Since we seem to have experts on just about everything here I figured I'd ask around. I like pretty much all types of music and that includes Christian although I don't really think it's a musical style, more of a flavor to other styles.

Anyway, I don't care all that much for the mainstream, mushy stuff that you hear on CCM radio stations. I love more off-the-wall stuff like Christian ska, reggae, and other out-of-the-ordinary. I like the OC Supertones (ska), Stellar Kart and Run Kid Run (kind of post punkish) and Imisi (reggae) quite a bit. I've tried Five Iron Frenzy and they didn't really do it for me. I also have on order a CD called Swing Praise which sounded pretty cool from the previews I heard. I also dig old hymns redone and juiced up. Randy Travis has some jazzed up country versions of some classics that are very cool.

So....anyone out there have any suggestions along these lines?

Thanks,
Ray

One of my favorites is Nicole Nordeman, I don't know if her music will be as edgey as some of your other faves, but she writes wonderful, unconventional lyrics, plays a mean piano and sings like an angel (no pun intended). Might want to sample tunes like "River God" and "Burnin'".... Hope this helps.

http://www.nealmorse.com/

:yes:

Believe it or not, the band Creed is Christian oriented music. Hard rock stuff mind you. Their first album, My Own Prison, is really good. If you like music on the hard side check them out.

How about psych/folk/christian? The Trees-The Christ Tree
www.myspace.com/the treecommunity

Just dont buy the questionable release on Radioactive.Made from a vinyl copy and there is some distortion that I hear with headphones and it triggers off a migrane for me. If you like it ...buy the authorized release You can sample their work at the above site.

I don't listen to CCM, but I listen to a lot of music by Christians (and not just J.S. Bach).

C.S. Lewis was once praised by an admirer thusly, "The World needs more Christian writers like you, Mr. Lewis!"

To which "Jack" Lewis replied, "Madam, the World does not need more Christian writers. What the World needs, are more writers who are Christians."

Lewis’ statement pretty much sums up my attitude toward Contemporary Christian Music. While I recognize the need for (and I certainly enjoy) Praise Music, I’m one of those who doesn’t really want to spend much time listening to Contemporary Christian Music (the Christian music I listen to on the stereo tends to have been written by dead white men prior to the 18th century).

But what gets me excited is hearing Christian influence in contemporary music, usually (but not always) by a contemporary artist who happens to be a Christian. At their best, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Flannery O’Conner were writers whose Christian themes were nearly invisible to the wonderful stories they told.

In contemporary music, I have long been a fan of Bono and U2, John Fahey, T Bone Burnet, Bruce Cockburn, Bob Dylan, Maria Muldaur, Michelle Shocked, Gillian Welch, and Johnny Cash for their constant references to the Good News (both subtle and not so) in contemporary music. Their lives as Christians infuse their work, indwell it even, but in a way that can be absorbed by non-believers. That may be the only way many will ever hear the Gospel.

I also find the best Christian news reporting not on FOX News, or CBN, but on what must seem like a very unlikely place: National Public Radio. Again, much of the news reporting on All Things Considered and Morning Edition is the result of news producers whose worldview is profoundly Christian, that can be delivered to a non-Christian audience in a way that they can hear, and perhaps can even be touched through. As I write this, NPR is doing a long story on a revival of roots gospel music. The name of Jesus, and the story of his Grace, is filling the cabins of Volvos across America! It was on NPR that I first heard of Over the Rhine, Moby, Innocence Mission, and Gillian Welch, as well as the powerfully Christian contemporary classical compositions of Arvo Part, and the avant-garde composer Gavin Bryars’s stunning “Jesus' Blood Never Failed Me Yet”.

A contemporary band that I have been listening to a lot lately is one that falls into this category. Clearly Christian thematically, their records were released at first on the alternative IRS label, and now on Virgin Records, where they are securely placed in the Alt Rock bins at record stores. The band is called “Over the Rhine,” named for an old German immigrant area of Cincinnati that is now a typically mid-west inner city neighborhood. Good stuff, check ‘em out.

But I look forward to seeing how this thread grows.

That quote from Lewis is really awesome. If you want some artists that are Christians, I recommend Pedro the Lion (goes by just David Bazan now). His music is very much reminiscent of Flannery O'Connor's writing style.

If you're looking for christian music, I suggest Sufjan Stevens and the new Don Chaffer stuff. He's the genius behind Waterdeep. All the Waterdeep stuff is great, but his new projects are REALLY great.

I liked Over The Rhine until their last release, which beat me over the head with The Message unmercifully.

There are some bands, Virgin Black and Klank, for example, who have Christian members but prefer to remain in the general market.

:banana: :thmbsp: :smoke: :tresbon:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_metal


Carl

ugh, stick with indie christian.

ugh, stick with indie christian.

No thanks. :)

Carl

No thanks. :)

Carl


Well, bless you anyway, sir.

No thanks. :)

Carl

Don't get me wrong, there are some great non-indie Christian artists (ie, Rich Mullins), but they are few and far between.

I like a lot of the older stuff, like Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Mahalia Jackson, The Soul Stirrers and The Five Blind Boys. In the newer stuff, I like when the message is there, but doesnt smack you in the face.

I liked Over The Rhine until their last release, which beat me over the head with The Message unmercifully.

Could've been their ALMOST break-up that produced that.

it's a marketing label and nothing more. there are 'christian' roofers, cleaners, plumbers, therapists (don't get me started), bookstores, car detailers, etc and so on. it is pure marketing. if you want a safe, uncontested marketplace, and who wouldn't except for those with some self respect, call your service/product/artistic enterprise/whatever 'christian' and they will come....

Believe it or not, the band Creed is Christian oriented music. Hard rock stuff mind you. Their first album, My Own Prison, is really good. If you like music on the hard side check them out.

Or you could check out Tremonti's new band, Alterbridge.

You could also check out:

Audio Adrenaline
Bleach
Burlap to cashmere
Caedmon's Call
The Waiting
Smalltown poets
Jeremy Camp
The David Crowder Band
Phono
Reliant K
Switchfoot
Superchic(k)

For some really off the wall stuff:

Demon Hunter

And for the Greatest Hair-Band Christian Rock ever:

Whitecross

Is Chris Rice still recording? I like him.

Some of my favorite artists who are also Christians,and whose music very often have Christian themes include:

T-Bone Burnett
Bruce Cockburn
Al Green(From The Belle Album onwards)
Aretha Franklin(Amazing Grace,and another newer gospel recording whose name escapes me)

These are just the ones off the top of my head.Usually for me,the most interesting music with Christian themes are the ones that arent branded as Christian Music.
Just my two cents.....
Jimmy

it's a marketing label and nothing more. there are 'christian' roofers, cleaners, plumbers, therapists (don't get me started), bookstores, car detailers, etc and so on. it is pure marketing. if you want a safe, uncontested marketplace, and who wouldn't except for those with some self respect, call your service/product/artistic enterprise/whatever 'christian' and they will come....

I especially like the ads from personal injury attorneys, with a little ichthus on the bottom. :yes: ;)

These are just the ones off the top of my head.Usually for me,the most interesting music with Christian themes are the ones that arent branded as Christian Music.
Just my two cents.....
Jimmy

Bingo.

hey, weren't Stryper s'posed ta be...Christian?

Although their stuff is hard to find, Trouble is probably the best Christian heavy metal band ever. They were labeled White Metal (as opposed to Black Metal). Here's a write-up by a born again metalhead: http://www.nolifetilmetal.com/trouble.htm

it's a marketing label and nothing more.

Ummm, thanks. But I'm not looking for music labelled as Christian, I'm looking for Christian music. I don't care if it's called Christian, ska, rap, opera, or showtunes on kazoo. It's about the music, not where you find it in the record store. I never use the "genre" tag on my digital media. It doesn't mean anything to me.

And as for Stryper, I guess I should have prefaced by saying "good music". :D

Lots of great suggestions to wade through. Of all of them I've heard of a handful and have a couple. I do have a Reliant K disc and it's good and bad. Some of it is great, some just silly. I'll be checking out others as I can. Thanks all, and keep 'em coming.

Ray

Ray

Ray, if you like Alt-Country, get Mindy Smith (http://www.amazon.com/One-Moment-More-Mindy-Smith/dp/B00012FXQI/ref=pd_bbs_sr_2/002-1948443-3592864?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1183321624&sr=8-2)'s first album (or grab a couple of tunes off iTunes).

16 Horsepower (http://www.amazon.com/Sackcloth-n-Ashes-Sixteen-Horsepower/dp/B000002G47/ref=pd_bbs_1/002-1948443-3592864?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1183321660&sr=1-1) is/was a GREAT goth-swamp-alt-hillbilly band.

Woven Hand (http://www.amazon.com/Consider-Birds-Woven-Hand/dp/B000654YZG/ref=pd_bbs_sr_2/002-1948443-3592864?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1183321816&sr=1-2) (same guy... sorta-solo) is another one to check out.

Ollabelle (http://www.amazon.com/Ollabelle/dp/B0001I2CE8/ref=pd_bbs_sr_2/002-1948443-3592864?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1183321852&sr=1-2) (1st album), Tarbox Ramblers (http://www.amazon.com/Fix-Back-East-Tarbox-Ramblers/dp/B0000WN0XW/ref=sr_1_1/002-1948443-3592864?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1183321885&sr=1-1) (2nd album) also highly recommended.

Mary Gauthier (http://www.amazon.com/Filth-Fire-Mary-Gauthier/dp/B0009J2RR6/ref=pd_bbs_sr_2/002-1948443-3592864?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1183321914&sr=1-2), lots of hurt and sin, but all about the Gospel.

All good!

Understood--music about the topic at hand ...... the first that come to mind:

Rascal Flatts
Chris Daughtry
Testament
P.O.D.
Revis


There's a little ditty on a bad release from Dokken called Convenience Store Messiah, which parodies idol worship in the modern times. They do explore christian themes from time to time.

I will have to think a bit more.. There's a lot of mainstream artist out there that have some degree of faith and write relavent to the subject songs

And for a list of labelled bands not mention so far, for giggles:

Sanctus Real
Pillar
Tobymac
Seventh Day Slumber
Falling Up
Rob Cassels band
Mylon LeFevre and Broken Heart
DC Talk
Todd Agnew
Thousand Foot Crutch
Kutless
Skillet
KJ-52
Day of Fire
Big Tent Revival
John Reuben
Hawk Nelson
seven Places
Kids in the way
dizmas
House of heroes
Underoath
Petra

. I don't care if it's called Christian, ska, rap, opera, or showtunes on kazoo. It's about the music, not where you find it in the record store.
Ray

Lots a bluegrass and country out there. Don't know if ya like any of that. I listen to some of everything, so no judgments here :D

I listen to some of everything, so no judgments here :D

"Do not judge, or you too will be judged." :yes:

Damn! This has been a Hell Fire thread today!:lmao:

Damn! This has been a Hell Fire thread today!:lmao:

Well Hell, boy! It's Sunday in the South (here)! :D

:lmao::lmao::lmao::lmao:

Lots a bluegrass and country out there. Don't know if ya like any of that. I listen to some of everything, so no judgments here :D

Roger that. I've got a good collection of Randy Travis and Alison Krauss (as well as solo efforts from various members of Union Station). Also Alan Jackson did a good remake of old hymns on "Precious Memories". Originally in this thread I was looking for more "hoppin" stuff than that but I'm open to any suggestions.

Ray

Roger that. I've got a good collection of Randy Travis and Alison Krauss (as well as solo efforts from various members of Union Station). Also Alan Jackson did a good remake of old hymns on "Precious Memories". Originally in this thread I was looking for more "hoppin" stuff than that but I'm open to any suggestions.

Ray

Well, there was a compilation album done by Earl Scruggs with various artist such as Travis Tritt, Dwight Yokum, Melissa Etheridge, Don Henly and others that I think you would like, as far as bluegrass goes. I'm still thinkin. I could send you a copy anytime. There's a lot of material out there that you are requesting, just can't remember them all. I'm stuck on Hotel California and Stairway to Heaven right know. Check out Alterbridge -- Not bad at all.

Are you talking about "Earl Scruggs and Friends"? I have that allstar version of Foggy Mt. Breakdown which is incredible. Not quite the Christian stuff I was looking for but very good bluegrass. I have the album on my wish list, just haven't picked it up yet.

And the Hell Freezes Over version of Hotel California is one of my test songs. :)

Ray

Are you talking about "Earl Scruggs and Friends"? I have that allstar version of Foggy Mt. Breakdown which is incredible. Not quite the Christian stuff I was looking for but very good bluegrass. I have the album on my wish list, just haven't picked it up yet.

And the Hell Freezes Over version of Hotel California is one of my test songs. :)

Ray

yep, that's the one

Of couse, there's always John Sebastian...









...Bach.


;)

Ok, catching up a little. I've been checking out stuff as it pops up here.

A lot of stuff suggested has been really great music (Morse, Nordeman, Over the Rhine) but just not quite what I'm looking for. My wife really likes Waterdeep and though I like the music it doesn't really draw me in.

The Virgin Black stuff is very interesting and I can see me picking that up.

Now for Dr. D, take 1: I liked The Waiting and David Crowder. I have some Reliant K. Most of the rest are good but not my cup of tea.


For some really off the wall stuff:

Demon Hunter

Hmmmm, Not sure I'm up for that particular wall. :)


And for the Greatest Hair-Band Christian Rock ever:

Whitecross

NOW you're talking! I'm a child of the 80's growing up with Def Leppard, Poison, etc. I never liked Stryper at all but Whitecross makes me want to get out the spandex pants and hairspray for Sunday morning.

Chris Rice - I love Cartoons. Don't know much more but I'll check up.

T-Bone Burnett - very diverse. He warrants more investigation too.

Trouble - I have trouble (ahem) with this as the mood/tone seem diametrically opposite to the stated purpose. It's like Christian Depress Metal or something. Maybe it's just me and I don't "get it".

I'll move on to PM Summer's country stuff and Dr. Dirt take II as I can and report back again.

Thanks again to all!!

Ray

Here's an approach you might find interesting. I make compilations for my kids and friends of music that has been influenced by the gospel message... even if the artist is resistant. Keeps stuff in context for me.

Here's a CD slip for one.

http://img107.imageshack.us/img107/5324/hidnxcb9.jpg

Regarding CCM, it's good to read about Sam (ne: Leslie) Philips, wife of T-Bone Burnett and CCM escapee. CCM can be an ugly, hypocritical, abusive world.

So, don't forget her music, too, as it's good stuff.

I liked Over The Rhine until their last release, which beat me over the head with The Message unmercifully.

The Grace of the Lord, which passeth all human understanding, has given you a headache? :lmao:

Have you ever seen the episode of King of the Hill where Bobby joins the Christian heavy metal band? It's hilarious.

Maybe you can help me out. Occasionally I pick up a style of old music on Christian radio while driving over the road, with a backbeat similar to or heavier than the chorus of "Flowers on the Wall" by the Statler Bros. Is there a name for it, and/or have any recs?

Ray, you listen to showtunes on kazoo? :D Btw, charming daughter.

Pete

Well this thread finally got to me!
I'm listening to:
What would You Give In Exchange For Your Sole & Father's Table Grace by
Lester Flatt & The Nashville Grass

Well this thread finally got to me!
I'm listening to:
What would You Give In Exchange For Your Sole & Father's Table Grace by
Lester Flatt & The Nashville Grass

His shoes wore out? ;)

P.S. I'm ripping the music from Fly Jefferson Airplane for back-up, as I type. Just <cough> FYI.

Maybe you can help me out. Occasionally I pick up a style of old music on Christian radio while driving over the road, with a backbeat similar to or heavier than the chorus of "Flowers on the Wall" by the Statler Bros. Is there a name for it, and/or have any recs?


No clue here, Pete.

No clue here, Pete.

Well at least I'm not alone in my clue-less-ness. :)

Anyone? It sounds like old country or hill music.

Pete

For the Whitecross-era

Barren Cross
Guardian
Rez
Joshua Perahia
Shout
Impellitteri

Some others:

sindizzy
Harmony
Bride
Holy Soldier
Disciple
Majestic Vanguard
Rob Rock
Rage of Angels
Red
Jonah 33
Leviticus
Emery
12 Stones
Eowyns
Flyleaf
Neviah Nevi
Seven Systems

Chevelle
Lifehouse
Delerious?
The Almost
Barlowgirl
Velour 100
Tree63
zoegirl
Poor Old Lu
MercyMe
The Voilet Burning
Hawk49
Big Daddy Weave
Storyside:B
Day of Fire

zoegirl
MercyMe


Man, do you know all these bands or are you cheating? If the former, very impressive. If the latter, welcome to the club.

I don't know the rest of this list but these 2 are pretty much what I'm trying to get away from. I'm looking for something different. Reggae, ska, punk, big hair "metal", polka, whatever. But stuff that doesn't sound like everything else they play on CCM radio.

Pete: the showtunes on kazoo collection is alarmingly small. Any suggestions?

Ray

Man, do you know all these bands or are you cheating? If the former, very impressive. If the latter, welcome to the club.

I don't know the rest of this list but these 2 are pretty much what I'm trying to get away from. I'm looking for something different. Reggae, ska, punk, big hair "metal", polka, whatever. But stuff that doesn't sound like everything else they play on CCM radio.

Pete: the showtunes on kazoo collection is alarmingly small. Any suggestions?

Ray

I don't like those to either. Ya got me, I had to cheat a little bit, I couldn't remember them all. I have heard all of them at one time or another, some I like, some I don't. Cross off Barlowgirls. Punk you say?

Ok, mostly cheat:

Hawk nelson
Sam's the hero / Son's of Noah
Flatfoot 56
crashdog
scatered Few
Alterboys
Five Iron Frenzy
The Last Hope
Slick Shoes
Stellar Kart
One Bad Pig
MxPx

I Know it's ordinary but the news boys,Third Day, Petra and stryper are good gospel rock groups that I have.

I know this thread is kinda dead but... here's what I have to add...


Ten Shekel Shirt
Jason Gray
Sweet Deliverance
Mark Schultz

The first 3 are more "under the radar" and Mark Schultz is more mainstream but still good.

Chuck and Johnny Wesley remain among my favs.

That guy J.S. Bach was pretty good (I think he's been mentioned once). Wrote some pretty good tunes, and he was a German Lutheran to boot. Bill Handel did that "Joy to the World" thing way before Hoyt Axton. As erstwhile Christian-mystic-pseudo-rocker Bruce Cockburn observed of Billy H: "he sure knew how to pack a tune with hooks".

Speaking of which...

Every one of you should go out and buy a copy of Cockburn's album Christmas right now if you dont' have it.

Every one of you should go out and buy a copy of Cockburn's album Christmas right now if you dont' have it.

What he said.

Ray W.,

Don't know if you're still looking around for good Christian music to listen to, but if you are, I recommend this album from the first wave of the Jesus rock movement:

Wilson McKinley -Spirit Of Elijah, 1971

Wilson McKinley are a band, not an individual, who were from Spokane, WA. Great circa late 60s early 70s San Francisco ballroom vibe. Sad fact is that I don't think this outstanding album has been reissued on CD, but a 2-CD comp issued by the remaining band memebrs includes all but a couple of tracks from Spirit of Elijah.

I'm no Christian, but I've always liked ~ Jars Of Clay

What have you found so far? I think I get what your throwing down, so give us your impressions. Did you find Barren Cross? Have you checked out Brother Cain, Alterbridge, or Daughtry yet?

-Rob

I'm no Christian, but I've always liked ~ Jars Of Clay

Second that, interesting sound and songs.

I'm really glad this thread is here, thanks to deeder for resurrecting it (no pun intended...ok, maybe a little).

To whomever asked about the Statler Bros. style music, it's Southern Gospel. Most of it was poorly recorded low-budget stuff, but there have been some great groups, with wonderful harmonies. From the 60's and 70's the premier groups were the Statesmen and Blackwood Brothers. From the 70's to the 90's the premier group was the Cathedral Quartet. From them came Legacy 5, probably the biggest group currently. With Southern Gospel, you get anything from campy tent-meeting stuff to lush, smooth jazz and swing based groups.

Maire Brennan (of late). Changed the spelling of her name for the phonetically challenged: http://www.moyabrennan.com/

My favorite CD by her is "Whisper To the Wild Water"--best song "From Where I Stand".

Great thread. I saw Handel's Messiah, the first orchestral movement, on Sunday - live. Not everyone was Christian there - many music and singing lovers. Good music moves you.

Lenny Kravitz has some good God tunes. I need truth and I need love.

Ken

If it hasn't been mentioned, The Del McCoury Band ~ The Promised Land, is a fine gospel/bluegrass recording.

Prince has a few "The Cross" comes to mind. "Creeping Death" from Metallica's Ride the Lightning is good one.

Some of my favorite Christian music is Petra's earlier stuff, with lead singer Greg X. Volz. Their music with John Schlitt is pretty good, but just got harder, and not necessarily any better. Also, DC Talk music from the mid to late 90's is (for the most part) fantastic. If I need to rock out, it's either the songs Jesus Freak or Supernatural. Third Day is exceptionally good, and is my favorite current band. I especially like their earlier stuff; it was a little grittier, and had more of a southern rock flavor. Their recent albums have been more AC/power ballad, but I love it when they ROCK!!!

Also, Rich Mullins (folk-rock) was a musical genius. He passed away several years ago, while still in his prime, but his music is regarded as some of the best ever from Christian artists.

As far as modern Christian pop/rock goes, the production quality is lightyears beyond what it used to be. And, there is a tremendous amount of new talent, especially in the alt/indie scene. I am lucky (or blessed!) that I get two all-Christian-alternative-all-the-time FM stations where I live, so I get to hear a lot of the latest and greatest songs. There are some clunkers, to be sure, but lots of great stuff.

Some of my favorite Christian music is Petra's earlier stuff, with lead singer Greg X. Volz. Their music with John Schlitt is pretty good, but just got harder, and not necessarily any better.

I liked the John Schlitt stuff.......with Petra and Head East. Good voice. Let me add a few more that haven't been mentioned yet, Phil Keaggy. Great guitar player. And Michael Card. When I was younger, my mother drug us to see this guy live. I liked him ever since. Kinda folky, but a great songwriter. My mom used to listen to a group called Harvest. I can't remember any songs, I seem to recall they were decent.
-Derek:music:

My favorite Petra / John Schlitt albums were This Means War & Beyond Belief. They started losing me with Wakeup Call. There were some good songs on it, but the album as a whole didn't capture me like the previous ones.

Here's a funny Petra story. On their Beat The System album is the song, "God Gave Rock And Roll", by Gene Simmons. When I was in high school, one of my best friends was a big KISS fan. I gave him a Petra tape to copy for me, and he freaked out when he heard a Christian band do a cover of a KISS song!

Any Steve Taylor fans?

Any Steve Taylor fans?

I have an old album(On The Fritz) on my computer. I think I just randomly downloaded it one time and never deleted it. Not really my thing but it isn't bad.

Gimmi that Old time Gospel. Along the lines of, Ruff side of the mountain. By the Spencers.

You want "old timey?"

Tennessee Ernie Ford.

What a great voice! Easy to find his vinyl at GW too.

I've got a cut of Mavis Staples of a Stephen Foster song that brings tears to my eyes sometimes.

Two more excellent examples from the late 60s & early 70s:

Search Party - Montgomery Chapel, 1969

Moody & mesmerizing Christian folk rock, most of the songs written by a middle-aged Catholic priest.

Guitar Ensemble - The You-N-You, 1971

An all-time favorite inspirational visionary late night trip.

cant forget skillet! right now im on relian k, switchfoot, and skillet!

For hardcore I recommend Project 86.
Also check out a band called The Listening. They are the best sounding christian rock band I have ever heard. Positive Christian lyrics without seeming over-religious in your face. When I first heard them I thought - wow this is an awesome alternative band- then somebody told me they were a Christian band.

cant forget skillet! right now im on relian k, switchfoot, and skillet!

You certainly cannot forget Skillet. The new CD has some good songs on it.:music:

I realized this morning that I earlier referred to little Georgie Handel as "Bill".
What was I thinking!?

I gave up on Moira with 'Misty Eyed Adventures'. Are you saying that I should re-look at her solo stuff. I was a Clannad fan from way back.


Christian:
Daily Planet - one hit wonder but a really good album.

Wow, I had no idea this thread would come back from the dead (to keep the resurrection theme going).

I've sampled a bunch of the stuff listed the first time around and a little caught my fancy but I didn't act on much. I did pick up a Greatst Hits of Whitecross just for fun. :D

I've since gotten a couple of discs. I got "Swing Praise" which I mentioned in the OP and it's pretty good stuff. Really hopping, neo-swing a la Zoot Suit Riot. I like it.

I've also borrowed a couple of discs like Switchfoot which was musically very good but didn't really grab me. I did pick up Run Kid Run. I'm not sure how big they are but they're local to me and pretty good.

I've also been helping out some kids from my church get their band going. They're called Mustard Seed and they have a myspace page with some of their tunes at:
http://www.myspace.com/mustardseedband
Most of their recordings are ones that I lifted from tapes of Sunday morning services. They're about 17 years old and writing their own stuff. Not too bad, considering.

Right now I'm on my yearly Christmas music kick. I love the music of the season so everything else gets back-burnered (can I verbify that?). I just picked up Ella Fitzgerald's Christmas album and it's great. I guess most of what I'm listening to is Christian by definition of Christmas but I tend to lump it seperately in my head.

Thanks for getting this going again and I'll start looking at the new suggestions. I'm pretty sure Matthew (the guitarist behind Mustard Seed) has some Skillet so I'll hit him up.

I do have some Grits, which I understand is a derivation of DC Talk. I also have some Handel and Bach, and yes they definitely know their stuff. I have a version of Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring by Leo Kottke that is simply amazing.

One more out of the ordinary that I've had forever and just didn't think about is Shinehead. He's one of the forerunners of dancehall, being born in Jamaica and raised in NY. I first heard him back in the late 80's on MTV. At the time he came across more as just a squeaky clean lyricist but his 2nd album, The Real Rock, is overtly Christian. Check out the title track if you get a chance. A little campy maybe but I like it.


Ray

1. In my SACD player now is Johann Sebastian Bach, The Four Great Toccatas and Fugues, The Four Antiphonal Organs of the Cathedral of Freiburg, Played Simultaneously by E. Power Biggs. Sony Classical SS 87983 (SACD).

2. Also recommended: "Misa Coiolla, A dynamic spiritual performance of the Catholic Mass based on the rhythms and traditions of Hispanic America sung by Los Fronterizos." Philips Stereo PCC 619 (long playing record). The Fi is Hi.

3. Leonard Bernstein's / Mass. Columbia Masterworks M2 31008 (long playing record)

Amy Grant is another. Excellent voice, well-done recordings. I picked up her "Collection" LP in ye olde curiousity shop (a.k.a. GW store) for no good reason at all. I was immediately impressed with "Stay For Awhile", a minor masterpiece (though it has no obvious Christian connection). It's become a standard of sorts for its clarity and well balanced sound; the first thing I play in a listening session.

The rest of the tracks on the album do have a real Christian connection, and I think they're well done, even if the words are mostly bosh. Angels don't watch over me...more like demons trip me up.

As for J.S. Bach, STAY AWAY from any live concerts, unless you have a couple thousand $$ to spare. Listen to that stuff live and you'll come back, hate your speakers, and long for better ones.

Amy Grant is another.

I have Legacy, which is a great remake of classic stuff. And I have her Christmas album which is fantastic. Good stuff. :thmbsp:


As for J.S. Bach, STAY AWAY from any live concerts, unless you have a couple thousand $$ to spare. Listen to that stuff live and you'll come back, hate your speakers, and build better ones.

Had to fix that for you. :yes:

Ray

As for J.S. Bach, STAY AWAY from any live concerts, unless you have a couple thousand $$ to spare. Listen to that stuff live and you'll come back, hate your speakers, and long for better ones.
Actually, when I listen to the Bach / Biggs it reminds me of the pipe organs that I listened to in several different churches. My speakers seem to handle the music pretty well. The SACD is multi-channel and when played back on my multi-channel system it really places me in the cathedral of Freiburg. I am using AR3’s for the low frequencies. :thmbsp:

Nobody mentions Seatrain? That is rather surprising when even KSAN gave Song Of Job airplay back in the day.



Carl

Quote:
As for J.S. Bach, STAY AWAY from any live concerts, unless you have a couple thousand $$ to spare. Listen to that stuff live and you'll come back, hate your speakers, and build better ones.

Had to fix that for you. :yes:

Ray

I start building my own speakers and I'm in it really deep. Which will probably happen. I've already done the "gateway drugs" of modifying speakers with replacement tweeters.

As for the Bach concerts I've attended, they do feature organ music, but also a small orchestra and vocalists. The latter two are really tough to get right, IMO. Part of it may be that the recordings were done in different acoustic environments than the concerts, though.

I start building my own speakers and I'm in it really deep. Which will probably happen. I've already done the "gateway drugs" of modifying speakers with replacement tweeters.

Come to the dark side. We have cookies.

I haven't been to a Bach concert in a while. We don't have much culture down here in the hinterlands. The nearest concert hall is Evansville, IN and last I checked they were doing "Too Hot to Handel" which might be a good show. I'll have to check up.

Ray

I've been a long time fan of the Lost Dogs. From their web site:

"The Lost Dogs began as an exciting collaboration between four brilliant frontmen/songwriters, creating music that transcended the musical boundaries of their respective bands. Terry Taylor (DA, the Swirling Eddies), Gene Eugene (Adam Again), Derri Daugherty (The Choir), and Michael Roe (The 77s, MichaelRoe.com) over the past ten years have released five eclectic albums of traditional American music (country, folk, blues, rock) with a decidedly modern feel. Over the course of time, the Lost Dogs have built a loyal and growing base of alt-country and roots fans including genre artists such as Buddy and Julie Miller, the Kentucky Headhunters, and Phil Madeira."

Gene Eugene passed away and has been replaced by Steve Hindalong.

These guys are easy to like. A nice nice mix of country/rock/even Beach Boys sound! A great sense of humor also.

In my area is a Low Power FM Christian Rock station, and I have to admit, 90% of the stuff I hear is really decent music. Too bad I have no idea what any of the artists or titles are, as there are no DJs whatsoever.
Other than that little goldmine, I've heard a few tunes by Jennifer Knapp that made me quite happy.
Tom

RadioU.com in Columbus is prolly one of the best rock stations playing christian stuff.

RadioU.com in Columbus is prolly one of the best rock stations playing christian stuff.

Speaking of great Xn music... Jace's avatar is of Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, and Jerry Lee Lewis laying down a bunch of Gospel tracks at Sun Records.

I'm really glad this thread is here, thanks to deeder for resurrecting it (no pun intended...ok, maybe a little).

To whomever asked about the Statler Bros. style music, it's Southern Gospel. Most of it was poorly recorded low-budget stuff, but there have been some great groups, with wonderful harmonies. From the 60's and 70's the premier groups were the Statesmen and Blackwood Brothers. From the 70's to the 90's the premier group was the Cathedral Quartet. From them came Legacy 5, probably the biggest group currently. With Southern Gospel, you get anything from campy tent-meeting stuff to lush, smooth jazz and swing based groups.

That would be me :). Thanks!

No one's mentioned the Rez Band for hard rock?

Pete

I don't think anyone's mentioned Switchfoot. Pretty variable but when they're good they're good.

I would add some/any Keith Green to the playlist,The Bill Cantos Project adds some smooth jazzy sounds to some christian classics.Definately any Caedmon's Call!I seem to remember a guy called Lloyd Thogmartin had some reggae sounding stuff.Hmmm...


Blessings all.

Personally, I like the older Xttian music, such as, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Mahalia Jackson kind of stuff.

Definately any Caedmon's Call!

Blessings all.

In that case, don't overlook Derek Webb.

Some great ones you guys have left out:

Gram Parsons
Louvin Brothers
Ben Harper
John Coltrane

Guess I prefer great music by musicians who just happen to be christians than mediocre music with christian themes.

Oh, and most blues musicians are really circuit preachers in disguise.

Guess I prefer great music by musicians who just happen to be christians than mediocre music with christian themes.

Oh, and most blues musicians are really circuit preachers in disguise.

Can I get an "Amen!"?

Some great ones you guys have left out:

Gram Parsons
Louvin Brothers
Ben Harper
John Coltrane

Guess I prefer great music by musicians who just happen to be christians than mediocre music with christian themes.

Maybe.
If yr Xtian but yr music obscures yr 'saltiness', it may be a 'clanging of gongs'....

Ben Harper's greatness must be in the ear of the listener.

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/3765/p3140003hm6.jpg

BACH: VOL. VI
J.S. Bach
Albert Schweitzer, organ
at the Parish Church, Gunsbach, Alsace

Columbia Masterworks


Referencing the chorale motet Vater unser im Himmelreich:

"This composition is governed by Bach's rhythm of blessedness. In these sounds one cannot discern any lament over the fact that all men walk towards death. Bach describes joyful hope for the noble existence that the faithful will have after death."

-- Albert Schweitzer

good call on the Coltrane!

http://img162.imageshack.us/img162/3812/deeprv5.jpg

DEEP RIVER
The Spirit of Gospel Music in Jazz
The Jim Cullum Jazz Band
with Clark Terry, Nicholas Payton, Topsy Chapman, and Nina Ferro

Riverwalk

http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B0007MULY6.01-AQID604NEU0PV._SS500_SCLZZZZZZZ_V1106617722_.jpg

GOSPEL NIGHTS/YES! JESUS LOVES ME
Maria Muldaur, and John Fahey

Takoma/Allegiance 2-fer ceedee

They might cringe, but...

http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/ed/32/330e225b9da0aa7f4254f010.L.jpg

FILMS FOR RADIO
Over the Rhine

Back Porch

I've got a different sort of recommendation.

Last month, I mail-ordered a cheap used copy of Encyclopedia of Contemporary Christian Music by Mark Allen Powell. It was published in 2002 and came with a CD-ROM with the book in a big PDF file.

The book isn't perfect. Its a few years out of date, there are a few omissions (particularly Christ Tree by The Trees Community), and the author (a theologian) likes to criticize songs where he doesn't agree with the theology. For example, he manages to bad-mouth the song "Shotgun Angel" in three different artist entries. He does call things as he sees them, and isn't shy about covering scandals involving CCM figures.

On the plus side, as with the best of music books, it has inspired me to purchase music. I've been purchasing lots of cheap CDs based on what I've read, such as a 99 cent Aaron Sprinkle CD at a local store last week. I've ordered about 10 CDs for $2 or less from Half.com, and added a pile to my wish list to watch for cheap copies in the future. Dietiphobia, Atomic Opera, Caedmon's Call, Paul Colman Trio, Phil Keaggy, Charlie Peacock, The Prayer Chain, Fleming & John, Jars of Clay, Vigilantes of Love, The Aunt Bettys, Rick Altizer, and so on.

Too much music for me to process and recommend, but I can recommend the book for anyone wanting to delve farther into Jesus Music, Christian Rock, and other CCM.

anybody mention The Trees? (70's folk)
or Low? (90's slo-core)

Okay, I'll admit I didn't read all the posts, so I may be redundant here.

If you're into celtic style music that is powerful and energetic, you need to check out Leahy. It's a group of nine brothers and sisters from Toronto, Canada. I understand they are christian.

The scottish rock group Runrig has got some cool music. Like nothing you've heard.

As for rock with a unique vocalist, check out the Robbie Seay Band.

I can't think of anything else that hasn't been covered . . .

Yolanda Adams is my favorite christian singer. She has an amazing voice!!:music: Check out her video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PgZFYBiojTs

I recommend Vigilantes Of Love. Very well done. Christian themes without the preaching

recently stumbled into 'Starflyer 59' which is sort of alt rock.
really, really good stuff (I got 'Gold' and 'Talking Voice/Singing Voice'); would recommend to any music lover, Christian or no.
based on earlier recom, just ordered a Waterdeep cd.

anybody mention The Trees? (70's folk)

:music: I did, in the post just above yours. I got the recent 4CD reissue and enjoy it very much.

http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/1092/jonesvc4.jpg

THE SERMON ON EXPOSITION AVENUE
Rickie Lee Jones

New*West

Some great ones you guys have left out:

Gram Parsons
John Coltrane


:scratch2:...ad infinitum

:scratch2:...ad infinitum

Don't know them. What label are they on?

I got Avalon Sunset by Van Morrison in the post yesterday and really enjoyed it on first listen.

Don't know them. What label are they on?

Endless Enigma

I would try Relient K, or actually, Megan Krantz (http://www.myspace.com/megankrantzmusic). She's a very talented musician, singer/songwriter, and you might not realize she's a Christian artist unless you really listened to the lyrics. I like artists like that. Hope that helps!