|
|
||
|
 |
JASON CASTRO It’s been a while since we’ve heard from Jason Castro. Though Castro had yet to release an album before this year, many should still be familiar with his name. Appearing on season seven of American Idol — the year David Cook was crowned winner — Castro and his trademark dreads finished fourth overall in the competition in 2008. After a lengthy break from the public eye, Castro is back with a record deal and an EP. Titled The Love Uncompromised EP, Castro’s five song debut is a strong effort from the normally timid artist we are used to seeing. The album is laidback in nature, with the acoustic guitar and ukulele providing the foundation to addictive pop melodies. The music is catchy, the vocals are pure and the songs are relaxing, feeling like a combination of Colbie Caillat, Jack Johnson, and Jason Mraz. With a surprisingly impressive debut EP in terms of artistic merit and enjoyability, Jason Castro has made his return quite clear. Though it may only be five songs long, The Love Uncompromised EP gives us a satisfying glance into the future when this talented Christian releases his full-length debut later this year. But for now, pick this one up as you won’t be disappointed.
JOHN REUBEN In the year 2000, a new artist by the name of John Reuben hit the Christian music scene. He quickly made a name for himself thanks to his catchy hip-hop tracks and sarcastic humour which filled both his songs and his music videos. These tongue-in-cheek lyrics have continued throughout the years as he has released new albums, each disc experimenting with new genres and lyrical themes. Recently Reuben released his sixth studio album, Sex, Drugs And Self Control. Reuben’s latest effort continues his trend of changing his musical direction with each new record. This time around, there is less focus on hip-hop and instead Reuben slows the lyrical flow down considerably. Musically, the album is much more experimental in nature; feeling very influenced by artists such as Gorillaz, Beck, and a little bit of Kanye and Beastie Boys for good measure. The end sound is a considerable departure from Reuben’s past work, though highly enjoyable. Lyrically, the album still boasts clever and thought-provoking tracks, only this time focusing more on identifying and staying true to your beliefs. Overall, Sex, Drugs And Self Control is one of the biggest surprises to come across my desk. With an impressive newfound sound and intelligent lyrics, this is a must buy.
NEWWORLDSON This aptly named Canadian band spent time recently touring the globe with the Newsboys, and it shows. Newworldson has a world music feel and sports a wide diversity of styles, each one handled masterfully and engagingly. The quartet serves up a less rootsy sound this time around, but the monster rhythm section still reigns, obvious seconds into the self-titled sophomore project. One minute they’re re-inventing fresh kinetic grooves (the slammin’, energetic opener, “You Set the Rhythm”) and the next they’re calling up doo-wop moments (“Weary”) and kickin’ out old-school rock riffs (“In Your Arms,” sheer fun). The lyrics are vertically oriented, but nothing your rowdy uncle wouldn’t enjoy (Newworldson got their start in a martini bar). The arrangements and instrumentation are fresh (the opener’s striding 12 string lets you know immediately there’s a new sheriff in town), and the writing manages to be fun and still thoughtful (“I was a dangerous man/ a ruthless pretender/ I carried love like a sword/ ‘til You made me surrender”). On top of all that, Newworldson’s reggae is so fresh you can hear the palm leaves rustle in the breeze. Newworldson: the solution to your winter blues.
SANCTUS REAL It’s hard to believe it’s been eight years since Sanctus Real first hit the scene. Since their debut, Say It Out, the band has propelled themselves to be one of Christian music’s biggest names. With a steady schedule of a new album every two years, the band is now set to debut their fifth label release. Titled Pieces Of A Real Heart, Sanctus Real has returned with their signature style of melodic pop-rock anthems which are filled with layers of textured production that’s pleasing to the ears. Most tracks, such as “These Things Take Time” and “Take Over Me,” are upbeat and catchy. Meanwhile the album includes only a couple of true ballads — “Lead Me” and “The Redeemer” — ensuring listeners will keep their foot tapping for most of the disc. The album’s most unique moment comes right at the beginning, however. “Forgiven” finds Sanctus Real experimenting with new instruments, mainly the banjo and glockenspiel, and gives off a Caedmon’s Call sound. With distinct and pure vocals as well as a knack for catchy melodies, — is another solid effort from Sanctus Real. Fans of the band and fellow rockers should be satisfied. 
These are samples of the Christian book, music, movie and Website reviews you'll find in every issue of Living Light News. Become a subscriber and keep up on the latest releases!
[LLN-Online]
[Adopt-a-Block] [Newsbriefs]
[Event Calendar] |
