June 2009 Vol. 18.8
Table of contents
Editorial
RE:FRESH - PROPHETIC WORSHIP CONFERENCE
With Jarrod Cooper & the New Life worship team.
Saturday 20th June 2009. 10am - 5pm
New Life Hull's annual worship conference is a life changing day for all worshippers and worship teams. Every year they are inspired to new heights of prophetic worship, trained to be better worship leaders, and most importantly, encounter God in amazing ways! Every year, New Life Hull have awesome testimonies of delegates who return home deeply changed by these conferences.
This year, New Life Hull are setting aside the day to be changed radically in His presence, with less workshops, and more God-encountered times than before.
Entrance is free - Offerings will be taken.
Booking is essential. Contact: Tel 01482 610705
E-mail office@newlifehull.org
Website www.newlifehull.org
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APPLETREE STUDIOS
24 Track Digital/ 16 track Analogue. Digital editing, mastering and duplication facilities. Tel: 01844 237916.
www.appletreestudios.com
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CROSS RHYTHMS
Radio, Festival, and more! Probably the UK's biggest CCM Resource & Information Centre
www.crossrhythms.co.uk
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DIVERSITY MUSIC - Manchester
Independent Christian recording & music publishing.
Tel:01254 777380 bt@hismusic.co.uk
www.hismusic.co.uk
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ESSENTIAL CHRISTIAN.COM
Great value Christian music, teaching and AV Resources.
Subscribe now and get 10% off your first order.
www.essentialchristian.com
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ETERNAL SOUND &LIGHT, HULL.
Available for your event
PA (upto 2k), Lights & FX.
Church Services, concerts, theatre, disco.
Contact: Paul Ganney Tel:01482 212216
www.ganney.net/esl.htm
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FIERCE!
Buy Christian music & exclusive clothing online. Great prices and free UK delivery.
www.fierceshop.com
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ICC STUDIOS
Two high quality recording facility in a peaceful setting just off Eastbourne's seafront.
SSL AW900 desk, Protools Accell, Otan Radar II, 2" analogue with Dolby SR, Vintage mics & outboard gear, self-catering apartment. Bookings Manager: Neil Costello.
info@iccstudios.co.uk www.iccstudios.co.uk
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INTEGRITY MUSIC
For the latest in worship, contemporary and gospel music from Integrity, Provident, Essential, Gospo Centric, Verity and much more visit www.integrityeurope.com
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MUSICWIRE
All the best in Contemporary Christian Music - up to 35% discount off the rrp - FREE UK delivery - Digital Download Store coming soon! www.musicwire.co.uk
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NEW CHRISTIAN MUSIC
NCM PROMO-DISC is Christian music performers' own platform to get their music out to 500 radio stations and key media people (in the UK, Europe and beyond) on a monthly basis. www.newchristianmusic.co.uk
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PHOTOGRAPHY
www.markpierce-photography.co.uk
Yorkshire based freelance photographer with a contemporary style.
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REVELATOR
Invest in good Design - web; print; photography
www.revelator.co.uk
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SPIRIT MUSIC
Christian Distribution for all styles of music & clothing. www.spiritmusic.co.uk
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THE GOOD NEWS
Bringiing the UK Christian online community together.
www.thegoodnews.co.uk
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TOLLBOOTH MUSIC - DONCASTER
Digital multi-track recording & production studio.
www.tollboothmusic.com
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NEVER FOR NOTHING is published by GEOFF HOWLETT
E-Mail the Editor
NEVER FOR NOTHING is a faith ministry and gratefully acknowledges gifts of support.
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The Happening
These days working for the Church of England communications office in Westminster, HOWARD DOBSON reports that he now has four worship songs being used in UK churches - according to CCLI and PRS. The titles being used are I Just Want to Worship You, Unconditional Love, Forever (being used in US too) and Search Me, O God. His first EP will be released as a digital download later in the year.
Integrity-Provident are to release 'Falling In Love With Jesus: Best Of Worship', from South African soul and jazz man JONATHAN BUTLER.
Canadian singer/songwriter KELITA says that she is to record a new "unplugged" CD this summer with producer Roy Salmond at his award winning facility Whitewater Studios. She says "It is for me, a dream come true! For years I have wanted to record a singer/songwriter album full of tunes in the form in which they were written, just me and the piano. Included on the CD will be some old favorites, and some brand new ones which will include a song inspired by a 12 year old rescued girl I met while in Cambodia. Plans are in the works to have a music video that will accompany this song entitled 'Bella."
'In Jesus' is the first PHATFISH album featuring the band's new line up. This will be the band's eighth studio album, is described as having "a slightly rockier edge" and contains such worship songs as "Pardoned", "If I Have Not Love" and the title track.
One of Christian music's most recognisable and prolific female voices, CHRISTY NOCKELS will release her brand new debut album, Life Light Up on the 17th July, 2009. Christy was invited to sing vocals with friend and label mate Chris Tomlin on his spring 2009 headlining tour. "Everybody has their favourite singer, and amazingly, I've been able to sing with my favourite, Christy Nockels, for more than ten years now," says Chris Tomlin. "I'm honored that she joined us on the 'Hello Love Tour'. Christy has always been part of the Passion family, and I'm excited she's making new music with sixsteps. I can't wait for people to hear and start singing these new songs."
LIFT UP HIS NAME heralds an evening of Praise and worship at the Huntingdon Bowls Club on the 12th June. Doors open at 7.30pm, a bar will be open, and entrance is free. The organisers are Andy Sayner and Dave Barker, formerly members of the York based band Crossfire. For more details contact andysayner@hotmail.co.uk
The first new signing to the sixstepsrecords label since 2000, KRISTIAN STANFILL released his debut album, 'Attention', on the 22nd May 2009. To produce an album that captured Kristian's unique approach to worship, sixstepsrecords enlisted noted producer Matt Goldman (Underoath, Copeland). Marked by the same multi-layered, no-boundaries song crafting that make Kristian's live performances unforgettable, 'Attention' offers a stunning, eleven-song collection of fist pumping rock worship anthems, shimmering pop ballads, and reverential hymns.
KINGSWAY MUSIC RELEASES
'Redeemer' has been recorded by the GRACE CHURCH CHICHESTER and features Newfrontiers worship leaders Cathy Burton, Jo Petch and Martin Cooper. The project was produced by Paul Burton.....JOHN PANTRY's 'God Of The Empty Space' album contains 17 new songs and choral pieces and is subtitled 'Modern Day Common Prayers For Congregations And Choirs'.
A short series of informal dates have been announced by MARTYN JOSEPH, and STEVE KNIGHTLEY of Show of Hands.As two of the country's most original and captivating singer-songwriters, Martyn and Steve will showcase their talent, commitment and friendship in a handful of exclusive, intimate shows. Ever since they toured together in 'Faith, Folk and Anarchy' (also with Tom Robinson), and then four years ago as a duo to promote their popular 'Bridgerow Sessions' album, people have been asking when they would perform together again. So the wait is over! In a series of unique concerts this summer, they will re-unite to present a rare evening of their powerful songs and informal banter. New material and classics, questions and requests plus the finest stagecraft in the land. With only a hundred tickets available for each show, this promises to be a very special and unique series of events and a rare chance to experience these up-close and personal shows. Full details in the Gig Guide.
ROB HALLIGAN, the Coventry based singer/songwriter, is set to tour the UK with his American namesake, Bob Halligan Jr, who has written songs for the likes of Judas Priest and Michael Bolton and who fronts the band Ceili Rain.
DAVE GODFREY has released a new children's album, 'Amazing'. The project, on Godfrey's own label The Omega Zone, features Godfrey accompanied by members of rock band Yfriday
HAYDON SPENCELEY says that recording for his second album is now in full swing with Ross Gill and Harun Kotch doing the production business again. He says that, "The songs for the album are, I think, my strongest collection yet, so I'm pretty excited to be working on it."
DJ STEVE LEACH is from Bournemouth. For the best part of 10 years he's been making music and DJing. His album 'Right Here in This Room' (released on Elevation) draws musical influences including Fat Boy Slim, Basement Jaxx, Groove Armarda, Daft Punk and The Chemical Brothers. With a sound that is fresh, fast, funky, full of invention, and full of faith and hunger for God, Steve mixes bang-up- to-date styles with inspiring spoken word. A drummer and 'proper' musician, he achieves a balance traditional band music and electronic dance music.
After a five figure number of gigs in front of a six figure number of fans, DELIRIOUS are putting plans together for one final tour. Taking in six dates in the UK and further gigs across mainland Europe, the band who have helped redefine the very fabric of modern worship will make these dates their last. These are not just the final gigs of one band or even the close of a remarkable chapter. It's the end of an era. Delirious crafted for themselves a unique place in so many people's hearts, much of the time built on the impact of their live gigs. As a fusion of open mouthed spectacle and head bowed wonder, any Delirious gig has always held the potential to capture and captivate, encouraging everyone in the room towards a closer connection with God. Check the gig and event guide for full details of the tour dates.
UK rockers AFTER THE FIRE have a new album released this month. The project is a collection of tracks recorded at the BBC Radio 1 In Concert shows in 1979, 1980 and 1981. A recent press release reads, "These sessions are testament to the skill of the BBC crews as they were recorded and mixed totally live with no subsequent post production. In fact you can hear the sound and mix get better as each show progresses. And, of course, sometimes the keyboards are too loud, vocals too quiet and so on, I think it adds to the authenticity of the moment! Another interesting aspect is to hear how some of the songs developed over time along with the difference twixt Ivor's powerhouse and PK's precision approach to the drumming. Many of you will be delighted to hear 'A Little Sun, A Little Rain' once again, too!"
The new album from ANN NESBY, the soulful US artist who American Idol judge, Randy Jackson, believes to be 'one of the best singers in the world' is to be released in the UK next month. 'The Lula Lee Project' will be distributed in the UK and Europe by Authentic Media. Nesby was lead singer of the acclaimed Sounds of Blackness ensemble and has enjoyed a career spanning over 20 years in music, theatre and film. Her motion picture debut was in the 2003 musical comedy, The Fighting Temptations, in the supporting role of Aunt Sally Walker opposite Cuba Gooding Jr and Beyonce Knowles. Says Nesby. 'The Lula Lee Project speaks to the issues affecting the state of the world, our current national recession and the struggles of everyday life. This project is a reminder that God is still in control. It's my duty to encourage others to rely on God; we don't have to worry because we have a refuge in Him.'
KINGSWAY RELEASES
'Celtic Worship' is a 50-track new recording that takes some of the most popular songs and hymns that have emerged in Celtic Christian music - for example 'Before The Throne Of God Above', 'How Deep The Father's Love', 'In Christ Alone', 'Fairest Lord Jesus' - and also introduces some wonderful new songs that add a contemporary flavour to this oldest of traditions......Ira Sankey - Just As I Am. Ira D Sankey 'introduced a peculiar style of popular hymns which are calculated to awaken the careless, to melt the hardened and to guide inquiring souls to the Lord Jesus Christ'. This double CD brings together the albums 'Just As I Am' & 'Wonderful Words Of Life'.....Ishmael - Ish In The Box 2. A word from Ish... The 4 CDs in this box set are 'I Know Jesus Loves Me', 'I Know Jesus Loves Me Too', 'Little Songs For Little Children' and 'Wakey Wakey Sleepy Sleepy'. 66 Ish songs in one box... Now that's what I call a bargain.
MUSICIANS WANTED. Gary Cunningham has been playing guitar for about 20 years, following his main influences which are Eric Clapton, John Mayer, SRV, BB King, Buddy Guy etc. He was born in Liverpool, from and was part of a blues band for about 3 years before moving to Hull in 1993. Gary says, "I feel really passionately about music, blues and jazz in particular, and I want to give God something back. My vision is to create a bluesy type band but with Christian musicians at the top of their game. The band would play both blues and Christian music and also write material. The Lord has laid it on my heart to show this city of Hull, that good musicians can be Christians and cool as well!" Gary is searching for a trio sound similar to the great jazz trios of the 50's and bands such as Cream, John Mayer Trio, Buddy Guy Trio etc. It would also be great if we could procure a Hammond Player too!! If you are interested, or know anyone that might fit the bill, please contact : everest@everest.karoo.co.uk
IONA, guitarist and keyboard player Dave Bainbridge and woodwinds player David Fitzgerald, have recorded a new album together. It takes up from where the duo's 'The Eye Of The Eagle' left off in 1998 and stems from music originally commissioned as an interpretation of the Life Journey book by Mary Fleeson. The duo's 'Life Journey' will be released shortly on Lindisfarne-Scriptorium
HILLSONG UNITED are to release a new live album. 'Across The Earth: Tear Down The Walls', will be released in the UK through Authentic Music.
A British based Messianic worship singer LAURIE E ROBERTS has released her third album. 'Through These Eyes' is issued through Eternal Light Music Ministry
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Gig Guide
The NFN Gig Guide is on a page of it's own.
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The Reviews Zone
ALBUM OF THE MONTH
With grateful acknowledgement to: AUTHENTIC, ELEVATION, EMICMG, INTEGRITY/PROVIDENT, KINGSWAY, McCAIN, ROSETTE, & VERITY MEDIA ORGANISATIONS.
JON FOREMAN : Limbs and Branches : (lowercase people : 5099922651723)
As many readers will know, San Diego-based Jon Foreman is the frontman and songwriter for alt rock band Switchfoot. In 2007 and 2008 he issued four solo cd eps entitled 'Spring', 'Summer', 'Fall' and 'Winter'. 'Limbs and branches' is his first full-length album, consisting of tracks from the four eps. In solo mode Jon delivers singer-songwriter folk rock tunes that gave me glimpses of artists such as Scott Matthews, Nick Drake, Marc Cohn, and Jeff Black. He is still very much his own man however, and with the considerable benefit of Charlie Peacock in the producer's chair here we have individual and original music featuring excellent 'rough-edged' vocals, good melodies, strong hooks, and well-written grown-up lyrics. The only Switchfoot member whose name appears on the credits is Jerome Fontamillas (on piano and synth strings) but Jon is supported by a wide range of other musicians on instruments such as cello, brass and woodwind - and also the instantly recognisable vocals of Sarah Masen on 'House of God, Forever' (Jon's take on Psalm 23). It is difficult to select stand-out tracks because the quality is consistently high - but if pushed I would go for 'Your love is strong' (based upon the Lord's prayer) and 'Instead of a show' (a powerful cry against hypocrisy amongst Christians). It is a pity that printed lyrics are not included - although they are available at www.jonforeman.com. Altogether, this is a first-class cd that bears repeated playings and is the best ccm release to come my way in a while. 10/10. Dave Deeks
KARI JOBE : Kari Jobe. (Integrity : 45502)
Kari Jobe is a worship leader and songwriter, based in Dallas, Texas. She doesn't play any instruments on the album, but seems to have gathered some fine musicians around her. Her vocal quality is a refreshing sound and, at times, similar to Leigh Nash. On 'Healer' she sings of Jesus being her hero, and I'm sure that this song will bring Kari lots of radio play. The mid-tempo 'Everyone Needs A Little' is about love being the greatest thing. The simple praise of 'Beautiful' has a lot going forit, and the pretty 'Singing Over Me' has alight touch about it. The song quality differs enough so that Kari's voice doesn't get too repetitive, and she caresses each word as if it's a very precious thing. There's a song of surrender on 'No Sweeter Name' while the power of 'Revelation Song' simply builds and builds. Kari Jobe is a real find in the world of worship music, and this album is a fine collection of songs. 9/10.
THE GENTLEMEN : A Candid History of Faith, Hope, Love. (Stereo Tree : 8204692)
This 4 piece indie band from Sheffield, formed in 2005. Since then, they've gathered a large following and have played sell-out gigs in their home town. Their latest single, 'Something You Can't Regeret' has garnered plenty of airplay, and there's quite a buzz around these guys. Musically, when they rock, they sound a little like Kasabian, and the single only adds weight to that thought. 'I'm Not Leaving' follows in similar vein, and there's plenty of energy too, on songs like 'Push Back!' and 'Fairy Tales'. Nicholas Noble has a fine voice but I did find his falsetto moments to be quite irritating, especially on 'Unique'. Guitars fly, and drumbeats crash as the boys gel well together as a band. One thing that did cause me concern though was the lyrics. I think I understood the theme of 'Protest Song', and how the media stereotypes the youth of today, but I failed on most of the other songs to gain the meaning. 'Fairy Tales' was a prime example, with lyrics about dragons and princesses failing to make sense to this listener. But, maybe it's just me, and I'll hold my hand up and say that these guys do sound good, and I'm sure even better, live. 8/10.
SEAN SIMMONDS : It's Over. (Tyscot/XIST Records : TYS-984173-2)
"It's Over" is Atlanta singer/songwriter Sean Simmonds 2nd solo release & certainly looks the part of a true professional piece of work complete with glossy cover, but will the music live up to the appearance? Well, if R'n'B is your thang you will probably consume this by the bucket load with smooth vocals mixed in with lots of heavy urban drum/bass & refrains, the most bizarre of which is the Austin Powers mix in the title track 'Its Over'! This isn't what you'd class as innovative but it is good solid material that contains all the formula elements of the current crop in this genre including the now obligatory hey-ing & ho-ing that makes its way onto a great percentage of chart material. Sean has a great vocal range & he's not afraid to use his talents to tackle a wide range of subject matter from the gritty domestic abuse of 'Unheard Cries' to the challenge of following Christ on 'Don't Leave'. Tracks cover the full spectrum from the more chilled modern re-telling of the nativity story to the funky rap-styled 'U Did It' which amongst other wouldn't be out of place pumping loudly from a souped-up car stereo. Songs fit well together & quality is consistent all the way which is a huge bonus if success is going to be on the cards which I think it will be. You won't be disappointed as long as you're not looking for something revolutionary. 7/10 Simon Redfern
PAUL COLMAN : History. (inpop : POD1427)
I must admit that I was quite surprised a couple of years ago, when Paul Colman decided to join the Newsboys. As a performer/worship leader in his own right, it seemed a strange thing to do. Happily, after that brief sojourn, he's back with a brand new solo album, and making quite a noise with it, too. Now, not many people would be brave enough to write the opening track. 'If I Was Jesus' is a terrific number and written with great humility and passion. 'History Maker' is a rockier sound, as is 'Turn' - a song about turning your life around. The phrase "fill my cup" has been used on many songs, but Paul's song makes it sound so new. He has a great voice and the enthusiasm of his love for Jesus comes over very strongly. 'Gloria' (All God's Children) is a super song of praise, and I loved the 60's sound of 'Sweet, Sweet Song of Salvation' Just before the album closes, Paul sings 'All I Need' which, if I'm honest, sums up life completely. Welcome back Paul. 9/10.
JIMMY NEEDHAM : Not Without Love. (inpop : POD1405)
Jimmy Needham lives in Houston, Texas, and follows up his 2006 release, 'Speak', with this new offering. Writing from his own life experiences, he presents his songs in a James Morrison sort of way, but with some jazz elements creeping in from time to time. 'Come Around' draws the listener in, first, with it's choppy sound. 'Hurricane' deals with building following brokenness, but I didn't care much for the song. 'Firefly' is much better, a light, poppy, love song. Jimmy's vocals are quite infectious and I found myself willing him to surprise me with a fabulous song. 'Forgiven and Loved' didn't quite make it, but it's a medium paced number that tells of forgiveness and grace. Those fine vocals are at their best on 'The Author', which gives thanks for God's love, and certainly a track worth playing again and again. After listening, I felt that Jimmy's songs were a little too much like shopping mall music. Few, made much impression, and I felt rather disappointed by the end of the album. 5/10
HELEN JAYNE McKELLAR : It's Not Too Late. (www.helenjayne.com)
It's more than 7 years since I last reviewed any music from this young lady, and over a decade since I saw her live, promoting her "Safe" album. At that time, she was tipped by many for big things. Sadly, a long illness knocked the wind out of her sails and those big things have never really happened. But, like the title of this 6 track CD, it's never too late. I often thought that Helen's vocal's reminded me of Cherry Keaggy, but her delivery is very much like Amy Grant. In fact, I couldn't stop thinking how alike Helen and Amy sound in this area. 'He Will Cover you' starts the ball rolling about God's protection, and it really rocks. The title track has a big production behind it, and Helen's vocals carry the song to a very high standard. Indeed, that quality gets even better on her song for the lost, called 'Hard Cruel Day'. There's a real feeling of compassion that comes across, and I was hooked by this one. The final song is 'Do They Know?' - a question to those about knowing God beside you through all things. I'm sure that this is a terrifically personal song for Helen, and she handles it well. How I would have loved a full album of songs. If this lady enjoyed better health and lived in America, I have no doubt that she would be enjoying bigger success. There again, that would be a big loss for the UK Christian public. 9/10
ARKANSAS GOSPEL MASS CHOIR : Hold on for Life. (T Records : TRCS-2571)
This choir has been together for around 2 years and this is the first cd to showcase its 130 plus voices. From a technical perspective it's pretty spot on with the usual extemporising and vocal acrobatics. However, I feel that this has been overdone to the extent that every song feels like one long jamming session. Long is the operative word here, with the first track "This is the Day" lasting 6 minutes 22 seconds and the title track clocking in at a whopping 8:42. This is a problem when there isn't really anything to grab onto - the melodies are too complex, hard to recall and even harder to sing, and you just feel like an outsider looking in. This is hardcore gospel and unless that is the sort of thing that rocks your boat you will find this an extremely hard listen. 2/10 Robin Thompson
DISAGREE WITH THE REVIEWS?
Write & tell me!
e-mail geoff@geoffhowlett.co.uk
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Prayer Table
Hull's LABEL OF LOVE ministry have just begun "Adrenaline Rush", an after school dance club, and have had a great response so far. Please give thanks for the students that they meet through this event.
THE DEADLINE FOR ARTICLES TO BE INCLUDED IN THE JULY ISSUE OF NFN IS:
20TH JUNE 2009
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