...A Sweet Sound...2/2010

Oh, how sweet the sound! **long exhale** for a moment I was starting to believe that music was being truncated by a mass movement of auto-tuned cliches and copy-and-paste lyrics. Christian music was starting to sadden me, because of some artists wanting to be pop stars instead of worship leaders; to be rockstars instead of making Jesus famous; to be popular instead of being peculiar. Our message for a short while was tainted by our outloud lifestyles and our lack of difference. As a writer myself, I promised myself and the Lord, that my music and lyrical content would reflect the culture of the kingdom. I resolved to be a writer that infuses the word of God with good music. Knowing that without the word of God present in song, its just inspiritation. Inspiration in itself is not full truth, however the word of God is...and thats what makes it the gospel. The good news. The news that people want to hear. The world is bombarded with bad news every day of their lives, don't you think that the world is in need of some 'good news'...some news that brings hope...reminds people of love...convits the stony heart to a heart of repentance, a heart of flesh...gives direction...brings forth understanding...shows the love of God. Thats what the world needs people! not cliches...not borrowed phrases or sermon titles. This world needs Jesus, and as writers and ministers of the gospel, we are charged to tell the truth and nothing but the truth, so God help us.
I want to personally charge all writers, singers, producers, ministers of the gospel...make your music different. Produce good music and use that music to promote the word of God. Let your music be inspired by God, and rooted in the truth; the word of God. For it is the word of God that makes us free...for the word of God is truth, and the truth shall...'make us free' Selah...

I thank God for these 2 Christian Artists who have made it their business to use their music to bless the king, and enhance the kingdom of God, and they have not lacked on creating good music. Still being young, these worship leaders are well on their way to becoming everyday household names. They are effectively creating change in their generation and spreading the good news of Jesus Christ wherever they go.

Kari Jobe

I first heard about Kari Jobe when getting my weekly dose of youtube clips. I literally stumbled upon Kari, singing a song called 'Healer'. I was thoroughly impressed with her voice. Such a very humbling and modest voice. As a lover of good music I became intrigued. So i looked up Kari Jobe and fell in love with her voice. Soon after, her album (self titled) was released and after I while I picked it up. An awesome worship album. This Integrity Music artist is probably one of the most soft spoken powerhouses in ministry this country has seen. The self titled album includes awesome remakes of Hillsong's Healer and the modern day hymn Revelation Song. She also did an awesome job of singing Beautiful. That has become my morning of meditation song. I often fall asleep listening to the album, because it literally takes me to another place in worship. Her hit single off of the album is 'I'm Singing' a song that gives hope in Jesus Christ; and sends the message that through it all, with Jesus there is no need to lose your song. That song, along with this entire album helps me throughout my day. A Great worship leader and artist. Kari Jobe's career is far from over, and I cannot wait until I hear the next installment in this artists finished works. As a matter of fact, check out my favorite song that she ministers...Beautiful...

Leeland

Love is on the Move

Ok, so this Leeland guy is not even 21 yet and already he is being called one of the greatest christian writers of all time. WOW! Thats a hefty calling to be so young. His band, Leeland, is a group of four young men who are all about spreading the love of Jesus Christ to all who listen. Musically put in the company of pop greats as well as long standing christian artists, Leeland Mooring is totally sold out for Christ. Formed in 2004, Leeland has played all across the world including w/ the World Renowned Hillsong United Conference. So how does a young man and his band remain so focused. Well its Jesus. Their foundation is Jesus Christ, and while being rooted in Jesus Christ they cannot be moved. Their new album Love is on the Move is probably one of the most beautiful christian albums I have heard in a long time. Its just simply beautiful music. Like really, its good feeling, great sounding, life convicting, world changing music. It has been called by some, their best album to date. I concur...it is great! My personal favorite right now is, um...lets see...ima say...mmmmmmmmm Follow You! Yeah I love it! That is the single right now, featuring another one of my favorite love artists Brandon Heath. Ironically, Leeland and Brandon have very similar voices and at times during the song, it was hard to tell who was which. Not a bad thing, its not like any of them sounded bad, lol! I also love Pure Bride! Such a great song of conviction, infused with an awesome track. This album is full of awesome music that is sure to help the believer, both young and old, get a grips on hope and never let it go. Love is on the move, and Leeland is at the forefront of the movement.

Awesome music guys! You must go and support these christian artists. Go get the albums, and go support. More info on Leeland and Kari can be found by clicking on their pics. Also follow them on twitter by clicking on their names. Hey, do you want me to do my review on a release? Let me know! Email me at DGray03@gmail.com and send your requests. Next time, Israel Houghton and Micah Smith. Love you guys!

As always, you can poke me, invade myspace, follow me (and SA) and email me at DGray03@gmail.com and to book Set Apart hit us up at setapartbooking@gmail.com (yup new email, save it!)

Luv you guys, but remember God is love; so who better to love you best...but God!

=DG