The Afters: Live On Forever Giveaway and Review

Is life taking its toll on your life? Feel like you can't just catch a break? Wonder if there is simply any hope in this world anymore? I would ask that you would pick up a copy of The Afters "Live on Forever" CD and be prepared to be blown away. From the very first track, "Shadow" to the title track "Live on Forever" you will be inspired, redeemed and uplifted in a way I can't explain. It will be something you will listen to each and every day.

"Live on Forever is about moving us to trust God, to stand up against fear. It's an 'amp you up' record, an anthem for people's lives: "God you are with me in all this. I'm not alone." ~ Josh Havens (lead singer).

Their latest single Battles is impacting the radio stations now and encourage anyone facing a battle, this is your anthem song. When Havens was asked to pick out a song that sums up the spirit of the album and he chooses "Battles." It was the last song we wrote and the fastest we wrote," he says. "We don't typically write songs fast; we'll change lyrics and melodies and craft our songs carefully. But "Battles" poured out, the music and lyrics, in one day."

It's about standing up against fear and knowing God is always with us. Don't give up to fear. This entire CD will impact you in ways I can't explain. There isn't one single song, that I don't really care for and every single one from the lyrics to the catchy music will have you undoubtedly playing this over and over again. 

There are 10 amazing, soul inspiring songs on this CD, and I can honestly tell you that Shadows is my ultimate favorite since discovering Live on Forever. From the very first moment the song started I was instantly hooked. It's about rising up from the shadows that would attempt to hold us back and keep us away from discovering the light. What else do you have to lose? "Awaken my soul, awaken my senses, this flesh and bones, rise up from the shadows!" It's definitely an anthem song for prodigals who need that inspiration to come back to the fold. The song list includes:

1. Shadows
2. Battles
3. Sunrise
4. Time of My Life
5. Wake Up My Heart
6. Live on Forever
7. Eyes of a Believer
8. Survivors
9. Legends
10 When You're With Me

Live on Forever, the title track was written when the bands longtime soundman, Anthony Martinez, saw his newborn daughter die in infancy. "I remember going to that funeral and seeing a casket that was way smaller than any casket should ever be." Haven recalls. "I will never understand why tragedies like that happen in this life. It was in that moment o floss and sadness that our thoughts turned to eternity. 'What is heaven going to be like? We began writing 'Live on Forever' and pulled from Revelation where it describes heaven as a place where there is no more pain, no more crying, no more suffering."

From Moses to Job to Jesus, the most intrepid heroes in scripture knew times of trouble that multiplied like a plague - but always led, in the end, to mighty celebration. It's easy to assume such stories of trial and triumph are for the Bible's books or the history books. But miracles happen, even when adversity hits hardest. Live on Forever began during a season of tragedy and the redemptive part of this CD comes from the lyrics that will speak to anyone who is searching for hope and a better way than what the world offers from our sufferings and battles we are facing. "God you are with me in all this. I am not alone."

I received The Afters: Live on Forever compliments of Fair Trade and Propeller LLC for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this CD in exchange for my unbiased and personal opinion. I absolutely LOVE this CD and will be using this whenever I find myself feeling down and out facing something in my life that seems hopeless. I know I am not alone and that God is with me. All I need to do is cry out to Him and He will battle it for me. I would rate The Afters: Live on Forever CD a 5 out of 5 stars and will probably wear this one out listening to it so much.

For more information about The Afters, The Afters: Live on Forever CD or where you can pick up a copy of this CD today, please click on the links below:

The Afters: Live on Forever

You can find The Afters on Facebook to stay up to date with all their latest music, tours and more.

Now the really amazing part! Thanks to the generosity of Fair Trade and Propeller LLC, they are offering a giveaway copy of the CD, The Afters: Live on Forever to one lucky follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart. Here are your guidelines to enter:

1. Be a follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart.

2. Be a resident of the U.S. or Canada. Please No P.O. Boxes!

3. Leave me a comment telling me why you'd love to win a copy of this CD in the comment box below. Don't forget to include your email address as well so I have a way to notify you if you're the lucky winner of this giveaway. You can use the words (at) or (dot) instead of the symbols.

The winner will be notified by email when the giveaway ends on September 16th.

The Afters: Live On Forever is available on Amazon, iTunes, Spotify, and Google play or wherever Christian music is available at your favorite store.

Phil Wickham - Children of God CD Review

I have been a huge fan of Phil Wickham's music for quite some time. I've had the privilege of being able to see him live in concert both at my church and at the Harvest Crusade in 2013. His music just moves you in such a way and what I find contagious about Phil Wickham is his undying love for Jesus Christ. It comes through in not only his music, lyrics but in his performance, Now I have the unique opportunity to be able to review his latest CD, Children of God. Even before I had the chance to listen to the entire CD, I fell in love with one of the songs from that track, Your Love Awakens Me, which is rising to the top of the Christian music charts!

Children of God contains 12 songs and truly contains exactly what one would expect to find, devotional songs of mighty worship and praise that will last long after you stop the final song. They are what I call worm songs or soul songs. Ones you find yourself singing when there is no music and that is part of the power and conviction of Phil Wickham's music.

1. Doxology/Amen -  is a worship song that defines the purpose of praise and worship music, that are prayers to Jesus Christ.

2. Better Than Life - will be just like what This is Amazing Grace was to Phil's previous album on this one! Definitely upbeat worship song!

3. Your Love Awakens Me - conveys the sense of what it is like for a believer of Christ to experience God's love in their life. It creates an awakening in their soul. This is such a catchy song and one I know you will absolutely love!

4. The Secret Place - features Madison Cunningham, talks about what its like when we experience God in our hearts. Its a place others can't see, but we can certainly feel. More like a worship song.

5. Wide Awake - Not one of my favorites on this one, but still an uplifting worship song.

6. My All in All - Speaks of the great love and presence of Jesus Christ, who is the stream of life and victor in any battle we face. A definite battle-worthy song! 

7. Starmaker (High Above the Earth) - Definitely a worship song of our dedication for the salvation that Jesus Christ alone offers. I can this one being incorporated by churches as part of their praise and worship service!

8.  Children of God - Another great praise song. It conveys a song about whom children of God are in Christ. We are more than warriors, but children of God.

9. Stand in Awe - Another powerful praise song, that takes what a believer feels for God, and puts it not only in song, but in a prayer to our Heavenly Father!

10. Body Mind and Soul - another praise song, that conveys in the heart of the believer what where our praise and worship comes from, body, mind and soul.

11. As It Is In Heaven - a great song that comes off more like a prayer set to music.

12. Spirit of God - Speaks of our longing for the Spirit of God to have His in our life.

I received Phil Wickham's Children of God compliments of Fair Trade LLC and Propeller LLC for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside for a copy of this DVD in exchange for my personal and honest evaluation. Phil Wickham just has one of those amazing voices you can recognize the moment you hear him. His conviction and devotion comes across in every single song and that is what makes this such a wonderful CD a great addition to your praise and worship music library. This is his first album in three years, for in 2014 Phil Wickham didn't know whether or not he'd ever be able to sing again. He had vocal polyp, a small lesion on his vocal cords, and while doctors could remove it, the outcome would be up to God. Thankfully, we serve an amazing Healer and Creator and Phil is back once again. These are the songs of the reawakened heart, and his passion and love for God come through on every single song. For me, this rates a 4.5 out of 5 stars. The lyrics are not provided in the CD but you can find them by visiting philwickham.com.

For more information on Phil Wickham's Children of God or where you can pick up a copy of this CD today, please click on the links below:

Phil Wickham's Children of God

You can find Phil Wickham on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest projects.

You can buy Phil Wickham's Children of God at the links below: 

I Tunes
Amazon
Spotify

Pizza Ranch and Living Hope CD Review and Giveaway

Here in California I had never heard of the Pizza Ranch. To me sound like a place where people can come stay and learn the art of making pizza in a ranch setting. But that is a far cry from what it really is and those of you living in a place lucky enough to have a Pizza Ranch, you know exactly what I am talking about.

First about Pizza Ranch:

Adrie Groeneweg had a dream that started in Hull, IA, in 1981, when he was just 19 years old.  It was simple.  Why does everyone have to drive out of town to get a pizza?  With just six specialty and single topping pizza recipes developed by Adrie's mother, Lorraine, Pizza Ranch was born.  Pizza Ranch's vision and mission is to glorify God by positively impacting the world and to give every guest a legendary experience.  They have 190+ locations across 13 states including Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Nebraska, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado. Might be time for me to move to one of these amazing locations or simply try one when if I travel to those parts.

Now about the Living Hope CD Project I'm excited to share with you:

On June 2, 2015, Pizza Ranch released a CD called Living Hope containing twelve songs from many of their favorite Christian artists.  Most of the songs are brand-new and written exclusively for this CD around the theme of Hope.  Artists include Colton Dixon, Francesca Batistelli, Ellie Holcomb, Sidewalk Prophets, Kevin Max, Bart Millard, Passion Band featuring Kristian Stanfill, Michael W. Smith, and Mark Schultz.

The CD will be available to purchase for $5 plus tax exclusively in Pizza Ranch restaurants or for download at pizzaranch.com/livinghope through August 31.

From Adrie Groeneweg, President & CEO of Pizza Ranch, Inc.:  "This album has a very special meaning for Pizza Ranch.  Although Pizza Ranch is not in the music business, many things have been happening, conversations have been taking place and doors have been opening for this album.  Through these events, I believe it was obvious that God has been behind this for His specific purpose and putting it on our hearts to collectively create this project.  As such, we call this our miracle album, Living Hope." 

My Review on Living Hope CD

WOW! This is such an amazing CD, and just one song would be worth the $5.00. There is literally something for everyone. My favorites on this one are Colton Dixon's Blind, Kevin Marx's Panic Button and Matthew West's Day One. All of these my family immediately gravitated to and of course with me playing them over and over, I found them signing those songs while they were working on other things. Karl Marx's Panic Button sounds like a mix of Duran Duran blended with The Fixx so 80's music lovers will definitely enjoy this one. Sidewalk Prophet's What Are You Waiting For, reminds me of Rascal Flatt's!

There is truly something for everyone on this CD and would encourage you to share the link above to purchase a copy of this CD if you happen to have a Pizza Ranch near you or download a copy so you don't have to wait. Trust me, you'll absolutely LOVE this one!! All the songs have a central theme of hope so it would be a great gift to someone who is looking for a bit of encouragement by some exceptional Christian artists!!

Now for the best part! Thank to the generosity of Propeller LLC, and Pizza Ranch, they are providing a giveaway copy of the CD to one lucky follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart. Here are your guidelines to enter:

1. Be a follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart

2. "Like" the Pizza Ranch's Facebook page. While there, check out some of the videos by the artists on this CD!

3. Be a resident of the US or Canada. No P. O. Boxes please.

4. Leave a comment below telling me why you'd love to win a copy of this CD! Don't forget to include an email address since that is my only way of reaching you if you're the lucky winner! You can even use (at) and (dot) instead of the symbols.

I will be emailing the winner once the giveaway ends on July 24th, so be sure to pass this along to your friends and family to enter as well, but the best part is picking up a copy of this CD yourself or downloading a copy!

I received Living Hope CD compliments of the Pizza Ranch and Propeller LLC for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation outside a complimentary copy of the CD for my honest review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own. If you have already won a giveaway through Propeller or FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you will be ineligible to participate in this giveaway opportunity. This CD is perfect for those long car drives, which gives you something inspirational to take your mind off that long drive or while sitting in traffic. For me, it was perfect for opening my day with these songs along with my morning Bible devotions. This is well worth all 5 out of 5 stars!

For more information about The Pizza Ranch, Living Hope CD Project, or where you can download a copy of this CD today, please click on the links below:

The Pizza Ranch and Living Hope CD Project

You can find the Pizza Ranch on Facebook to learn more about the project and to check out the artists videos who are part of the Living Hope CD.

For more information on The Pizza Ranch and The Living Hope Project, please visit this website. 

You can find the videos on the YouTube channel for the artists who are featured on the Living Hope CD. 


Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Plumb - Exhale CD Review and Giveaway

"It takes a village to do anything well. This album didn't just happen all by itself. Thank You to the one who truly deserves all the thanks. My true love, Jesus. I have spent most of my life, much less my career, living for me. I believe in natural consequences, so naturally, I eventually crashed and burned in just about every way. In that place, I learned that I don't exist for me but for the one who created me, died for me, forgave me and made me new. Jesus. You not only forgave me for my selfishness, and healed me and restored my home...You have me a second chance to use this gift you've given me to honor and glorify you with it, that others may know your hope.

This record is different than any record I have ever made because it's made solely for You, my Savior. It's made with my new heart for You. I love You, Jesus. As long as I have breath in my lungs I will praise You. This is an act of worship, an offering of thankfulness to you. I have breathed in the grace you so freely offered to me, it has changed me and now I breathe it out into this world through these love letters. Here, I exhale...that it may point others to you. All I am is Yours. ~ PLUMB"

In what I would have to say is definitely an inspired album, Exhale offers just that insight in every single song you find on the newest album from PLUMB. Each song feels like a personal prayer to God song with heartfelt adoration to the one who deserves all our praise and glory. This is such a beautiful tribute to PLUMB's latest vision back to God with a determination you can feel through the words of each song. My favorite, "Lord I'm Ready Now" is definitely one we can all relate to. It's about feeling like a mess and we are looking for something more than what this world has to offer.

The title song Exhale, offers hope to those who are looking for a way out of their problems and can find it in the arms of Jesus. "Smoke" tells the tale of being in a valley of shadow that feels worth than death, but in hearing the voice of God calling, can lead us out of our despair and find a new life again. "Resurrection" offers a new way at looking at our former lives in light of the resurrection of having new life breathed into darkness through faith in God. We too can be resurrected!

There are some great praise songs like Great is Our God, Faithful and Sleep will be Sweet that give all the glory and honor to God that anyone can relate to. This is such a wonderful way to showcase all the honor and glory God has done for all of us and thus a wonderful album to pick up to restore a parched and dry soul.

I received Exhale by PLUMB compliments of Propeller Consulting LLC for my honest review of this CD. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are my own unless otherwise notated. This new CD contains 12 amazing and powerful songs that can covey the personal journey that PLUMB has taken to get to this point in her spiritual walk. It is so much different than anything I have heard from her formerly and think this one will definitely appeal to believers everywhere. I give this one a well deserved 5 out of 5 stars.

Thanks to the generosity of Propeller LLC, they are offering a giveaway copy of Exhale by PLUMB to one lucky follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart. Here are your guidelines to enter:

1. Be a follower of my blog Reviews From The Heart. 

2. "Like" PLUMB's Facebook page!

3. Be a resident of the US or Canada. Please No P.O. Boxes.

4. Leave a comment below telling me why you'd love to win a copy of Exhale and don't forget to include your email address. You can use the words (at) or (dot) instead of the symbols.

I will be notifying the winner by email once the giveaway ends on May 15th.

For more information about Exhale, PLUMB or where you can pick up a copy of this CD today, please click on the links below:

Exhale by PLUMB

You can find PLUMB on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest music.

You can download Exhale on iTunes!

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Ragamuffin - DVD Giveaway and Review

In the world of rising music stars and American Idols, I believe we fail to see the real people hidden behind the record labels and recording studios. The people who exist when all the lights and cameras are gone home for the night. When they are simply all alone with their thoughts. We don't always see the real people, the brutally honest insight into what goes on and what they are really feeling on the inside.

In the DVD Ragamuffin, which chronicles the life of Rich Mullins, you get to see past all the glitz and publicity to watch the rise of what it took back in the late 70s to gain the notoriety we see in our music artists today. Yet the one thing that sticks with you is the honesty in his life. Raised as a farmer who didn't quite possess the skills necessary to gain success in the eyes of his father, Rich gravitated to music in which he excelled naturally. Unfortunately he was seen as less than worthy in the eyes of his own father, which made understanding the love of God difficult. If God loves you, you should believe it. When Rich looked at that model in his own life no matter how many people told him that his real dad loved him, he found that faith hard to swallow.

Throughout the movie, however, Rich never losses his honest faith with connecting with the God of the Bible. His faith is genuine and the messages he shared when playing his music in churches connected with people on a level I don't think many can achieve even now. He wasn't looking for fame, wealthy or success. He simply was looking for a place to call home. He found it briefly when he met a girl named Jess, who provided him that unconditional love, we all need to feel a part of something bigger. But when Nashville called wanting to record his songs for artists like Amy Grant, Jess gracefully bowed out, even though Rich declined to go. She knew he was destined for more and the struggles he makes to find his way in the world, I think everyone can relate to.

I received Ragamuffin compliments of Millennium Entertainment and Flyby Promotions for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed in this review are strictly my own. There are simply too many good things to say about this movie but most of all is that God is genuine and He is real. The story of Rich's life shows how desperately he wanted that connection he had with God to be manifested in human form. He shares how difficult and lonely life can be at times, and I think that hits home with so many. Our lives at times have their moments when we can simply feel all alone and wondering if our one life makes any difference at all. This story of Rich's showcases just how one life can impact and cause the ripples that span long after they begin and I believe that is the message behind it all. I easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about Ragamuffin, Millennium Entertainment or where you can pick up a copy of this DVD today, please click on the links below:

Ragamuffin: Based on the Life of Rich Mullins

You can also find out more information about Rich Mullins by visiting Facebook to learn about the making of this DVD and more.

Thanks to the generosity of Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing a giveaway copy of Ragamuffin to one lucky winner of my blog, Reviews From The Heart. Here are your guidelines to enter:

1. Be a follower of my blog Reviews From The Heart. 

2. "Like" Rich Mullins Film Facebook page.

3. Be a resident of the US or Canada and please No P.O. Boxes.

4. Leave a comment below telling me why you'd love to win a copy of this DVD. Don't forget to include your email address in the comment box as well. You can use the words (at) and (dot) instead of the symbols.

I will notify the winner of the giveaway when it ends on July 16th by email. If I don't hear from you withing 72 hours I will select another winner. So be sure to include your email address with your comment.

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

 Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Miami Vineyard Live - CD Review and Giveaway

Miami Live from Vineyard Resources on Vimeo.

What do you think you'd get if you fused together Black, Anglo, Latino, Caribbean, and Cuban voices together for some worship and praise music?Well you'd have an amazing blend of some music that will make you want to get up and dance. This music reminded me of Gloria Estephan and the Miami Sound Machine if you're at all familiar with that type of music. Love that? Then I just know you are going to love this one.

Holy Spirit Come is the opening song on this 15-song Christian CD and is geared to make you want to stand up, sing and dance! It's that great!

Gloria A Dios Solo (With My Whole Heart) is more slow worship with a sax added to jazz this up! Coupled with Spanish Lyrics, it shows you just how diverse this mix is going to be.

Lord Reign in Me, had to be without a doubt of my 13-year-old's favorite as I sit here listening to it, she's getting her Latin groove on and dancing on by! I mean how you could not fall in love with a CD that can't help but put you in a great mood and get you dancing at the same time.

Miami Vineyard Live is a collection of some of the funniest praise and worship songs I have had the opportunity to listen to and review. Among the 2000 people that attend Miami Vineyard Community Church, there are over a hundred singers, instrumentalists, and songwriters that make up it's eclectic worship ministry. For one night, 20 of these musicians joined together in worship and invited the church to document the sound that is uniquely Miami Vineyard Live.



I received this CD compliments of Vineyard Music and Propeller for my honest review and have to say, I LOVE IT! It's completely different from anything I have ever heard and am so excited to be able to share this with you. This one rates a perfect 5 out of 5 stars. Now for the exciting and best part, thanks to the generous folks at Vineyard Music and Propeller, they are offering a giveaway copy to one lucky follower of my blog Reviews From The Heart. Here's all you need to do to enter:

1. Be a follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart.

2. Be a resident of the US or have a US shipping address.

3. Leave me a comment telling me why you'd love to win a copy of this CD along with your email address. You can use the words (at) and (dot) instead of the symbols. I will be notifying the winner of this giveaway by email when it ends.

This giveaway will end on March 10th and I will notify the winner at that time via email.

For more information on this CD, or where to purchase it, please click on the links below:

Miami Vineyard Live (Latin, Gospel, Island and Funk Worship)

You can visit their official website by clicking here.

For Facebook fans, you can click here to find them on Facebook!

Love All The Way by Brittany Hargest - CD Giveaway and Review

Four years after Hello & Goodbye, the final studio project from pop sensations Jump 5, its youngest member, Brittany Hargest, is jumping back into the spotlight with her release, Love All The Way. Don't underestimate this girl. While she clearly still knows how to have fun, she's not a newcomer, and no longer a kid. At 23, Brittany is a seasoned industry veteran and her confidence and command behind the microphone is evident. She was behind the wheel on this project, having provided writing contributions to most of the songs. Brittany's back, andLove All The Way is sure to be a hit with listeners of all ages.

The album begins with the high-octane "Critical" which talks about the need for action-driven faith to save a world in crisis. Brittany warns, "Too many doing 95 down a dead-end road. We gotta do something quick! It's getting critical." As we witness the depravity of the world, we can't sit back and do nothing. She implores listeners to be part of the solution and calls them to prayer and bold action: "We see too much to act so blind." The song's message is supported by punchy music with heavy beats, chunky guitars that sound like sirens, and an unrelentingly fast pace that perfectly illustrates the urgent need for God in today's world.

At the personal level, "Critical" can also be interpreted as emphasizing the need for a personal faith decision. "It's life and death," she sings. "It is that serious." This song is a good opener for the album, showing the world's need for Jesus. And much of the rest of the record will show us what Jesus' love can do.

The next song, "Slow Motion," moves in anything but slow motion. This driving, beat-laden track encourages the tired and weary not to lose hope: "If you know your heart is broken, that's the moment that it's open. Even in slow motion, you've gotta keep going. Just keep on, keep on going. In slow, in slow motion...." This song definitely belongs on everyone's running playlist! Brittany's vocals are strong and confident, and the track is irresistibly infectious and adrenaline inducing. This song is sure to be a hit with the younger crowd! It carries an energy similar to tobyMac, and should succeed even on mainstreams outlets like Radio Disney.

"Miracle" beautifully demonstrates the difference between what we see when we look at ourselves and what God sees when He looks at us. While we get caught up in our weaknesses and our flaws, God sees our potential: "You see a miracle. You see something beautiful when you look at me. See what I could be." God's love changes us and affects our perspective and the way we perceive the world. That's definitely a miracle worth celebrating!

Standout track "You Met Me" is the most stripped-down on the record. The more straightforward musical delivery of the song showcases Brittany's voice and its power to deliver an important lyrical message: the faithful pursuit of God's merciful love. Jesus' love meets us where we are and takes us as we are: "You met me. Right then and there. When and where I needed love but did not deserve to be loved." The song reminds us that we cannot fix ourselves -- we need a Savior. But it also points out that, thanks to God's mercy, we have no need for shame. Grace transforms us and gives us a new start. At the songs' end, the lyric is cleverly flipped. Brittany's life is changed, she sings in praise to God, "all because I met you."



Brittany Hargest's Love All The Way is full of energy, hope, and heart. My first listen to the record came at the end of a stressful day that was part of a long stretch of difficult days. But this record was just the balm I needed. I came away from it restored, energized, and emboldened. This is the mission and call of Christian music: to encourage, to bring hope, to spread the good news of God's love. Brittany can consider her mission accomplished! The only downside to the record is its brevity – the 10 tracks clock in at just under 33 minutes. However, this album succeeds in showcasing both a talented artist and a merciful, loving, unwavering God. Brittany Hargest doesn't miss a step. She's right on beat with this debut solo project.

I received a copy of Brittany Hargest's Love All The Way CD compliments of Propeller for my honest review and have to say, my family loves it! We would easily rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars. Thanks to the generous folks at Propeller they are offering a giveaway copy of this CD to one lucky follower of my blog. Here are your guidelines:

1. Be a follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart.

2. "Like" my Facebook page, Reviews From The Heart.

3. Be a resident of the US or have a US shipping address. Remember No P.O. Boxes please.

4. Leave me a comment and let me know why you'd like to win a copy of this CD along with your email address. You can use the words (at) and (dot) instead of the symbols. I will notify the winner by email, so please be sure to include it.

The giveaway will end on November 7th and will notify the winner by email at that time.

For more information about this CD and Brittany Hargest, please click on the link below:

Love All The Way by Brittany Hargest

You can also find Brittany on Facebook by clicking here.

Get In, I'm Driving - CD Review and Giveaway

Once you listen to the songs on the latest CD, by Ginny Owens, you will be hooked! This is such a diverse CD with a song guaranteed to appeal to any listener.

This CD is filled with 11 songs from something you can dance and groove to, something you can fall asleep to, reduce your stress levels, a remix of a classic, and even what I would call a 1940's throw back to those classic singers like Ella Fitzgerald.

The title track, Get In, I'm Driving is perfect for those looking for a song to emphasize a way to get back to where we need to be in our spiritual lives. Here in Ginny's own words, she describes, her vision for this song, "I joke about driving a car and try my hand at “driving” my music, but there is no question who is driving my life. No matter how much I fight for the wheel, He continues to show me that my journey is not for me to drive—instead I look to Him to lead and hang on for the ride."

My personal favorites are Rain, Higher Ground and Better That Way. Rain is just a soothing blend of something that is almost indescribable. It's a haunting song with a lovely piano accompaniment that describes the storms we may go through but need to remember above those clouds, the sun still shines, even though we don't feel like it.

“Ever since you went away,

Everything’s been wrong;

My days have felt so empty

And my nights are feeling long.

Feels like it might take years

Before these dark clouds are gone;

But nothing is as it feels-

That’s why I write this song.

‘Cause it looks like rain…”

She wrote this song in less than a day and in an hour had it recorded and ready to go in the studio. Another one my favorites was the remix of Stevie Wonder's song, Higher Ground. At first as I was listening to it, I didn't make the connection because Ginny does such a great job at giving this old song a new kinda spice and make it sound a little dark, which works well. It's hard to believe you're listening to the same song.

Finally bringing back the classy, blues of the 1940's in Better That Way. My hubby stated he is imagining a singer from the 40's in a night club, with a microphone stand and singing this blues like song. Even my 18 year old, teenage daughter said this was her favorite. She is very into vintage, retro throw back styles of a generation from long ago.

Nothing would be complete without appealing to all walks of life and my 12 year old is no exception to sharing her likes. She loved Daughter of Destiny! Her reason, she loves the guitar where she can really rock and groove along with this song. She may not remember the lyrics but with today's generation, they pick them up as they go along. This one is about what we all can become, "Daughter's of God's destiny or plan for us" in our lives.

I received a copy of this CD, Get In, I'm Driving, compliments of Ginny Owens and Propeller for my honest review and in the last 24 hours, it hasn't left my computer. I am constantly listening to it while I work, while I am doing school and even just relaxing at the end of my day. It's that good and why I highly recommend it and award it 5 out of 5 stars. Want to hear even more amazing news, not only is she a 3 time Dove Award Winner, she is completely blind! Despite her physical challenge, she pursued a music career. Songs provide a window into a world Owens can't see and an outlet for her to express her thoughts and dreams.

For more information about this CD, the artist, or where to pick this up now, click on the links below:

Get In, I'm Driving by Ginny Owens

You can also find Ginny at her website, by clicking here or even better on Facebook by clicking here.

Now the exciting part! Thanks to Ginny Owens and Propeller, they are offering a copy to one lucky reader of my blog, Reviews From The Heart. Here's what I need you to do:

1. Tell me how you are following my blog, whether via email subscription, Google Connect, or simply a follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart.

2. Be a resident of the US or simply have a US address, this can be shipped to. Please No P.O. Boxes.

3. I need a way to get in touch with you to let you know, "Hey! You've won!" So be sure to include your email address along with your comment telling me why you really want to get this CD! You can use the words (at) or (dot) instead of the symbols to avoid scams!

The giveaway will end on September 17th, so please be sure to enter before then. I'd love to have you tell everyone else about this as well. If you can't wait, check out her music samples on Itunes or Amazon mp3 now!

Robert Pierre - I'm All In - CD Giveaway and Review

I love it when you find yourself singing a song that I call a soul song. It's a song that sticks with you and you find yourself coming back to it time and time again. Awhile back I had the opportunity to review a sampling of songs from the newest, up and coming Christian artist, Robert Pierre!

Not only is God blessing this young man in bringing others to Christ through his music but the lyrics are like water to a thirsty soul. There are so many great songs on this latest CD out called, I'm All In!

The title track alone is my personal favorite. It's uplifting and shares the message of how as believers we should be completely devoted to our Savior, holding nothing back, giving 100% of ourselves! It's upbeat and would love to listen to this one over and over again.

There are a total of 11 songs on this CD and the lyrics are included so you can enjoy this even more. Some others that have touched my heart and soul are:

Maker of the Stars - a more mellow blend of praise and worship to the One who not only made the stars but everything in this world.

Greater Is He - takes the scripture reference of Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world. It's a perfect worship song to our Lord with whom we get refreshed, strengthen and encouraged while this world would beat us down daily.

For Robert, I’m All In is more than the name of his third studio album, due July 26 from thinkaboutit records. It has become Robert’s life motto as he responds to God’s calling to live fully committed to Him. In addition to writing and recording I’m All In and playing on a summer tour, Robert also leads regular Sunday morning worship at his 800-member Orlando, Fla., church. And he’s done it all as a high school senior.

“All of the songs have something to do with things I was going through my senior year,” Robert said of I’m All In, “preparing to say goodbye to friends and not really knowing what would come next, but finding comfort and peace in the Lord’s plan for my life. The Bible talks about how the eyes of the Lord are searching to and fro throughout the earth, searching for someone whose heart is wholly His, someone He can strongly support. This CD is me saying, ‘I’m all in.’”

Creating I’m All In was a powerfully personal experience for Robert, who teamed with veteran songwriter Jason Ingram (Tenth Avenue North, Sanctus Real, Bebo Norman) and legendary producer Matt Bronleewe (Jars of Clay, Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman) on the album. The result is a collection of songs that enthusiastically and energetically worship God while wrestling with what it means to be a Christian in a world full of difficulty and joy, anxiety and excitement.

I received this CD compliments of Robert Pierre and Propeller for my honest review and can't say enough encouraging things about it. My daughters 18 and 12 both love his music and most of all the ministry of his music. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking to be blessed in a most exciting way. This one rates 5 out of 5 heavenly stars!

The best of this review is the opportunity to bless others with his music compliments of Robert Pierre and Propeller. If you are interested in winning a copy of his latest CD, here are your guidelines:

1. Be a follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart.

2. Be a resident of the US or have a US shipping address. Please No P.O. Boxes.

3. I need a way to contact you if you are the lucky winner so please be sure to include your email address with your comment. You can use the words (at) or (dot) instead of the symbols. Leave a comment and let me know why you would LOVE to win Robert Pierre's CD, I'm All In

The giveaway will end on August 1st. I will notify the winner at that time via email!

For more information about Robert Pierre you can visit his website and listen to the samples of this CD by clicking here.

You can also follow him on Facebook by going here.

Robert Pierre - Giveaway Preview and Review

How could an 18 year old balance a life completing his high school honors work in addition to a full time Christian music ministry? Well meet Robert Pierre!

Robert Pierre is an 18-year-old with a big voice and an even bigger heart; a talented musician and a singer-songwriter who has managed to juggle a music career with hishigh school honors course work. Robert grew up in a Christian home and knew about Christ all his life, but it wasn't until he was confronted by a teacher in seventh grade that he gave his life to Christ. "He looked at me and asked me one simple question," Robert explained, "He asked,''If you were to die right now, and were standing at the gates of heaven, and God asked you why He should let you in... what would you say?'And all I could think to answer honestly was that He shouldn't..." The Spirit used that moment to bring Robert to a point of repentance and salvation that changed his life forever.

It was at that time that Robert committed his talents to the glory of God alone. Soon, the Lord began to open doors of opportunity for Robert to minister to people through music. Robert has already released two nationally distributed records, with three singles hitting the Billboard Christian AC Top 50 hit list. In addition to performing at summer festivals, Christian fund raisers, teen camps, youth groups and schools, Robert has toured nationally with the junior high "Believe" Tour, the inaugural "iShine" Tour and the nation’s largest Christian tour "Winter Jam 2010." This last year, he has spent his time writing and recording his third record, titled “I’m All In,” which is representative of Robert’s passion for not only talking about his Christian faith, but living sold out for Christ. The project has been co-written and produced by award winning songwriters and producers Matt Bronleewe and Jason Ingram. Robert not only sings on this album, but wrote on 10 out of 11 songs, played guitar for the recording, and sang back up vocals.

Now along me, you can preview a few of the songs coming up on the CD he is releasing this summer and download them for FREE! Trust me if you love Tenth Avenue West, Bruno Mars, or Matthew West, then I know you will love, Robert Pierre's music.

The songs available for preview are Jesus, (my personal favorite) along with You Hold Me Now, Breaking My Heart and Identity (this one will be a huge teen favorite for sure once you hear the lyrics. It tells of how difficult it is when you stand for your decision to be sold out for Christ in this world no matter what people may think of you!)

This morning, my 17 year old daughter and I listened and instantly downloaded all these songs because we LOVE them. My daughter related some of them to Bruno Mars and said the song Jesus sounds a lot like Matthew West. So for us, that's a hit in our home. I think the music is definitely uplifting as well as the lyrics give new meaning to the struggles our youth can relate to.

For those of you interested in the free downloads along with the preview of the songs, here are the instructions thanks to Robert Pierre and Propeller:

1. CLICK this link: https://www.noisetrade.com/robertpierre#

2. Once on NoiseTrade, you simply click the Robert Pierre EP image to open the online player.
You will see the 4 songs available for your review: (simply click on the song you'd like to listen too)
1. JESUS
2. YOU HOLD ME NOW
3. BREAKING MY HEART
4. IDENTITY

If you're interested, you may review the song lyrics to these songs by clicking these links:
SONG LYRICS:
1. Jesus: http://www.songlyrics.com/robert-pierre/jesus-lyrics/
2. You Hold Me Now: http://www.songlyrics.com/robert-pierre/you-hold-me-now-lyrics/
3. Breaking My Heart: http://www.songlyrics.com/robert-pierre/breaking-my-heart-lyrics/
4. Identity: http://www.songlyrics.com/robert-pierre/identity-lyrics/

AND, if you're interested in downloading all four songs for FREE to have on your own computer or ipod, NoiseTrade.com provides that downloadable zip file of the 4 songs when you enter your email address, postal code & click NEXT (just under the online player). After you click NEXT, NoiseTrade will email you a link that you can quickly click to have the 4 songs downloaded. I just tried it, and it works. :)

For even more information about Robert Pierre, you can click on his Facebook page by clicking here.

Want someone you can definitely relate to? Check out his favorite past time, water basketball for these amazing trick shots. My daughter LOVED it!