Third Day will soon play to thousands of fans in Abbotsford
Third Day: Live Revelations, Essential
THE 35-city spring leg of Third Day’s ‘Revelation Tour’ will conclude May 9, as they become the first act to appear at Abbotsford’s new Entertainment & Sports Centre. Also onstage will be double-Grammy nominee Brandon Heath; and Revive, a new Australian band.
Mac Powell and the guys will be offering some classics, alongside new hits like ‘Call My Name’ – and the title track from their critically acclaimed 10th CD,Revelation.
That album was this year’s Dove Award winner for Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year; this makes an even two dozen Doves for this talented group. The band has also racked up 26 No. 1 radio singles, three Grammy Awards and an American Music Award.
The newLive Revelations CD/DVD, rather than going with your typical live concert footage and placing token backstage footage in the extras, offers up a 75-minute documentary. It seamlessly blends the powerful Third Day concert experience with exclusive behind-the-scenes moments, truly giving an ‘all access’ glimpse into the lives of the band.
Both the CD and DVD give only a ‘snapshot’ of their typical concert, showcasing only nine songs – recorded at multiple cities on their Music Builds tour, in support of Habitat for Humanity. A highlight – unfortunately only included on the CD – is the cover of U2’s ‘When Love Comes to Town,’ which features Jars of Clay and Switchfoot.
But it is the DVD that is a must-have for any fan – with transparent moments offstage, balancing life on the road with family commitments. Cameras were allowed not only backstage and on the tour bus, but also in their homes – to show us how much their lives are not like ‘rockstars.’ thirdday.com
Chris Tomlin: Hello Love, SixStep / Sparrow
On Tomlin’s fifth studio recording, he once again offers up modern songs of worship for the church – which will be sung for years to come. Much of the CD seemed instantly recognizable upon first listen – in some cases due to his ability to write the perfect melody; but also because the driving ‘Sing, Sing Sing’ and the soaring ‘God of This City’ first appeared on the 2008 Passion CD which took its title from the latter song.
Other highlights here include a reworking of ‘All the Way My Saviour Leads Me’ (with a little help from Matt Redman); and ‘I Will Rise,’ a worshipful response to death, offering the hope of resurrection through Jesus. But the standout track is ‘Love,’ featuring the African Children’s Choir. christomlin.com
Lincoln Brewster: Today is the Day, Integrity
Although certainly a respected worship leader, songwriter and guitar player, Lincoln Brewster has yet to become a household name like many of his contemporaries. But his first all-new studio album in six years will certainly change that. Not only is his songwriting showcased here, but his playing on the rocking ‘Let Your Glory Shine’ is astonishing. Other highlights include the bluesy gospel-rocker ‘Give Him Praise,’ that features some guest vocals from Israel Houghton; and the shimmering guitar-pop ballad ‘God You Reign.’ lincolnbrewster.com
Kari Jobe: Kari Jobe, Integrity/Gateway
For 13 years, Kari Jobe has contributed to live albums for Christ For the Nations.’ At her current post as associate worship pastor at Gateway Church in Texas, she sang the stirring anthem ‘Revelation Song.’ Now this seasoned worship leader has released her self-titled debut, which combines scripture-based lyrics with singable melodies. Co-writers include Chris Tomlin and Paul Baloche.
The album was produced by Ed Cash, who takes a subdued approach that is a far cry from the mega-church worship many associate with Jobe – and the results are stunning.
Inspirational ballads here invite reflection rather than outward corporate singing, on songs like ‘I’m Singing,’ ‘Joyfully,’ ‘My Beloved’ and ‘You are for Me.’ karijobe.com
CeCe Winans: Thy Kingdom Come, Puresprings/EMI
For her eighth solo album, Winans offers a powerful set of familiar hymns and worship songs, draped with lush strings.
Recently she was awarded a Grammy in the ‘Best Pop/Contemporary Album’ category.
Winans seamlessly combines the vocals, melodies and musical elements — which have made her one of the most popular and influential artists working in contemporary gospel — on songs like ‘Bless His Holy Name’ and ‘Waging War.’ Her smooth pop/R&B signature sounds weave their way throughout this epic collection of 14 songs. You may not be singing them in church, but they are certainly vertically focussed. cecewinans.com
Hillsong Kids: Follow You, Hillsong
The pioneer of great worship albums for kids is back again. In 2004, Hillsong KidsJesus is My Superhero brought together high energy songs written with kids in mind alongside favourites from the Hillsong songbook.
Once again, the songs are available on CD or DVD — with the latter offering resources to help kids learn the words and actions. Highlights include ‘Take it All,’ ‘Trust & Obey’ and ‘All of the World.’
The only problem is that, with a new album releasing every year for the past five, the creativity and excitement enjoyed with the first few albums is starting to fade. But they’re still the best kids worship CDs available out there. hillsongkids.com