Kristian Binion EP Review

     As a Christian music enthusiast, I often run across an individual or a band that has yet to be discovered by others. However, it is a rare moment when my ears are pleased and my heart is touched. On one such occasion I was relaxing at home watching Reflections. Daystar produces this television program which showcases nature-loving videos with scripture notes accompanied with mostly instrumental melodies.

     On this one specific night I had my eyes closed and suddenly this voice began to awaken and touch my soul. Then the message began to sink in and I had to rewind it to find out who it was. When they first started singing he reminded me slightly of Chris August but as the song continued it was more like the style of Jason Upton. It was melodically and lyrically beautiful. To my delight the person’s name was a mystery causing me to speak to myself like I was Sherlock Holmes.

     Kristian Binion was the answer to the riddle at that moment and God is the master of his talent. A graduate from Christ For The Nations International, he learned early on what the significance of a close relationship with Jesus Christ brings to writing. With gifted musicians like Kari Jobe and others you have to wonder, what does this University instill in their students that other colleges do not?

     I received his current EP, which sadly only includes three songs. The first single on the album is the notable song I heard that evening and title of the EP, Pieces. It speaks about how fragile we are and how often times we don’t feel worthy of repair. However, God sees us as a moldable project as He restores us and makes us new.

     This song really touched my heart as I sit discovering this artist as he moved my spirit. It is so personal and speaks to those who have a broken and contrite heart. At some point we all experience moments of heartbreak and desperation. It could be the loss of a loved one or a feeling of rejection. It could also be backslider who was once close to God who has fallen and is trying to find their way back. All of these scenarios fit the message, along with many others I have not mentioned. The closing segment is one of the most powerful lyrics I have heard recently. "When this world pushes my heart to break. But every piece of it sings your praise. If it takes falling to see your face, then somebody push me for Heavens sake."

     Kristian’s heart is all about making God famous and hoping his worship will touch someone that needs to know that God is the answer to every problem they will ever face. We all have broken pieces or areas the world has vexed us in and if we turn everything over to Him, He can make something out of us to use for His glory. I have found myself asking God to keep me broken so that I never want to leave His side. Being near to God at all times is vital to our spiritual health and growth.

     I cannot express to you how gifted this young man is. You just have to be inclined to discover him for yourself. I do believe that he has a huge future ahead of him musically and spiritually leading people in worship and to a closer walk with Christ through his ministry.

     The second song on the release is titled Narrow Way. This is a message that is urgent for the Body of Christ today and the title is exactly what it is about. Many people today are on the broad path that leads to destruction. They have been tossed about with every wind of doctrine and spoon fed grace to a point they feel a personal relationship and repentance is not required of them. Kristian lays his heart on the floor before the Lord in this beautiful adoration of a man desiring to exemplify Christ. "I wanna say what you would say. I wanna love the same way. Until everything I do is a reflection of you. I will follow the path you’ve made along the narrow way. There’s a ladder you can climb to pull yourself up to the sky. But you will be sure to find you will fall if you get to high. But that ladder it leads back down where the humble and broken are found."

     After listening to the third song Strong Tower, I was extremely unsettled about the fact that there were no more for me to listen to. This song brought out a different sound from Kristian and I had a hard time deciding which I liked better. It was at that point that I decided God’s perfect number is three and this EP is one hundred and ten percent fascinating. That being said I am looking forward to seeing what God has in store for this extraordinarily gifted young man.

     Eager to see how long I was going to have to wait to hear more from Kristian, I asked him when he was going to bless us all with a full length album.

     Kristian - "I’m currently writing new songs to go along with a lot more that didn’t make the EP. I am praying and believing God for a full-length record someday. I know it will happen in His timing. Meanwhile, I plan to start recording some acoustic videos of new songs that God has given me. Those should be coming very soon!"

     As someone who is passionate about writing for God I asked what advice Kristian would share with others who have a dream to sing and minister and to share God with others in song.

     Kristian - "I would say don’t ever let anything stop you! Not even yourself! I struggled for a long time with not feeling adequate or good enough. It wasn’t until I surrendered to God and stopped worrying about what people thought. I started reading the word and seeking Him and God started dropping songs in my heart. I would tell God how you feel, ask Him to write through you. It may not come right away but God is faithful and He will begin to birth songs in your heart that will draw people to Him."

     Today you see a lot of youth struggling with choices either to fit in at school or with their friends outside of school. They are willing often times to sacrifice the gifts God has placed in them to use for His Kingdom for momentary popularity. As a young man himself growing up with the temptations and trials of youth I was curious what or who influenced him to lay everything at the cross and truly walk with Christ.

      Kristian - " I would have to say my Grandfather, V.R. Mitchell. I was going through a time in my life where I was not really living completely for God. I mean, I loved God and I knew how to act and knew what to say to make it seem like we were close. But in reality I was riding the fence. While I was visiting with my Grandfather one day it was like he knew exactly what was going on. But he didn’t give me a speech or tell me I was a sinner. He just very calmly grabbed my hand looked me straight in the eyes as I was leaving and said "Son, Grab a hold of Jesus and don’t ever let him Go!" That’s all he said but it was all I needed! Instantly I knew it was God speaking through him. And I will never forget that moment the rest of my life! That is what I would say to a young person who is struggling to fit in. DON’T FIT IN! Grab a hold Of Jesus and don’t ever let Go! It’s not always easy and we are human. We will mess up. But don’t ever forget to cling to Jesus it’s the only way to make it."

     Kristian is right we are human and we all mess up, but one thing is for certain he did everything right on this EP. Check it out for yourself and take advantage of being the first person to share his music with someone else. Trust me when I say don’t let someone else steal your blessing from doing so. I hope and pray that this review may open doors for Kristian to explore that full-length album because I personally don’t know how long I can wait to hear it.

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     I would like to personally give special recognition for musicians, mixers and producers who made Pieces what it is. Thank you Daniel Lopez, Will Coleman, Josh Dufrene and Gregg Dunham for assisting Kristian by making this EP available.

 

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Casting Crowns "Come to the Well" Cd review

     In the Christian music industry, Casting Crowns do not need an introduction. Mr. Hall, who is the front man for the band created a "monster of praise" when he stepped out in faith and gathered the saints of this marching band to the streets. Carrying too many nominations to mentions and a room full of awards received, this chart topping crew has again created a fantastic conglomeration of life issues both inside and outside of the church. Come To The Well, which is available for purchase October 18, 2011 is sure to win several more marks on the nomination board for the Crowns.

    
     
     Radio stations are continually playing their first hit release off the album Courageous, which was written as the theme song for the recently released film Courageous. This film reaches out to Fathers and Husbands to take a stand and be courageous in the strength and the power of the spirit of God inside of them to protect and lift his family up. It pleads with men to be full of integrity and character and walk in humility before the Lord.

     Echoing a message throughout the earth that resounds in all households regardless of choice of faith, it calls to the heart of the Father in a way that cannot be ignored. Incorporated into film, it would not surprise me if it spreads through mainstream radio in a similar fashion as their fellow crusaders for Christ, Mercy Me managed to do with "I can only imagine".

     From their first platinum album simply titled, Casting Crowns to their tenth release they have managed to develop an expectancy in fans to deliver nothing but artistic brilliance and spiritually challenging messages. Come To The Well offers a rich new sound to listeners by delivering a variety of beautifully written lyrics with a distinctively different melody in each song.

     The second track City on the Hill demonstrates the urgency toward the body of Christ to put aside our differences and incorporate the importance of the Cross. The availability of God’s saving grace to a world in desperate need of hope and peace. "Each one thought that they knew better, but they were different by design. Instead of standing strong together, they let their differences divide." The melody of this song is easily felt in the heart of the listener and will move you to tears and awaken the spirit of God in your life to put aside your differences and set your eyes on the prize of your faith.

     Jesus Friend of Sinners, happens to follow up right behind the previous message. Speaking to the hearts of Christians to stop pointing out sin in the lives of sinners and begin to repent ourselves and pray for the lost and the hurting instead of judging others. "Jesus friend of sinners, break our hearts for what breaks yours. You love every lost cause, you reach for the outcast. For the leper and the lame their the reason that you came, Lord I was that lost cause and I was the outcast, but you died for sinners just like me, a grateful leper at your feet." Being very easy to relate to and having an extremely addicting melody this is quickly becoming my favorite.

    
     It is comforting to know that our Lord already knows the plans He has made for us if we walk in submission to Him. Though it may not always be easy we can find some peace in knowing that He is Already There.  This rock ballad reminds us that it’s all in His hands. 


     The Well touches the heart of those who are tired and looking for what is missing in their lives. "The world will try, but it can never fill, so leave it all behind and come to the well". It is a persuasive message that has the potential to bring many people who are saved but still broken to a place of freedom and full acceptance of the promises of God in their lives.

     Sometimes as a Pastor it is a struggle to look out upon his congregation doing the best he can to be obedient to the Lord and yet still see so many people hurting and bound in their spirit. Spirit Wind  speaks to the heart of those who face this kind of struggle and reminds us that God can speak to the dry bones and raise them up again no matter what the situation looks like. God is able.

Spirit Wind Lyrical Video

     Displaying very emotive lyrics of the heart from three different life situations you will find Just Another Birthday, Wedding Day and Angel magnificent additions to this marvelous combination of encouraging messages. You may also be able to use these as tools for people who normally would not listen to Christian music.

     If you want a song to get your heart pumping and your spirit revved up, My Own Worst Enemy delivers a punch to the CD that adds a little different seasoning.

If I had to compare the sound, strangely it would be one of the lighter tracks from Skillet. It is definitely invigorating and can cause an unexpected Jesus jam session to arise if you are not prepared. The lyrics consist of how we often hold ourselves back from the best God has for us. "Could have sworn I put him in the ground, looks like he’s found his way out. God help me get away, break the chains and set me free, from the other side of me." I am going to bet this will be a favorite for many Casting Crown's fans simply because it’s out of the box for them and yet still fantastic.

     They bring the CD to a close with two powerful ballads Face Down focuses on the importance of how the world sees us as followers of Christ and how being humbled at His feet, only relying on Him displays our trust. So Far to Find You, is the closing song that displays a powerful cry from God to each of our hearts to see how far He has come to find us. The longing desire He has to hold us in His arms and allow Him to love us. "But I can hear a voice, that’s whispering my name saying come to me, I am all you need and I am calling. Will you let me hold you with my arms tonight; will you take my love and give up the fight. I have come so far to find you."

     For those of you who have been anticipating the release of Come to the well you will not be disappointed. It is a wellspring of life and motivational messages that will both challenge you and encourage you. It may even give you some insight to how you can reach someone you know that is discouraged and needs a light to shine through to them.

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Kutless Interview/Show Review

     The One True God Tour led by Newsong kicked off in Adrian, Michigan September 30, 2011. Kutless joined them on stage along with fellow musicians Dara Maclean and Anthem Lights. Each group brought humble ambition to their performances, which led to a night of many people responding for the first time to accept Christ or rededicate their lives.

     Dara opened the show with grace and beauty and recognition to the wonderful freedom we have available through Christ. Anthem Lights followed opening with a fantastic a cappella version of the Hymn, My Jesus, I love thee.

     NewSong took the stage next with several great performances. Matt Butler testified how Christ came through with His healing power for their daughter that was born premature. He performed their next release, The Same God after sharing the victory he and his wife received in their daughter, who has since grown into a healthy toddler. Russ Lee, the lead singer and songwriter followed up with a wonderful altar call after a very powerful performance of their anthem hit Arise My Love.

     Kutless took to the stage to close out the evening with an influential performance of several of their hits like Pride Away along with beautiful renditions of their more recent worship chart toppers Everything I Need and What Faith Can Do. My personal favorite of the evening was the heartfelt performance of Amazed. God has done some amazing things in my life lately and I just allowed myself to soak that particular moment in.

     As a Christian, we are not immune to trying times or situations and often times we will find other people who face similar challenges and circumstances. Over a decade of music ministry Kutless has been able to reach so many people spiritually, by touching on deep matters of the heart through song. With the release of their latest album It Is Well, the spiritual maturity of this band communicates a stronger realm of faith to their listeners.  

     The power of Christ has always been the driving force that keeps the lyrical aspect of these fist pumping performers motivated and cultivating the hearts of thousands of us. Band members include Jon Micah Sumrall (lead vocals), Dave Luetkenhoelter (Bass), Nick De Partee (Guitar), Jeffrey Gilbert (Drums) and James Mead on Guitar.

     Before the events for the evening started Dave, Nick and Jeff met with me to briefly to discuss a few important topics to them. They shared about their desire to reach as many people as they can for Christ, their upcoming album release and the importance of family.

Question - So, if I am not mistaken this is the first night of the One True God Tour is that correct?

     Nick - "Yes, and so far it’s been great. We have toured with NewSong before and we are looking forward to this tour as well."

Question - So you guys just got back from a trip over to the Philippines, can you tell me a little bit about that experience?

     Jeff - "Oh yeah it was a really great experience, we played for three days there and over the three days we saw thousands of people come to Christ."

     Nick - "Yeah, we are still recovering from that trip. It really takes a lot out of you traveling like that sometimes both physically and emotionally."

     Dave - "Yes, that is true and we have the Winter Jam Tour directly following the One True God Tour. Right after that we will be going on the Very Merry Christmas Tour."

Question - Not to mention you have a new album, that is going to be released coming up next year right?

     Nick - "Yes, and that is hopefully going to be available in February."

Question - So how do you learn to balance your schedules with life and family and the trials and exhaustion that comes with traveling?

     Jeff - "Well, it’s definitely not easy. Thankfully, we all have wonderful women that support us and love us and see us when we come home and we are exhausted and they know and understand what we go through out here. It’s a lot of different things combined with just the emotion that pours out and the physical aspects of it. So, it’s great to have the support of our families and hear the wonderful stories that people come up and share with us.
     We read email after email of how their lives have been effected through our music. As long as God continues to move us in this direction it is the way we will go. It’s just different now. When we first started we were young and out of high school and just ready to jump in a van and go wherever. Now, we have families and kids and responsibilities and you know we want to give our family 100 percent not just 50/50"

      Kutless originated their name through the scripture Romans 6:23 in regards to Jesus Christ for taking our cuts for us. Therefore we become cut-less for the blood that He shed on Calvary for our redemption through His grace and mercy.

Question - Personally I am a very lyrically moved person and your songs over the years seem to have tapped into my private time with God in prayer.

I was curious who is behind the lyrical make up of your music and if you guys write about your personal experiences or if it’s experiences you have heard from other people?

     Nick - "It’s sort of a combination of all those things. Really we all have been a big part of the music that we write, and a situation will strike with us and we will find something in scripture that goes along with that circumstance and we just flow with what God leads us to write and incorporate that together. I heard a great quote one time, 'If you write a song from your brain it will reach someone’s brain. If you sing a song from your heart you are going to move someone’s heart.' "
    

     Dave - "You know there are a lot of really great songs out there. There are some people out there that just write from the heart, even if it’s not Christian based if they can connect with people on an emotional level that is what people respond to."

     Jeff - "Yeah, a lot of people will ask us what our next album is going to be about. Is it going to be rock or worship? Then they will ask what our favorite song is to play on tour. Most the time I will say one that rocks out. However there are times when we will be playing certain sets and I will look around and see how different songs are ministering to certain people. There are other times like with the latest album, It Is Well when we will be playing I’m Still Yours, that God will just really start dealing with me in my spirit about things. That is our goal as a band, to impress that power of God in their hearts. We really have one purpose and we just incorporated all of that into the new album."

     These humble young men have exuberant stage presence that fills auditoriums. With the authority we have in Christ to shout His victories or the honest submission of their hearts for His glory to be revealed. You are guaranteed to be moved physically, spiritually and emotionally if you are able to catch them live.

 

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