MESSENGER - I'AM TALKING TO YOU / 2008/DISCOGRAPHY/BIOGRAPHY/AND REVIEW

THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(12-TRACKS)
1-HELL IS NO PARTY
2-KING OF KINGS
3-BRIGHT AND MORNING STAR
4-DON'T SHOOT THE MESSENGER
5-SPECIAL DELIVERY
6-FORBIDDEN LOVE
7-WALLOWING IN THE MIRE
8-THE RAPTURE
9-ROAR
10-CHAINED
11-AMERICA("WHY")
12-SO GOOD
CREDITS:
Frank Clifton Herring – Lead Vocals, Keyboards & Guitars
Vladimir Gurin – Guitars
Joe Fulford – Guitars
Elliott Powell – Bass
Tim Tieff - Drums











BIOGRAPHY:
The Messenger sound arose from Hard Rock, Heavy Metal and Progressive Rock Influences like Rush, Led Zeppelin, Nickelback, Daughtry, Deep Purple & AC/DC. Messenger's songs explode with huge power chords and innovative rhythms behind soaring and melodic vocals. The lyric message of the Word grabs your attention on every song while the guitar solos are pure, musical and fast. Their dramatic live performance is similar to Peter Gabriel with a dynamic light show reminiscent of Pink Floyd. Messenger is a Christian Heavy Metal quintet from the Nation's Capital area which joined together in September 2008. We minister Christ and His gospel with the power of the Holy Ghost through Good Music and Loud Guitars.(Modern Metal) sounds kick hard but with originality and progressive artistry. The message of Christ is couched in an amusement park roller coaster ride of vocal and guitar solo highs that pierce the sky and bottom end lows that rumble the floor. Get on.If you love 70s and 80s metal like Sabbath, Rush, Zeppelin and a touch of early Petra, give these guys a chance! THe production is organic, you can hear every single instrument and understand every lyric! This is one of the best cds I have bought lately.(http://radio.holymetal.org/)

REVIEW FOR THE ALBUM
To understand my point check out the all out metal of “Roar”, driving hard rocker “Hell Is No Party”, palatial “King Of Kings”, groove flavored “Chained”, and no-nonsense “Walking In The Mire”, five energetic pieces in which Messenger puts its accomplished songwriting skills on full display. A more mid-paced (but equally notable) direction is taken on the heavy duty “Don’t Shoot The Messenger” and ominous “Rapture” while “Bright And Morning Star” and “Forbidden Love” head in quality ballad territory. Rounding things out is the instrumental “Special Delivery”.One of the standout qualities to Messenger is its triple guitar team of Frank Clifton Herring, Vladimir Gurin and Joe Fulford. To say that the three lay some tight as they get riffs and melodies would be an understatement,Specifically, Herring handles rhythm guitar duties and Gurin and Fulford lead guitar. Gurin best exhibits his abilities on “Roar” and “Chained” while “Hell Is No Party” and “Bright And Morning Star” allow Fulford to shine. “King Of Kings” and “Don’t Shoot The Messenger” find the two trading off. Bassist Elliott Powell also deserves mention for the manner in which he helps anchor the low end. I enjoy how his bass stands out in the mix on “Rapture” and “Chained”, a particular testament to the albums clean production values.Frank Clifton Herring also handles lead vocal duties. The best way to describe his vocal approach would be mid-ranged (almost low-key) but with rich and warm flavorings. While I would hesitate to make a direct comparison, his delivery hints at Paul Aviles (Chariot) and Thomas Wilson (Unforsaken & Incarnate)Keeping in mind there is no such thing as a perfect album, I would like to offer some constructive commentary, First, there are a couple of filler tracks, “America, Why?” and “So Good”, at the albums end. At this point it must be reinforced that I’m Talking To You brings near perfect continuity over its first ten tracks. That continuity, however, is interrupted by the two. The best advice I might offer any band would be to give your audience your ten best songs; it is not necessary to record your entire back catalog. Second, packaging is lacking somewhat. While the cover artwork is well done and complements the music here, no lyrics are included. Keeping in mind space limitations and costs involved, if it is not possible to include lyrics then the least an artist can do is post them at their website or MySpace profile,Speaking of lyrics, Messenger proves an aptly named band in that the prose here is straightforward and forthright as it gets. The band pulls no punches in presenting its faith and bold and upfront “message”. A lot of people are going to be reached by the project.“Hell Is NoParty”, despite the clichéd title, represents a choice slab of driving hard rock. The most notable aspect to the song are the Rez Band style guitar riffs carrying its distance- slicing, massive and heavy as they get. Put this on Colours and Innocent Blood and it would sound right at home. A rumbling low end adds to the weighty scene. “Hells Is No Party” warns against overlooking eternal matters, “King Of Kings” ranks with the albums best. The song starts to a grandiose opening in which a drum solo gives way to melodic guitar harmony. The galloping riff that takes over propels “King Of Kings” to its first verse, the enlivened backdrop maintained on the way to a chorus that comes across regal – almost worshipful – in capacity. The only break in tempo is an instrumental section featuring an immaculate joining of lead guitar and keyboards. “King Of Kings” touches upon the second coming, The semi ballad “Bright And Morning Star” maintains the loft sentiment. The song opens its first minute quietly as a gently played guitar leads the way. Impetus does not return, however, until a snarling rhythm guitar kicks in and drives things forward at the more assertive tempo. A decisive chorus finds Messenger making a statement of faith.Initiative picks up with “Don’t Shoot The Messenger”. Delivering a muscular band of mid-paced metal, the band signature song stands out with its aggressive riffing and focused drumming of timekeeper Tim Tieff. A too the point chorus is conveyed in unmistakable fashion. Again, this is the bands signature song (both musically and lyrically) .Instrumental “Special Delivery” allows Messenger to showcase its abundant musicianship. Five minutes of militant riffs and precision low end churning, the song breaks for occasional stretches of melodic guitar harmony (backed by piercing – but supportive – lead work). Momentum does not break until the halfway point for an ambient passage in which keyboards play a leading role. Having got its instrumental propensities out of the way, the band delivers the heartfelt ballad “Forbidden Love”. Moving forward to a joining of piano and acoustic guitar, the song does not pick up in pace until a crisp rhythm guitar joins the striking scene. Closing out the final minute is a span of rousing lead guitar (some of the albums finest). Very fine melody and message as well (about not getting involved in a relationship with someone who does not share the same faith) .“Wallowing In The Mire”, a Romans 7 inspired piece, heads in up-tempo hard rock territory. The song begins to a forward wall of rhythm guitar before letting up in pace upon reaching its first verse. Regaining the initiative, “Wallowing In The Mire” moves on to a terse chorus detailing the daily struggle against sin, “Roar” represents two and a half minutes of all out metal. I might describe this as the albums heaviest piece, serving up an amalgamation of choppy riffs (that bring to mind Incarnate) and powering drums. A harshly delivered chorus and complementary fiery guitar solo add the fitting touch. Messenger vents some frustration on this one, A hulking bass line fortifies “Chained” its distance. Heavy but groove based at the same time, “Chained” stands out as this reviewers choice track off the album. I find the song incurably infectious with its non-stop low end pulse and unyielding melody (I challenge you to keep “Chained” out of your head after repeated listen). Fans of Menchen, Die Happy and V-Rats will be certain to eat this one up. “Chained” talks about making a new start, Closing things out are “America, Why?” and “So Good” the albums two least inspiring pieces (in my opinion). “America, Why?” is an acoustic laced track dealing with abortion and “So Good” a scratchy blues rocker in the vein of Stevie & The Saints. While far from bad, I find that the two do not quite hold up in comparison to the ten that precede them. That said, I can see others thinking differently though I tend to pass(http://www.holymetalrob.com/)

MESSENGER - I'AM TALKING TO YOU / 2008/DISCOGRAPHY/BIOGRAPHY/AND REVIEW

THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(12-TRACKS)
1-HELL IS NO PARTY
2-KING OF KINGS
3-BRIGHT AND MORNING STAR
4-DON'T SHOOT THE MESSENGER
5-SPECIAL DELIVERY
6-FORBIDDEN LOVE
7-WALLOWING IN THE MIRE
8-THE RAPTURE
9-ROAR
10-CHAINED
11-AMERICA("WHY")
12-SO GOOD
CREDITS:
Frank Clifton Herring – Lead Vocals, Keyboards & Guitars
Vladimir Gurin – Guitars
Joe Fulford – Guitars
Elliott Powell – Bass
Tim Tieff - Drums











BIOGRAPHY:
The Messenger sound arose from Hard Rock, Heavy Metal and Progressive Rock Influences like Rush, Led Zeppelin, Nickelback, Daughtry, Deep Purple & AC/DC. Messenger's songs explode with huge power chords and innovative rhythms behind soaring and melodic vocals. The lyric message of the Word grabs your attention on every song while the guitar solos are pure, musical and fast. Their dramatic live performance is similar to Peter Gabriel with a dynamic light show reminiscent of Pink Floyd. Messenger is a Christian Heavy Metal quintet from the Nation's Capital area which joined together in September 2008. We minister Christ and His gospel with the power of the Holy Ghost through Good Music and Loud Guitars.(Modern Metal) sounds kick hard but with originality and progressive artistry. The message of Christ is couched in an amusement park roller coaster ride of vocal and guitar solo highs that pierce the sky and bottom end lows that rumble the floor. Get on.If you love 70s and 80s metal like Sabbath, Rush, Zeppelin and a touch of early Petra, give these guys a chance! THe production is organic, you can hear every single instrument and understand every lyric! This is one of the best cds I have bought lately.(http://radio.holymetal.org/)

REVIEW FOR THE ALBUM
To understand my point check out the all out metal of “Roar”, driving hard rocker “Hell Is No Party”, palatial “King Of Kings”, groove flavored “Chained”, and no-nonsense “Walking In The Mire”, five energetic pieces in which Messenger puts its accomplished songwriting skills on full display. A more mid-paced (but equally notable) direction is taken on the heavy duty “Don’t Shoot The Messenger” and ominous “Rapture” while “Bright And Morning Star” and “Forbidden Love” head in quality ballad territory. Rounding things out is the instrumental “Special Delivery”.One of the standout qualities to Messenger is its triple guitar team of Frank Clifton Herring, Vladimir Gurin and Joe Fulford. To say that the three lay some tight as they get riffs and melodies would be an understatement,Specifically, Herring handles rhythm guitar duties and Gurin and Fulford lead guitar. Gurin best exhibits his abilities on “Roar” and “Chained” while “Hell Is No Party” and “Bright And Morning Star” allow Fulford to shine. “King Of Kings” and “Don’t Shoot The Messenger” find the two trading off. Bassist Elliott Powell also deserves mention for the manner in which he helps anchor the low end. I enjoy how his bass stands out in the mix on “Rapture” and “Chained”, a particular testament to the albums clean production values.Frank Clifton Herring also handles lead vocal duties. The best way to describe his vocal approach would be mid-ranged (almost low-key) but with rich and warm flavorings. While I would hesitate to make a direct comparison, his delivery hints at Paul Aviles (Chariot) and Thomas Wilson (Unforsaken & Incarnate)Keeping in mind there is no such thing as a perfect album, I would like to offer some constructive commentary, First, there are a couple of filler tracks, “America, Why?” and “So Good”, at the albums end. At this point it must be reinforced that I’m Talking To You brings near perfect continuity over its first ten tracks. That continuity, however, is interrupted by the two. The best advice I might offer any band would be to give your audience your ten best songs; it is not necessary to record your entire back catalog. Second, packaging is lacking somewhat. While the cover artwork is well done and complements the music here, no lyrics are included. Keeping in mind space limitations and costs involved, if it is not possible to include lyrics then the least an artist can do is post them at their website or MySpace profile,Speaking of lyrics, Messenger proves an aptly named band in that the prose here is straightforward and forthright as it gets. The band pulls no punches in presenting its faith and bold and upfront “message”. A lot of people are going to be reached by the project.“Hell Is NoParty”, despite the clichéd title, represents a choice slab of driving hard rock. The most notable aspect to the song are the Rez Band style guitar riffs carrying its distance- slicing, massive and heavy as they get. Put this on Colours and Innocent Blood and it would sound right at home. A rumbling low end adds to the weighty scene. “Hells Is No Party” warns against overlooking eternal matters, “King Of Kings” ranks with the albums best. The song starts to a grandiose opening in which a drum solo gives way to melodic guitar harmony. The galloping riff that takes over propels “King Of Kings” to its first verse, the enlivened backdrop maintained on the way to a chorus that comes across regal – almost worshipful – in capacity. The only break in tempo is an instrumental section featuring an immaculate joining of lead guitar and keyboards. “King Of Kings” touches upon the second coming, The semi ballad “Bright And Morning Star” maintains the loft sentiment. The song opens its first minute quietly as a gently played guitar leads the way. Impetus does not return, however, until a snarling rhythm guitar kicks in and drives things forward at the more assertive tempo. A decisive chorus finds Messenger making a statement of faith.Initiative picks up with “Don’t Shoot The Messenger”. Delivering a muscular band of mid-paced metal, the band signature song stands out with its aggressive riffing and focused drumming of timekeeper Tim Tieff. A too the point chorus is conveyed in unmistakable fashion. Again, this is the bands signature song (both musically and lyrically) .Instrumental “Special Delivery” allows Messenger to showcase its abundant musicianship. Five minutes of militant riffs and precision low end churning, the song breaks for occasional stretches of melodic guitar harmony (backed by piercing – but supportive – lead work). Momentum does not break until the halfway point for an ambient passage in which keyboards play a leading role. Having got its instrumental propensities out of the way, the band delivers the heartfelt ballad “Forbidden Love”. Moving forward to a joining of piano and acoustic guitar, the song does not pick up in pace until a crisp rhythm guitar joins the striking scene. Closing out the final minute is a span of rousing lead guitar (some of the albums finest). Very fine melody and message as well (about not getting involved in a relationship with someone who does not share the same faith) .“Wallowing In The Mire”, a Romans 7 inspired piece, heads in up-tempo hard rock territory. The song begins to a forward wall of rhythm guitar before letting up in pace upon reaching its first verse. Regaining the initiative, “Wallowing In The Mire” moves on to a terse chorus detailing the daily struggle against sin, “Roar” represents two and a half minutes of all out metal. I might describe this as the albums heaviest piece, serving up an amalgamation of choppy riffs (that bring to mind Incarnate) and powering drums. A harshly delivered chorus and complementary fiery guitar solo add the fitting touch. Messenger vents some frustration on this one, A hulking bass line fortifies “Chained” its distance. Heavy but groove based at the same time, “Chained” stands out as this reviewers choice track off the album. I find the song incurably infectious with its non-stop low end pulse and unyielding melody (I challenge you to keep “Chained” out of your head after repeated listen). Fans of Menchen, Die Happy and V-Rats will be certain to eat this one up. “Chained” talks about making a new start, Closing things out are “America, Why?” and “So Good” the albums two least inspiring pieces (in my opinion). “America, Why?” is an acoustic laced track dealing with abortion and “So Good” a scratchy blues rocker in the vein of Stevie & The Saints. While far from bad, I find that the two do not quite hold up in comparison to the ten that precede them. That said, I can see others thinking differently though I tend to pass(http://www.holymetalrob.com/)

RENASCENT - THROUGH THE DARKNESS/2004/2005/DISCOGRAPHY REVIEW

THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(12-TRACKS)
1-IN HELL
2-CORROSION OF EMOTIONS
3-SCENES OF A TRAGEDY
4-THROUGH DARKNESS
5-SUSTAIN ME
6-ARISE
7-THE LAST JOURNEY
8-WISDOM CALLS
9-WARRIORS OF THE MORNING
10-EXODUSMAJESTY
11-SON OG GOD(Japan Bonus Track)
RENASCENT - DEMON'S QUEST /2004















THIS EP CONTAIN(4-TRACKS)
1-IN THE MIDST OF PERSECUTION
2-CIRCUS OF FLESH
3-DEMON'S QUEST
4-SON OF GOD
CREDITS:Line-up:
Eero Tertsunen - Guitars and Vocals
Mikaela Akrenius - Keyboards
Jani Stefanovic - Drums and Clean Vocals
Voitto Rintala - Bass












I must say that this isn't quite the genre of metal I normally seek out: I'm more of a power and/or melodic and/or folk listener at heart. Strictly in terms of black metal "sound" (this being an Unblack band, after all) I find little to fault this group for. Message-wise, it's no surprise that metal, especially the heavier stuff, is better suited to delivering so-called Jeremiads (especially the sinners burning in hell part) than espousing the positive aspects of Christianity.But This band is really good And it has Very Deep christian lyrics, I would recommend it to anyone who likes melodic death metal,I've had this problem for a while where I find myself liking the music of the Black Metal sub-genre, but most Black Metal bands have very Satanic themes to them, and being a Christian, I really don't appreciate it. Anyway, a few weeks ago, I found out about Unblack Metal, Black Metal music with Christian lyrics. It certainly works out. And I gotta say, Renascent certainly nails the best aspects of Unblack Metal. I don't really like the raw, unproduced sound most Black Metal bands go for,So the quality of the production works great for me.They have a very melodic sound to them,So I'd probably specifically Classify them as Melodic Unblack Metal.If you are a fan of the raw sounding stuff Though,I'd reccomend Horde, Another wonderful Unblack Metal band.And Obviously,The lyrics are highly Christian,Which is wonderful for people like me. And while Horde's lyrics Are Rather Violently Against Satan, Renascent's lyrics Praise God and Jesus while Villifying Satan,Not at all in a violent manner.If you don't know if you'll like their sound or not, then to me they sound a bit like Dimmu Borgir, but obviously not Satanic. If you're still not sure, "In Hell" and "Scenes of a Tradgedy" are both on YouTube, so you can sample their music before listening, like I did. All in all, if you like Melodic Black Metal, but would rather hear Christian lyrics, then this is the perfect Band For You(http://www.holymetalrob.com/)

RENASCENT - THROUGH THE DARKNESS/2004/2005/DISCOGRAPHY REVIEW

THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(12-TRACKS)
1-IN HELL
2-CORROSION OF EMOTIONS
3-SCENES OF A TRAGEDY
4-THROUGH DARKNESS
5-SUSTAIN ME
6-ARISE
7-THE LAST JOURNEY
8-WISDOM CALLS
9-WARRIORS OF THE MORNING
10-EXODUSMAJESTY
11-SON OG GOD(Japan Bonus Track)
RENASCENT - DEMON'S QUEST /2004















THIS EP CONTAIN(4-TRACKS)
1-IN THE MIDST OF PERSECUTION
2-CIRCUS OF FLESH
3-DEMON'S QUEST
4-SON OF GOD
CREDITS:Line-up:
Eero Tertsunen - Guitars and Vocals
Mikaela Akrenius - Keyboards
Jani Stefanovic - Drums and Clean Vocals
Voitto Rintala - Bass












I must say that this isn't quite the genre of metal I normally seek out: I'm more of a power and/or melodic and/or folk listener at heart. Strictly in terms of black metal "sound" (this being an Unblack band, after all) I find little to fault this group for. Message-wise, it's no surprise that metal, especially the heavier stuff, is better suited to delivering so-called Jeremiads (especially the sinners burning in hell part) than espousing the positive aspects of Christianity.But This band is really good And it has Very Deep christian lyrics, I would recommend it to anyone who likes melodic death metal,I've had this problem for a while where I find myself liking the music of the Black Metal sub-genre, but most Black Metal bands have very Satanic themes to them, and being a Christian, I really don't appreciate it. Anyway, a few weeks ago, I found out about Unblack Metal, Black Metal music with Christian lyrics. It certainly works out. And I gotta say, Renascent certainly nails the best aspects of Unblack Metal. I don't really like the raw, unproduced sound most Black Metal bands go for,So the quality of the production works great for me.They have a very melodic sound to them,So I'd probably specifically Classify them as Melodic Unblack Metal.If you are a fan of the raw sounding stuff Though,I'd reccomend Horde, Another wonderful Unblack Metal band.And Obviously,The lyrics are highly Christian,Which is wonderful for people like me. And while Horde's lyrics Are Rather Violently Against Satan, Renascent's lyrics Praise God and Jesus while Villifying Satan,Not at all in a violent manner.If you don't know if you'll like their sound or not, then to me they sound a bit like Dimmu Borgir, but obviously not Satanic. If you're still not sure, "In Hell" and "Scenes of a Tradgedy" are both on YouTube, so you can sample their music before listening, like I did. All in all, if you like Melodic Black Metal, but would rather hear Christian lyrics, then this is the perfect Band For You(http://www.holymetalrob.com/)

CROWN OF MERCY - NEW BEGINNING /2007

THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(11-TRACKS)
1-THE FALL
2-MERCY
3-THE WORD
4-FOLLOW THE LIGHT
5-THE GIFT
6-REALIZATION OF TRUTH
7-TOUCHING THE NOTHING
8-HOLY
9-GOD IS REAL
10-DAY OF COMPLETION
11-THERE AND BACK AGAIN
CREDITS:
Rick Johnson – Lead Vocals & Rhythm Guitar
Dirk Werner – Lead Guitar
Michael Reed – Bass
Jeremy Richardson - Percussion

BIOGRAPHY/REVIEW

New Christian progressive rock that won't hold back the truth that must be told. Powerful Anthems for true belivers.Crown of Mercy is on the verge of breaking new ground. Bringing in your face progressive rock music to the Christian scene. This sounds like it could scare a few elderly women. The loud crunching guitars with the pounding rhythm section is enough to make grandpa grab on to the closest rail and pray for mercy. Fortunately these guys really have it together. This is an album that tells a story of mankind's struggle as we go from thinking that we have the power to realizing that only God has the power. You will go on a journey that will have a happy ending just as predicted in the Bible. This is an album that will set new standards for the "church music" to come. If you like to get fired up about the greatest news on the planet, in your face guitars and a message that will leave you wanting more, you will love this album. Several talented new bands have come out of the growing Christian progressive rock scene in recent years. America Gomorrah, Revelation Project and Pursuit are the first that come to mind as a result of the hard rocking approach they take to the genre. Vertical Alignment, Torman Maxt and 7th Overture, on the other hand, deserve credit for their symphonic and technical expertise while Flagship combines elements of both the classic and the progressive. Neal Morse has also gained renown for his high quality solo releases One (2004), ? (2005) and Sola Scriptura (2007). Crown Of Mercy is another group worth mentioning. A Scottsburg, Indiana based group that came together in 2005, Crown Of Mercy takes a foundation of progressive rock and joins it with equal amounts of upfront rhythm guitar and lush acoustic guitar on its 2007 debut New Beginnings."New Beginnings finds Crown Of Mercy reflecting the influence of the previously referenced artists in question. The band, for instance, is at its best on “Mercy” and “The Word”, two exemplary examples of subdued progressive rock, in addition to the bluesy “Day Of Completion” and metal laced “There And Back Again”. “Realization Of Truth” and “Touching The Nothing” both bring a tasteful acoustic laced sound and the catchy “The Fall” and guitar driven “The Gift” a straightforward hard rocking vibe heavily rooted in the eighties." A joining of acoustic guitar and bass propels “Follow The Light” through its first verse. Sustaining the laid back impetus during the bridge that follows, the song gains initiative as the rhythm guitar cuts in to underscore a chorus talking about victory in the life of a Christian,“The Gift” stands out as one of the albums heavier pieces. The song starts to a hard hitting guitar riff prior to tapering off to a rumbling bass line prior to its first verse. After inching ahead with the rhythm guitar hammering in and out of the mix, “The Gift” moves on to a flowing chorus fortified by a touch of shouted backing vocals. God’s gift to mankind is the subject matter here,“Realization Of Truth” opens to a blend of resounding bass lines and screaming guitar feedback. Driving through its first verse to an upfront rhythm guitar, the song does not taper off until transitioning to a passage underlined by a tasteful acoustic guitar. The rhythm guitar returns to its forward place in the mix before “Realization Of Truth” reaches an instrumental section in which a razor sharp lead guitar interweaves with more acoustic guitaThe intricate progressiveness of “Touching The Nothing” gets underway acoustically before immediately launching into its first verse. The song builds impetus as the rhythm guitar gradually makes its presence felt, decelerating for an acoustically driven passage but picking up in pace for a steadfast chorus delivered in poignantly charged fashion. Werner highlights an extensive rhythm section with another blazing run of his soloing abilities. “Touching The Nothing” focuses on Romans 7:r. As its title implies, “Realization Of Truth” talks about finding the truth,The worship metal of “Holy” comes across a bit flat. While the song delivers an abundance of up-tempo initiative, the lack of an eye catching chorus in the end holds things back. All around, this one fails to deliver that extra once of energy and inspiration the albums better material brings to the table. Good lyrical direction, though, “God Is Real” is another number I have been unable to grow into. The song actually opens to an interesting blend of chanted vocal harmonies and rhythm guitar and really grooves through its verse portions. But, similar to “Holy”, a chorus I might describe as colorless forces me to hit the skip button.The bluesy “Day Of Completion”, the albums longest track at 8:40, proves quite the technical piece. The acoustic guitar makes its presence felt throughout the songs earliest moments, underlining its first two verses and the minute long instrumental section that follows (again, Werner really shines with his stylish work on lead guitar). Once the rhythm guitar takes over, however, “Day Of Completion” moves ahead in a grittier manner until – just prior to its six minute mark – it gains a hold of a sweeping chorus pointing to the purpose of Christ “There And Back Again” commences as an acoustic guitar shores up narration from the first chapter of Genesis. Maintaining the acoustic heading for its first verse, the song picks up in pace as a metal-laced rhythm guitar steps forward and bolsters the second hard and heavy. The rhythm guitar continues to play a prevailing role during the ensuing instrumental section. After a commanding voice states “Now there is a new beginning”, “There And Back Again” takes on a more melodic tone as it drifts through its final verse portions as the purpose of Christ is again revealed(http://www.holymetalrob.com/)

CROWN OF MERCY - NEW BEGINNING /2007

THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(11-TRACKS)
1-THE FALL
2-MERCY
3-THE WORD
4-FOLLOW THE LIGHT
5-THE GIFT
6-REALIZATION OF TRUTH
7-TOUCHING THE NOTHING
8-HOLY
9-GOD IS REAL
10-DAY OF COMPLETION
11-THERE AND BACK AGAIN
CREDITS:
Rick Johnson – Lead Vocals & Rhythm Guitar
Dirk Werner – Lead Guitar
Michael Reed – Bass
Jeremy Richardson - Percussion

BIOGRAPHY/REVIEW

New Christian progressive rock that won't hold back the truth that must be told. Powerful Anthems for true belivers.Crown of Mercy is on the verge of breaking new ground. Bringing in your face progressive rock music to the Christian scene. This sounds like it could scare a few elderly women. The loud crunching guitars with the pounding rhythm section is enough to make grandpa grab on to the closest rail and pray for mercy. Fortunately these guys really have it together. This is an album that tells a story of mankind's struggle as we go from thinking that we have the power to realizing that only God has the power. You will go on a journey that will have a happy ending just as predicted in the Bible. This is an album that will set new standards for the "church music" to come. If you like to get fired up about the greatest news on the planet, in your face guitars and a message that will leave you wanting more, you will love this album. Several talented new bands have come out of the growing Christian progressive rock scene in recent years. America Gomorrah, Revelation Project and Pursuit are the first that come to mind as a result of the hard rocking approach they take to the genre. Vertical Alignment, Torman Maxt and 7th Overture, on the other hand, deserve credit for their symphonic and technical expertise while Flagship combines elements of both the classic and the progressive. Neal Morse has also gained renown for his high quality solo releases One (2004), ? (2005) and Sola Scriptura (2007). Crown Of Mercy is another group worth mentioning. A Scottsburg, Indiana based group that came together in 2005, Crown Of Mercy takes a foundation of progressive rock and joins it with equal amounts of upfront rhythm guitar and lush acoustic guitar on its 2007 debut New Beginnings."New Beginnings finds Crown Of Mercy reflecting the influence of the previously referenced artists in question. The band, for instance, is at its best on “Mercy” and “The Word”, two exemplary examples of subdued progressive rock, in addition to the bluesy “Day Of Completion” and metal laced “There And Back Again”. “Realization Of Truth” and “Touching The Nothing” both bring a tasteful acoustic laced sound and the catchy “The Fall” and guitar driven “The Gift” a straightforward hard rocking vibe heavily rooted in the eighties." A joining of acoustic guitar and bass propels “Follow The Light” through its first verse. Sustaining the laid back impetus during the bridge that follows, the song gains initiative as the rhythm guitar cuts in to underscore a chorus talking about victory in the life of a Christian,“The Gift” stands out as one of the albums heavier pieces. The song starts to a hard hitting guitar riff prior to tapering off to a rumbling bass line prior to its first verse. After inching ahead with the rhythm guitar hammering in and out of the mix, “The Gift” moves on to a flowing chorus fortified by a touch of shouted backing vocals. God’s gift to mankind is the subject matter here,“Realization Of Truth” opens to a blend of resounding bass lines and screaming guitar feedback. Driving through its first verse to an upfront rhythm guitar, the song does not taper off until transitioning to a passage underlined by a tasteful acoustic guitar. The rhythm guitar returns to its forward place in the mix before “Realization Of Truth” reaches an instrumental section in which a razor sharp lead guitar interweaves with more acoustic guitaThe intricate progressiveness of “Touching The Nothing” gets underway acoustically before immediately launching into its first verse. The song builds impetus as the rhythm guitar gradually makes its presence felt, decelerating for an acoustically driven passage but picking up in pace for a steadfast chorus delivered in poignantly charged fashion. Werner highlights an extensive rhythm section with another blazing run of his soloing abilities. “Touching The Nothing” focuses on Romans 7:r. As its title implies, “Realization Of Truth” talks about finding the truth,The worship metal of “Holy” comes across a bit flat. While the song delivers an abundance of up-tempo initiative, the lack of an eye catching chorus in the end holds things back. All around, this one fails to deliver that extra once of energy and inspiration the albums better material brings to the table. Good lyrical direction, though, “God Is Real” is another number I have been unable to grow into. The song actually opens to an interesting blend of chanted vocal harmonies and rhythm guitar and really grooves through its verse portions. But, similar to “Holy”, a chorus I might describe as colorless forces me to hit the skip button.The bluesy “Day Of Completion”, the albums longest track at 8:40, proves quite the technical piece. The acoustic guitar makes its presence felt throughout the songs earliest moments, underlining its first two verses and the minute long instrumental section that follows (again, Werner really shines with his stylish work on lead guitar). Once the rhythm guitar takes over, however, “Day Of Completion” moves ahead in a grittier manner until – just prior to its six minute mark – it gains a hold of a sweeping chorus pointing to the purpose of Christ “There And Back Again” commences as an acoustic guitar shores up narration from the first chapter of Genesis. Maintaining the acoustic heading for its first verse, the song picks up in pace as a metal-laced rhythm guitar steps forward and bolsters the second hard and heavy. The rhythm guitar continues to play a prevailing role during the ensuing instrumental section. After a commanding voice states “Now there is a new beginning”, “There And Back Again” takes on a more melodic tone as it drifts through its final verse portions as the purpose of Christ is again revealed(http://www.holymetalrob.com/)

PHIL KEAGGY - DREAM AGAIN / 2006 DISCOGRAPHY/BIOGRAPHY/AND REVIEWS

THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(12-TRACKS)
1-DREAM AGAIN
2-WHY
3-REDEMPTION
4-THANK YOU FOR TODAY
5-REVIVE ME
6-THERE WITH YOU
7-TRAVELING LIGHT
8-MICAH 6:8
9-KATHY'S SONG
10-IT'S YOU AND ME
11-HOW CAN I THANK YOU
12-LOVE IS THE REASON
PHIL KEAGGY - PHIL KEAGGY / 1998















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(10-TRACKS)
1-A SIGN CAME THROUGH A WINDOW
2-BENEATH THE BLOOD-STAINED LINTEL
3-UNDER THE GRACE
4-ABOVE ALL THINGS
5-MY UNSPOKEN WORDS
6-TENDER LOVE
7-A LITTLE BE OF LIGHT
8-CHASE THE BAD AWAY
9-QUITE SUDDENLY
10-DAYS LIKE YOU
11-JESUS LOVES THE CHURCH
PHIL KEAGGY - TIME II - 1995















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(18-TRACKS)
1-HELLO CLEVELAND
2-JOHN REVELATOR
3-BE IN MY HEART
4-YOUR LOVE BROKE THROUGH
5-SHOUTS OF JOY
6-TELL ME HOW YOU FEEL
7-EVERYWHERE I LOOK
8-RYAN'S SONG
9-LIKE AN ISLAND
10-HAPPY
11-STRONG TOWER
12-SOUNDS
13-WE'LL MEET AGAIN
14-TAKE A LOOK AROUND
15-SUNDAY SCHOOL
16-COUNTY DOWN
17-MAKER OF THE UNIVERSE
18-HEAVEN IS HOME
PHIL KEAKKY - TIME I /1995















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(19-TRACKS)
1-INTRODUCTION
2-I'VE JUST BEGAN(AGAIN)
3-SUNDAY'S CHILD
4-LOVE DIVINE
5-I WILL BE THERE
6-TIME
7-HOPE'S DESIRE
8-LET EVERYTHING ELSE GO
9-PILGRIM'S FLIGHT
10-FIND ME IN THESE FIELDS
11-THEME
12-WHERE IS MY MAKER?
13-DO LORD
14-WHAT A DAY
15-LITTLE ONES
16-MORNING LIGHTS
17-MARCH OF THE CLOUDS
18-OH GOD OUR HELPS IN AGES PAST
19-THE ANSWER
PHIL KEAGGY - TRUE BELIEVER /1995
















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(10-TRACKS)
1-THE TRUE BELIEVER
2-WILD HEART
3-ONLY YOU
4-SALVATION ARMY BAND
5-DON'T LE GO OF MY HEART
6-SON OF MAN
7-AND ON THAT DAY
8-BE THOU MY VISION
9-HAVE MERCY LORD
10-THE SURVIVOR
PHIL KEAGGY - BLUE/1994















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(11-TRACKS)
1-DOING NOTHING
2-DON'T PASS ME BY
3-BAY BLUE
4-ALL THERE IS TO KNOW
5-JOHN THE REVELATOR
6-WOLRD OF MINE
7-EVERYWHERE I LOOK
8-THE FURTHER ADVENTURES OF..
9-ALL OUR WISHES
10-WHEN WILL I EVER LEARN TO LIVE IN GOD?
11-SHOUTS OF JOY
PHIL KEAGGY - CRIMSON AND BLUE/1993
















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(13-TRACKS)
1-SHOUTS OF JOY
2-WOLRD OF MINE
3-EVERYWHERE I LOOK
4-LOVE DIVINE
5-REUNION OF FRIENDS
6-ALL THERE IS TO KNOW
7-WHEN WILL I EVER LEARN TO LIVE IN GOD?
8-STONE EYES
9-I WILL BE THERE
10-DON'T PASS ME BY
11-JOHN THE REVELATOR
12-DOING NOTHING
13-NOTHING BUT THE BLOOD
PHIL KEAGGY - REVELATOR/1993















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(8-TRACKS)
1-EVERYWHERE I GO(Radio Mix)
2-JOHN THE REVELATOR(Radio Mix)
3-DOING NOTHING(Alternate Take-Swamp Version)
4-UNTILTLE
5-JOHN REVELATOR(Extended Strat Mix)
6-UNTITLE
7-THE FURTHER ADVENTURE OF...
8-CELEBRATE(Outro To "Reunion OF Friends")
PHIL KEAGGY - FINDS ME IN THESE FIELDS/1990
















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(15-TRACKS)
1-LIVE STUDIO RECORDING I
2-STRONG TOWER
3-CARRY ON
4-LIVE STUDIO RECORDING II
5-WHEN THE WILD WIND BLOWS
6-THIS SIDE OF HEAVEN
7-FIND ME IN THESE FIELDS
8-GET OVER IT
9-CALLING YOU
10-LIVE STUDIO RECORDING III
11-GENTLE & STRONG
12-FINAL DAY
13-LIVE STUDIO RECORDING IV
14-BE IN MY HEART
15-LIVE STUDIO RECORDING V
PHIL KEAGGY & SUNDAY'S CHILD/1988
















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(13-TRACKS)
1-TELL HOW YOU FEEL
2-SUNDAY'S CHILD
3-I ALWAYS DO
4-I'M GONNA GET YOU NOW
5-BLESSED BE THE TIES
6-THIS COULD BE THE MOMENT
7-AIN'T GOT NOW
8-SOMEBODY LOVES YOU
9-BIG ERASER
10-EVERYTHING IS ALRIGHT
11-I'VE JUST BEGUN(AGAIN)
12-WALK IN TWO WOLRDS
13-TALK ABOUT SUFFERINGS
PHIL KEAGGY - THE WIND & THE WHEAT/1987















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(10-TRACKS)
1-MARCH OF THE CLOUDS
2-PARADISE DREAM
3-THE WIND & THE WHEAT
4-WHERE TRAVELERS MEET
5-FROM SHORE TO SHORE
6-PRAYER
7-THE MISSION
8-THE PROMISE
9-THE REUNION
10-I LOVE YOU LORD
PHIL KEAGGY - UNDERGROUND/2000
















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(13-TRACKS)
1-PAID IN FULL
2-I KNOW SOMEONE
3-DEADLINE
4-WHAT A LOVE
5-THE TWO OF YOU
6-ONE IN A MILLION
7-THE RANSOM
8-WHAT YOU ARE INSIDE
9-A GLORIOUS SUNSET
10-FOLLOW ME ON
11-THINK ABOUT IT
12-WHEN I SAY I LOVE YOU
13-THE SURVIVOR
PHIL KEAGGY - GETTING CLOSER/1998
















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(12-TRACKS)
1-LOOK DEEP INSIDE
2-WHERE HAS OUR LOVE GONE?
3-MOVIE
4-LIKE AN ISLAND
5-RIVERTON
6-SOUNDS
7-GET UP & GONE
8-PASSPORT
9-GETTING CLOSER
10-SUNRISE
11-I WILL BE THERE
12-REACHING OUT
PHIL KEAGGY - GETTING CLOSER/1985
















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(10-TRACKS)
1-WHERE HAS OUR LOVE GONE
2-PASSPORT
3-I WILL BE THERE
4-GETTING CLOSER
5-MOVIE
6-SOUNDS
7-LIKE AN ISLAND
8-LOOK DEEP INSIDE
9-RIVERTON
10-REACHING OUT
PHIL KEAGGY - PLAY THRU ME/1982















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(12-TRACKS)
1-HAPPY
2-CAREFREE
3-NOBODY'S PLAYGIRL NOW
4-CHERISH THE MOMENT
5-SHE CAME TO STAY
6-PAPA SONG
7-THE WALL
8-MAKE A CHANGE
9-TRAIN TO GLORY
10-PLAY THRU ME
11-HIS MASTER'S VOICE
12-MORNING LIGHT
PHIL KEAGGY - TOWN TO TOWN/1981
















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(9-TRACKS)
1-WISHED YOU WERE HERE
2-FULL CIRCLE
3-LIFE LOVE AND YOU
4-TOWN TO TOWN
5-WHAT A WONDER YOU ARE
6-IN BETWEEN
7-OUR LIVES
8-RISE UP O MAN OF GOD
9-LET EVERYTHING ELSE GO
PHIL KEAGGY - PH'ILP SIDE /1980
















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(9-TRACKS)
1-A CHILD(IN EVERYONE'S HEART)
2-LITTLE ONES
3-SPEND MY LIFE WITH YOU
4-JUST A MOMENT AWAY
5-I BELONG TO YOU
6-A ROYAL COMMANDMENT
7-SUNDAY SCHOOL
8-SEND OUT YOUR LIGHT
9-PULLING DOWN
9-IN YOUR KEEP
PHIL KEAGGY - & GLASS HARP - SONG IN THE AIR/1977
















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(9-TRACKS)
1-SONG IN THE AIR
2-CAN YOU SEE ME
3-ONE DAY AT A TIME
4-SONG OF HOPE
5-THE ANSWER
6-DAVID AND GOLIATH
7-I'M GOING HOME
8-DO LORD
9-LET'S LIVE TOGETHER
PHIL KEAGGY - THE MASTER & THE MUSICIAN/1978















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(13-TRACKS)
1-PILGRIM'S FLIGHT
2-AGORA(The Marketplace)
3-THE CASTLE'S CALL
4-WEDDING IN THE COUNTRY MANOR
5-SUITE:OF REFLECTIONS
6-GOLDEN HALLS
7-MOUTHPIECE
8-FOLLOW ME UP
9-JUNGLE PLEASURES
10-DEEP CALLS UNTO DEEP
11-MEDLEY:EVENSONG - TWIGHLIGHT - FOREVER JOY
12-THE HIGH AND EXALTED ONE
13-EPILOGUE/AMAZING GRACE
PHIL KEAGGY - RE-EMERGING /1977/2000
















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(12-TRACKS)
1-THEME
2-WHERE IS MY MAKER?
3-ANOTHER TRY
4-RYAN'S SONG
5-STRUCK BY THE LOVE
6-TURNED ON THE LIGHT
7-SORRY
8-TAKE A LOOK AROUND
9-MY AUNBURN LADY
10-MIGHTY LORD
11-YOU'RE MY HERO
12-AMELIA EARHART'S LAST FLIGHT
PHIL KEAGGY - EMERGING /1977
















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(9-TRACKS)
1-THEME
2-WHERE IS MY MAKER?
3-ANOTHER TRY
4-RYAN'S SONG
5-STRUCK BY THE LOVE
6-TORNED ON THE LIGHT
7-SORRY
8-TAKE A LOOK AROUND
9-GENTLES EYES
PHIL KEAGGY - TH COURTS OF THE KING /1977
















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(12-TRACKS)
1-O COME LET US WORSHIP
2-AT THE MENTION OF YOUR NAME
3-YOUR STEADFAST LOVE
4-LION OF JUDAH
5-LOVE OF MY LORD/REDWOOD TREE
6-COME TO THE COURTS OF THE KING
7-COME TO ME
8-MY SUN AND MY SHIELD
9-SELAH
10-WAITING FOR THE LORD
11-PRAYER FOR THE KINGDOM
12-ALL THAT I CAN DO
PHIL KEAGGY - LOVE BROKE THROUGH/1976















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(10-TRACKS)
1-YOUR LOVE BROKE THROUGH
2-TAKE ME CLOSER
3-AS THE RUIN FALLS
4-WILD HORSE
5-DISAPPOINTMENT
6-TIME
7-PORTRAIT
8-JUST THE SAME
9-THINGS I WILL DO
10-ABRAHAM
PHIL KEAGGY - WHAT A DAY /1973















THIS ALBUM CONTAIN(10-TRACKS)
1-THIS IS WHAT THE LORD WILL DO FOR YOU
2-KING OF THE JEWS
3-WALKING WITH OUR LORD
4-A TIME AND A PLACE
5-REJOICE
6-WHAT A DAY
7-NOW I CAN SEE
8-BEHOLDS ALL THINGS BECOME NEW
9-HALLELUJAH
10-I WILL SING











BIOGRAPHY:(Keaggy, Phil )
Phil Keaggy is an excellent all-around guitarist who has been a part of the CCM scene for over two decades. Born and raised in Ohio in a Catholic family of ten, Keaggy always loved music and spent hours listening to such singers as Johnny Ray and Elvis Presley. He began imitating the latter as young as age four. Keaggy was also exposed to other kinds of music and became well versed in classical. His first guitar was a late-'50s Gretsch Anniversary model; at age ten his father bought him a Sears Silvertone, and by the end of fifth grade, he was playing in front of his entire school. Three years later, Keaggy was playing professionally with the Squires. He and his longtime friend, Drummer John Sferra, founded Glass Harp in the late '60s when he was in the eleventh grade. They soon became known as one of the most innovative power trios around, even though they were never together long enough to break through commercially. They had a contract with Decca, toured the country several times, and had a growing base of devoted fans, many of whom were knocked out by Keaggy's lightning-Fast Guitar Riffs and experimental sounds. At their pinnacle, Glass Harp was opening for such major acts as Iron Butterfly, Yes, Traffic and Chicago.It was a lot of fame to be heaped upon such young musicians, and it being the late '60s, Keaggy was exposed to and partook of his share of drugs. His life changed dramatically on February 14, 1970. While lying in a hotel room suffering from a bad LSD trip, his parents were involved in a head-on auto crash back in Ohio. His mother died soon afterward, and this spawned a crisis for Keaggy that led to his becoming a born-again Christian. In the early '70s, Keaggy took to testifying before bewildered Glass Harp listeners after their concerts. He left Glass Harp in 1972 and the following year recorded his first solo album, What a Day. He then spent many years working with a Christian fellowship and married. Since then, Keaggy has released well over thirty albums earning critical acclaim for both his virtuosity on guitar and his songwriting, which ranges from the Beatlesque pop of Sunday's Child to more subtle intrumentals. He occasionally gets back together with the other members of Glass Harp for reunion concerts and continues to release solo projects including Roundabout in 2006.















REVIEWS FOR THE ALBUMS(Blue & Crimson & Blue)
The album, as mentioned in a previous review is a remix of Keaggy's "Crimson and Blue". I have to say that I found the original to be better due to the extended nature of several of the tunes and the more improvisational feel it has, but this album does justice to the original. The band was the best Phil ever assembled and you can tell on every song. I can't say that I've ever heard as tight a band or one that seems to be as in touch with each other as this one. All of the songs have a retro-rock feel to them, harkening back to Keaggy's 1970's roots, with a good heavy rock sound that manages to lift itself above three power chords. The lyrics can be biting and sacratistic as on the opening cut, "Doin' Nothing" or searching as with "When will I ever learn..." If you want to get Phil at his rocking best, get this or the original. And be sure to pick that up. 220 is a great instrumental blues and rock album to pair with this one.

















REVIEW FOR THE ALBUM(Crimson & Blue )
Keaggy truly is a legend. After The Wind and the Wheat, this is my favorite CD of his. The variety ranges from meditative Avalon (a brilliant remake of Van Morrison's song) to high-energy Shouts of Joy. Lyrics are just as strong as his off-the-hook musicianship. As always, his guitar artistry mesmerizes. Not a single weak track here. It may be older, but it is an absolute classic.In my humble opinion, this is Phil's best rock album by far. The band is as tight a rock group as you'll get a chance to hear and the set list is first rate. The feel for most of the album is sort of late 60's early 70's Cream as evidenced on the tracks "Doin' Nothin", "John the Revelator", "Stone Eyes" and, to a lesser extent, "Shouts of Joy". Each of these tracks has the standard rock song verse/chorus arraingment followed by exteneded instrumental work that really shows off the tight interplay of the band which includes Phil Madiera Lynn Nichols, John Sferra and Wade Jaynes. Songs like "Love Divine" and "Everywhere I Look" show the strong influence the Beattles have had on Phil's writing and singing and balance the heavier stuff nicely. The slower treatment of Van Morrison's "When Will I Ever Learn to Live in God" is exceptional and moving as is the solo electric guitar work on "Nothing But the Blood." In fact, the only complaint I might have about the album is that I think the song might have osunded better as an electric guitar solo instrumental. Fans of Keaggy's instrumental music will find this radically different than Lights of Madrid or Byond Nature. Additionally, as Phil identifies himself as a Christian musician, many of the songs refelct strongly Christian themes. However, whether you're a Christian or not, if you are a fan of good, solid, tight rock music; this album is a "must own". I recommend it without reservation. I was ambivalent about Keaggy's "Inseparable". Not so with this album. After twelve years after first drafting this review, I am convinced Crimson and Blue is Keaggy's tour de force. If you are a guitarist who has heard about this talented muso, this is a good place to start. Yes, there are other great instrumental albums of his, both electric and acoustic, that are worth listening to, but all fall short of this album. It's here you hear him interact with a great band, hear him sing covers, play long engaging solos and most of all, show unbridled joy. Phil plays with bravado. Much credit must go to producer, Lynn Nichols, Phil's friend and fellow musician of years past. From what I have read, Phil said that Lynn pushed him to the limit of his singing and playing ability. The production is superb, the recording bright and detailed and for 70 minutes plus, one is caught up in the joy and vitality of a band in full flight. Indeed, this captures a band playing with the fervour of a garage jam or live concert. (How I wish I could have seen the tour supporting this!) In many ways this album, like one of the song titles, is a "Reunion of friends". Drummer John Sferra met Phil in the 8th grade. They played together in Glass Harp. Now Sferra holds all together magnificently. His Drumming is probably more responsible for the cohesiveness and consistency of the 60s and 70s rock style than anything else. Wade Janes locks solid on Bass while Phil Madeira, another friend of long standing, fills the soundstage with his Hammond B-3 organ. Against this bluesy backdrop we come to the maestro. Whether he is deftly playing Beatlesque licks that would make Harrison smile, or whether he is rocking the house down, this is exciting stuff! From the opening strident rock anthem, when Phil shouts, "All creation shows the glory of the Lord", this album slowly builds with intensity. One hears many musical influences, with three Beatle-like tracks ("Everywhere I look", "Love divine" and "Reunion of friends") which are almost too close to Beatle originals for comfort, to tones that remind one of Clapton in his Cream days. Yet Phil adds his own flavour as again and again his honest lyrics reflect his heart. You cannot separate his musicianship from his faith. The final four tracks continue to lift to the crescendo that breaks loose in the penultimate track, "Doin' Nothin'". This eight minute rock boogie will satisfy those longing to hear Phil unleashed. Together with the Clapton inflected "Don't pass me by", these are easily the heaviest Keaggy I have heard on a studio album of his. The final track is a masterful blues ballad as Jimi may have played. Phil focuses the album on the source of his joy and wholeness, his saviour. With this track there is an emotional depth that communicates lyrically and musically. A brilliant album from a mature, gifted musician.(http://www.holymetalradio.es.tl/

REVIEW FOR THE ALBUM(True Believer)
Keaggy sweeps the listener of her/his feet with a wonderful variety of old favorites (Be Thou My Vision has never been done like this! ) and new songs (True Believer, of course). He will melt your heart and then get your feet moving with up-tempo, contemporary songs. Beautifully produced, brilliantly arranged, and spiritually annointed.The version of "Be Thou My Vision" here is interesting, and would work pretty well for Keaggy, except that the producer has let a botched vocal take slip through ("save that THY art"???). "And On That Day," one of the best songs, is a lovely Christmas-related tune. But "Son Of Man" is ultimately the only track here that really feels like True Keaggy. Every single song on this album is fantastic! True Believer will pick you up when your feeling down, and bring you closer to the Lord :) Keaggy's vocals are better than ever and so are his lyrics! If you liked his 'Sunday's Child' record then you'll love this.I have been huge fan of Phil Keaggy's since Sunday's Child, and I think this was one of his best vocal (different catagory than his instrumental albums) albums to date. He stretched out with on the title track and added a spine tingling orchestral background to his powerful guitars and overdubbed lyrics. He reaches into new sounds with "Salvation Army Band" while still maintaining his grungier side with "Have Mercy Lord." The remake of his song "The Survivor" probably my favorite Keaggy song ever. The reviewers that gave this album one star have no idea what they're talking about. I believe this is a favorite of mine and was a blessing from God. If you listen to the words, the guitar that does flow in all the songs, the sound of the voice (kinda Paul McCartney sound), and lay back and listen, you'll take a trip with something you wish you could have written. Very enjoyable.and it is exceptional both musically and vocally. Apparently, Keaggy is more well-loved for his genius on the guitar than for his vocals. His voice is certainly unique. Listen to him once and you will never forget his voice or mistake it for someone else. His voice is appealing because it resounds with joy, confidence, and victory. The best songs on this album are "True Believers," "Be Thou My Vision" (accented by his Irish-esque vocals), "And On That Day" (listen for Susan Ashton's lush, delicate vocals), "Don't Let Go of My Heart," and "Wildheart." Those songs, alone, deserve 5 stars. The message of "Survivor" will stun and move you the first time you hear it.(http://www.holymetalrob.com)