Thursday, December 30, 2010

New Year's Resolutions: What Love Really Means

I was thinking about what to write about this week, so I asked a co-worker, Erin, what I should do. She told me that well it is a time for new year's resolutions, but then we joked around that those never pan out. I really never make resolutions because two days is the overall average that they last. Then today I was listening to some music and came upon "What Love Really Means" by J.J. Heller. Now, I have heard this song before, but this time when I heard it I thought of my sister, who I don't always get along with. The funny thing is that this past Christmas we had drawn each other's names, so she has been on my mind a lot this holiday season. We don't really talk or see each other much, except of what she writes on Facebook. We have a history of causing each other emotional pain. I love her, but at times I don't know how to. This song resonates with these thoughts. "I will love her for her, not for what she has done, or for what she will become." Who is she? She is Katie: my sister, who is a joy to my heart, daughter to my parents, an adopted daughter of God, who Jesus died for to bring her eternal life, a good friend, and someone whose favorite color is pink.
My new year's resolution is to love her as Christ loves and teaches us to love.
Katie, this song I dedicate to you...

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Easter is April 24! Our Easter Choral are Out!

It might seem strange to some to announce Easter's date just after Christmas, but after Christmas there is only a short time before Easter arrives. In the world of choir and program directors, now is the time to begin to look for Easter music and programs. Baker Book House strives to help make this process easier by offering a Choral library where you can check out up to 5 pieces of music for one week.


Here is the new releases for this year...


Easter 2011 Choral Music

Concert: Tammy Trent - January 15, 2011

Tammy Trent will be at the Grand Rapids First Church, Saturday 15th at 7:00 PM for a concert.


      Beneath her youthful exterior and fresh-faced exuberance, Tammy is a focused recording artist, author and speaker who knows exactly what she wants to say.  She creates music that serves as a personal conduit for those seeking to worship God and also wants to remind others of God's desire to reach them.  Through her own personal journey of love and loss, Tammy continues to share that theme through her books, her music and her life. 
     Tammy's dedication to the ministry was recognized in November 2009 when the Christian Music Hall of Fame handed her the award for Inspirational Female Vocalist of the Year!
     Her ministry reaches all around the world, taking on such platforms as the Women of Faith and the Revolve Tour as a featured speaker and singer.  And in Tammy's own words, "I commit my resources to outreach, service and ministry to help others discover a real relationship with Jesus Christ and to fully understand His promises and the eternal."


Tuesday, December 28, 2010

December 28, 2010 - New Release

The Flame - Captured - Clear Sight Music - Infinity Music
     After 2 years the 2009 Grammy, Stellar, GMA Dove Award nomineereleases his next project on a new record label, owned by him and his wife Crystal, Clear Sight Music. This album speaks to the heart of those who have lived a life that is not how God wants us to live, so thats about everyone. The Flame's Captured is him pouring his heart out, and because of this, there is few other artists on this album. It is a softer Flame in this album without losing the power. With the song "All I Need", The Flame writes how God uses others in our life at time to draw us to Him, like Flame's wife, Crystal is honored in one verse. We are captured by God, and you will be captured by this powerful moving music. Cause, when we are captured, we haven't been so free. "Jesus you are my white flag, I surrender right now"



Level 3:16 - Level 3:16 - Cross Movement Rec. - Provident
     New group Level 3:16 enters the scene focused and determined as musicianaries (music-missionaries). Uniting this unique collection of young, energetic artists from all across the country is one common mission: to elevate their culture and generation to the next level of reality that goes beyond what is seen to what is unseen; that level begins with embracing the gospel message of the quintessential Bible verse John 3:16 as both the means and goal of life itself. 


     Offering an eclectic fusion of Hip Hop, R&B and urban gospel, Level 3:16 is comprised of 2 male emcees, 3 female vocalists and 1 female DJ. Skillfully combining melodic Hip Hop and hard-hitting beats with the musicality and 3-part harmonies of R&B, topped off with classic lyricism, a strong vocal blend and spoken word, the versatility of the band is inspiring and impressive. Their self-titled debut album will be released on Cross Movement Records through a strategic partnership with The Impact Movement, an organization focused on college-oriented ministry that develops students of African -descent into Christ-centered leaders.

Friday, December 24, 2010

Thursday, December 23, 2010

Some Exciting News for Francesca Battistelli Fans!

Francesca Battistelli's sophomore album is due to come out March 1st!!!
I'm not the only one who is excited about this new release- check out Francesca's own thoughts about her new album:


Dear friends and fans,


I am THRILLED to share with you this exciting news: my new album is finished and coming to you in 2011!! It's been such an incredible journey since the release of my first album My Paper Heart and I had a blast working with Ian Eskelin again for this new project. Your support means the world to me and since I absolutely cannot wait for you to hear these new songs, you can hear my upcoming single "This Is The Stuff" on below. Be sure to listen for it on your favorite Christian radio station in January. I wrote this about the day-to-day "stuff" that can get under my skin but ultimately God uses to work in my life.


One last thing… I'd love to hear what "stuff" drives you crazy! So be sure to tweet @francescamusic with whatever the "stuff" for you is with the tag #thisisthestuff. Each week I'll pick five responses and feature on my website. Can't wait to read your responses!


- Francesca

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Elevator Music & Smooth Jazz

    Last week with the review of the sophomore album of Michael Essex and Vision, the Encounter, I had mentioned how great I thought it was that they had a saxophone player in the band. I had then mentioned my dislike of what I called "elevator music." In one sense I apologize for using a blanketed mean term that is commonly applied to smooth jazz. I do not want to make blank terminology when discussing music, because that is not fair to the artists and the music itself.In another sense, everyone has music that doesn't speak to them and for some smooth jazz is just a style that they don't care for. That is just fine, just like not everybody's favorite color is pink. 
     "Elevator music" or Musak, as it is properly called, is used to set the mood in places of business. Can you today imagine a time when there was no music playing in stores as it used to be like back in the early 20th century and before. The easy listening, mostly instrumental music would set the mood for customer to be calm and have some fun when shopping, because shopping is not meant to be stressful. Musak attempts please many different people and their genres that they like by mixing the different sounds together. Jazz has its origins in both the African American Oral Tradition and the European Classical interpretation, so in this regard smooth jazz is the prime choice to play. I should also mention here that smooth jazz is not the only type of Musak out there; however smooth jazz is used a lot.
    Though many may disagree with different definitions of smooth jazz or even jazz; in general, there are key element that make up jazz like blue notes, rhythm, and improvisation. Smooth jazz comes out of Jazz Fusion, a hybrid form combining  jazz and rock. In that tradition, Musak, in the form of smooth jazz with take popular songs, remove the vocal, softens it up, and then in many cases adds a saxophone. In this regard, jazz has been commercialized and mass marketed. The end result is not so much jazz anymore, but a sound that many dislike and mock. 
     I would also argue that some smooth jazz today has lost the key element of jazz that is improvisation. To be fair, there are many artists out there that break out of the boring, synthesized pact. These are the artists who stay true to the rhythm and improvisation of jazz, while being easy-to-listen-to or as smooth as cool whip. To me Jeff Sparks' music embodies this cool jazz. He has the foundation of a steady beat of the drum and the accompaniment of the piano or guitar; this allows for him to just soar those notes. His music is not distracting, but it also doesn't put you to sleep.

     In regard to my liking of jazz and smooth jazz, I do like some artist like Jeff Sparks and Tito Charneco with their sound of complex jazz notes in an smooth setting. I do not like the watered down of jazz music, or the music that when trying to appeal to everyone appeals to no one. I always feel that when artist are not true themselves then the music is just bad. It then becomes "elevator music."

Monday, December 20, 2010

Need a Gift for your Father? Here is a musical idea!

  For many people finding the perfect gift for the father or man in their life is a difficult task. The newest project by Sanctus Real entitled Pieces of My Heart is an excellent idea for a number of reasons, like the heart filled songs. The song "Forgiven" is a celebration of forgiveness as described by Psalm 51:12 "restore to me the joy of your salvation." The song "Lead Me" was written by lead singer, Matt, during a time when he was tired in life and having a hard time on the home front. Interesting to note that when Sanctus Real plays this song at concerts, they look out into the audience to see the different reactions. Some couples are all loving, and sadly you have more the broken and struggling. What I love about this song is that it challenges and encourages at the same time. Even though the message is almost for men folk, it also is speaking to women also to have Christ lead their lives.

Friday, December 17, 2010

Michael Essex and Vision New Album - The Encounter!

The talent, the gift, the inspiration- the amazing sophomore album. There is a saying out there that the sophomore albums are never as good as the first. In many cases this is true, but not here! This anointed encounter is diverse in its range of sounds yet unified in its blend of harmonies. This album includes several guest appearances, featuring the talents of Kenneth Henderson, George Moss, and Christopher Gibson.

One of the things that I love about Michael Essex and Vision is the amazing song writing mixed with some sweet sounds. The lyrics have a depth that few praise and worship songs possess today while not losing the beat. What is really cool is that they have Catlindt Landrum on the saxophone. Now I don't know about you but I love the saxophone though I am not always crazy with elevator saxophone music that is out there. There is a fine line and Catlindt keeps it real by not crossing that line. Having the saxophone in the praise band is pretty unique and sweet.

This is a great album!

What makes a great album? This is a question that as a music buyer I ask myself a lot. I love all genres of music (though I don't care to listen to like, elevator music). For me, I like a song, artist, or album that sounds good. Since songs are the most simple of the three, I will use that as an example. Now, good to me is that first the overall sound of the song is well blended, mixed, or put together. Second, the vocals have to not be offensive to the ear, on pitch, on key, or generally appealing. Finally, the lyrics have to be catchy, have meaning, or not sound forced. These criteria is a mix of technical aspect and the quality of an artist. If an album is filled of songs that fit these criteria then it is a great album, like this one.

To Purchase this great album, just come in and visit our store or go online at www.bakerbookstore.com
To Check out the sound come to our store or this youtube video of when they came to our store!

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Barbara Faith Jordan

If you are looking for a easy listening festive sound look no further. The Gift of Christmas Peace is a simple joy to listen to.Barbara Faith Jordan is a Christian folk singer from Traverse City, Mi. With Dave Proulx as her piano/keyboard accompanist and her soothing voice, the Christmas season is made a musical special. The Gift of Christmas Peace is a collection of new favorites, classic favorites, and some old favorites. When you listen to this collection, grab a cup of hot chocolate (or coffee), and watch the large snow flakes fall softly among the happy Christmas lights outside. This song, All Through the Night/ Infant Holy, Infant Lowly, is just a sample of the soothing music that you will enjoy, just click on the title to preview.

Monday, December 13, 2010

A Lamp in the Dark - video review

Normally I don't post a negative review; however, I don't want others out there to assume as I did on this Bible documentary. I had asked our Bible expert to view it for me so that the review would be credible; however, the video itself is not very.
This is the link to his blog where he did review it.
bbhchurchconnection.wordpress.com

Friday, December 10, 2010

Chronicles of Narnia - The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

The Chronicles of Narnia - The Voyage of the Dawn Treader is in theaters TODAY!!!!
Return to the magic and wonder of C.S. Lewis’ beloved world – via the fantastic Narnian ship, the Dawn Treader.  In this new installment of the blockbuster “The Chronicles of Narnia” motion picture franchise, Edmund and Lucy Pevensie, along with their cousin Eustace, their royal friend King Caspian, and a warrior mouse named Reepicheep, find themselves swallowed into a painting and on to the Dawn Treader.  Their mission – on which rests the fate of Narnia itself – takes the courageous voyagers to mysterious islands and a river that turns to gold, to fateful confrontations with magical creatures and sinister enemies, and to a reunion with their friend and protector, the “Great Lion” Aslan. 

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Flyleaf - "Remember to Live"

The new "Remember to Live" album released on Tuesday with some never before recorded songs, a few new songs, and some old ones reborn. It is a great album that seems like an almost acoustic version, intrinsically Flyleaf yet softer. This softer interesting route that Flyleaf took on this album allows for emphasize lyrics and in some songs, Lacey's emotions in her voice are stronger here than the originals. This is not hard like there normal records, but once in a while acoustic versions are kinda fun though not always for everyone. 

Check out this preview below...

Monday, December 6, 2010

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

In the Spirit of Christmas - Hallelujah!

It was called a random act of culture. When my cousin showed this to me, I thought that it was amazing and I was sad that I wasn't there.  It is always interesting how different songs can draw and connect different people. This moment in time is a must see.

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Leah Mari's "All I Have Needed" - A Review

Leah Mari has the remarkable potential to bridge the generation gap of those who only listen to traditional hymns and those who wish to be reintroduced to the classic hymns. Her slower songs embody the concept of elegant simplicity with the simplistic instrumental background. This allows for empathize on the lyrics. In the more upbeat (or fuller sounding) hymns, the organ is replaced with more contemporary praise and worship instruments without being offensive to the more traditional or contemporary audience. As a special treat, I would say, in the inside cover of her album, she saus how each song speaks to her. I love when artists do this. 
Leah goes a step farther when giving credit to the hymns. In some cases she reveals a little of the story of how the hymn came to be.
Here is just a tease of this gifted musician...
"I love the way St. Francis explains how creation praises God. One of my favorite line from the song is, 'Thou rising moon in praise rejoice, y lights of heaven find a voice. ' As a mother of four, I have the tendency to not take the time to look up between taking the kids to school and putting them to bed. For me, this song is a reminder that creation is proclaiming the glory of God. To see it, all I have to do is look around. David writes in Psalms 19, 'The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands.' I encourage you, when life gets busy - take a moment to look around and join creation in praising Him." Leah Mari

All Creatures: words by Francis of Assisi sometime around 1225 but was not published for close to 400 years. Translated to English for a children's festival by William H. Draper, the song first appeared in a public school hymnal in 1919.

No New Releases This Week!

After a busy Thanksgiving weekend, there are no new releases this Tuesday. If you missed out on our great deals that we offered over the weekend, here are some great deals for you till Christmas.
$5 Specials:
Beth Moore's - Invitation to Freedom
Dr. Tim Clinton - Invitation to Comfort
BarlowGirl - Love & War
BarlowGirl - Home for Christmas
PureNRG - Christmas
Big Daddy Weave - Christ is Come
Mercy Me - Christmas Sessions
Michael W. Smith - Christmas
Needtobreathe - Outsiders
Aaron Shust - Whispered and Shouted
Newsboys - Christmas


$7.99 Specials:
Chris Tomlin - Hello Love
Steven Curtis Chapman - Beauty Will Rise
Britt Nicole - Say It
George Moss - All or Nothing

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Happy Thanksgiving from Baker Book House Music!

After the Thanksgiving holiday marks the beginning of the Advent and Christmas season. Christmas is associated with the giving of gifts. I never thought of giving gifts to others as an act of worship, but in a way it is. God lovingly gave us such an amazing gift of His only son that now we follow His examples. Giving gifts is an act of love, and what that love looks like changes with each person from serious, emotional, humorous, to chocolate loving (unless you are allergic). Baker Book House wants to help, so here is our after Thanksgiving Flyer...(below)...

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Begin the Advent Season with Music

What better way to start the holiday season than with emotion evoking music. And guess what, there are some concerts coming up that would provide the music! Here are some of those awesome concerts for the first two weeks of Advent. (Advent is the 4 week period before Christmas when the Church celebrates the first coming of Christ and anticipates his second coming. For more info: http://www.churchyear.net/advent.html)


Family Force 5 - Dec. 1 @ the Intersection - 7:00pm
Seabird & Ben Rector - Dec. 2 @ Mixtape Cafe - 6:30pm
Home for the Holidays with Point of Grace and Philips, Craig & Dean - Dec. 3 @ Grand Rapids First Assembly of God - 7;00pm
How Many Kings Tour with Downhere, Mark Schultz, and Alli Rogers - Dec 4 @ Zeeland Community Reformed - 7:00pm



Tuesday, November 23, 2010

November 23, 2010 - New Releases

Today is another release date where many albums are made available, like Jesus Culture, Soul Seekers, Micah Stampley, Christy Lane, The Chariot, and many more below. Check them out in these five pages ...
New Releases 20101123

Monday, November 22, 2010

Chris August's "Starry Night" is News!

CHRIS AUGUST IS COUNTING HIS LUCKY STARS AS HIS SMASH N0. 1 SINGLE “STARRY NIGHT” TOPS THE CHRISTIAN MUSIC CHARTS FOR 3-WEEKS IN A ROW

August’s debut single continues to top both the Christian AC Monitored Chart and the National Christian Audience Chart this week

Nashville, TN / November 18, 2010 – Fervent Records' hot debut artist Chris August has a lot to be thankful this Thanksgiving with his smash No. 1 single “Starry Night” holding the coveted No. 1 spot on both the Christian AC Monitored Chart and the National Christian Audience Chart for the third week in a row, making this song the most played single in the Christian format. "Starry Night" has also become a fan-favorite, selling well over 80,000 digital singles-to-date. This catchy, up-tempo tune is from August’s debut album No Far Away, already proving to be one of the highest selling new artist releases this year in the genre.

"I couldn't believe my single went No. 1 for one week, let alone three weeks, " said August, "I am so thankful to all the radio stations for letting me become part of their ministry and the Fervent/Word radio team for their hard work. I hope this song encourages you like it's encouraged me to keep living for Christ."  

While he may be considered a "new" artist, Fervent Records' newly signed singer-songwriter Chris August is anything but a rookie in the music industry. The self-taught pianist, guitarist, and producer previously toured as the keyboard player and opening act for pop sensation Ashlee Simpson and worked with Ryan Cabrera, Brian McKnight and Jessica Simpson before shifting his focus to his solo career. Chris, a native of Dallas, Texas, put his refined skill set to work when he co-produced his debut record with acclaimed producer Ed Cash. While he is not one to shy away from writing about his faith, Chris isn't afraid to embrace relationships and heartache in his songwriting. Chris cites influences such as Stevie Wonder, John Mayer and Gavin DeGraw who all contributed to the polished pop/rock sound that is sure to resonate with all who listen.

Friday, November 19, 2010

Heirloom Strings - Christmas

         The Heirloom Strings Christmas EP features three sisters who have been playing and singing together since their childhood days when they performed for audiences, churches, weddings, and family gatherings.  
         Now spread out across the country, they have all come together to create this album. Rebecca Schroeder, the producer of the project wanted to put to record years of family music experiences into a timeless album to share with family and friends. She is a professional musician, recording artist, and teacher in Seattle, Washington. Kristen Lambert, cellist, is a professional musician, teacher and mother of three residing in Saranac, Michigan.  Katharine Broberg has joined them with her gifted improvisational piano and is a mother of two residing in Grand Rapids, Michigan.  Carolyn Schroeder, concert pianist, the heart and soul of producing their musical past resides in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
         They are excited to share their music with you. They celebrate this album to bless and give their love in this tangible way to thank those that have encouraged them calling forth their best.
         What I love about this album is that it is not just limited to a single instrument. So many instrumental Christmas Albums feature a single instrument that always playing the melody line. In this case, the sisters and mother share the melody line between their different instruments. The sound that they produce is simply amazing in its beautiful complexity. The holidays are a time when many families get together, and this time can be joyous and difficult for many. This family came together and made music. Some say in our world that music is a way in expressing thoughts and feelings that words have trouble conveying. This mother and three sister’s music sounds just like a conversation between family members. It is a joy to hear a conversation that is uplifting and not tearing down as in this case. You will be blessed with this transcending music. It is definitely worth a listen.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Concerts This Week!

Friday Praize Cafe` II @ THE WAREHOUSE - A Benefit Concert for Living Water International - The Warehouse at Grace for the Nations Church, 3333 Kraft Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512 - 7:00 pm


Saturday:
 A Night at the Ivories is back in Grand Rapids, MI this November 20th at 7:00 p.m.  in the Meijer Theater located in the Grand Rapids Public Museum.  This is the 4th annual event in Grand Rapids for “A Night at the Ivories.”  Bring your friends, Christian and non-Christian!!
Antioch visits Baker Book House for an evening of Praise on Saturday night at 5:00pm. Antioch Christian Center is a church and training center in Grand Haven, Michigan that is facilitating God's Kingdom by preaching and demonstrating the Truth, Life and Way of Jesus Christ.Ron James has been involved early in his life with music growing up in the Chicago area and eventually spent time in LA playing with the likes of Mary Wells. After salvation Ron spent some time finding himself and now leads praise and worship at Antioch Christian Center.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Monday, November 15, 2010

Chris Tomlin's "And If Our God is for Us"

       Worship leader Chris Tomlin's newest project And If Our God is for Us releases tomorrow, November 16, 2010. One of the smart things that Tomlin does with his songs is that he always tests his new songs on concert audiences. Tomlin is also involved with a new church project in Atlanta, GA called Passion City Church. It named after the Passion Conference of which he is one of the leaders. 
       All that being said, this is an amazing project of Tomlin's. I had the chance to preview this album, and I absolutely love it just like the previous projects. The only bad thing is that I don't know which of his projects are my favorite. Guess it is a good thing that I own them all. I also encourage everyone to own his entire collection (I really don't always say this either). In regards to acquiring the collection, his previous projects go on sale at various times and this new one will be on sale till Christmas.
         For And If Our God is for Us, his popular single Our God is on this project. Before this song was only available on Passion's Awakening. The project derives the title from this amazing song. Another great song on this project is I Will Follow. This song's powerful message is all about being a follower or disciple of Jesus. I once heard that back in the day, to be a disciple of anyone you would model your entire life after who you following. When someone looked at the disciple, they would see the leader (Jesus). How amazing this is that when someone looks at you, they see Christ living in you.
"Where you go, I will go
Where you stay, I will stay
Where you move, I will move
I will follow
Who you love, I will love
How you serve, I will serve
I this life I lose, I will follow you
I will follow you"

Saturday, November 13, 2010

Shana Wilson - Now Available at Baker Book House

Baker Book House is honored to sell Shana Wilson's inspired Gospel Praise and Worship music on her debut CD, "The Nation are waiting...Live in Worship". Her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics inspires the listener to a worshipful experience. The song below is the one that speaks to me.

Shana Wilson was born and raised in Detroit, MI. She is the youngest daughter of Bishop Samuel & Lady 'J' Wilson (Pastor/Founder & 1st Lady) of Community Christian Fellowship Ministries, where she attends and serves as Worship Leader, and Choir Director. Shana is recognized for her giftedness in songwriting and her anointing to worship.
Shana has written a number of songs which include, Press In Your Presence, You are Holy, Lion of Judah, So Amazing, and Shout to the Lord, that are all on her debut album "The Nations Are Waiting". Shana grasps hold of radical praise and worship that breaks the chains which causes others to be bound! She has grown to love and accept her calling to break strongholds off of all who experiences the ministry of song that God has birthed in her through her testimony in her walk with God. Shana Wilson has ministered from her heart to the heart and soul of many others. Her goal is to always draw someone closer to God through the anointing and the leading of the Holy Spirit while ministering.
(To see her complete bio click here)

Friday, November 12, 2010

Antich Visits Baker Book House Next Saturday!

Baker Book House is honored to host the gospel praise and worship group, ANTIOCH!
Come and Join Us for an Evening of Praise at 5:00 pm!


Life is a journey with many twists and stops along the way. Antioch's story is such a journey.
After being sent out by Apostle John Eckhardt and Crusaders Ministries, Dr. Ron and Prophet Lisa James founded Antioch Christian Center in 1990. Antioch Christian Center is a church and training center in Grand Haven, Michigan that is facilitating God's Kingdom by preaching and demonstrating the Truth, Life and Way of Jesus Christ. Antioch Christian Center is a place where God is restoring families and Biblical praise, using gifts to perfect the saints, and raising up teams and small businesses to impact the nations. Antioch Christian Center is a church and training center where "Jesus is King!"
Ron James has been involved early in his life with music growing up in the Chicago area and eventually spent time in LA playing with the likes of Mary Wells. After salvation Ron spent some time finding himself and now leads praise and worship at Antioch Christian Center.

Here is an exclusive listen to their music... March Across the Land

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

November 9, 2010 - New Releases

November 9th releases of Susan Boyle, Dave Barnes, Underoath, Bethel Church, Jason Catro, and many more!
New Releases 110910

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Hero by Abandon

Only once in a while does a song come along that tells (or in a video case) the Gospel message so strongly. This song is powerful.
But what is a hero? Webster's dictionary describes a hero as a man admired for his achievements and noble qualities, or one that shows great courage. Now I ask you, what makes a hero? 
I have here two videos of the same song of Hero by Abandon. One is a collage of symbolic pictures and the other is video from the Passion. I put both here because both I think are good. No everyone approaches the world the same. It is my hope that at least one will speak to you as the group Abandon intended to.  “We want our music to be an encouragement to everyone and our songs to minister to people’s hearts.”


About the group Abandon:
        They are a band of 5 guys from San Antonio, TX. What is unique about this group that 2 are brothers, 2 are the brother's cousins, and one is a friend from their church. The group’s name was inspired by the Bible verse of Joshua 22:3, which reads “God has directed us not to abandon any brothers”. 
       EMI/CMG Director of A &R Chris York discovered them while eating dinner with his wife. “It’s definitely the strangest way I’ve discovered a new band,” he admits. “I could hear these guys playing on the other side of the wall, and it sounded really, really good.” 
       The music is soaring rock & roll with layers of guitars and vocals and a driving rhythm section.  The band is solid but vocalist Josh Engler is a superb vocalist who setsAbandon apart from their contemporaries.
      
visit our Website to order their debut full album Searchlights for only $7.99

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Our November 2010 Catalog

Our November Catalog that we mail out is available to see at our store's new updated website: www.bakerbookstore.com Just click on the ling below the image to see the catalog at our website!
This file does take a while to download. We are trying to in the future make this an easier process; however, as soon as the file starts to load try saving the pdf. to your computer to view easier in the future. :)
                                                                      

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

November 2, 2010 - New Releases

The Priests - Noel - RCA Records - Provident
NOËL is sure to be a welcome addition this Christmas and features some of the most cherished seasonal songs of all time - everything from God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman, What Child Is This, Hark The Herald Angels Sing, to Oh Come All Ye Faithful, and Silent Night - it is a solemnly beautiful record, stately and humble and full of grace. “We have given each of these songs a different interpretation and a little priestly twist,” grins Father Martin O’Hagan. “I hope it will get everybody into the festive spirit, and I hope there will be something here for everyone.”




Mrs. Miracle - Sony Pictures - Provident
Losing a spouse is always hard, and for Seth Webster (James Van Der Beek), playing single dad to two rambunctious six-year-olds doesn’t make it any easier. With the holidays approaching, finding a housekeeper has proven to be near-impossible, until Mrs. Emily Merkle (Doris Roberts) shows up at the Websters’ door, ready to turn their lives around. No sooner has “Mrs. Miracle,” as Seth’s boys call her, straightened up the house, than Seth meets Reba Maxwell (Erin Karpluk), best friend to the Webster kids’ first-grade teacher. After just one date, Seth and Reba find they have a lot in common. Since the death of his music-loving wife, Seth has been unable to play a single chord on the piano, and, in the name of her career, Reba, once an avid actress, has avoided the theater. With a Christmas pageant to prepare for and a fresh romance on the horizon, Mrs. Miracle definitely has her work cut out for her and proves to be more than just a normal nanny.

Ever Feel Like Drop Kicking a Computer?

All of last week my Computer was down with a "nasty" virus. If you are wondering just how bad a virus, well it did take me 3 days to find this root kit virus. Then it took 2 days to fix. For this virus the Microsoft help forum suggests just to reinstall Windows, but I did not have to have this happen. Yay for the Baker Book House technical team!

October 25, 2010 - New Releases

Hillsong Chapel - Yahweh - Hillsong - EMICMG
Hillsong Chapel is a newly created series of intimate and devotional arrangements of popular Hillsong songs led by the Hillsong worship team. Recorded live in the Hillsong Chapel, Yahweh, the first installment in the series, contains organic and contemplative versions of top CCLI songs including "Mighty To Save", "Hosanna", "From The Inside Out", and the title track "Yahweh". Comprised of 13 songs, Hillsong Chapel's Yahweh is perfect for smaller gatherings, personal devotional, and will help resource churches wanting more intimate worship expressions of songs from Hillsong LIVE and Hillsong UNITED.
Ernie Haase & Signature Sound - A Tribute to the Cathedral Quartet - Gaither Music - EMICMG
Ernie Haase & Signature Sound celebrate their musical roots in this very special Tribute to the Cathedrals. This unforgettable musical event highlights the Cathedrals’ beloved legacy and songs – memories that have left an indelible mark on gospel music. Ernie Haase & Signature Sound keep the classics alive and honor the group that first inspired them to sing about the timeless themes of faith, hope, and the infinite grace that never grows old.

Bob Coy - Who Helps You? - Active Word - EMICMG
Discovering how the Bible makes sense - that’s the practical goal of the Active Word series. For thousands of years, the Bible has offered people wisdom, inspiration, and literally life-changing truth. But most of us have trouble matching up the words of the Bible with the real-life troubles and challenges we face every day. The Active Word series explores the truths from this amazing book to help us understand their relevance to today and gives us the know-how to use these truths when we need them.

Ocean's Edge Music - Higher Praise Christmas - Maranatha - EMICMG
Higher Praise Christmas: Heaven Came Down is the new Christmas release from Ocean’s Edge Music. The CD features classic Christmas tunes and soon-to-be favorite originals. The songs are performed in a contemporary ‘live worship’ setting featuring a choir, full band and incredible step-out leads. Higher Praise Christmas: Heaven Came Down is a must-have for listening enjoyment at Christmas and even all year long!

Kutless - It is Well: Expanded Edition - BEC - EMICMG
Kutless' follow up album to gold selling worship release Strong Tower. It Is Well featured several brand new singles such as "What Faith Can Do," "Amazed," and favorites such as "Hungry," "Give Us Clean Hands," and "God of Wonders." The heart of worship is something the band as a whole is very intune with and love bringing that to the forefront, sharing and coming together as one to give glory to God. With the new album, the audiences have been able to sing along to the classics as well as add some new favorites into their time of worship.

It Is Well (Expanded Edition) features 4 LIVE songs including "What Faith Can Do" and 1 unreleased studio song
Various - Rock of Ages - BEC - EMICMG
Rock Of Ages is a fantastic compilation of some of your favorite worship songs with a little rock flair. Music moves the soul and heart in a way that is incomparable. Helps convey the heart and what the heart may be trying to say, but cannot put into words…thus a song is born. Rock Of Ages features tpp 25 CCLI songs such as “Mighty To Save,” “Revelation Song,” “Jesus Messiah,” and more by artists like Kutless, Jeremy Camp, and Seventh Day Slumber.

Santus Real - Pieces of Our Past - Sparrow - EMI
In the past 8 years, GRAMMY nominated and Dove Award winning Sanctus Real have made a name for themselves and delighted fans with their radio hits "The Face Of Love", "We Need Each Other", "I'm Not Alright", "Whatever You're Doing", & "Everything About You" to name just a few all while selling almost 400,000 albums in the process. This past March 2010, they released their brand new album Pieces Of A Real Heart containing the huge radio single "Lead Me." With all the buzz and awareness around Sanctus Real's new album, Sparrow reminds current and new fans of their rich catalog with the release of Pieces Of Our Past: The Sanctus Real Anthology a 34 song, 3-CD set including all the songs from their hit albums: We Need Each Other, The Face Of Love, & Fight The Tide - all for just $18.99. This new anthology will be a great addition for fans that may not have all Sanctus Real's best-selling catalog as well as a great way for new fans to discover and get all three catalog albums for a great price. Collections like this are a great way for stores to carry all of Sanctus Real's albums in one SKU and make great gifts for the upcoming holiday season.

Kevin LeVar & One Sound - Let's Come Together Deluxe ED. - New Haven - EMICMG
Now, armed with more music, a companion DVD, music videos and special live performances…the best just got better. The Let’s Come Together Deluxe Edition is a must have for gospel, inspirational and CCM fans alike!

New Release

Today's new release is from Jeremy Camp. His new cd "The Story's Not Over" is now in store. Stop on by and grab a copy. 😊...