Jon Foreman - Spring & Summer EP CollectionIf it weren’t expressly prohibited by biblical law, one may be tempted to idolize Jon Foreman. At least, this one would. The thousands of Switchfoot fans out there would probably agree with me.
In Spring and Summer, the 2-disc collection that released May 27th, Switchfoot frontman, Jon Foreman skillfully weaves biblical concepts and the words of Christ into acoustic masterpieces. On the Spring EP, “Your Love is Strong,” reiterates the Lord’s Prayer, while in “Baptize My Mind,” Foreman quotes John 12:24 “for a seed to give birth to life, first it must die.” The Summer EP is just as powerful, with Foreman crying out to God on “Resurrect Me,” and giving a call to the church on “Instead of a Show.”
Spring and Summer, as in nature, follows Fall and Winter, which released earlier in 2008. All four EP’s (or two 2-disc sets) will appeal to fans of Derek Webb, Bob Dylan, and Switchfoot. But don’t trust a biased fan like me, go buy the album and find out for yourself.
In Spring and Summer, the 2-disc collection that released May 27th, Switchfoot frontman, Jon Foreman skillfully weaves biblical concepts and the words of Christ into acoustic masterpieces. On the Spring EP, “Your Love is Strong,” reiterates the Lord’s Prayer, while in “Baptize My Mind,” Foreman quotes John 12:24 “for a seed to give birth to life, first it must die.” The Summer EP is just as powerful, with Foreman crying out to God on “Resurrect Me,” and giving a call to the church on “Instead of a Show.”
Spring and Summer, as in nature, follows Fall and Winter, which released earlier in 2008. All four EP’s (or two 2-disc sets) will appeal to fans of Derek Webb, Bob Dylan, and Switchfoot. But don’t trust a biased fan like me, go buy the album and find out for yourself.
Kutless - To Know That You're AliveSometimes the most ambitious artistic breakthroughs are birthed out of the most unexpected circumstances, or more accurately in the case of Kutless’ To Know That You’re Alive, a painfully annoying accident. Having front man Jon Micah Sumrall tear his shoulder might seem like an unlikely muse for songwriting and sonic sculpting- especially considering the band’s sold over 1.5 million CDs, performed in front of nearly two million fans and conquered Christian radio with numerous singles since its debut in 2002- but it results in one of the band’s most immediate, expressive and aggressive discs to date.
"On the last record Hearts of the Innocent, we wanted to bring awareness and encourage young people to get involved and make a difference in this world,” the tunesmith recalls. “On this record, we’re really trying to reach out and help them through difficult situations and difficult times to find hope, and ultimately, find fulfillment in life.”
Of course, that means of personal gratification can only come in Christ, which is a thread that runs through the record’s potent emotional framework, regardless of radio format. For the contemporary-minded crowd, “Complete” channels the idea that everyone has a God shaped hole inside their heart that can only be filled through faith, not to mention a daily walk with the Lord. For those more inclined to pump their fists, “The Feeling” (offered as a free, pre-release single download, flanked by endless internet buzz) is a rollicking romp that’s sure to connect in concert, but is anchored around the common goal of lifting one’s voice to bring glory to God. “Promise You” also leans towards the rock faction of Kutless’ fan base, diving deep into the darkness of spousal abuse and serving as an anthem for the victims to rise above their circumstances.
For every dynamic topical shift, To Know That You’re Alive is packed with the band’s boldest artistic statements to date, stemming in part from work with producer Pete Kipley (The Afters, MercyMe, Phil Wickham). The guys also added extra fuel to the fire by packing their bags for London and setting up shop in the famed Abbey Road Studios (The Beatles) to record several spacious string sections.
But above all the instrumental intricacies, astute session players, behind the scenes shenanigans and the sheer enjoyment derived from making To Know That You’re Alive, Sumrall insists its all about impacting others and helping them reach the hopeful realization he faced during those long and lonely days of mending.
Superchick - Rock What You GotInpop Records’ sister-fronted band Superchick follows up 700,000 career albums and 70 film, television and videogame placements with the premiere of its boldest, most unapologetic project to date, appropriately titled Rock What You Got. Three years in the making and on the heels of Superchick’s most successful album ever, Beauty From Pain 1.1, which landed three No. 1 radio singles including “We Live” and “Stand In The Rain.” Seeking out world changers in the lost corners of a generation, Superchick noisily challenges the status quo, while journaling the band members’ battles with depression and cancer in the quieter moments of the record.
George Beverly Shea - Then Sings My Soul DVDGeorge Beverly Shea’s deep resonant voice has sung hope into the lives of hundreds of millions of people throughout his long and legendary career. Throughout his 65-year friendship with Billy Graham, he has been a permanent fixture at Billy Graham Crusades in all 50 states and on every continent in the world. He has sung to an estimated 220 million people during his lifetime, and currently holds the world record for singing to more people in person than any other artist in history. Still more people have been impacted by his music through Grammy-winning recordings, as well as television and radio broadcasts across the world. It is clear to see that the integrity and humility that have long characterized this man of God have given a unique credibility to all that he stands for. And that kind of legacy is nothing short of extraordinary.
George Beverly Shea - How Sweet The Sound CDThe enhanced CD, How Sweet the Sound features George Beverly Shea’s rich, resonant voice at its finest on such classics as “The Old Rugged Cross,” “In the Garden,” “Have Thine Own Way,” “The Holy City,” and his signature songs “The Wonder of It All,” and “I’d Rather Have Jesus.” His version of “How Great Thou Art” is considered the definitive and most recognized version of that well-loved hymn.
Bon Voyage - LiesBon Voyage, sugary ’60s-revivalist pop, emerged in Aliso Viejo, CA as a side project of Jason Martin, Starflyer 59, and his wife, Julie Martin, former vocalist of Havalina. Bon Voyage is determined to create distinctive and captivating visions of pop and alternative melodies. By delivering a catchy blend of dream pop sonics and indie rock hooks, the band crossed over into the secular underground with their appealing sound. With Lies being their third release, Bon Voyage’s intricate orchestral flourishes and simplistic backing is sure to capture you once again.
Manafest - Citizen ActivCitizens Activ is about people that are taking action in their lives & communities and striving for a dream that is bigger than they are. This record is a fusion of Hard Rock, Hip-Hop, mixed with pop styles that’ll will make this album a classic for years to come. When asked about the record, Manafest said “In my case I’m speaking about the musical journey of being an artist, like sleeping on floors, driving through the night and being away from home. The result is seeing kids lives affected in a positive way and knowing you played a small part in it.”
Seabird - Til We See The ShoreNamed “one of the year’s best” by HM Magazine, Seabird’s debut, ‘Til We See The Shore, is full of honest and vulnerable songs about real life struggles, relationships, losses, bittersweet goodbyes and having the courage to tell your childhood sweetheart you love her. A fusion of modern piano rock and Brit-pop, this album is an oasis for those who have been left thirsty by years of heartache. Driven by a deep desire to be approachable and connect with their fans, Cincinnati-based Seabird is sure to make a lot of new friends in 2008.
Amy Grant - Lead Me On 20th Anniversary EditionHeralded by CCM Magazine as the #1 Christian Album of all time, Lead Me On turns 20 years old this year and to commemorate this landmark recording, Amy is pulling out all the stops with an all new 20th Anniversary Edition release. Included in the 2-CD collection are: 3 NEWLY recorded songs by Amy (including guest appearances by Michael W. Smith, Will Owsley, and others), 4 previously UNRELEASED live songs from the original Lead Me On Tour, all NEW booklet with pictures and commentary from Amy, 20+ minute interview with Amy about Lead Me On, & more. Plans include a 20-city tour in October (recreating original LMO tour), TV specials, radio specials, promotional tours, and more to support the 20th anniversary.
Various - Bluegrass Worship 3CDsTake powerful worship songs that are sung in churches all over the country each week and combine them with 10 hymns that are the bedrock of our faith and put them in a style that amazing bluegrass fusion of heartfelt harmonies, graceful and intimate arrangements as well as some spirited banjo pickin’ and you have the new 3 CD set—Bluegrass Worship!
Gateway Worship - Wake Up The World DVDIntimate, powerful and transforming worship from one of the fastest growing churches and one of the most influential worship teams in America. Wake Up the World delivers a mix of modern worship anthems, exciting songs of praise and deep intimate moments of worship in an experience that is sure to impact the body of Christ. Pastor Robert Morris and the team at Gateway Church are leading the way for many churches who desire to impact their world with innovative media and music ministry.
Various - Reflections Of Love: Country Love Songs
All the best!
Josh Mosey,
Baker Book House Music Dept.
2768 East Paris Ave.
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
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