Magical!
5
By Hamish56
This album puts an exclamation point on the amazing versatility of John Michael Talbot. Over the years, he has lent his rich, unique vocal talents to music from liturgical to classic praise to meditation to celtic to modern folk to.....well, you get the idea. Some times it's JMT with guitar, sometimes it's a few voices and sometimes it's with full orchestration and choir. No matter the style or vehicle, his music alway hits it's mark - to sing of the risen Christ and glorify His Name. This album does it as well, but with a slightly different tone. This wonderful blend of country rifts and blends with 60's classic rock does the near impossible: it lifts your spirit while getting your toes a-tappin'. I am a huge fan of JMT - his classic music often gets my soul to quiet and my spirit to open. This album does something his others don't. This is for the car - high spirited traveling music that lifts my soul. Highly recommended.
Beautiful songs, Excellent musicianship.
5
By pellis
I think this is one of my very favorite albums. Sure, it has the basic sound of an era (60's rock) but that in no way diminishes the power of the message, the impact of the songs or of the performances. Top notch playing and singing throughout. Another reviewer made a reference to "monastic chant music". I'm not sure what he is referring to. I have a lot of JMT music and none of it is Gregorian Chant. Even so, since much of this music on this album is taken from the Catholic Mass there are a couple of mediative chant-like numbers. They are very mood inspiring and "centering". I think they are great! I am a long time semi-pro musician and feel this album stands up with a clear integrity and honesty that many modern "christian" bands totally lack these days. I have given this CD as gifts - it has never disappointed.
I liked it
5
By Steppyb
Honestly having never really listened to Christian music at all, I enjoyed this album. While it is a departure for John I thought that his use of the electric guitars was supurb. Honestly I thought his live show was better, but I do like listening to the album to remind me of his shows.
Monk Rock
4
By drtrombone
It seems to me that this is a return to John Michael Talbot's musical roots. I doubt he is trying to recruit younger listeners with this album, but rather coming back to his own musical roots for a change of pace. The music sounds similar to many of his early albums as well his album with Terry Talbot. One reviewer wrote that 60 somethings shouldn't play rock and roll. How old do you think the members of the Rolling stones are????? Rock and roll is not just music for youth anymore. Most adults now have grown up with rock and roll and are well acquainted with the various styles that have developed over the years. I think it is good to hear JMT apply his monastic living to his early musical styles.
Monk Rock
5
By dwever
Phenominal effort by JMT. It will appeal to Boomers as it worshipful and resonates musically back to his work with Mason Profitt. With the Gen Xers "ancient-future" orientation to music, they are probably the first generation to match in expectation JMT's execution musically - that group won't be dissapointed. It sounds slightly over-dubbed but is a great listen lyrically and musically.
not rock
1
By bob
It seems that John Michael Talbot is trying to attract listeners who wouldn't listen to his
typical monastic chant style music. I think this will scare away customers who liked his
old meditative style, and people who like true rock will laugh (like me) and write a critical
review. He's trying to get more modern, younger listeners, I think, but that field is covered
by a host of Christian rockers already out there. With all due respect to Mr. Talbot, I don't
think the average listener wont want to hear a 60 something trying to rock to outdated chant
songs. Unless you're an avid JMT fan, your ten dollars would be better spent by Caritas or United
Way. Or, if you want to get something for yourself, either get his older albums if you like monastic
style music, or more contemporary Christian artists if that's your style.
to get something for yourself, a
So take my
