Relatively New Artist: Phil Wickham

My wife and I had the privilege to see Phil in concert this past Saturday 1.20.07. Prior to the concert, I had heard of Phil Wickham, and even listened very briefly to some of his music. To be honest, at first I was not "grabbed". Which, a lot of that had to do with being busy amidst other things that had my attention.

Not long after I had stumbled across Phil's myspace page, a friend of mine called to tell me of a Phil Wickham concert he was organizing. So, of course I was a little more inclined to pay attention to his music now. My friend was raving about his vocals, melodic creativity, and worshipful writing.

The concert was really great. And worshipful it was! Phil's writing style is very personal and relationally bent toward our Creator. And to hear some of the background story behind the songs and writing always brings new insight and enjoyment to the music. One of his songs was an almost direct reflection of Jeff Buckley. At one moment I could have sworn that it was Jeff on stage singing. Not in a "copy-cat" sort of way, by any means. But in the melodic style and writing and over-all vibe/emotion of the music.



Well, to make this quick and wrap it up......at the concert my wife and I got Phil's new CD. And from the moment we got in the car up until this very day, his music has grabbed us and hasn't let go. I've been singing it constantly. I wake up singing it (probably because I play it through the night ;>) and it won't leave me alone during the day! The melodies are addictive and beautiful. And I have not even really touched on his voice yet. Man has he got a killer voice! And a huge range!! (His voice reminds me of Kevin Max from DC Talk)

So, this album has my full recommendation. Stop by his site: http://PhilWickham.com and check his music and bio out. Chances are, if you take the time to listen with your full attention, you will be blessed by his music and enjoy it greatly, as I have. If you do like it, you will want to purchase his recent release. Beyond that, check his tour dates out and go see him live if he's in a city near you! You won't be sorry!

Hope you enjoy Phil Wickham!! I know I am.



God bless you richly!

Jordan Goode-Mulson
http://MyOnlineRevolution.info
http://JordanGoodeMulson.com

O Come, O Come Emmanuel-The Season of Advent-ure

BY BECKI MAXSON
My friend and fellow Mentor at Advantage Conferences


Several years ago on Christmas morning, I had the realization that, if I was honest with myself, my heart felt strangely empty. Sure, the house was decorated, the tree was lovely, gifts were bought and wrapped, cookies were baked, greetings were sent and received. But when did Christmas become about those things? It seemed everything was ready…except my heart.



That was a horrible emptiness and I knew that, even though I had known Jesus since a child, something was wrong with how I had allowed Christmas to become more about things of this world than about the King of Glory. That was the beginning of an important change for our Christmas preparations.



Throughout the centuries of our Christian heritage, the concept of quieting and preparing our hearts during the Advent season in preparation for Christmas has been largely lost in the modern church. There are many ways to bring an intentional focus and preparation to your heart in these weeks leading up to Christmas. I encourage you to explore some of these options for yourself.



Advent (traditionally beginning the fourth Sunday before Christmas) is a time of expectant waiting, a time of anticipation and preparation. Just as Mary glorified God in her response to the shocking news that she was the virgin to carry and deliver the infant Emmanuel, “God with us,” so we can also look forward to what is coming from God, to ponder these things in our hearts, and to submit our hearts to His will.



Jesus’ coming is not only good news of great joy to all people, but as the German pastor and martyr, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, said, “frightening news for everyone who has a conscience.” There’s only one rational reaction to the arrival of the King of the Universe in our presence, and that is humble repentance!



As Jesus began His public ministry, his cousin John called out in Matthew 3, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Take time to examine your heart this season, be real before the Lord, confess your sins, and thank Him for coming to earth, for becoming Love with skin on, taking on the form of a bondservant, and paying the ultimate penalty to set you free from sin through His blood atonement for you. That is the gift of eternal life for all who believe!



Near the end of His time on earth, Jesus told His disciples in John 14:2-3, “In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” Doesn’t that just sound like the Lover of our Souls? He wants us to be with Him! We endure in faith, waiting for that final fulfillment of His promise to come back and take us to be with Him.



So we are now a people between two Advents. We remember and celebrate the first coming, and we’re to be living in readiness for His second coming, doing the work He gave us to do, as Christ did the work His Father gave Him to do (John 17:4).


Like the servants working for a master who is away in Luke 12, or the virgins with their lamps in Matthew 25 waiting for the Bridegroom, are we being prudent and staying prepared, living in the light of His Word, or are we drowsy and lazy, letting opportunities to share God’s love pass us right by for lack of attention, letting those weeds spring up and choke out God’s best purpose and calling on our lives?



The end of the year is a natural time to look back and reflect. How engaged were you this year in pursuing God personally, in wrestling with Him like Jacob did in Genesis 32, until He gives you your blessing and your destiny? He does have a destiny for you, you know. Are you ready?



Live in the light of His second coming, when Christ will return not only for us, His Beloved Bride, His Church, but to vindicate His Lordship over all powers and principalities of this earth, and to establish the authority of His Word for all people. Every tribe, tongue, and nation will bend the knee and be judged. Does it break your heart to see the lost around you, and around the world? How can you expand your outreach to non-believers this Christmas and in 2007? Pray about it. God has an answer for you specifically.



As our hearts prepare Him room and we celebrate that the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, let’s re-align our lives with the eternal perspective that awaits His second coming. Let the Advent-ure rise in your own heart, then give it out in obedience and in gratitude for His grace in your life.



Colossians 3:15-17 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.

___________________________________

Thanks Becki!

Jordan Goode-Mulson
http://JordanGoodeMulson.com
http://MyOnlineRevolution.info

Andy McKee-Something Special

I found Andy by accident while on YouTube. What I heard and saw really blew me away. The first person I heard that really blew me away on acoustic guitar was Doyle Dykes. But I have to say that Andy has brought some "new age" style to something along the well beaten path.

And even beyond "blowing me away", the music really spoke to me. (No, I'm not crazy) I can't really explain it. I went someplace while listening to this video and others of Andy's. A relaxation overtook me as I felt the cool breeze coming off the mountain and took in the candy apple red leaves of the fall. (You can say I'm crazy, if you have to. ;>)-

All I really need to say is, "Just simply watch this video below. It speaks for itself!"

You can listen to more of Andy McKee here: ANDY MCKEE AUDIO SAMPLES

Enjoy!

Jordan Goode-Mulson
JordanGoodeMulson.com
MyOnlineRevolution.info

Need To Breathe-Redefining Rock

Need To Breathe.....I can't say enough about these guys. My friend Alan saw them at the House of Blues in Orlando and was blown away by their music and performance. So, when he came back from the concert, he was telling everyone about them. And rightly so....THEY ROCK!


Once I got the album, I couldn't stop listening to it. I went on a road trip to Tennessee and Kentucky shortly after and I listened to them almost constantly. They made my trip go that much better.

As with Leeland, I struggle to define them. They really are an emerging genre. They blend a soulful southern rock sound with a modern steady rock vibe. Take some time to watch their new video for "Shine On".




Bo and Bear Rinehart are the backbone for the songwriting and creativity. They say that growing up they always were around music, and different kinds of it. This helped shape them musically and creatively. From the very beginning, Bo's attitude toward music and the guitar was, "I don't want to learn the rules. I just want to play and see what happens." He was already thinking outside of the box. As a musician and songwriter myself, I love that attitude and perspective.

It is that very attitude that gives the Need to Breathe gang their unique sound. They present two forefront guitars playing very different things. It somehow works and just comes together. Well, it actually works very well! They also blend in some keys here and there. I absolutely love the piano riff on "Don't Leave Just Yet".

This album is among my few for which I love every single song. At this time, I cannot pick a favorite. They are all #1 hits to me. The music is laid out it such a creative way that it is constantly fresh and new. Almost every time I listen to them, something new jumps out of the mix at me. I just love music that does that. It's so awesome to continually get something new from music that you've heard a thousand times.



I had the opportunity to see these guys live in Orlando back in October. Man, I was blown away! Their performance and on stage presence was compelling. They really captivated me. I kept thinking to myself, "Man, these guys need to be on TV. They are such fun to watch!" Bo was especially fun to watch. That dude was dancing and sliding all over his stage. It was really as if he was possessed by the music. And I'm not talking just jumping around. This guy has some slick moves that could put Michael Jackson to shame. He had some fancy footwork.

The chemistry between Bo and Bear, and the entire team was seamless! They didn't miss a beat. At least from the audience's perspective. ;>)-

So, enough of my blabbing and poor attempt to describe a band that is breaking the conventional mold. These guys are fresh, new, and ultimately exciting. Get the album! Daylight, by Need to Breathe. In stores, on iTunes, and via the banner above.

God bless and enjoy the music!

Jordan Goode-Mulson
http://MyOnlineRevolution.info
http://HomeBusinessProsperity.Blogspot.com

Smitty Endorses TiVo KidZone

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE: Thursday, November 16, 2006

Grammy Award-Winning Recording Artist Michael W. Smith
Endorses TiVo® KidZone


NASHVILLE, TENN. (November 16, 2006)—Dove and Grammy award-winning and multi-platinum recording artist Michael W. Smith is strongly endorsing TiVo® KidZone, the marketplace’s best solution for returning customized control of TV content back to parents.

During a 24-city fall tour and 18-city Christmas tour, and through a strong presence on the official Michael W. Smith Website, Smith will be educating fans about TiVo KidZone. The upcoming tour dates will be sponsored by TiVo KidZone and strategically place the family-friendly product in front of Smith’s wide audience.

"I love TiVo KidZone because it allows me to set boundaries for what is acceptable TV in our home,” said Smith. “I've seen what the networks refer to as ‘family-friendly’ and while some of it is great . . . some of it is way off base. It's good to know that even our TV can reflect the values that we have set for our family. TiVo KidZone is a great tool in creating a safer environment for our kids."

Endorsements from Michael W. Smith and other award-winning artists add to wide support for TiVo KidZone. Already, some of the nation’s leading children and media non-profit organizations— Parents’ Choice Foundation, Common Sense Media and the Parents Television Council— have endorsed and announced support for TiVo KidZone and the ability it affords parents to filter television based on their family’s individual values.

“TiVo KidZone is the perfect every day solution; it gives parents the ultimate control in managing the kinds of programs their children enjoy on TV,” said Shelley Breen of Point Of Grace. “We support TiVo KidZone wholeheartedly.”

Rather than relying on confusing industry ratings, TiVo KidZone empowers parents to set their own standards using TiVo’s easy user interface and family-friendly technology. With TiVo KidZone, parents can set their TiVo box to record the best programming regardless of when it’s on and store it in the TiVo KidZone section of the box so kids can watch these shows anytime. Parents get a password-protected place to record and watch the programs they feel may not be appropriate for their children to watch.

“We designed TiVo KidZone to give parents the tools they need to make sure the television that their kids are exposed to reflects their own family’s values,” said Joe Miller, senior vice president at TiVo. “We believe the enthusiastic response we’ve gotten from parents, family television advocates and entertainment legends alike, speaks to the fact that we got it right with TiVo KidZone.”

As the father of 5 children, Smith’s endorsement of the product demonstrates the significance of TiVo KidZone to families concerned with what their children watch on television. Some of the proceeds from TiVo KidZone boxes sold through Smith’s Website will go to benefit Rocketown, a teen club that Smith founded in an effort to provide a safe place for teens to gather, as well as to Compassion International, a Christian child advocacy ministry that releases children from spiritual, economic, social, and physical poverty. For more information go to michaelwsmith.com/tivokidzone or for more information on each organization, please visit rcktwn.com and compassion.com

Order TiVo online today and receive a special offer and $25.00 from your TiVo purchase will go to support Compassion International and Rocketown.

About TiVo® KidZone:
TiVo KidZone gives parents the ultimate control over the kinds of programs their family enjoys without relying on confusing ratings systems or chips. Parents have the ultimate freedom to select any show no matter what time it airs and have their TiVo box record and store that program so their children can access only the best, most educational and informational programming any time they turn on the TV. Subscribers can use TiVo KidZone to choose from entire menus of shows recommended by leading family television advocates and set automatic recordings based on those recommended menus. And parents can easily add or subtract specific programs or channels to further customize what is available for children. And finally, parents can lock out all other programming or channels that are not specified for TiVo KidZone from access by children, while making all channels available when a parent wants to watch television

TiVo KidZone is included as part of the standard TiVo service fee and is available to all new and existing subscribers who own a TiVo Series2™ box.

TiVo, Series2, and the TiVo Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of TiVo Inc.’s subsidiaries worldwide. © 2006 TiVo Inc. All rights reserved. All other company or product names mentioned may be trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated.

About Michael W. Smith:
Michael W. Smith’s presence in Christian and mainstream music has been heard for more than 20 years. Throughout his career, Michael has had the opportunity to sing for Presidents and national leaders, and counts among his friends the Reverend Billy Graham and his son, Franklin Graham. He is active in Billy Graham Crusades as well as The Samaritan's Purse, the ministry headed by Franklin Graham. In the midst of 18 albums and ten books as well as the awards (Dove awards and Grammy awards among them), Michael and Debbie were blessed with five children: Ryan, Whitney, Tyler, Emily and Anna.
______________________

Jordan Goode-Mulson
http://MyOnlineRevolution.info
http://HomeBusinessProsperity.Blogspot.com

Introducing LEELAND!

These guys are a must hear! I actually found out about them through Michael's website. MWS also sent out a notice via email recommending them. Well, needless to say, I went out and bought the CD. I thought, "If Michael puts his personal endorsement on these guys, either they are really awesome or he stands to make some money by referring them." I don't know about the money part, but I now know that the first part is most definitely true: These guys are awesome!

(Leeland Mooring was a main source of inspiration and lent his lyrical prowess on Smitty's new album "Stand".)

I've been waiting for a band like this one. Leeland brings such a refreshing new approach to the craft and art of songwriting. I really struggle to define them because they aren't really like anything that I've heard before. Especially in the "Christian" market, things have gotten somewhat cookie-cutter and copied. Well, it seems that Leeland has succeeded at breaking that systematic approach.

Just for a fun comparison: Try blending the vocal tonality and melodic slide of Keane and the driving ryhthmattic beat of Jimmy Eat World with the volatility of Dashboard Confessional, and you might get a slight idea of what Leeland brings to the table.

Lyrically, he speaks from the heart. Most of the songs are an exchange between the created and the creator. It's as if I am listening to genuine prayer being offered up to the Lord. Almost like Leeland Mooring has taken portions of his personal prayers and thrown them into song.

An album that is fantastic from start to finish is a rare find. This debut album from Leeland is one of those rare gems. Not only is it great from start to finish, but the order and progression of the songs fall together so perfectly. Every song has a great blend of sincere somber moments along with a perfect blend of climactic cries.

The album starts off strong with the anthem "Sound of Melodies". A song depicting a view of the body of Christ as being a sweet melody before the Lord. The progression continues with "Reaching" and "Yes You Have". Two hard hitting, upbeat and melodic addictions that keep things alive.

Then comes "Tears of the Saints". What at first seems to be a more down-tempo, somber noted song, ends strong with a climactic bridge that brings a spirit inspired set of goosebumps. A true heart cry for the lost and weary. This song is a favorite of mine.

The downward trend continues with "Beautiful Lord". A soft and reverent realization of how truly great our God is.

From here, this melodic coaster heads back in an upward direction with "Can't Stop". You can't help but move, dance, or clap on this one. This melodic powerhouse won't leave me alone. I find myself singing this one long after the music has stopped. Sometimes even a day or so later. So, I have to say that if I had to pick one song to be my favorite, this one would be it. But right behind would be the next song in the lineup "Lift Your Eyes". What I love about this one is the unique beat and drive behind the lyric and how it shifts in rhythmic patterns between verse and chorus.

The next few songs keep things at an even pace to slowly bring things to a close. If I had to pick a least favorite song on the album it would be "Too Much". A great message, but nothing that really catches me on a heart or emotional level. I do like the vibe of the song though.

The final song on this "needle in a haystack" is one that will leave you on the floor wiping up your tears. "Carried to the Table" I believe is the perfect conclusion to the message and driving force behind this album. It kicks me right in the middle of my being. Physically I feel like I have a grapefruit stuck below my sternum.

I could go on and on trying to give a voice to this album through detail of my own. But in short, what I am trying to say is as simple as, "Hey, you need to go buy this album and tell your friends the same!" You won't be disappointed.

I hope that Leeland develops the kind of legacy that Smitty has. I look forward to future projects. I'm pumped to get to see them live in January when they come to Central Florida.

Check Leeland out by clicking on the banner above, or going to their MySpace page here:

http://Myspace.com/leelandmusic
_______________________________

In the next few days I'll be bringing you a band that I am equally excited about. They ROCK! Just some good old boys from the southeast. From what I heard they gave up promising dreams as football players to pursue their legacies in music. One of the two brothers even got to star along side of Ed Harris and Cuba Gooding Jr. You won't want to miss these guys!

JGMusik
Jordan Goode-Mulson
http://MyOnlineRevolution.info
http://HomeBusinessProsperity.Blogspot.com

Michael W Smith's new album "Stand" was released today! That makes, uummm, # 20, I believe! WOW! The man is still going strong. And, this was the quickest record to be completed in his history as an artist. If I remember correctly, the recording production only took about 6 weeks. Which is quite the accomplishment. Michael said that lyrics were flying back and forth through email to get this done. And a fine job it was.

If you haven't heard, AOL has a full CD Listening Party for this-and some other great artists. Check out the entire new release, "Stand", here: http://music.aol.com/songs/new_releases_full_cds

I listened to the new project and was well pleased. Michael states that this project, out of all the ones he's done, proclaims his mission. And it was well done at that.

This album has a new sound to it. Stand is more raw and less "pop". It's got a sound to it that sounds like what you would expect from hearing the songs performed live. The vocals seemed to be less processed and more up front and.....raw. Which I believe is somewhat new for Smitty. In the past albums he's always seemed to use tight harmonies mixed together to give a bigger and wider sound. This was really the first thing that I noticed to be different on this project. However Smitty still gives us that beautiful yet raspy voice that cuts through the mix. His uniqueness is still shining through loud and clear.

As I listened to the album, it gave me the feeling like I was sitting in on a band rehearsal. It gave me the feeling like I was right there in the room with them while performing. Which, in my opinion, (which is all this blog really is) I think Smitty is at a place in his life and his career where he doesn't need to "prove" himself anymore. He doesn't need to employ the use of fancy gear and techniques. His music and performance has stood the test of time. Which is one of the most challenging things for any artist or singer/songwriter to accomplish. He's highly respected and well known as one of the long time premier Christian artists and performers. Often hanging out with world-renowned U2 front-man, Bono, and spending time with the Bush family. (not bad company if I do say so..;>)-

This project still hits home and reminds us what great songs are all about. Very clean, not fancy, just good music in great form.

The collective message of the album is found in its title; Stand. It's about standing up for the things you believe. Like the song "Open Arms" is a call to the church as a whole to quit being judgmental and critical towards others. It's a call to live out Christ's unconditional love by always having "Open Arms" toward those in need and also those who might not be "just like us." Following this call, we hear "...Hallelujah, everyone can come to the cross...it doesn't matter what you've done....everyone can come to the cross.." RIGHT ON. What an awesome proclamation. That's what the world needs to be hearing from the church these days.

Overall, this album continues Michael's legacy. Another great album from one of the centuries great Christian men and Recording Artist. It has my full recommendation. "Great job Michael. You never let us down!" Visit his site at: http://MichaelWSmith.com

Stay tuned: In the next few days I'll be writing a review on a new group that is a MUST HEAR! And the front-man for this group actually added his gift of songwriting to Michael's new album "Stand" on several songs.


JGMusik
Jordan Goode-Mulson

http://JordanGoodeMulson.com
http://MyOnlineRevolution.info