbedded within the hearts and minds of any seasoned Christian-music fan. Featuring artists from all genres, Gold presents a perfect cross section of the industry's most respected talent. With a flavor to satisfy every appetite, acoustic rock, gospel, heavy metal, worship, vocal, and contemporary sounds fashion a wild ride that leaves no moment mundane. Nowhere else would Stryper's "To Hell with the Devil" and Twila Paris's "He Is Exalted" share time on the same project. Wow! This is a true wonder indeed, bringing nostalgic memories and renewed inspiration to any Christian-music enthusiast. --Israel Button ... Read more

Reviews (11)

WOW, indeed!
Talk about the compilation of a lifetime! Some of the best contemporary Christian music (CCM) of the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s can be found on this two-CD, 30-song compilation.

From Larry Norman's original 1972 Christian rock rallying cry "Why Should The Devil Have All The Good Music?" to Dallas Holm & Praise's two-year chart topping song "Rise Again" to the absolutely delicious 1997 gospel-rock (there is no other way to classify this song) collaboration song "Stomp" by God's Property and Kirk Franklin, just about every CCM style out there is represented by the best of the best here.

In the mood for some good, old nostalgia? You're covered here with 1974's "Easter Song" by 2nd Chapter of Acts, and 1985's "Undivided" by First Call, as well as Keith Green's "You Put This Love In My Heart" and Russ Taft's first number one hit "We Will Stand."

There are many, many more songs on this compilation worth reliving. From the older "Phil Keaggy" to the newer "dc Talk," there is something for everyone. Make sure your collection contains these best of the best.

The Best of the Best
This CD tops any other CD in the WoW collection. It has the best songs from only the best artists and groups. Think of it as a "Who's Who in Christian Music" This is the album of the year.

GREAT INTRODUCTION TO CHRISTIAN MUSIC! It helped me!
I started to listen to Christian music in 2000. Never had an interest in it before, really. Amy Grant was who eased me into it. Since Amy was on this compilation, I thought, how do the rest sound. How did Christian music sound back in then and how has it evolved.

This is the album that answered my questions. WOW! Maybe that's why they entitled these collections that. How ecclectic the collection of songs it on this 2-CD set. It's wonderful!

Jars of Clay opens the collection with "Flood" which received much airplay on secular stations. As the songs continue, the pop tunes really makes it easy to transition into Christian music. Music with a message! Great songs on every track!

Highlights: Awesome God, For the Sake of the Call, Thy Word, He is Exalted, Friends, Easter Song, Rise Again, Praise the Lord, My Tribute, Thank You. So many more great songs on this set.

If you want to ease a friend into Christian music, this is the CD for him/her. Maybe you have been curious. Take it from me, buy it. I did and listen to it all the time.

listen carefully
WOW Gold is perhaps the definitive collection of music outlining the soul of the christian music industry. Cuts like "Why should the devil have all the good music?" and "My Tribute" are pieces of history and part of the heritage of christian music. The inclusion of "Easter Song" by Second Chapter of Acts, "You put this love in my heart" by Keith Green, and "Awesome God" by Rich Mullins, are tributes to artists who made a mark in the world by their personal lives and testimonies in addition to their music. WOW Gold is not a collection of biggest sellers - it is a history. "What if I Stumble" by dc Talk is not the group's biggest seller, but it is a testimony to the heart of the group and the christian music industry as a whole. "Not Ashamed" by the Newsboys is a piece that bears testimony to the calling the group has focused on; standing up for the Truth, even when the world finds it offensive. The only song in the collection that should definately not be there is Kirk Franklin's "Stomp". Gospel is a genre that needs to be represented and Kirk Franklin is an artist who has made his mark in the industry. But, "Stomp" is just not a good representative piece. Something else should definately have been chosen. This album spans an incredible collection of musical styles. From Stryper to Keith Green to Jars of Clay to Bob Carlyle, this is an incredible collection of music and one i am proud to own.

Could Have Been Better
OK...The CD is decent and all of the songs are good, but some songs that should be on this CD are not here...such as "Trumpet of Jesus" by the Imperials. "Shine," by the Newsboys, is another track that should have made it on here. There are some songs on here that definitely do not belong here...such as "Stomp." Overall, I believe a better job could have been done putting this package together. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Church in Carnegie Hall
Since 1970, Andrae Crouch has emerged as the most dynamic gospel music artist and writer in the post 1970 era. You will enjoy those songs they sung in your church when you were younger such as Jesus is the Answer, Can't nobody do me like Jesus and much more. This album was recorded during the height of the Jesus People movement and it shows an excitement that existed at that time. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Good to come back to
I popped this CD in my player the other day having not heard it for several years. I was amazed by the songs and remembering certain moments when I heard Find A Way being played on my favorite top 40 radio station. In those days, hearing a song by a Christian artist was unthinkable and by todays standards Find A Way is a true Christian anthem of love and hope. This album is a true historical icon! No other artist has ever made this kind of impact in this way before with such powerful staying presence. Amy Grant is definately an artist to celebrate over. Her music continues to inspire and creat more and more other artists who are following in her footsteps-Jaci Velasquez and Leanne Rimes to name a few. Unguarded was a true breakthrough album for Amy and cemented her as a true artist and performer and not just a stuffy Christian hymns trendsetter. Amy made Christian music real and inventive. You go girl! Amy, you haven't released anything in a while, what's up?!?

unguarded in plain review
While Amy's signature cd will always be HEART IN MOTION, the uncapitalized "unguarded" remains her best for the genre & time frame for which it was released in. This cd is her best kept secret. Despite being Christian in nature, it cannot be passed up or "put away", or tucked on your record shelf as music appealing to only one audience. Serious music enthusiasts need to understand that there have been "crossover" hits thru out the years shared with a larger audience making their way to the top of the charts. Songs like "My Sweet Lord" (Geo. Harrison(, "Spirit In The Sky" (Norman Greenbaum), "O Happy Days" (Edwin Hawkins Singers), and the coke commercial "I'd Like To Teach The World To Sing". Amy's "Love Will Find A Way" compares the power of love with the principles of faith in the New Testament. But the message is clear that this love goes beyond anyone's religious beliefs to the idea that love based upon whatever the listener believes it to be will forever prevail. Using religion or the belief system in this song is obviously only a comparison and not just the gospel truth. "The Prodigal" is based upon the Bible message but don't allow the title to fool you.If you don't know the scripture story, you won't by the time the song concludes. While "Love Of Another Kind" mentions Jesus, musically 'it works' beyond the Jesus audience with a great beat and sing-along lyrics.

Who'd've ever thought upon listening to "I Love You" a song Grant dedicates to then-husband Gary Chapman was written at a time when the couple was contemplating divorce. "Wise Up" you might think would fit personal situation better but she was candid enought to speak the truth & the audience ate it up. "Everywhere I Go I see your face in the crowd, you have found me" cut up the charts in Christian music mentioning the 'one love divine...are the light that I see...find me".

"Fight", "Who To Listen To" "Stepping In Your Shoes" round off the compilation that can set the world on its feet the way it did when it first came on the record scene 'unguarded'.

Pushing the envelope.
By the early 80's, Amy Grant had established herself as a true force in Contemporary Christian music, having sold over a million copies of her albums 'Age to Age' and 'Straight Ahead'. These milestones still did not prepare her primary audience for the new sounds of 'Unguarded', however. At the time of its release, 'Unguarded' sounded more like the top 40 radio of the time, with 80's synth-rock production and oblique lyrics that had Amy singing about a vague "you", rather than God or Jesus directly. There was some dismay among traditionalist fans, who saw this album as Amy moving away from her roots, but the mainstream audience, many of whom had never heard 'Age to Age' or 'Straight Ahead' made 'Unguarded's singles top 20 hits on the secular charts, a feat unheard of at the time for a Christian artist. In retrospect, 'Unguarded' is perhaps more important as an historical turning point for Christian music, rather than as an album in itself, since the songs do sound somewhat dated today, and yet the Christian music audience is forever indebted to this album because it broke Christian music to a wider audience and paved the way for many rock-oriented Christian acts to follow.

wow!
This CD is Amy Grant's best by far! It icludes the hits, love of another kind, find a way, and erevywhere I go...I love this CD so much and would recommend it to anyone!

UNGUARDED - Amy Grant in a different perspective
When UNGUARDED came out in 1985, it defenitely showed a different side to Amy. Many people were used to the praise & worship, I'd do anything for God because He rules type. "El Shaddai" and "Sing Your Praise To The Lord" were classic Amy hits. But coming from all the way from "Father's Eyes" to "Find A Way" must've took some thought and understanding. Right? I'd still recommend this CD to anyone who wants to buy it. All that matters is that it's not mainstream rock, it's Christian Rock. ... Read more