Review of Songs on NOT WHAT YOU THINK CD

* * * DEAD MAN WALKING - Words and Music by Alan & Brenda Harvey w/John Sellers © chord of 3 productions 2001

A well-done perky Blues song, with a catchy beginning, an electric base begins the piece with driving eighth notes (broken chord in a minor key, partial pentatonic scale gives a bluesy flavor) which establishes tempo and counter melody, with drums playing a short 3 measure energetic solo, on each drum, giving off a different tone, for about three measures, which adds an early sparkle to the song. Dynamics build nicely with continuation of eighth notes, embellished with fine organ and keyboard work (Roscoe Hoffman), all providing an excellent support for the fine clear, energetic smooth vocals by the talented Large Al, who delivers the lyrics in a style suitable for the mood of the song.

Large Al comments: "God just gave me this song while I was in the shower one morning. My friend John and my wife Brenda helped me "fine tune it," but ultimately it's a pure gift from the One Above."

Scriptural References: (Romans 12:2, 6:11, 23, 8:2, Ephesians 2:1, Acts 3:19, 1 Peter 4:11)

Lyrical Samples:

Chorus: I'm a dead man walkin' - breathin' and talkin' I'm a dead man walkin', I'm walkin' through this life. I'm a dead man walkin' - I hear Jesus talkin', I'm a dead man walkin', I'm walkin' through this life.

The man I was, was awful - I sentenced him to die So I could start all over - and that's the reason why. (Chorus)

It's doing wrong that kills ya - Yeah, that's the price you pay. Unless the Spirit fills you - and then like me you'll say ...Chorus

Those things I did that thrilled me - Oh man did they feel nice But that old emptiness came floodin' back - after once or twice ....Chorus

There's folks who think I'm crazy - but if the truth be told What people think won't matter much - when I'm walkin' on streets of gold . ...Chorus

* * * TWISTIN' IN THE WIND - Words and Music by Alan Harvey © chord of 3 productions 2000

A strong favorite of this reviewer. Jazz and Blues swing style give spunk to this praise and worship song, which explores the faithfulness and the love of our Lord Jesus, as it cooks musically along. Nice base intro, with electric guitar joining in, with keyboards ending the intro, which segues nicely into first verse. Inspiring keyboard solo in the interlude between 3rd and 4th verse. Equally enjoyable electric guitar jam between 5th and 6th verse.

Large Al comments: "God taught me through one of the hardest times of my life, when God is all you have, He is enough."

Scriptural References: (Deut. 31:6, Isaiah 41:10-11, Psalm 46:1, Hebrews 13:5-6)

Lyrical Samples:

1) You know my friends have let me down - They all fail, they're just like me. Yeah, my friends have let me down - They all fail, they're just like me. But my God's not the kind of God to leave you twistin' in the wind.

2) Life on earth, you know it's hard - we all get hurt from time to time. Yeah, Life on earth, you know it's hard - we all get hurt from time to time. But my God's not the kind of God to leave you twistin' in the wind.

3) Just when things start going great - Satan jumps up and kicks you in the teeth... Just when things start going great - Satan jumps up and kicks you in the teeth. But my God's not the kind of God that's going to leave you twistin' in the wind.

4) Hanging on the cross, you know it wasn't fun - but Christ did that for you and me Hanging on the cross, you know it wasn't fun - but Christ did that for you and me. Cause my God's not the kind of God to leave you twistin' in the wind.

5) You know the gates of hell, He kicked 'em down - to set us free.. It's up to you Yes the gates of hell, He kicked 'em down - to set us free.. It's up to you 'Cause my God's not the kind of God to leave you twistin' in the wind.

6) So I wanna sing, and shout for joy - Life with Him is a glorious thing Life with Him is a glorious thing - So I wanna sing, and shout for joy That our God's not the kind of God to leave you twistin' in the wind.

twistin' in the wind... twistin' in the wind... twistin' in the wind.

* * * CONFUSING PLEASURE TRAP - Words and Music by Alan Harvey © chord of 3 productions 1985

Fast Swing rhythm, carried effortlessly by the band. A song which encourages the listener to reflect on personal choices and lifestyle; Do our personal choices reflect the fruit of the Spirit or do they feed our sinful nature? Common human weakness specifically addressed: self-gratification, self-medication.

Fast Swing rhythm, carried effortlessly by the band. Nice interludes by keyboards and guitars add spice to song.

Al Harvey comments: "This song was originally written in 1980. It was designed to be part of an evangelical (vinyl) album that would have one side about how messed up life was without Jesus ending with this song, and then a flip side that was full of the Joy of serving Jesus. CDs became popular and that messed up that concept."

Scriptural References: (Romans 12:2, Ephesians 4: 23, Galations 5:13, 19-20, 1 John 2:15)

Lyrical Samples:

If you'll only - take a moment - and examine what makes you tick. Does the life your leading make your heart rejoice - or does it all - - - - make you sick?

Is booze the only answer? Ask the person who really ought to know. You're gonna find him sick or dead because his liver's rotted out. Or else he's bumming - - - - on skid row.

Do drugs make the big difference? I've been there and I can tell you this. That the pleasure you can find while your mind is flying, won't make up - - - - for the peace you miss!

Ain't nothing wrong with sex? Many times I've heard that said, But tell me how would you feel, if your wife, mom or sister was found - - - - with the wrong man in bed?

My final, closing statement - from all the battles that I've fought. You know the time I've wasted chasing this world's pleasures only served - - - - to get me caught! And if you'll only - take a moment - and examine what makes you tick. Does the life your leading make your heart rejoice - or does it all - - - - make you sick?

* * * CAME & BLED & DIED - Words and Music by Alan Harvey (with help from Ron Buffington) © chord of 3 productions 1996

Favorite song of this reviewer on the CD. A soulful electrical guitar intro sets the serious tone in this 6/8 meter composition which is written in a minor key, features expressive vocals that touch the heart, some lovely musical jams, and solos, with moving dynamics. Large Al has no problem sliding vocally up various intervals, making the challenging vocal changes sound easy to do. The song gives the listener some peace and a challenge at the same time.

Message of the song encourages the listener to examine the way they've chosen to live life, reflect on our Christian calling to live lives pleasing to God, and to share the gospel with others.

Large Al comments:"This song was born from witnessing pain. Pain that I could do nothing about. Jesus doesn't want us in pain and He certainly doesn't desire for us to create pain for others. He longs to find us living right."

Scriptural References: (2nd Cor. 1:24b, 2nd Thess. 2:15, 1 Co. 16:13)

Lyrical Samples:

I see the pain in this world.. I see the pain and it makes me want to cry. I see the pain in this world.. I see the pain and it makes me want to cry. My sweet Lord Jesus... Have we forgotten why You came and bled and died?

When Jesus came to this world.. When Jesus came did he find us livin' right? When Jesus came to the Pharisees and Sadchusees of this world.. When Jesus came did he find us livin' right? Or did He find... that His people.. That His people were makin' darkness out of light!

Bridge: Don't we have a job? To make all men see.. God's arms wide open.. Reachin' out through you and me? Instead we tie up heavy burdens.. And lift no finger to help. When God's Love is so real.. How DARE we keep it to ourselves?

If Jesus came to this world.. If Jesus came would he find me livin' right? If Jesus came to this world.. If Jesus came would he find us livin' right? Or would He find... that His people.. That His people are makin' darkness out of light! My sweet Lord Jesus... Have we forgotten why You came and bled and died...

If Jesus came to this world.. If Jesus came would he find us livin' right? If Jesus came to this world.. If Jesus came would he find us livin' right? Or would He find... that His people.. That His people are makin' darkness out of light!

Hook: My sweet Lord Jesus... Have we forgotten why You came and bled and died.

* * * I GOT JOY - Words and Music by Alan & Brenda Harvey © chord of 3 productions 2001

Another strong favorite of this reviewer. A quick-moving, uplifting Blues swing praise song, that testifies to the joy and peace that Jesus brings to believers' lives, and invites the listener to receive this joy as well through Jesus. Driving dotted eighth and quarter notes by electric guitar set the beat and counter melody and enthusiasm of the vocals and melody. Nice electric guitar solo during interludes.

Large Al comments: "Sadly, we spent too much in our lives seeking external joys and peace. We thought it might come from the next high, the next binge, the next whatever...When we asked Christ into our lives, we found what we were looking for. Complete, beautiful and everlasting joy. You can find it too."

Scriptural References: (Galations 5:22-24, Hebrews 12:2. John 17:13 & John 15:1-17)

Lyrical Samples:

I got joy - down in my soul - Yes I got joy - down in my soul. Since Jesus came -and made me whole.

I got joy - most all the time - Yes I got joy - most all the time Since I am His - I know He is mine.

I got joy - down in my heart - Yes I know that I got joy - down in my heart. Since Jesus gave me - a brand new start.

If you want joy - then sing with me - If you want joy - come along and sing with me. I know that this kind of joy - will set you free.

* * * NO SYMPATHY FOR THE DEVIL - M.Jagger & K.Richards © ABCKO Music 1968 - Christian lyrics added by Large Al.

Second favorite song of this reviewer on the CD. The song has a real kick to it, and cooks along full steam. Al Harvey improved on this Stones classic by adding some Christian verses which gives the song a sense of completeness spiritually that wasn't in the original tune. Song begins with an inspiring spirited, sharp acoustic guitar solo in the intro that sets the tempo and counter melody. Guitars and keyboard play chords to support the melody during the verses. The same rhythm and counter melody reappear during 3rd verse to add spark to the vocals carrying the melody. Great interlude which really cooks has a duet of drums (Rick Cook) and bass guitar (Denny Brubaker) between verse 2 and 3. Dynamics slowly build to the last verse which declares the victory we have over sin through Jesus. Vocals are strong, dynamic and expressive, which has the effect of elevating the message front and center to the listener.

Large Al comments: "I tell folks my first introduction to "Christian music" was the Rolling Stones... The version you hear is the full version from the Stones "Get Your Ya-ya's Out" live album. All of the changes that were made to reflect the Truth of Christianity were added by me. The idea of changing it from 1st person to 3rd person was mine."

Scriptural References: (Rev. 12:10-11, Gen. 3:1-5, Luke 4: 9-11, Ephesians 2:2)

Lyrical Samples:

Please allow me to introduce someone who swears he's a man of wealth and taste. He's been around for a long, long time stole many a man's soul and faith. He was there when Jesus - had His moment of doubt and pain. He made sure that Pilate - washed his hands and sealed his fate.

Chorus: And he'll be pleased to meet you - and he'll make you guess his name. Cause (confusing/puzzling) you is just the nature of his game.

He stuck around St. Petersburg - when he saw it was a time for a change. He killed the Czar and his ministers - Anastasia screamed in vain. He rode a tank - held a general's rank - while the Blitzkrieg raged and the bodies stank ...Chorus

He watched with glee while our Kings & Queens - Fought for ten decades for the "gods" they'd made. He shouted out "Who killed the Kennedies?" - And tried to blame it all on you and me. Let me please introduce someone who swears he's a man of wealth and taste. But he flew those jets into those buildings(World Trade Center) - and he scarred the human race....Chorus

And he'll say "every cop is a criminal" and "all your sinners are saints" But he's switched "heads" with "tails" because he's Lucifer and he's in need of grave restraint And when he meets you, he'll want courtesy, he'll want sympathy, he'll want taste.

But come to him in the Name of Jesus and you'll lay his plans to waste. He won't be pleased to meet you in the Power of Jesus' Name, Because on Calvary - Jesus spoiled his little game. He won't be pleased to meet you in the Power of Jesus' Name, Because on Calvary - Jesus spoiled his little game. Because on Easter morning, Jesus spoiled his game forever.

Great interlude - acoustical guitar and drums & bass.

* * * OUT OF CONTROL - Words and Music by Alan & Brenda Harvey © chord of 3 productions 2001

Another strong favorite of this reviewer. Skillfully composed in easy, slower 6/8 meter, in fine Blues tradition, well played and well sung and most enjoyable. Large Al's smooth, expressive, dynamic vocals compliment the bluesy accompaniment of keyboards, guitars and drums, which improvise their way along in spots while holding the rhythm and counter melody in place. Nice Electric guitar interlude between 2nd and 3rd verses, with the rest of the band adding their part, complimenting the guitar.

Large Al comments: "We all struggle with 'Control Issues.' Most of us want more control over our lives, over others, over our circumstances. The truth is when we get out of God's way and give Him control, we have peace. When we learn that trusting God with our life, others and circumstances is the best choice we can make, we're free: free to relax, free to embrace, free to love. Out of Control is a good thing when we give that control to our Lord and Savior. "

Scriptural References: (Ephesians 4:22-24, Romans 6:22, Col. 3: 9-11)

Lyrical Samples:

I'm out of control..... and it sure feels good....Doin' what I want - Doin' what I should.... I'm out of control.... and it sure feels nice - you ask me what I mean well you don't have to ask me twice cause whenever I think I can run my own life - things ain't nothin' but bad but since I gave control to the Lord up above - it's the best times I've ever had.

I'm out of control.... and it sure feels good - way better than... I ever thought it could... I'm out of control... and it sure feels nice.... - those struggles and troubles from hell, they're just gone from my life - cause whenever I thought I could run my own life - things ain't nothin' but bad but since I gave control to the Lord up above - it's the best times I've ever had.

I'm out of control and it sure feels good - the best drug in the world... is being who you should... I'm out of control... and it sure feels nice... - I never wanna go back to my old way of life -- cause whenever I think I can run my own life - things ain't nothin' but bad.... but since I gave control to the Lord up above - it's the best times... I've ever had.

I'm out of control and it sure feels good - it's about time I finally understood.... I'm out of control.... and it sure feels nice - I'm looking forward.. To the rest of my life.

Hook: Because whenever I think I can run my own life - things ain't nothin' but bad...... But since I gave control to the Lord up above - it's the best times.. I've ever had.

* * * PRODIGAL SON - Rev. Robert T. Wilkins © Wynwood Music 1930

An interesting combination of Blues and lively Blue Grass creates a unique vehicle in telling the Prodigal son story in ballad form. The guitar which carries the melody, sounding like a cross between an electrical / acoustic guitar and a dulcimer; is a Gibson Spirit (an older relative of the Les Paul Jr. with a single humbucking pickup,) tuned with drones like a dobro or a dulcimer. The vocals by Large Al once again carry the spirit and meaning of the song with gusto, in a different delivery style to fit the Blue Grass sound.

Lyrics were inspired by the Parable of the Lost Son (Luke 15:11:24) which was the third example given by Jesus to illustrate how much it means to the Lord to have someone turn back to Him.

Large Al comments to ChristianMusic.com: "Rev Wilkins wrote the original song "That'll Be the Way I'll Get Along" in the mid twenties and it had a very worldly message. Then Robert Wilkins gave his life to Christ and he rewrote the song in pretty much exactly the same way the Stones performed it on their album, Beggar's Banquet. He spent the rest of his life ministering the Gospel using Blues as worship music in a church in Memphis. He died sometime in the 1990's."

Scriptural References: (Luke 15: 4-7 & 8-10 & 11-24)

Lyrical Samples:

Well, a poor boy took his father's bread and started down the road - Started down the road. He took all he had and started down the road - Going out in this world, where God only knows.... And that'll be the way to get along.

Well, poor boy spent all he had, famine came in the land - Famine came in the land, He spent all he had and famine come in the land - Said, "I believe I'll go and hire me to some man" And that'll be the way I'll get along.

Well, man said, "I'll give you a job for to feed my swine - For to feed my swine I gonna give you a job for to feed my swine - Boy stood there and hung his head and cried. `Cause that is no way to get along.

Boy said, "I believe I'll ride, believe I'll go back home - Believe I'll go back home... Believe I'll ride, believe I'll go back home - Or down the road as far as I can go" And that'll be the way I'll get along.

Well, father said, "See my son, coming home to me - Coming home to me" Father ran and fell down on his knees - Said, "Thank you Lord for havin' mercy on me" - Mercy.

Well, the poor boy stood there, hung his head and cried - Hung his head and cried Poor boy stood and hung his head and cried - Said, "Father will you look on me as your child?" -Yeah Well father said, "Eldest son, kill the fatted calf, - Call the family round - Kill that calf and call the family round - My boy was lost but now he is found - Praise God!"

* * * SEE THE LIGHT OR FEEL THE HEAT - Words and Music by Alan Harvey © chord of 3 productions 1999

Another strong favorite of this reviewer. I would describe it as a laid back, easy bluesy, 2/2 meter in a minor key, that is contagious and draws the listener into the song and its message. Intro uses notes from pentatonic scale, played in dotted eighth rhythm by guitar, which introduces the melody. Great ad-libs by guitars and keyboards adding to the flavor of the musical composition, offering great support to the main melody. Keyboards shine this time in the interlude between 2nd and 3rd verse. The passionate vocals by Large Al are delightful, full of expression, strong and bring once again the spirit of the song to life.

A very bluntly honest altar call song, which strongly points out the choice humans have to make, between eternal life or being cut off from God permanently in not a too pleasant place.

Large Al comments: "Those words were on a sign, while I was on my way to a gig. It struck me.. Here is the gospel in 7 words or less.. The song grew from there."

Scriptural References: (John 3:16, John 14:6, John 6:35 , John 10:7, Romans 7: 15-25)

Lyrical Samples:

Let's talk about Heaven....Will you go there when you die? - With pearly gates, and angel wings and the "Sweet By and By" - Or maybe it will be Hell, you know.... "The Other Place" ...With flames that burn, and hungry worms and eternal disgrace. Well, what will make the difference? Let me say it nice and neat... You're either gonna see the Light.... or you're gonna feel the heat.

You're gonna see the Light, or you're gonna feel the heat - If just being good could get us to Heaven, then tell me why did Jesus - Have to have nails in His hands and feet? You'll come face to Face with God, and will you burn forever? - Or dance down His Golden Streets? You know you gotta see the Light... Or you're gonna feel the heat.

Let's talk about salvation, it's the only cure for sin - And one mistake is all it takes to keep you from gettin' in - But Jesus who was perfect, well you know He died to pay that cost He took everything you ever did wrong, and nailed it to the cross Y our sin can be washed in Jesus' Blood, and you don't have to face defeat. But you gotta see the Light... or you're gonna feel the heat.

Bridge: But you gotta see the Light... or you're gonna feel the heat. Because if just being good was enough, why did Jesus had nails through his hands and feet?

So listen close my friend, you know, the choice is up to you - Don't even think you're "good enough", that your smile will get you through - 'Cause Jesus wants to help you, so He offers you this chance. But without His grace you're gonna burn, but me? I'm gonna dance! Just trust God that you're a sinner, His salvation is so sweet But you gotta see the Light... or you're gonna feel the heat.

* * * SPIRITUAL WARFARE - Words and Music by Alan Harvey and John Sellers © chord of 3 productions 2001

A moving song written to pump up and encourage believers to stand firm in their faith, share the gospel and live a life pleasing to the Lord. The band sings in a round, the final chorus to end the song. Guitars support the underlying rhythm, while the keyboards offer strong support to the vocals. Nice harmonies in measures before the chorus and during the chorus. Band sings the chorus in a round form at the end. Nice keyboard interlude between last chorus and round.

Large Al comments: "Based on my first Pastor's definition of the term Spiritual Warfare and fleshed out with thoughts that stand up correctly in light of Ephesians 6:10.

Scriptural References: (Ephesians 6:10-18, 2nd Cor. 1:24b, 1 Thess. 5:16-22)

Lyrical Samples:

Chorus: You've got to stand the ground that Jesus gained in the battle on the Cross. Don't give up be strong in faith be sure - heaven's gain is Satan's loss.

The Holy war is raging - and the battleground's your mind. Do you want to do the right thing? - leave your selfish doubts behind...

Jesus Christ is our commander - Satan is a vanquished foe. Shout God's praise above the slander - You've got to let the whole world know...

So refuse to be defeated - Know the victory is it hand. Give up now and you'll get cheated - When all you've got to do is stand...

Feel the joy of overcoming - Because you picked the winning side, No more fearing God and running - You've got nothing left to hide... Chorus

Our Creator loves us dearly - And there's nothing left to chance... Now that you can see it clearly - Come and join the victory dance... Chorus

(Sang as a round among the band members:) You've got to stand the ground that Jesus gained in the battle on the Cross. Don't give up be strong in faith be sure - Heaven's gain is Satan's loss.

* * * WEIGHED IN THE BALANCE - Words and Music by Alan & Brenda Harvey © chord of 3 productions 2000

Another strong favorite of this reviewer. Traditional bluesy song, with an easy 6/8 meter, catchy rhythm and melody, that cooks steadily creating an irresistible sound that is a great vehicle for the inspiring vocals and message of the song. Nice harmony in the full chorus sound, beautiful delivery of the vocals, done in the spirit of the song and effectively bring the message of the song front and center in a most enjoyable manner. Nice electrical guitar and piano interlude, which compliment each other nicely, between 2nd and third verse.

Large Al Harvey comments: "That song was started in the early eighties and I could never come up with a "hook" for it.. During a vacation in the spring of 2000 my wife Brenda came up with the lyric "If you don't understand, that you don't mess with God" which made the rest of it all fall together. It's pretty much the book of Daniel chapter 10, with analogies about living for Jesus today."

Scriptural References: (Daniel 10, John 3:16, Romans 12:1-2, Galations 6: 7-8, 1 Cor. 6: 9-10)

Lyrical Samples:

The new king of Babylon, was livin' it up.. Laughin' and drinkin'.....from God's Holy cup...... When out of nowhere, there appeared this hand, writin' words on the wall that he could not understand..... His knees started knocking..... he turned pale and cold, and this is what the words foretold...

Chorus: (you've been) weighed in the balance and found wanting - The handwriting's on the wall. If you don't understand, that you don't mess with God, than you don't know the truth at all.

The king still was freakin'....He called his wise men .... Who referred him to Daniel.... (from the Lion's Den) Daniel said o king... You can keep what you got...You want me to help you... And God says I can not! Those words on the wall.....I know just what they say....And your life.. Will be over.. Today! Chorus

And today we're still living..... Like that foolish king....Sinnin' and grinnin'...Trying everything.... Living each day, like there's no tomorra -Might I remind you....Of Sodom and Gomorrah ...One day it's all over...And that might be real bad - Is it worth... The "fun"... You had? Chorus

Well, hell is real "hot"... Folks just "die" to get in ....And that's what your buying....With the wages of sin!... Death is so final.... There's no turning back - Only Jesus- Can get you off that one-way track.... Believe in Him...Turn walk away from your sin .....He will forgive you, put your trust in Him (or else you'll be..) Chorus

Hook: Don't be weighed in the balance and found wanting....Read that handwriting on the wall. If you just understand, and you just trust in God, then there's nothin' to fear at all!

* * * STRONG - Words and Music by Alan Harvey - © chord of 3 productions 1993

A perfect song to end this CD with, on a positive, hopeful promise for believers and seekers. Interesting combination of blues and rock, well played by guitars and keyboards, supported nicely by the drums. As is the case in all the songs, vocals are strong and harmonies right on the mark in the chorus. I would describe it as a terrific pep talk about how faithful our Lord is, how he will see us through any trial, give us strength and encouragement and the resolve to endure because He loves us and wants the best for us.

Large Al comments: "STRONG was written on stage in a secular coffee house. I was asked to play "Sweet Home Chicago" and the Holy Spirit gave me this instead. It expresses the Truth that there is no need to be intimidated by anything. God has your back."

Scriptural References: (Romans 8:28, 2nd Cor. 4: 8-10, Romans 5:1-5, John 10: 27-30, 1 Peter 4:11,. Phil. 4:13)

Lyrical Samples:

I been up, I been down, I been knocked down and drug on the ground but you know that I'm.. Strong, strong enough I can take it, 'Til with a quarter of a chance, you bet your bottom dollar I'm gonna make it.

Chorus: Strong, strong enough I can take it, 'Til with a quarter of a chance, you bet your bottom dollar I'm gonna make it.

Times get bad, times get good Sometimes things just don't work like they should But I'm.. Strong, strong enough I can take it, 'Til with a quarter of a chance, you bet your bottom dollar I'm gonna make it.

Chorus: The Lord God makes me strong, yes He does. He shows me right and wrong, yes He does. He moves my life along, yes He does. The Lord God makes me strong, ... yes He does.

Things go wrong, things go right, but what's wrong don't give up without a fight but you know that I'm.. Strong, strong enough I can take it, 'Til with a quarter of a chance, you bet your bottom dollar I'm gonna make it.

God is great, yes it's true, and what He's done for me He'll do for you, He can make you.. Strong, strong enough to take it...You bet your bottom dollar you're gonna make it.

The Lord is Strong & True Yes He is.... He loves You!

Reviewed by Julie Carr for ChristianMusic.com

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