Christian CD Reviews - S

Matt Hammitt and the rest of the Sanctus Real crew came out strong in 2002 and, like fine wine, they've just gotten better as they've aged. Their fourth studio album, 'We Need Each Other,' is their best thus far with a mix of modern rock, pop and worship that flows with little effort from one sound to the next, and with lyrics that you don't just hear ... the impact of these are messages will be felt long after the CD is finished playing.

Sandi Patty's 'Hymns of Faith ... Songs of Inspiration' is an amazing collection of songs that combines old time faves with some beautiful patriotic songs and some anointed worship music.

Sandi Patty has been a mainstay in Christian music for the past 30 years, garnering her more awards than any other female Christian singer. 'Songs for the Journey' isn't really a "best of" type of album, but it does bring to mind the Sandi Patty of the past.

Sara Groves mixes serious with quirky on her 10th album and delivers a strong release.

Sara Groves offers us a strong release with lyrics that go deep and production that is top of the line.

Each song on 'Sarah Brendel' rings with deep honesty and vulnerability, even as she mixes styles throughout.

Shane & Shane - Everything Is Different CD Review - Review of Everything is Different by Worship Leaders Shane & Shane

Shane and Shane are, first and foremost, worshipers, singing more for the Lord than for any other audience. Fans will receive this CD with real appreciation for songs that are passionate about God.

Reviewer Kevan Breitinger says, "I'm going to take a deep breath and promise to try not to carry on too much but it won't be easy. What can I say: I feel in love, I dropped to my knees, I ran into the streets to beg strangers to listen to Shaun Groves' amazing new CD."

'Closer' gives you a true picture of life that anyone who has suffered can relate to, delivered through unpretentious lyrics with easy guitar and a pure heart seeking God in the madness of the moment. This album will hit home with a lot of people and make them feel much less alone.

'Ripen' is one of the most intimate CDs that I've heard all year. Shawn's lyrics are as raw as they are powerful and everything about this CD is straightforward and from the heart.

Sienna delivers a powerful message, with positive lyrics and soulful melodies, on her first solo album 'Steps'. This young lady has a lot of talent and a strong faith and she shares them both freely.

This debut release from Essential Records is a sure-fire winner. It's easy to see how the band developed such a huge following as an indie band.

If you are going to say goodbye, say it with style. That is exactly what Sixpence did with their best of release. They leave a hole that will be hard to fill.

Skillet - Awake - CD Review of Christian Rock Band Skillet's Release, Awake

Poetry put to music is a good way to describe 'Divine Invitation.'

Reviewer Kevan Breitinger says, "Kid’s vocals are husky and raw, easy on the ears and straightforwardly understandable."

This release offers some new talent, some very strong vocals, and even a few new noteworthy songs. All in all, it is not at all bad for a compilation.

There is some good music on Starfield's sophomore release, just as there are some good vocals... However, to my ears, there just isn't much in the way of growth. Maybe it's a case of "don't fix what ain't broken" rather than a slump.

If you're a pop/punk fan, you'll love Stellar Kart's all 'gas. no brake'. If you're not a fan, you should still give it a listen. The high energy, high impact songs are all well done with a lot of skill and a lot of passion.

To be honest, when I first heard that they were getting all mellow on me, I was worried. However, after hearing Everything Is Different Now, I can officially say that I like the new sound.

If you can remember watching the debut of MTV you probably won't find much on 'Expect The Impossible' that you can relate to lyrically (although the music itself is catchy). However, if you have a teen who likes power-pop with a touch of punk, rejoice when this CD pop up in your child's collection.

Old style rock and roll, in a blast from the past, is what this debut CD is all about. No bubble gum, boy-band music here.

Steven Curtis Chapman brings new life to seven of his classics and then he wows us with seven more gems.

Reviewer Kevan Breitinger says, "Most of these tunes have strong pop overtones laying on a smooth bed of R&B, but several add a nice jazz flair."

Great lyrics, tons of passion and a zest and zeal for sharing Christ. You just can't ask for more than that!

Switchfoot's 'Vice Verses' has a lot of things you won't expect and plenty that you will adore.