5 comments about An Evening in December.

1. Just beautiful music. It's not Christmas for me until I've played this! One year I gave this CD to all my co-workers and they loved it.



2. The first time I heard this album, was in the 80's, and I never forgot it. Our family plays this album every year at Christmastime. It's the perfect mix of traditional and non traditional arrangements.



3. I first heard the title track when the L.P. came out. Just once on radio here in Chicago. I could never find the album though I looked and looked. But I never gave up because the song and performance were so haunting. Now at last finally years and years later I have it and I plan to give many copies to many friends for Christmas. This I think unquestionably is one of the most magical Christmas albums every made. The title song has become a choral favorite; it is a truly unique, heart-touching song. Many people I am sure longed for this collection the many years it seemed to have disappeared. Now that you can get it, get it!



4. A friend who knew I was involved in choral music was kind enough to loan me this CD over the holidays. I had never heard of First Call before, but given my friend's religious convictions, I was not surprised to learn that they were a Christian vocal group. Like a good deal of contemporary Christian music (and I use the term "contemporary" in the braodest sense, since it appear this recording dates back to the mid-80s), there is little that is overtly evangelistic, and in fact, largely secular holiday songs like "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" are given prominence (although--not surprisingly--they alter the line "if the fates allow" to "if the Lord allows," which is--as the Amazon reviewer above noted-- kind of "religious correctness" but certainly understandable, given the artists' convictions, and really should not bother anyone but the most die-hard secularists.
   
   Although the core group consists of just three singers, there are several guests artists on board to help flesh out the selections. It would also appear that all the singers are, at least some of the time, multi-tracked. The effect is more fully "choral" than the three-part harmony you might expect. In fact,the record reminded me of the kind of stylized vocal ensembles so popular in the 50s and early 60s, such as the Ray Coniff Singers or Mitch Miller's troupe or any number of such vocal groups who used to pop up regularly on the television variety shows of the era.
   
   That kind of sound is largely considered passe these days, at least for the "secular" market, but there was real musicality and skill to such projects, and it's nice to see that the largely Christian market is helping to keep the genre afloat.
   
   Listening to this record did get me thinking about some of the differences between this kind of smooth, polished vocalizing and the kind of material that non-professional choral groups such as the one I am involved in tend to do. We usually have at least keyboard accompaniment, for one thing, whereas this release is a capella. The vocals are lush, and while a guess bass, David Maddux, is audibly present most of the time, the emphasis really seems to be on the higher ranges. And even with the multi-tracking and the presence of guest vocalists, the sound is still that of a relatively small ensemble--not the 35 to 50 voices I am used to working with. There is vocal fullness here, but it is still lithe and flexible.
   
   What is also striking for me is that--while most amateur choral groups do do poppier and even jazzier arrangements of standards from time to time--First Call and Co. often seem to incorporate pop elements, like time shifts, in arrangements that seem to start off as more standard treatments. The effect is surprising--certainly not jarring or unpleasant--but little musical surprises do pop up when you might least expect them.
   
   Overall, this is a very enjoyable Christmas release that should appeal to Christian and more secular audiences alike.



5. A friend who knew I was involved in choral music was kind enough to loan me this CD over the holidays. I had never heard of First Call before, but given my friend's religious convictions, I was not surprised to learn that they were a Christian vocal group. Like a good deal of contemporary Christian music (and I use the term "contemporary" in the braodest sense, since it appear this recording dates back to the mid-80s), there is little that is overtly evangelistic, and in fact, largely secular holiday songs like "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" are given prominence (although--not surprisingly--they alter the line "if the fates allow" to "if the Lord allows," which is--as the Amazon reviewer above noted-- kind of "religious correctness" but certainly understandable, given the artists' convictions, and really should not bother anyone but the most die-hard secularists.
   
   Although the core group consists of just three singers, there are several guests artists on board to help flesh out the selections. It would also appear that all the singers are, at least some of the time, multi-tracked. The effect is more fully "choral" than the three-part harmony you might expect. In fact,the record reminded me of the kind of stylized vocal ensembles so popular in the 50s and early 60s, such as the Ray Coniff Singers or Mitch Miller's troupe or any number of such vocal groups who used to pop up regularly on the television variety shows of the era.
   
   That kind of sound is largely considered passe these days, at least for the "secular" market, but there was real musicality and skill to such projects, and it's nice to see that the largely Christian market is helping to keep the genre afloat.
   
   Listening to this record did get me thinking about some of the differences between this kind of smooth, polished vocalizing and the kind of material that non-professional choral groups such as the one I am involved in tend to do. We usually have at least keyboard accompaniment, for one thing, whereas this release is a capella. The vocals are lush, and while a guest bass, David Maddux, is audibly present most of the time, the emphasis really seems to be on the higher ranges. And even with the multi-tracking and the presence of guest vocalists, the sound is still that of a relatively small ensemble--not the 35 to 50 voices I am used to working with. There is vocal fullness here, but it is still lithe and flexible.
   
   What is also striking for me is that--while most amateur choral groups do do poppier and even jazzier arrangements of standards from time to time--First Call and Co. often seem to incorporate pop elements, like time shifts, in arrangements that seem to start off as more standard treatments. The effect is surprising--certainly not jarring or unpleasant--but little musical surprises do pop up when you might least expect them.
   
   Overall, this is a very enjoyable Christmas release that should appeal to Christian and more secular audiences alike.

5 comments about Michael W. Smith - Worship.

1. If you've never seen MWS leading worship, this is the next best thing. I've listened to the CD of this concert for years, and this DVD just adds a greater personal element. I would fly across country to be a part of one of his worship concerts. Keep him in your prayers. He is a great minister of the Word in the Body of Christ.



2. The recent purchase came quickly and was in very good condition. I don't know if I read the description wrong or if it was listed wrong. I was under the impression that the item was a CD , however when it arrived it was a DVD. It's good but I thought I was getting a music CD. Please sellers be sure it's very definitly listed as CD or DVD.



3. A fantastic DVD, a real sense of the presence of God comes into your living room.



4. This CD has helped me get to a place were I can get into God's presence.



5. I got this DVD a few weeks ago, and of the many Christian artist DVDs I have, this is by far the most powerful. This was recorded live at the Skyreach Centre in Edmonton, Alberta, and I can't watch and listen to it without being touched, no matter how many times I play it.
   
   Just get it, and be blessed. Michael is very sincere, I know sincerity when I see it.

1 comments about Darn Floor - Big Bite.

1. Great music. Great Lyrics. This is the album that thinking people have been waiting for.
   
   I have never guaranteed an album before...this one I guarantee that you will like.

5 comments about Celtic Twilight, Vol. 3: Lullabies.

1. We bought this CD for our baby after friends recommended it. The music is absolutely gorgeous-- so beautiful that you don't mind listening to it over and over again. We play this every night as the baby goes to sleep, and when he hears the music start he turns to the CD player and grins. How's that for positive feedback? I will definitely be giving this CD to friends who are expecting. It's one of our very favorite baby items.



2. I had a casette tape that we wore out with the kids. My husband got very protective of it...so, I purchased a new CD and gave it to him for Christmas.
   
   He loved it (was his favorite). Am not sure it reminded him of the sleepless nights when our children were babies or he just likes the music (which is very good - not jarring at all).
   
   Sure to be a favorite with parents and babies alike.



3. This Audio CD is a wonderful gift for anyone who is expecting, it soothes mom as well as baby. I love this CD and play it often at night when I am winding down.



4. I received this as a gift from one of the artists. I am the "Christina" of track 6 - Alasdair Fraser was a friend of the family and wrote tunes for each of us as a thank you for hosting him. My piece was a slow air/waltz, but I never heard it performed until I received a copy of this CD from him.
   
   Not only am I thrilled with the beautiful arrangement of "my" song, I love the other songs on the album as well. The music is wonderfully relaxing, and I look forward to playing it for my children to introduce them to Celtic music. I'm still a Gaelic singer, too...:)



5. I bought this first Celtic Twilight, Vol. 3: Lullabies CD right after I had my first baby. It has such beautiful music, and is not some of the sickly sweet lullaby music that you get on so many other CDs.
   
   It has been a wonderful ritual that we have before we go to bed so that my son can settle down and go to sleep. By track 2, he's usually snoring! I'm buying another copy of the same CD for my second baby so that she can have the same soothing sounds to drift off to sleep.
   
   I would highly recommend this CD!

5 comments about Come Together.

1. Third Day has been one of my favorite all time bands for several years. This album is superb.
   
   Not only does it contain great sounding southern rock, but the lyrics also contain very meaningful Christian messages. Mac Powell's vocals are unique and amazing.
   
   This CD contains many great songs and has no weak links. My favorites song here is 'Show Me Your Glory'. It is an amazing tune. The top notch sound goes well beyond that track however.
   
   I strongly recommend this album. I consider it a must have for any collector of rock and/or contemporary Christian music. Buy it. You won't regret it.



2. This album is the best of 2001!I bought this CD with my lawn-mowing money and It's great!!My personal favorites are:come together,40 days,show me your glory,when the rain comes,and nothing compares.This album takes us on another ride (like conspiracy no.5)Except it has a more southern twist.I hope you buy this and if you do,enjoy!



3. This CD is by far one of the best that I have ever bought.



4. This cd gets better every time I listen to it! The lyrics hit home and make you think of God's grace.



5. Come Together is a great album that combines great music and great lyrics. My personal favorites are Come Together and 40 days. Those are the first two tracks on the disc but don't think that it goes downhill from there. The disc is full of southern rock treats and a ballad or two. Overall this disc doesn't disappoint. Give it a try and you won't be disappointed.

5 comments about Songs 2.

1. Songs 2 the Rich Mullins Album has plenty to offer anyone who likes Christian based lyrical music. His melodies chime in perfectly with the awe-inspiring music. So many people overlook this CD as "just another Christian CD." They are wrong. This CD holds so many truths relevant even today, and as we listen along we feel God's mighty arm ever so graceful as it always has been guiding us along the right path. Don't overlook this CD, or any of his powerful lyrically driven musical talent given to him by God's grace. You'll love it.



2. While "Songs" could be forgiven as a contractual obligation to the record label (the typical filler album of "greatest hits," plus at least one previously unreleased track to get longtime fans to buy it), "Songs 2" was released posthumously in an attempt to rake in the money before Rich faded from memory (cynical, I know, but don't forget that the Christian music industry is a business first). There is nothing in this particular collection that you cannot find elsewhere, and therefore no reason to spend the money.
   
   Rich was a gifted artist and an amazing man. A flawed man who nonetheless demonstrated pistis. There are still lessons to be learned from the way he allowed the Gospel to transform his life. I cannot recommend his music highly enough, particularly "a Liturgy, a Legacy & a Ragamuffin Band" and "the World As Best As I Remember It" volumes 1 & 2. Those three albums are quite timeless. His earlier recordings may not hold up as well when heard today, but don't let that stop you from buying his entire catalog and compiling your own collection of personal favourites.



3. If the album "Songs" is a bouquet of flaming roses full of love and zeal for God, then "Songs 2" is a bundle of pure lilies, raw with the experience of God, intimate, personal, exploring.
   
   If "Songs" reminds me of a pair of wings taking flight and soaring in the sky, then "Songs2" reminds a string of footprints, filled with struggles, tears, and His grace.
   
   I love Rich Mullins' songs, although I would not qualify him as a professional singer, no, not at all. I would rather call him a prophet - biting and brutally honest, a poet - sensitive and uniquely expressive, and a musician - raw and soulful like the lungs that have just taken in a deep breath of Irish country air. Rich does not sing with a smooth vibrato, but with a vibrating soul and a beating heart. And the best (most important) part of this whole thing is: his songs bless. I am so repeatedly reminded of God's love, and challenged by his devotion that I can fall more in love with God and with Rich's songs at the same time. Don't misunderstand me: as Rich says, there are songs higher than he can sing. Nothing but His Word stands forever.



4. Rich Mullins is my favorite songwriter, Christian or secular, of all time. Released two years after his death, "Songs 2" contains more of Rich's greatest songs in the tradition of the first "Songs" release. Some of my favorites here include "Step By Step," "I See You," "Here In America," "Bound to Come Some Trouble" and "The Love of God." Other noteworthy songs include "I Will Sing," "Brother's Keeper," "Home" and "Peace." Rich Mullins was a songwriter who always sought not just to entertain us, but also to encourage and challenge us all in our daily walk with Christ. "Songs" & "Songs 2" are collections of some of his most encouraging and challenging songs.



5. I prefer Songs (the first greatest hits), but that's not to say that this CD isn't as brilliant. Rich lived a life that mirrored his music. He wasn't in CCM for the money, unlike a lot of artists, and he didn't settle for sounding like everyone else or following the current trends in culture. He made music that was inspired by God, came from his heart, and went directly to Your own. It's a discredit to offer a review, when his music says it all. I miss him...

5 comments about The World As Best As I Remember It, Volume 1.

1. Breathtaking pretty much sums up this album. Especially The River. I cry everytime I hear it. If you can listen to that song without crying then you are probably dead.



2. Common wisdom has it that "A Liturgy, A Legacy & A Ragamuffin Band" is Mullins' masterpiece, and "The World as Best as I Remember It, Vol 1" is a slightly less great album that points to his magnum opus. I disagree. For one thing, an artist is capable of more than one masterpiece (see Dylan, Stones; or, among Christian artists, Larry Norman, Daniel Amos, Mark Heard)... Personally, I prefer this album over "A Liturgy" (which IMO has a great first half and some weaker songs on "side 2"). The AMG review states that it would have been better if, instead of releasing 2 volumes, the "best songs" from each would have been combided into one CD. I strongly disagree; there's not a weak song on Volume 1 (unlike Vol. 2), and holds together very well as a unified album (again, unlike vol 2). There's so much going on here: the beautiful, evocative piano melodies, the restless percussion work, the differing tonal colors of various acoustic instruments, the nice hybrid and melange of differing folk styles (African chorus, Celtic melodies, Appalachian folk, etc.). A beautiful album.



3. This is what you get when you have brilliant songwriting along with passion and soul.Certainly Richs'best work and a contemporary Christian classic.Personal favorite:"Calling Out Your Name"Rich images with lovely hammer dulcimer from Mullins.Not a wasted note on the whole album.Essential stuff.



4. This veteran's day I listened again to this wonderful disc. I think especially on a day like today we can all learn a lesson and perhaps take a warning from Rich's words.

   The song "The Howling" in particular speaks to where we, as Americans have been, are, and continue to go:

   ------------------------------------------
   "I can see the iron horses' tracks
   Pressed in the mud from the weight of all that steam and steel
   But the wind don't blow where you want it to go
   No, the wind just goes where it will and you follow
   I can feel the breath of winter
   Driving this snow across these newly-whited plains
   Takes my breath from me and it leaves me falling
   Then it picks me up again in its own strength

   And I can hear the wild wind howling
   And I can feel it in my bones
   And I know that the howling will take me home

   I can see some traveller's footprints
   There's a little bit of blood in every step he made
   I wonder what kind of burden he's bearing
   That has cut him so deeply every step along the long, long way
   In the west I see an evening
   This scarlet thread stretched beneath the gathering dark
   Red as the blood on the hands of the Savior
   And rich as the mercy that flowed from His broken heart

   And I can hear the wild wind howling
   And I can feel it in my bones
   And I know that the howling will take me home

   These men of violence, they have made this a world full of wars
   Oh God break Your silence and let Your justice shine forth

   Show some mercy, Oh Lord

   'Cause I can see a people dispossessed
   Broken and brave in the face of so much fear
   Driven from their homes by the greed of a nation
   Whose treaties were as good as litter
   Along the trail of their tears
   I can see the Covenant colors
   The sun and the rain have woven against the blue of the sky
   And I know if we live we will live by His promise
   I know He who made it and
   I'm sure that He would not lie

   And I can hear the wild wind howling
   And I can feel it in my bones
   And I know that the howling will take me home"
   ------------------------------------

   The choice is ours.

   The rest is silence.




5. This is referring to Both volumes 1 and 2. There are other amazing albums but in my opinion these 2 together create the best Christian music has to offer!!!

1 comments about I Believe in Angels.

1. We received this album yesterday and then went on a trip to Pittsburgh today. Over the 12-hour round-trip, we listened to Cristy Lane's 'I Believe In Angels' at least 7 times; THAT'S how good it is. Her heartfelt renditions of classic country/gospel songs are both inspirational and emotionally (and sonically) fulfilling. Some of them will bring a lump to the throat of even the casual Christian: I Have A Dream (originally an ABBA song in Swedish!!) and Footprints In The Sand stand out in this respect.
   
   A wonderful 5-star album that we'll enjoy for many years. We've also just ordered her Christmas Album and will report back on that one!

5 comments about Still Standing.

1. The title song is very inspiring and uplifting. There are a couple other songs on this CD that I enjoyed but over all if I could have just gotten the tracks that I enjoyed I wouldn't have purchased the entire CD. Bishop Morton is inspiring and most times I enjoy his messages.



2. When listening to Still Standing, I felt as if I was right in the midst of their musical worship service. I purchased the CD for the last song, Be Blessed, and having listened to the entire CD, that song remains my favorite. It is a blessing of encouragement as I've just come through a personal storm, and now I can share it with others who need to get through painful or difficult life changes.



3. If you need songs of encouragement, then this is the CD for you. I especially love track 15 "Be Blessed."



4. This Cd is marvelous and comes highly recommended for praise and for worship. Consider it money well spent you will not be disappointed.



5. This new project by Bishop Morton is very powerful and uplifting. Considering the challenges and trials that were faced because of Hurricane Katrina, Bishop Morton and the Greater St. Stephen's Family truly is "Still Standing". Blessings to you all!
   
   Minister W. Poindexter
   Okinawa, Japan

5 comments about Along the Road.

1. The harmonies of Ashton, Becker & Dente deliver so incredibly well in these beautifully written songs. This is a CD I have owned for over a decade, given often as a gift and highly recommend. Whether the listener is spiritual or not, this CD is sure to please. It's a great listen, whether you're driving down the road, doing the housework or just relaxing with friends.



2. Okay so it's an older CD but the songs on the album are really touching and the lyrics really are moving and full of worship. I have had to replace this CD 2 times now because I play it so often, have it in and out of the car, office, etc. Right up there with Rich Mullins and the Hillsong worship songs for uplifting worship or even times when you just want to feel the presence of God and sing to him.



3. I wore this CD OUT!
   Not only do these gals bring home the message of the ageless gospel, they do it in an amazing combination of each one's individual style that creates an experience you simply cannot get enough of!
   
   A fun, spirited and moving release. A must have in any collection!



4. I purchased this cassette about 13 years ago. It is still my favorite tape and I have bought this piece of art an CD for friends. There is not a bad song on this album. My personal favorite is "Blessing in Disguise". Somehow these women and the song writers have tapped into my deepest feelings about my life. I like all kinds of music from classical to rap (this only because I have teenagers) but this music moves me every time I hear it. You will be blessed if you purchase this wonderful work by Susan Ashton, Margaret Becker and Christine Dente.



5. I bought this CD when it was first released in 1994. From first listen, I was hooked! I listen to all kinds of music - Christian and non-christian - rock, blues, jazz, R&B, country, whatever I'm in the mood for. I'm not just some religious hack writing this, but this is one of the best albums of all time! I'm listening to it as I'm writing this review and it sounds as fresh today as it did in 1994. I don't care who you are, if you like good music and perfect harmonies, buy this CD! You WILL NOT be disappointed!!!