November 2009 Vol. 19.1
Table of contents
Editorial
Re:Fresh Your Life @
MOVING IN MIRACLES!
With Guest Jonathan Conrathe
Jonathan Conrathe is a man proving God in increasing ways, through incredible signs and wonders. His ministry has seen tens of thousands come to Christ around the world, and he is an excellent communicator and trainer in moving in the miraculous.
The day conference will be held at the New Life Christian Centre, Bridlington Avenue, Hull on Saturday 14th November from 10am to 5pm.
Entrance is free but booking is essential.
There will be wonderful worship, word and moving of the Holy Spirit.
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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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STOMPBOX STUDIOS - YORK
www.stompboxstudios.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
Bradford's Abundant Life Centre present: LIFT TWENTY TEN taking place on February 5th-6th 2010.
Who is it for? For anyone, any age, with any level of experience, who is working with young people. Whether you are brand new in your leadership or have been involved for years, but need new ideas or fresh vision, Lift is for you & your team! What is LIFT?
Equips & envisions local church youth and student leaders to move to a higher level. Lift is a mix of inspirational & practical sessions/seminars in a relaxed interactive environment with outstanding music, worship and fun. Where did it come from? From the demand of youth workers who wanted to learn from the success of Abundant Life/Rocknations youth ministries. Delegate cost is £15 visit http://www.alm.org.uk/church/training/lift.php to find out more information and to book in.
GUS EYRE plays a concert at Beverely's Latimer Congregational Church, Grovehill Road on Saturday 14th November 7:00PM. Britain, France, Spain, Poland, Hungary, Romania, Belarus, Tanzania are some of the countries in which Gus Eyre has travelled during the last thirty years, singing and preaching in schools, universities, prisons, churches, drug and alcohol rehabilitation centres, and concert halls. His music is somewhere between Country, Blues & Contemporary Acoustic. Contact: David Smith des7uk@yahoo.co.uk
Survivor have released the new debut album from WORSHIP CENTRAL. 'Lifting High' is a bold new venture from one of the most progressive streams of worship currently flowing through the Church of today. Collaborative, congregational and properly Christ-centered, the collection of fourteen songs reflects the very best of Worship Central - a school of worship from Alpha International that has trained tens of thousands of worship leaders through events on three continents since launching in 2006. Featuring Tim Hughes, Al Gordon, Ben Cantelon, Brenton Brown, Nikki Fletcher, Beth Croft, The Vine Band & Luke Hellebronth.
Seattle singer/songwriter/producer and worship leader BRANDON BEE has unveiled his debut release, 'This Is The Revolution'. The CD has already been garnering critical acclaim from media outlets such as iTunes, CCMMagazine.com, Christian Musician Magazine and Christianitytoday.com. Bee is part of a new generation of worship leaders that has been influenced by the music of Switchfoot, U2 and Coldplay, yet still honors the devotional spirit of the Integrity, Vineyard and Maranatha music of decades past. He deftly blends old and new on his debut project. Vintage drum sounds are juxtaposed with sumptuous modern guitars; pop melodies and lush vocals are fused with indie rock sensibilities. The result is a wonderfully rich and textured sound.
INO RECORDS RELEASES
Songwriter, musician and worship artist TODD AGNEW, known for anthem hits such as "Grace Like Rain," "This Fragile Breath" and "My Jesus," returns with a compelling new project that explores the perceptions of our true desires, which ultimately can only be defined by acknowledging our need for a Saviour...Featuring annual favorites like "Silent Night, Holy Night" and "Little Drummer Boy" in addition to the original 4Him classic "Strange Way to Save the World," Christmas Is finds MARK HARRIS' textured vocal against an acoustic backdrop that will take listeners from seasonal worship to fireside celebration.....The follow up to 2007's Tell Me What You Know, SARA GROVES' self-titled project finds her reteaming with noted producer Charlie Peacock at his Art House recording studio in Nashville to explore the universal issues of marriage, family, friendship and following Jesus in the midst of it all.....Prolific singer/songwriter PHIL WICKHAM continues to gain momentum with his modern style of vertical worship and poetic lyrics. Heaven and Earth finds him creating melodies that are infectious with contemplative and honest messages of surrender and abandon.
'No Shout Too Loud' captures the essence of the worship that fuelled the 2009 Newday event. Featuring Simon Brading, Lou Fellingham, Matt Redman and Jordan Dillon, the CD delivers more than a handful of happy memories. All the passion, all the direction, all the purpose - they're all here in abundance.
NEW BOOKS FROM SURVIVOR
In 'God Stories', ANDREW WILSON explores 56 of the glorious stories that make up the gospel of God and will change the way we live and worship.....'Hope Unleashed' by ANDY HAWTHORNE sees him offer practical ideas and strategies for Christian evangelism based on word and deed.....Author MICHAEL VOLLAND follows up his successful first book 'God on the Beach', with 'Through the Pilgrim Door'. This book's sole aim is finding out just how far new expressions of faith can go.
INTEGRITY/PROVIDENT RELEASES
Influential worship leader PAUL BALOCHE has a new album, 'Glorious', released in November. The project is released in CD, CD Rom songbook and songbook formats and is a followup to Baloche's popular 'Our God Saves'.....Irish Catholic trio THE PRIESTS, whose eponymous debut album sold almost two million copies last year, will have their second album, 'Harmony', released into UK Christian retail. Amongst the tracks on the album are "The Lord's Prayer" and "Silent Night".
During the past few months THE STEELS have been in the process of writing new material for a brand new album due for release in Spring 2010. Closely working with producer Ken Riley (yfriday, co-writer of 'Everlasting God'), the new album promises to be a giant leap forward, full of tracks that will challenge, inspire and encourage you in your relationship with God. The band will also be working alongside Paul Burton (Snow Patrol, Athlete and Delirious). You can preorder the album today (by clicking the link www.the-steels.com/store.php) for only £9.99 including postage (the album will be £12 plus postage when released). The guys will sign your copy and send it to you before the official release date with a special surprise!
Gifted bluesman, the Rev. JIMMIE BRATCHER, is set to release his first Christmas CD, 'Man! It's Christmas', on November 10, 2009 on Ain't Skeert Tunes. With the purchase of each CD, consumers will also receive a bonus live 'Man! It's Christmas' DVD. Produced by Rev. Jimmie Bratcher, 'Man! It's Christmas' hits the ground running with a jubilant classic jazz rendition of the Bratcher-penned title track, which expresses the joy of the season while referencing just about every holiday symbol there is.
Scottish singer/songwriter ALLAN McKINLAY will release his fourth album in November. The project, 'When God Speaks', is being issued independently.
VIV NEVILLE reports that her debut album is coming along "better than I could of expected." The release date has been set for early 2010. Meanwhile, her 'Holy One' single reached No1 in the NCM UK Chart and No2 in the NCM Euro Chart. Viv is also to receive the Praise & Worship Artist England: Radio Mic Award NCM to be presented in Feb 2010.
One of our regular reader's has come up with a question that has, so far, stumped us, here at NFN Towers. Does anyone know the name of the Wayne Watson song in which he sings about a bird trying to get out of a garage, refusing human aid...and of how that's how our life was before we were saved. Any ideas? Please e-mail me at geoff@geoffhowlett.co.uk
If you ask HANNAH FRANKLIN where she came from, she'd tell you herself: "from out of nowhere." Aged just 23, Hannah is a powerfully anointed speaker and singer, worshipper and dreamer of dreams. Pastoring young people in rural Lincolnshire, she lives to see revival locally and to reach a generation for Christ. Her deep desire is manifest in her ministry of the word, her singing and in an extraordinary and radical testimony. Hannah's performance ministry was transformed three years ago, when Ray Goudie, of NGM Ministries cast her as the lead in his hit musical 'Luv Esther' now approaching its 5th year on the road. Hannah has loved her time in the show, "We are doing something that is breaking boundaries and we are doing what God wants us to do, so it is cool. It's everything I've ever dreamed about." Then Ray approached Hannah with some more exciting news. Hannah explains "God had reminded (Ray) of a project he hadn't touched for years, to create an album inspired by the women of the Bible. I mean the Scripture is what makes me come alive!" For both parties 'You Are the Song' is literally a dream come true. Ray combines his considerable songwriting expertise with the skills of Phil Barlow, and with the fresh edge and big sound which writers/co-producers Tom Mills and Dan Goudie serve up. 'You Are the Song' is released by Integrity Music.
GEOFF HOWLETT is to release 'Golden Days 2', a follow up to his 2004 recording of secular hits from days gone by. As well as the usual homage to Billy Fury, Geoff delivers songs from such artists as Robbie Williams, The Killers, Craig Douglas, and Shakin' Stevens.
Midlands based PAUL POULTON is looking for a temporary bass player to help his band fulfil a number of gigs on their forthcoming Christmas tour of the UK. If you think that you fit the bill, then please contact Paul directly. paulpoulton@f2s.com
EMI CMG RELEASES
Hello Hurricane - SWITCHFOOT's seventh studio album is finally here after a 30 month wait. Singer, John Foreman says, "Hello Hurricane acknowledges the storms that tear through our lives. This album is an attempt to respond to those storms with an element of hope, trying to understand what it means to be hopeful in a world that keeps on spinning."..... 'Beauty Will Rise' is a collection of 12 new and profound songs from STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN. Created in the past 18 months in the walk through the darkness of the loss of his daughter Maria, and while God continues to meet him there on the journey. Part lament, part praise, part grief, part hope, part wrestling, part pondering; these tracks resonate as Steven's personal Psalms......JEREMY CAMP is back with a new live recording, recorded live in Dallas and Los Angeles, the album features some of Jeremy's biggest hits ("Take You Back", "Walk By Faith", "There Will Be A Day) recorded over the course of Spring 2009 and is packed with over 14 songs!..... KUTLESS' follow up album to gold selling worship release "Strong Tower". It Is Well features several brand new singles such as "What Faith Can Do," "Amazed," and favorites such as "Hungry," "Give Us Clean Hands," and "God of Wonders."
EMMA PEARS tells us that she is really excited to have started co-writing with an extremely talented young artist called Jess Morgan. Jess has a beautiful voice and a superb lyric writing ability. Think Adele meets Lily Allen meets something unique and very special! Emma says, "I am convinced she will go far and be a name we are all hearing a lot more about in the future."
Hull's HOT GOSPEL CHOIR recently showcased their talents for the producers of the Voice In A Million project and have been selected as featured performers for a huge arena-scale concert at the London 02 Arena on January 28th 2010 at the 02 raising awareness for the need for adoptive parents in the UK in association with the British Association for Adoption & Fostering (BAAF).
Meanwhile, The HOT GOSPEL ENSEMBLE (an off-shoot of the Hot Gospel Choir) which consists of 6 experienced singers, have been asked to sing on the Charity Album in association with the BAAF. http://www.voiceinamillion.com/wordpress/?p=1015 They are going to record Kirk Franklins 'My Life My Love My All at Shepperton Studios in at Pinewood in London on the 9th November. This will be available on I tunes shortly afterwards. On the 11th November they will be singing Live on the Lara King Show on BBC Radio Humberside .
Following a five-month break, British ska band SOUNDS OF SALVATION begin gigging, this month, with a new lineup. New to the band are Thomas Clauge (bass, trombone) and Roddy Bailey (drums). On 28th November Sounds Of Salvation will be supporting Britain's Got Talent winner Diversity at The Globe in Reading.
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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
With grateful acknowledgement to: AUTHENTIC, ELEVATION, EMICMG, FIERCE, INTEGRITY/PROVIDENT, KINGSWAY, McCAIN, ROSETTE, SURVIVOR & VERITY MEDIA ORGANISATIONS.
ALBUM OF THE MONTH
BLUETREE : God of This City. (Survivor : SURCD5167)
"God of This City" is a re-titled re-release of Belfast band Bluetree's original debut album "Greater Things", which hit the US Christian retail chart big-style back in 2007 holding the top spot for 4 consecutive weeks. Indeed Chris Tomlin featured the title track on his album "Hello Love" so there's commendation for you! It is quite amazing what has been born from a mission trip to one of Thailand's notorious red-light districts - a CD crammed with spiritual truths and hope. You do get a very real sense from the passion in the words and their conveyance through the music that there's some proper worship going on here - fantastic, just what it's supposed to be!! Bluetree's style is akin to a rockier Tim Hughes with a twist of the earlier Vineyard material for good measure which I found to be a very listenable mixture, typified by 'Life's Noise' the 1st track. This builds up slowly starting with lots of background sounds eventually joined by a relaxed but atmospheric Celtic rhythm which keeps things going 'til the rock kicks in on the chorus. The rock theme continues with 'God's Plan' with a bit more synth added; only slowing down a little as we reach 'Your Love'. I often find that many bands are good with faster rock & not so strong with ballads or vice-versa but not here; Bluetree manage both with equal gusto which makes a really great change. Although in print this is a 12 track CD, you will find a 13th "hidden" track which is a reprise of some spontaneous worship which is worth a listen. Very difficult to find fault with this; it's a passionate well-produced material that I have found myself listening to repeatedly. Definitely one for the collection & I would look forward to hearing more from these guys. 10/10 Simon Redfern
RED HURLEY : How Great Thou Art. (Kingsway : REDENCD1)
When Terry Wogan played Red Hurley's recording of 'How Great Thou Art' on his Radio 2 breakfast show, the station was inundated with e-mails from listeners enthusing about the record. This was meant to be an American-only release but, due to the phenomenal response the record company have released it here in the UK. It was a similar response a couple of year's ago, when I first came across the music of Red on the Terry Wogan show. What a tremendous voice he has, and Radio Humberside listeners were agog when I played his version of 'Time to Say Goodbye'. This album features songs old and new but all delivered in Red's inimitable style. 'How Great Thou art' opens things up, and it's easy to understand how people have been so touched by the song. The same can be said of 'Be not Afraid', as well as the Dolly Parton song, 'Hello God'. He doesn't simply belt out every song, Red has the gentleness to caress a song like 'Deep River', while powerfully delivering 'Amazing Grace'. 'Peace in the Valley', 'You'll Never Walk Alone' and 'I Will Sing' are simply delightful, while the lovely 'The Broken Road' was a song I just had to play again and again. In Ireland and America, Red's concerts have been sell-outs and his albums are increasingly well received. There's little doubt in my mind that the UK will welcome him too, with open arms. 10/10
BRITT NICOLE : The Lost Get Found. (Sparrow : 509992 1235825)
Fresh off the heels of her critically-acclaimed debut album, 'Say It', rock/pop artist returns to the shops with this second release. She says that the album is "simply about being who we are called to be as Christians, and through that, seeing the lost get found." For this album, Britt has lost a lot of the angst that seemed to be with her previously. Only on 'Welcome to the Show' does she really rock it up in an Avril Lavigne sort of way, and it doesn't really work. Far too often, I struggled to hear the lyrics as the music seemed to take centre stage. The title track is quite an individual sound, and the catchy 'Headphones' make them both ideal tracks for the radio. The best song, for me, has to be 'Walk on the Water'. It's a medium paced number about stepping out in faith, and is well constructed. I'm not sure that Britt's got all the right material here. The album certainly has it's highlights, but there are plenty of lows too. I guess it's that old fashioned "second album" thing, and only time will tell if a third is forthcoming. 6/10.
The Celebration Choir with the Salvation Army Citadel Band (Sheffield) : 'The Hymn Makers - "Ira D Sankey Just As I Am & Wonderful Words Of Life". (Kingsway : KMCD2985)
Being brought up in an Evangelical Christian home in the '50s, the hymn book 'Sankey's Sacred Songs and Solos' was a familiar sight in my early years and evidently continues in print. It features a wide range of hymnwriters and was compiled by the renowned American vocalist and songwriter Ira D Sankey (1840-1908). Hymns from it are the basis for this 2CD set. Sankey was a leading singer of his time who teamed up with fellow American and evangelist D L Moody and travelled extensively - including a massive crusade in the UK from 1873-75 (long before Billy Graham!) with attendances of up to 20,000 a night across the country, and a total of at least 1.5 million in London alone. These are excellent recordings - clear diction, careful mike set-up and mixing and no obvious compression combine to ensure that the words are delivered with crystal clarity. The orchestration is sympathetically done and nicely complements and underpins the choir. There are so many classic and enjoyable hymns here that it seems almost churlish to pick out favourites, but 'Trust and Obey', 'What a Friend we have in Jesus' and 'I need Thee every hour' give a flavour of what is included. A full 48 page booklet is squeezed into the CD case (a bit tightly as it happens!), containing lyrics and detailed background notes. Downsides? A touch more upper bass would have given the male vocals more weight and warmth, there are some clicks and pops and the occasional creaking chair, and I found the timing of the phrase 'Hallelujah what a Saviour' (in 'Man of Sorrows') to be a bit strange. Overall however, if you like your hymns 'traditional', this is an excellent release. 9/10. Dave Deeks
Produced in Nashville at Zod Lounge Studio's, this is J.Brian Hill's latest EP release. Over the last three years, Brian has ministered in the north-east of England, bringing God's word to young and old alike, and many have been touched by his gentle ways. The songs on this CD remind me a lot of Michael W Smith in style, but Brian's warm vocal tones are very individual. The title track features twice - one radio edit and one long version. The production is first class, and Brian's delivery, sincere. 'Breathe on Me' cries for God's soothing touch, while 'Draw A Line' prays that the lord will help us to be the person that we are supposed to be. The songs are medium paced numbers, and each one could be released as singles - they are so strong. My only complaint was that four tracks weren't enough, I wanted more! It's no wonder, then, that Brian continues to bless so many with his music. 9/10
GLENN PACKIAM : Rumours and Revelations. (Integrity : 46582)
This is the first time I've heard of this guy, and I wasn't sure what to expect when I first saw it. It's a fairly straightforward pop/rock album, nothing too flash on it, but it's a pleasant enough CD to listen to. Mostly guitar led, but some piano led songs too, the vocals reminded me of Deacon Blue, but with possibly a bit more of a rock backing than they use. Most of the songs are no nonsense worship songs "God has come" is probably my favorite, though there's nothing bad about any of the tracks. I guess if I had to find something to moan about I could say that it's a bit "samey" but it's not a really long CD. You can put it on in the background. The last track is called "Second Hand Jesus" and it's a reading of the first chapter of a book that Glenn wrote, it seems to be mainly about of hand wringing about some indiscretion committed by the Pastor of the church. Obviously this was something fairly important that led to him being removed from office, but I'd have thought the album would have been better with another song instead of a long speech that nobody will really care about who wasn't involved, and that will simply be skipped when the CD is played. So not a bad CD, but let down by the last track. 6/10 Andy Sayner.
ROBIN MARK : Year of Grace. (Integrity : 46412)
Although I've never seen him live, Robin Mark is probably my favourite worship leader. Ever since I heard his stirring rendition of 'Lion of Judah'. His music has always touched my heart. This new album was recorded live in New York, and there are some stunning tracks within. What better way to start off the track listing than proclaiming God as our Lord, with the wonderful 'Holy is Our God'. 'Watchman' drives along at pace, while 'There is None Like You', literally sings the praises of Jesus as our friend. It's obvious from the audience response that they are witnessing something special and Robin is on top form, full of blessings from God. 'Glory to Your Name' marches majestically, while 'Highly Exalted' is another one that lifts Jesus high. 'Some Trust in Chariots' is a pretty little song, and there's some clever use of synth' pipes. I really enjoyed listening to this album and even late on, there's a smashing anthemic number that I believe all believers should be singing and living. 'Rend the Heavens' has the makings of being a classic. It should, and I'm sure it will, be sung around the world. Hang on, I'm playing it all again! 10/10
BEN CANTELON : Running After You. (Survivor : SURCD6152)
Born to Pastors in Vancouver, Canada, Ben heads up the worship for the UK-based Soul Survivor movement. He says that this album "links in with the idea of being desperate to follow and connect with God; wanting God to get closer but life getting in the way." The track listing begins with 'Not Ashamed', a rocking declaration that we shouldn't be ashamed to nail our colours to the mast. 'Jericho' tells of tearing down walls of issues and blockages within us, and it's a fine song. 'Coming Back' is an orchestrated piece in the prodigal son mould, while 'Remain' plods along with God at the centre of the song, remaining constant. I particularly liked the song 'Breathe', which prays for the Holy Spirit to be with you, but pick of the bunch has to be 'Carry On'. This song is quite stripped down, musically, and I think that it's sincerity shines through. Ben plays acoustic guitar and keyboards on this release, and he's obviously a talented and gifted guy. However, there are several songs that left me quite cold, even after two or three listens. Consistency in the songs would have seen a better score than...6/10
Various: Fireproof (Motion Picture Soundtrack) Integrity/Provident : 602341014328
The film Fireproof hit the screens in the US late last year attracting over 4 million viewers and catapulting 6 artists featured in the soundtrack into the top 100 chart on i-Tunes. It is not a film I have seen so far, but from what I have read & heard on this CD, Fireproof is one I certainly wouldn't mind hunting down. The film is a love story (please don't switch off just yet) about a firefighter , his wife and a marriage worth saving. What sets this apart from the usual Hollywood "mush" are the genuine reflections of living a life including a relationship with God, portraying marriage positively without getting soppy or glossing over the gritty reality and the unapologetic conveyance of Christian values in a way that can be related to - no cringe factor by the look of it! The soundtrack CD is mainly orchestral based film score, which on its own wouldn't excite many (although my wife thinks they're nice and relaxing) but the inclusion of 6 tracks from the likes of Third Day and Casting Crowns is a welcome dash of spice to the mix. As you would expect from a film of this genre, we're talking mainly rocky ballads with some punch-packing lyrics all of which are excellent. I particularly liked Casting Crowns with "Slow Fade" and "While I'm Waiting" from John Waller, the latter of which also has a remix interspersed with sound bites from the film which gives a great flavour of what to expect. As a stand-alone CD, this wouldn't normally be at the top of my shopping list but as an accompaniment to the film, it is one of the better ones I have sampled. 6/10 Simon Redfern
ISHMAEL : Ish in the Box 2. (KMCD2987)
Here's a great resource for parents with young children, or small group leaders within the church. Kingsway have packaged 4 Ishamel albums together and come up with a total of 66 songs for "Tiny Children". The songs are really easy to learn and simple enough for young children to understand. They teach about God and Jesus, as well as subjects such as sleeping and not being afraid of the dark. The first Cd even contains guitar chord sheets in CD-Rom form, as well as backing tracks for 17 songs. Even without the benefit of having tiny children, I was impressed by most of the songs. I'm sure that things like 'The Tummy Button Song' will raise a few giggles, while the jig within 'The Lord Awakes Me Every Morning' will see them dance with delight. Other tracks of note include ''Bedtime Prayer Song', 'I Will Try' and 'Arise Shine For Your Light Has Come'. Ishamel has been churning out these songs for years, and long may he continue. 8/10
PROXY : The Call. (Integrity : SARCD147)
Proxy is a ministry arm of the Assembly of God Church in Table View, USA. A visit to their website tells you very little, and after a couple of listens, I was about to disregard the album as "just another rock worship" release. But, then, I viewed the accompanying DVD and being able to see just what the songs were doing added so much. Surrender to Jesus, is the call on the infectious "Hands Up". Upon viewing, it's obvious to see a very lively church, full of God's love. 'Lasting Treasure' and 'Changed' keep up the pace before the quieter 'Worthy' gives you a well earned breather. The band really get the worshippers jumping about with the All Star United style of 'Wake Up' - full of energy. Towards the end of the album there's a couple of more traditional worship numbers, and they work really well too. The piano backed 'Atonement Song' and Jesus focussed 'Look Upon the Cross'. Certainly one of the best DVD's I've come across. 8/10
KEITH & KRYSTYN GETTY : Awaken the Dawn. (Kingsway : KMCD3075)
This cd is a "new collection of hymns and songs" from the aforementioned husband and wife duo. Keith is certainly no stranger to the modern hymn genre, having collaborated very successfully with Stuart Townend on probably the most inspirational hymn of modern time, "In Christ Alone". The songs on this cd very much follow in that mould being eminently singable, full of biblical truth and, more importantly, will work in any church regardless of the type of worship band or music group or instrumentation available. The style is contemporary and, as one would expect, has an Irish flavour to it. The album starts with the dreamy and ethereal "Hear, O Israel" before flowing into the more uptempo "Come, People of the Risen King". It is a great start with the latter song being an excellent example of Keith and Kristyn's style. The slightly American influenced "Creation Sings the Fathers Song" follows on before the album turns more intimate with "Still, My Soul, Be Still". It is a fine album, though the songs do not seem to be as instantly memorable as I would like - I've had several listens and I haven't found myself humming any of them yet. However, this album provides some solid and robust modern hymns and fulfils its promise admirably. 8/10 Robin Thompson
ANDY HAWTHORNE : Hope Unleashed. (Survivor : ISBN 978-1-4347-6448-9)
Andy Hawthorne is the founder of the Message Trust, an award-winning Christian Message Organisation, TheHope Movement & The World Wide Message Tribe. He's also a popular speaker at events such as Soul Survivor, New Wine, Grapevine and Festival Manchester. This new book offers practical ideas and strategies for Christian evangelism based on word and deed. I found this book a fairly easy read, but not one that made you want to read more than a few chapters at a time. Andy plants seeds of thought for you to consider, both personally and for your church. For instance, he says that if you want to reach out for Jesus, don't just form a mission committee. Instead, find a group of friends to do the job, and remain friends through thick and thin. There's also a look at helping people in other countries, and he encourages the reader to do God's work in rough and tough places - the sort of places that Jesus would go to. At the end of each chapter, Andy gives time for reflection, such as "who would you condem"? Are there people who live near your church who are not accepted by polite society? While sharing inspiring stories from his own experiences in ministry, Andy draws principles from Scripture, and gives the reader plenty to think about. 8/10
DISAGREE WITH THE REVIEWS?
Write & tell me!
e-mail geoff@geoffhowlett.co.uk
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Prayer Table
Please pray that PAUL POULTON will find a bass player in time for his Christmas Tour to proceed.
THE DEADLINE FOR ARTICLES TO BE INCLUDED IN THE DECEMBER ISSUE OF NFN IS:
20TH NOVEMBER 2009
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