353. Welcome to the Real World – Mr. Mister

WELCOME TO THE REAL WORLD (1985)

Mr. Mister

This album was huge! I mean really, really huge! Easily one of the biggest albums of 1985-86. It peaked at number one on the sales charts, had three Top 10 singled including two number ones. Born out of session and backing vocal support work, the original four members of Mr. Mister were polished performers, vocalists and musicians well before the release of their first album, I Wear the Face. Two members were also the driving forces behind the 70’s band, Pages.

Lead vocalist Richard Page was offered the lead vocalist jobs for both Chicago and Toto but declined to continue his work with Mr. Mister. It definitely paid off in late 1995 with the release of “Welcome to the Real World.” Fitting squarely in the popular pop/rock genre of the time their sound would appeal to fans of artists like Richard Marx, White Heart, Toto, Chicago and The Front but with just a touch of a more alternative sound, though no where near “new wave” despite the heavy keyboard use at times.

The first single,Broken Wings, slowly worked its way up the radio charts, eventually topping out at the number one position. The bass driven, slow building and haunting melody would not normally be the things hit songs are made of. More passion and atmosphere than hook and groove, the love song presents a Biblical view of love with submission, forgiveness and freedom being the ultimate goal. Initially many Christians responded to the reference to the “Book of Love” that song appeals to. As the song builds the hook that eventually takes over becomes unforgettable.

The second single, Kyrie, was more of an instant hit with a monster chorus, but a very odd tale and message for mainstream radio. Borrowing from the Greek for “Lord Have Mercy,” a phrase used in many traditional denominations liturgy, Kyrie (Eleison), the song is a simply expression of desiring God’s mercy for one another as we travel life’s road. It seems so blatantly Christian, but the chorus is so ridiculously infectious nothing was going to stop this song from being a hit, even such a blatant message. Of course, many Christian radio stations caught on and added the song as well.

The CCM market in certain areas began carrying the record. Page would actually be heard any many Christian artists albums over the years including Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith.  Page’s solo album, Shelter Me,  contains even more spiritual content. But for a year or so in the mid-80’s the biggest band in music was declaring Lord Have Mercy!

354. The Blood – Kevin Max

THE BLOOD (2007)

Kevin Max

TobyMac has gone on to create some of the most successful and popular music in CCM over the last decade. Michael Tait released two successful band projects and has recently taken over the lead vocal duties for on of CCM’s most popular acts, Newsboys. Kevin “Max” Smith has forged his own niche by going at things from the fringe and not taking part in the mainstream Christian Music industry.

After critically acclaimed but less than stellar sales results for his debut solo album, Kevin Max found himself without a record label. Always the more edgy, unique, original and recluse “Talker,” Max staked a claim to being the most creative, artistic and controversial of the DC Talk trio. He’s a poet, artists and singer-songwriter. But he has never been one to fit squarely into the round hole of Christian music.

All the while, though, he has created some amazing music on an independent basis. The album in question is rollicking, challenging, soothing and utterly enjoyable tribute to traditional forms of Gospel Music, both Black and Southern. To accomplish the teask of creative such a tremendous release it appears Max pulled in all his favors as the release is actually filled with a star-studded line-up, and that is no overstatement.

The album contains a reunion of DC Talk (The Cross), American Idol Chris Sligh (Run For a Long Time), Amy Grant and Vince Gill (Up Above My Head), Ashley Cleveland (The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power), Mary, Mary (People Get Ready) and Joanna Cash (One Way, One Blood). But this is no compilation project, though, as it is all Kevin Max and his Jeff Buckley, Bono and Bryan Duncan styled amazing vocals.

It is the vocals and the musical arrangements that make the album so compelling. There is an authentic and traditional feel to these classics, but with a real modern feel. It is not just a record of traditional Gospel covers, but rather a tribute to a musical style that so clearly influenced Max throughout his life. But also understanding that these traditional Gospel styles were the basis for modern rock music makes the more stylized arrangements so effective.

355. Big Surprise – The Elms

BIG SURPRISE (2001)

The Elms

After being introduced to the market by way of an EP in 2000, The Elms hit the scene with their debut release, Big Surprise, one year later. Rhythm and Blues based rock and roll with a heavy influence of the Beatles and, most notably, the Kinks.  High energy Americana rock in the vein of Tom Petty and the Black Crowes is the centerpiece of this and the albums to follow.

“Hey, Hey” kicks off the album with a hand clapping and staccato rhythm guitar into and a monster hook similar to Kinks with a horn and string support influenced by the Beatles Abbey Road. This would carry the sound throughout  the entire project. Immediately likable and memorable hooks, but nothing trite and repetitive.

String arrangements are effectively used throughout as “Here’s My Hand” demonstrates. Here the more melodic side of Petty or Bryan Adams in evident and the song suspiciously similar to something The Kry may have done. This song was built for Chriostian radio and it’s a surprise that it wasn’t a major radio hit.

Other highlight include the hit “Lifeboat,” as well as the title track, the Oasis inspired “The Buzzing Won’t Stop” and the rocker “Who Got the Meaning.” The band would continue for a few more releases including two mainstream released titles before disbanding late in the decade. But before doing so they put on one very memorable performance at 2008’s Farm Aid concert appearing with Dave Matthews and a host of other headlining mainstream artists.

356. Streams – Various Artists

STREAMS (1999)

Various Artists

One of only a handful of various artists projects to be included on this list, Streams is one of the most beautiful albums on this list. Stunning arrangements of beautiful written songs inspired by the immensely popular devotional book, Streams in the Desert.  The album is filled with both Christian and secular artists (though the latter have claimed a Christian faith) in a still of music similar to “new age,” contemplative and Celtic styles not too far from Jeff Johnson and Iona.

One of Cindy Morgan’s finest performances ever kicks off the album (Joy) followed by Enya’s sister Maire Brennan’s (Clannad) duet with Michael MacDonald (Doobie Brothers) of Peter Gabriel’s “Don’t Give Up.” The latter is a wonderful cover of an impressive arrangement of a terrific song.

Other artists include Sixpence None the Richer, Michelle Tumes and Point of Grace. The album also features some very unique duets that work perfectly including Delirious? with Amy Grant and 4Him with Jon Anderson of Yes.

Brent Bourgeois is the main force behind this impressive project either writing, producing or performing on nearly all tracks. The project also features special guests Michael W Smith and Phil Keaggy on guitar. Contemplative and uplifting, the music here is timeless as is the message of God’s grace in the midst of life’s difficult and trying moments.

357. I Put Away My Idols – Dion

I PUT AWAY MY IDOLS (1983)

Dion

The teen heart throb of the 50’s and 60’s becomes a troubadour for the Gospel by the 70’s and 80’s. Dion Dimucci (Dion) was a solo artist and member of Dion and the Belmonts in the early years of rock and roll and remained a chart topper for years. Ironically his two biggest hits, Runaround Sue and The Wanderer, were both about philanderers, one a woman and one a man.

But right before the dawn of the 1980’s Dion had a spiritual awakening and began a lengthy career is Christian music. He released several successful albums for Dayspring Record with “I Put Away My Idols” being the most successful and most artistically satisfying. The style is closer to Dion’s 70’s folk rock style with limited 50’s rock and roll except in a novelty form. The content is very evangelical, yet never too trite or contrived.

The title track is the closest to a “testimony” song as anything he recorded in CCM. “Trust in the Lord” and “Very Soon” have a very “island” sound (I wouldn’t call it reggae) similar to direction Steven Soles took but more Jimmy Buffet than Bob Marley. Most of the album is very “Scriptural” using direct Biblical references to support the message of the songs.

 

358. Mission of Mercy – DeGarmo and Key

MISSION OF MERCY (1983)

DeGarmo and Key

Childhood friends Eddie DeGarmo and Dana Key joined forces in their late teens to create music and for three decades were responsible for some of the popular CCM ever recorded. Millions of albums and millions of miles traveled. Even after they had gone their separate way musically their single minded ministry and deep, personal friendship never wavered. I had always hoped for one reunion tour. I, and everyone else, will have to wait for quite some time as earlier this year Dana Key went home to be wioth the Lord.

D&K were the first band I ever used my own money to buy. It was their debut album, This Time Thru. I wore out three vinyl copies of their second album, Straight On, Their live album is one of the best live records ever recorded in CCM. And during the Summer after I graduated from High School I was eagerly anticipating their latest release. It was not what I expected. the progressive and blues infused, guitar centered rock and roll had been replaced by a heavy dose of synthesizers and strings.

At first I was appalled and saddened that I had lost “my band” and that my childhood CCM heroes hadAs time went on, though, I not only earned to appreciate the album foir what it was, I actually began to love it. For what it is, it is very, very good. Top notch production, great and memorable arrangements and some very finely crafted pop tunes. And though they will never get the credit for it, they really were early pioneers in the world of modern worship music. “Let the Whole World Sing,” the monster number hit from the album is a modern worship chorus that should have been a church standard.

Mission of Mercy would be the first in what I have dubbed, “The Techno Years.” Sandwiched between nearly two decades of straight ahead rock were three albums of keyboard driven pop. MoM, Communication and Commander Sozo built a substantially larger fan base for the group and expanded their ministry opportunity. Many years later I came to understand the duo was keeping with the times and would not be defined by any previous release. I learned to live with it.

Of those three album the first, Mission of mercy, would be the best even though it featured the least amount of guitar. When it came right down to it, it contained the best songwriting with more than a handful of huge hits. “That the Way God Planned It” would remain a popular live song for the band while Ready or Not and When It’s Over would all top the charts.

Oddly enough , for a band noted for their rock style they had always been an amazing ballad band, mainly because of Dana Key’s stunning and compassionate vocals. Of all of the songs on the album the most like their earlier music is the ballad “All the Losers.” This great song ranks up with Addey, Mary and Only the Meek Survive. It’s also the strongest song lyrically.

A great record that was a record for its time and must be regarded as such. Also, when taken within that framework it is a wonderful record with wonderful songs by a wonderful and unforgettable band.

God Bless Dana Key. RIP…Rest In Paradise

359. The Prize – Alwyn Wall Band

THE PRIZE (1977)

Alwyn Wall Band

One half of famed British Jesus Music duo Malcolm and Alwyn released a few rock albums after the duo split in the late 70’s. One was released by Larry Norman’s Solid Rock label called “Invisible Warfare” and will also appear on this list. This Lennon & McCartney influenced gem is filled with great British pop. The band Wall put together had a young guitar player Norman Barrett whose only albums are worthy of consideration.

The album was very well received and the band made great strides not only in their home country but in the US as well. In fact, it is said that they could have been a staple in the burgeoning US Christian Music scene had Wall been able to secure his Visa, but was unable to do so.

Wall may be one of the finest songwriters of his era that no one really knows. His writing was equal to anything Larry Norman, Randy Stonehill or terry Taylor had written at the time. He also had an uncanny knack, especially on this album, to write a melody that conveyed the message simply and memorably. The opening track, Fly Me, is directed by Barrett’s great guitar hook and reminds the listener that what is most important is to do what God wants you to do.

The tribute to “South California” is a joyful number the has a distinctly Beach Boys influenced melody and vocal arrangement. “Music Maker” recognizes the influence of God inspiring a man to write music and be creative. “That’s Life” is a favorite of mine as it really hit the funky groove style of the time and a great lyrical twist and Barrett’s finest work on the album.

One of the best aspects of the album is the refusal to be pigeon-holed into the normal Jesus Music of the day lyrically. Wall branches out thematically on this album and shows the wonderful diversity of topics a Christian is free to explore within a Biblical worldview.

360. By the Light of the Moon – Los Lobos

BY THE LIGHT OF THE MOON (1987)

Los Lobos

If you do not own this album, shame on you! This is simply one of the most infectious, enjoyable and stirring albums for its time. All that, plus T-Bone Burnett produced it. Combining all aspects of Americana and Mexican music like rock, folk, country, Tex-Mex and some traditional Mexican music like boleros and nortenos, Los Lobos have continued to be an amazing band with a long list of accolades and phenomenal releases. This one is unique in that many songs made their way onto Christian radio.

At the same time this album was released the band also recorded the music for the hit movie, La Bamba, including the title track that went to number one for the band. The name exposure that created catapulted the band into a national spotlight and many Christian found the Roman Catholic spiritually influenced lyrics in a few of the songs captivating.

Mostly the band wrote about what they knew as residents of LA’s Hispanic community and that included family, poverty, strife and a deep-rooted spirituality. That latter would show itself in more than a handful of songs. The most powerful is the albums closer, the ballad “Tear of God.” I was working at KYMS at the time it came out and I remember adding the song to the station and getting a huge response from the listeners. I also was managing Maranatha Village at the time and the album sold quite well.

River of Fools, The Mess We’re In and The Hardest Time all contain a Biblical worldview amongst the stories of family and faith. One Time One Night would appear in the movie “Colors,” and remains a very popular Los Lobos favorite. “Is This All There Is” is a great swing grove tune that decries the poverty and struggles of those in the barrio yet there always appeared a glimmer of hope as the figures in the story continue to “search for the promised land.”

Great album and a no-brainer AYSO!

 

361. Sheep in Wolves Clothing – Mylon LeFevre & Broken Heart

SHEEP IN WOLVES CLOTHING (1985)

Mylon Lefevre & Broken Heart

Though the follow up to this project, Crack the Sky, would receive the awards and be the best selling album in LeFevres career, Sheep in Wolves Clothing would remain the best in his career. After a very negative experience at the end of his secular music career that forced him to give up all royalties, Mylon went back to Church. There he began to sense a call to return to music, but this time with a decidedly more Biblical purpose. He formed a band that would later be called Broken heart and recorded his Christian debut, Brand New Start. That album barely missed making this list and is an AYSO.

He soon signed a deal with major Christian label Myrrh and introduced himself to the CCM world in a big way with Sheep in Wolves Clothing. This was all during a time when televangelist were playing records backwards and calling all rock music, especially the music performed by “so called” Christian rockers as blasphemous and “of the Devil.” (Think “Footloose” with bigger and bluer hair.)

Lefevre’s response was to turn the tables on the popular televangelist saying that these Christian rockers were “Wolves in sheep’s clothing” and made a statement that, in effect, these rockers were simply sheep in wolves clothing, playing for and to an audience that needed the Gospel.

The album has a straight Southern rock feel comparable to 38 Special or the Doobie Brothers. Nothing extremely heavy, but well crafter rock with exceptional musicianship. The guitar work, sometime hidden too far back in the mix (unfortunately too common for the time) was exceptional with “I Will Rejoice” being a perfect example.

As must be understood as an album for its time, the electronic drums can get annoying ( I think they were annoying when they were cool) but it was just the sound for the time. The only more embarrassing for the time would be the outfits – ugh!Those drums kick off the opening track, a long time LeFevre concert favorite, Crucible of Love. The old southern gospel favorite, “Gospel Ship,” is covered here in a great, funky blues style. Here again the listener would really to hear the guitars more prominent in the mix. It is also ironic that he recorded this same song on his first secular album.

The album also contains the groups most memorable and popular song, “Trains Up in the Sky.” This song really pushed envelopes on Christian radio as its popularity forced many stations that would never play something like it to add the song top their playlist. This provided many songs to follow a easier path onto radio. The album closes with what I believe is Lefevre’s finest vocal performance, the power balled, “The Warrior.” The diversity of quiet, whispering falsetto and monstrous, nearly straining screams shows the mastery of his craft and delivers the message in a way the lyrics alone could not have.

362. Defend Your Joy – The Echoing Green

DEFEND YOUR JOY (1994)

The Echoing Green

Named after a poem by William Blake, The Echoing Green is a pop/synth/techno band that made great inroads into the world of Christian dance music and electronica with a decidedly more commercial and pop approach. That to say that band leader Joey Belville knew how to write a pop song and infuse it with modern technology without losing the song amongst the computers and synthesizers.

The genre has also been noted for highly sexual and depressing themes. But Belville was one of the most positive songwriters in any genre, heavily influenced by his faith and the joy it creates. The prupose of this album was a call for christian to defend the gift of joy they are given and to walk by the Spirit. These same theme repeat over and over on this wonderful project.

I was a sales rep for Frontline/Diamante in the 90’s and for a short while they needed someone to cover the New Mexico area for the company. It was a quick flight from LA to Albuquerque, so I added it to my territory. My first appointment was with some kid named Joey who knew everything about Christian music. I remember pitching him this album and he lit up and ordered a truck load. He saw the shock on my face and started to laugh – something he often would do. Laugh that is. I did not know that he was the same Joey that is the Joey of The Echoing Green.

He remained one of my favorite accounts not because of his music knowledge or large orders, but because Bevlille has an infectious and joyful personality and it clearly permeates the music he creates. Even the melodies are upbeat with a clearly positive feel. 2nd Chance deals with God’s grace and forgiveness despite our failings and our penchant for being the prodigal.. Defend Your Joy, a Depeche Mode like tune, is a call to Christians to stand up for truth and not to let the world take their joy away. Riki Michele makes an uncredited appearance on the chorus.

In every cutting edge genre someone will come along and claim the mantle of taking it to the masses by making it more palatable and accessible. The Echoing Green does just that with this release as melody remains front and center and the song remains the key.