Ayiesha Woods' debut album Introducing Ayiesha Woods (2006) is one that somehow managed to fly under the radar. The production is true to the artist's vision rather than some of the mess that some labels put out in the name of mindless profits. Musically, the album covers rock, soul, pop, reggae. There were two singles that got some decent airplay; 'Big Enough' (featuring Toby Mac) and 'Happy'. The guitar work ranges from guitar-driven to understated but nonetheless, the album is filled with some great songs. Her follow up, Love Like This (2008), has received good reviews but I have not heard this one yet.
For you Lincoln Brewster fans, word has it that he's working on a new album. No word yet on the release date. In the mean time, I'm still enjoying Today Is The Day. This album has enough guitar solos on it to compensate for the almost universal drought of meaningful lead guitar work that plagues many mainstream Christian albums. I especially like the solo on 'Everywhere I Go'.
I just recently purchased Mandisa's (the gal from American Idol Season 5) latest CD, Freedom, featuring the single 'My Deliverer'. I'm not into vocalists, but this woman can sing. Great album that features a range of guitar applications. Nothing really over the top (for those who may be so inclined), but very tastefully done. The last song 'You Wouldn't Cry (Andrews song)' was rather touching.
I love the song 'Until The Whole World Hears' so much that for the first time ever in the history of the world, I bought Casting Crowns' newest album of which this song is the title track(Until The Whole World Hears). What can I say. The album was OK, but somewhat lackluster. It should be said of the group, however, that they do have a true heart for ministry and my less than stellar opinion is a critique of the finished product rather than an attack on Casting Crowns itself. There were a few worship songs that were nice (there's a pretty cool version of "Joyful Joyful" on there), but nothing that really grabs you like the title track. In fact, the title track (as well that hillbillyish track at the end) seem out of place with the rest of the album.
