Matt & Sherry McPherson
SLOW DOWN Review - ChristianMusic.com

 

MISSION STATEMENT:

When asked by ChristianMusic.com about what was their mission or goal which they strived to accomplish through their music and this album, Matt & Sherry McPherson replied,

"Our primary mission is to lead people to Christ."
"Secondly, it is to encourage people in their walk with Christ and in their lives."

"We support other ministries with like goals."

Personal conviction: "Worshiping God is a part of our daily lives. We look to Him for everything. We seek His will with every decision, for His ways are higher than our ways. He is our reason to sing and our reason to live."

Matt & Sherry McPherson

OVERVIEW OF SLOW DOWN CD

"Knowing God more deeply requires our willingness to stop, notice, listen, and receive. Knowledge of God and Friendship with God depend not just on God's offering but also on our receptivity. - Kirk Byron Jones; author of "Addicted to Hurry."

Christian music artists Matt and Sherry McPherson have combined their musical gifts and talents in a team effort to create an encouraging, irresistibly upbeat and poignant collection of acoustic-based contemporary and country - pop ballads and anthems which encourage the listener to resist our secular culture's call to constant busyness and speedy achievement; an addiction which can become a chronic condition, that can rob us of the spiritual experiences of savoring life, appreciating our blessings and of receiving the Lord's friendship, love and support, which we all dearly need.

Instead, their music on this album, SLOW DOWN, encourages the listener to take the time to fully receive the love and friendship of the Lord, and grow in a relationship with Him through thanksgiving, prayer, worship and spending time with Him, as well as encourage us all to slow down our pace in living and savor / truly appreciate all the blessings, responsibilities and His promises to us more fully which He has given us, and to thank him with a grateful heart.

Our human nature wants to have it all, and to do it all by ourselves, quickly! Jumping into the proverbial rat race, being swept away with projects, work, activities and forgetting to enjoy the blessings given to us and not putting the Lord and his will for our lives first in our focus. When we take on too many things and are always in a rush, we forget about spending time and communicating with Him, and also tire ourselves out so that the people, spouses, children in our lives are under-appreciated and not always getting their needs met properly, because we lack energy to do so.

In the lyrical messages found in this collection of songs, which tie into the main theme expressed in the title song, Matt and Sherry McPherson generously share the truths they have learned through their own experiences and insights during their own walk with Him, some of which are described in detail in the ChristianMusic.com interview found in the following section after this overview part of this review.

Slow down and make time to savor life and our Lord.

SLOW DOWN - Encourages us to slow down our life style taking time to notice and focus, make life last, letting go of worries, pressures and hassles, savoring the life that the Lord has given us.

HERE I AM - Encourages, perhaps even convicts us of our need to spend time with the Lord every day.

Our Lord is a faithful, dependable, merciful and loving source of strength and endurance.

COLORS OF LIFE - Clever lyrics equate happiness, sadness, testing of faith with colors, and which point to God as being in control in whom we need to trust.

BECAUSE OF YOU - A song of thanksgiving to the Lord, that reminds the listener that it is the Lord who can see us through all our trials, our pain, our disappointments.

HOLDIN' ON - Testimony about the faithfulness of our Lord; A steady, merciful Lord who can always be counted on to be with us, who is a source of strength, mercy, comfort and love.

CARRY ME - Even when our faith fails us and we forget how to reach Him, He is willing to forgive for the umpteenth time when we turn back to Him. He can be depended on to show mercy, pick us up and sustain us through any storm or fire which has come into our lives.

YOU LOVE ME STILL - Our tendency to sin and do the wrong thing is ever with us. Thankfully the Lord loves us, flawed as we are, willing to forgive us of our sins, through His son, Jesus Christ.

Experiencing the peace and joy of the Lord by giving our life to Jesus and by turning to Him in our need, during our bumps in the road and major storms.

I FELT HIM BREATHE - Expresses the spiritual experience of becoming part of Christ and belonging to Him, after giving one's heart to Jesus.

HE IS - Describes our loving Lord pretty well, as a caring, loving, merciful presence.

SALVATION POEM - An altar call hymn which recognizes Jesus as Lord and Savior, invites Him into the heart and asks for a new, changed heart to follow Him.

SALVATION POEM REPRISE - Same song redone is a delightful manner, composed to play well on the radio with the same invitation to follow Jesus.

The Lord can use us in all kinds of ministries, in big or small ways.

SMALL TOWN PREACHER - The Lord doesn't see success the same way that human beings see it. The Lord can use us in all kinds of ministries, in big or small ways. This acoustic country ballad is about a small town pastor, wondering if he is making a difference in his congregation's faith journey, as he patiently takes the time to meet their needs; being used by God to accomplish His will.

Slow down to put the needs of others ahead of our own, to take care and appreciate people close to us, like family, kids and others in our lives.

MOVING HEAVEN AND EARTH - We need the Lord's help in appreciating and raising our children. Being a parent entails putting our children's needs ahead of our own, which takes time, love, effort and sacrifice, and help from the Lord! This means slowing down for lots of intercessory prayer, and spending time on your knees for help in doing your best to appreciate, support, love, teach, train, guide, discipline, plus asking for strength for whatever else is needed to move heaven and earth for offspring, who are blessings and responsibilities given to us by God to raise and care for..

MY LOVE - A romantic, love song, which encourages us all to appreciate all the endearing qualities of our spouses, inspiring us to slow down to savor our time together. This leads to a positive and loving attitude, toward one's other half, giving an enduring patience to meet the challenges of a relationship.

Let's take a look at the musical compositions......

Inspired by the Holy Spirit, Matt and Sherry have done a great job working together on the songs found on this SLOW DOWN CD, combining their considerable gifts and skills which they have developed over their years of serving the Lord in music ministries. Each being a songwriter / performer in his / her own right, they bring not only their talents but their musical styles, which combine effectively with great results and to the enrichment of the listener.

Matt McPherson brings to the musical creative process his years of experience of playing / composing / singing country and acoustic-based contemporary music, his wonderful gift of creating melodic tunes and support voices, his accomplished guitar work; (not to mention his own revolutionary guitar), his lyrical ideas, a strong, clear, voice and his ability to use it, and a strong faith in the Lord which shines like a beacon, throughout this album.

Sherry McPherson brings to the musical creative stew her considerable ability to put their faith into lyrical messages, her years of experience composing / performing contemporary Christian music, her musical training / experience in voice and choral work, and her positive faith in a loving Lord, which comes through loud and strong in her clear, melodic vocals. She has a special gift to put into words what she and Matt have learned about the Lord by depending on Him, especially during their challenging, faith-building moments in their lives.

While it is sometimes hard for husbands and wives to work together, Matt and Sherry exhibit a teamwork which is showcased in not only the song compositions, but in the duet vocal harmonies and back up vocals. On songs where Matt carries the lead vocals, Sherry harmonizes / provides the backup vocals in spots, (for example; SMALL TOWN PREACHER * I FELT HIM BREATHE * MOVING HEAVEN AND EARTH) and on songs where Sherry sings the lead vocals, Matt provides the same support,(for example; HE IS * BECAUSE OF YOU * COLORS OF LIFE * HERE I AM ) besides playing the acoustic accompaniment..

The result of this collaboration, powered by the Holy Spirit, resulted in putting together 13 musically interesting, songs, providing country -pop ballads and anthems, heart-felt prayer hymns, acoustic-based contemporary worship songs and anthems, all which is an uplifting, encouraging blessing to the listener.

As an added bonus, the listener is treated to a reprise version of the SALVATION POEM on cut 14, which is being released for radio play. While the lyrics and vocals stay the same, the composition was rearranged with a 3/4 meter, and a moving acoustic ensemble accompaniment which gives it a more upbeat, moving, worship feel to the composition, giving this fine song the ability to reach a larger audience of listeners.

Country - pop Ballads: SLOW DOWN * SMALL TOWN PREACHER * MY LOVE

Country - pop Anthems - I FELT HIM BREATHE * MOVING HEAVEN AND EARTH

Prayer Hymns / - CARRY ME * SALVATION POEM * YOU LOVE ME STILL

Acoustic-based contemporary Worship - HOLD'IN ON * BECAUSE OF YOU * HERE I AM SALVATION POEM REPRISE

Acoustic-based contemporary pop Anthem/ Praise - COLORS OF LIFE * HE IS *

While these songs offer a variety of composition styles, depending on what is best for each song, they are basically either acoustic-based (SMALL TOWN PREACHER * BECAUSE OF YOU) or piano-based (CARRY ME * YOU LOVE ME STILL). These well-produced, contemporary and country / pop ballads, anthems and hymns, which obviously have a healthy dose of the beautiful sound of McPherson string instruments, also have a full complement of various combinations of other creative musical elements and voices, depending on the style and mood of each composition. This reviewer especially noticed the contributions of the piano, keyboard, light synths, drums, bass, electric guitar, violin, mandolin and slide guitar, which all provide strong accompaniment, supporting the melody, as well as adding color with counter melodies which support the main melody or add musical sparkles or umph.

The variety of rhythms found in the compositions fit well with each song's style (COLORS OF LIFE * HE IS) It is no wonder that these songs are always entertaining, uplifting and inspire hope; Boosting the spirit and resolve, giving the listener memorable, infectious melodies supported with solid compositions, which pair so well with the various lyrical messages, style and mood of each cut on the album.

Let's review why this album is highly recommended, a MUST for your Christian music collection. This collection of songs has it all: Heavenly acoustic sound, meaningful lyrical messages paired with a variety of solidly composed musical compositions. These musical selections are performed by musical artists, Matt and Sherry McPherson who are skilled, seasoned spiritually by experiences and bring to life their songs by their spirit-filled vocals. The McPherson’s offer this musical blessing, which will inspire the listeners to: Slow down, savor life and the people and blessings given by the Lord, AND to "stop, notice, listen, and receive the Lord"; appreciating his guidance, love and friendship.

To find out more about Matt and Sherry McPherson and to read the individual song evaluations, continue on!

About Matt & Sherry McPherson

Matt McPherson

"The order of my priorities is very clear; my God, my family and my work. My faith comes first in my life."

His favorite verse: John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." "That really says it all, " says Matt.

"Many of the Psalms have ministered to me, and the book of Proverbs is full of words of wisdom."

"Something that I pray repeatedly is, 'Lord, please give me wisdom.' I made up my mind a long time ago that I wasn't going to serve God conditionally, but unconditionally because He loves me unconditionally. It's the least I can do for Him."

Been involved in music ministry and evangelism most of his life, beginning in his early teen years.

The Lord inspired his two popular inventions, which not only allows Matt and Sherry the financial stability to be in music ministry together for Him, but also helps others in building confidence in using their gifts.

1) A revolutionary archery bow, called the Mathews Solocam, revolutionized the sport of archery, and has been used in school programs to develop self-esteem, because it is accurate and easy to learn to use.

2) "State of the Art" McPherson Guitar - with unique features which produce a glorious sound, that encourages and inspires creativity for many Christian acoustic artists, as they compose and perform. Sends acoustic music lovers like me over the moon and back again.

Sherry McPherson

Likes faith building scriptures. Sherry explains to ChristianMusic.com, "They are a great reminder of how powerful God is and it's in His power alone that I am able to overcome. I have had many difficult trials to over come throughout the years. Some of my struggles have been physical infirmities and I have had need of God's healing. Sometimes I was healed miraculously. Other times I had to walk through and trust Him for His timing and His strength."

1 John 4:4 - You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.

And Revelation 12:11: "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony"

Ephesians 3:20: Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according o his power that is at work within us.
Sherry comments, "Encourages me to dare / ask above and beyond and expect what may even seem impossible."

Sherry has also been involved in music ministry since her youth, making good use of her musical talents. Sherry plays the piano and guitar, composes songs, and can sing lead vocals or provide harmony.

Sherry has been serving the Lord as worship leader in the various churches the McPherson family had attended over a twenty year span. The last three years she worked with teenagers participating in the teen church music program.

Sherry and Matt have now teamed up to compose and perform together, going on tours for the sake of the Gospel, and run Autumn Records together as well.

Matt and Sherry McPherson graciously answered some interview questions for Christianmusic.com, sharing generously about their early years, their testimony, what they have learned from their walk with the Lord during personal trials & successes and about their music and creative process.

Matt shares with ChristianMusic.com about his early spiritual influences and training.

"At the age of 3 my family moved us from Wisconsin to Minneapolis, Minnesota. I grew up in a Christian home where we attended church pretty much when ever the doors were open. I am the second oldest of 7 siblings. I accepted the Lord around age 4 and I've served Him ever since."

His parents, especially his mother planted seeds which took hold in his character and molded him.

"Growing up, my Mom was always good about reading the Bible to me and teaching me how to pray. She instilled truth and honesty, and the importance of doing what's right. I never had to go through a rebellious time. I was very obedient, I really wanted to please my parents and not give them a hard time. There were two times that I lied to my parents. One was to my Mother at age 4 and the other time was to my Dad. I was around 7 years old. Both times made me sick to my stomach and I realized lying wasn't worth it. Telling the truth is paramount to me."

The gift of musical talent flowed through Matt's large family, and eventually became a family affair, performing in churches and high schools as a evangelistic group. Matt shares with ChristianMusic.com about his involvement with music during his growing up years.

"My Mother and Father sang and performed together and when the first 4 of us kids grew old enough, we joined them. I started learning to play pedal steel guitar. My family and I did country music and I picked it up really well. When we started singing with my family I was usually singing harmony while playing pedal steel guitar."

Matt reflects upon his early beginnings in his music ministry, and shared with ChristianMusic.com:

"Around the age of 13, I began learning acoustic guitar and then writing songs. It soon became my main instrument. When I began writing songs, I always wrote them about the Lord in some fashion. I soon began performing my songs in church and was asked to be a regular 'Special Music' performer.'"

As a teenager, Matt got his first experiences in singing lead vocals in a trio, which led to experiencing his first challenge to what he knew was his calling, by a well-meaning person.

"In my teens my parents had stopped singing and performing but I continued doing some with my two sisters. I sang lead and they harmonized. My Father once told me (I think I was around age 15), 'You'll never be a singer.' That really hurt me. I believed I could be what ever God wanted me to be. I knew the call God had on my life and I was going to follow His leading and not let my Father's words hold me back."

As a young man, Matt auditioned for a Gospel band in Minneapolis, which is where he met the love of his life, Sherry.

"Sherry and I had met in a Christian Band in Minneapolis, which we had auditioned for. We traveled with this band for approximately 1 year. Then we became engaged and left the group. We began singing together as a duo."

This was the beginning of their music ministry together. As a newly married couple they attended a huge church in Minneapolis, and were asked to perform for the pastor's evangelistic crusades.

Sherry shares about this experience: "Around the time we were first married, we were asked to travel with an Evangelist and do the music for the crusades. We did this for about one year. We went to the Philippines for 3-1/2 weeks to minister with the Evangelist and his team. It was a great experience to see so many people come to Christ, dedicating their lives at the altar."

ChristianMusic.com: How do you describe your music?

Matt shares, "Although I grew up doing and listening to Country Music, I don't always write Country. I like Pop music as well. I think my music is a blend of Country and Pop.

Recent Musical Influences: "As of recently I really enjoy listening to Celtic music as well, I find it very relaxing. Michael McDonald has a voice that I love and admire. I also admire Whitney Houston and Celine Dion. A great voice will always move me. I've learned a lot vocally by studying some of these great singers and I've encouraged Sherry to do the same."

About His songwriting Process....

Matt explains, "Writing songs for me is usually slow and some times painful. I almost always get the tune first. Tunes come very easy for me. The hard part that takes so much labor for me is the words. It can some times take months for me to finish a song, which is very frustrating for me."

Matt continues, "It's good that Sherry and I can compose together when I get into a writers cramp. She is some times able to help me past it. Our song "HE IS" was written from a guitar tune I came up with. Sherry heard it and said, 'I can write words to that. Let me try.' So she did and I helped on some of the words, song structure, etc.

The song, "I FELT HIM BREATHE" came quicker for me. It really moved me as I wrote it. I could tell it was something very special that the Lord wanted me to write. It almost didn't make it on our album. It was the last song written and we had kind of decided all of the songs at that point. But Sherry said, 'This song HAS to go on our album.' We were able to get it arranged and recorded in time."

Sherry McPherson

Sherry shares with ChristianMusic.com about her early spiritual influences, the beginnings of her relationship with Jesus and her musical training which prepared her for their music ministry.

Sherry shares, "I grew up in the small town of Excelsior, Minnesota, outside of Minneapolis. My family always attended church but were not taught about receiving Christ as your Savior and making Him Lord of Your life. When I was eleven, my older brother came to know Jesus as His Lord and he often shared with me about the Lord. I was twelve when I committed my life to Christ."

Her gift for song writing came to her soon after she committed herself to Jesus, which must of been a powerful witness, along with her brother's testimony, to the rest of her family who also came to this same commitment to Jesus.

Sherry explains, "It was soon after this that I wrote my first song. The rest of my family came to Christ over the next few years."

Her musical training....

Sherry shares, "I began piano lessons at age 5 and took them into College. My brother learned to play guitar and I became interested in guitar around age 14. He taught me how to play. I sang in choirs since 3rd grade at both church and school. I had my first solo performance in the 6th grade choir concert and I was also one of the accompanists. I entered some solo contests related to school, and I was involved in drama."

"It became very natural for me to perform and be in front of people but what I enjoyed the most was performing songs I had received from the Lord that were birthed out of personal experiences."

Her family also toured around as an evangelical musical group.

"My family was very musical. During my Junior and High School years we often sang together at other churches."

Besides taking care of her family, Sherry began her long service to the Lord being a leader in worship through music.

Sherry shares with ChristianMusic.com, "About two years later I was asked to be the Worship Leader for a church in Minneapolis. I led there for 3-1/2 years. I learned more about Spiritual Warfare at this time, as I was experiencing it a lot. This was another time of training in intercession and spiritual warfare for me. My prayer life and Bible studying increased a lot at this time."

Sherry continues, "We moved several times while our children were young and I always ended up leading worship in the local church, which I continued to do for over 20 years. The last 3 years, at the church we attend now, I volunteered as music director and trainer of 21-23 teens for our Youth Worship Bands. I really loved working with these kids; it was such a blessing for me to pour into their lives the things I felt they should learn."

"I've recently stepped down to pursue our concert tour. It was very hard to leave my work there. I will always have a special place in my heart for 'my kids.' But I am excited for what lies ahead with our music and ministry."

Her musical influences and About Her Musical Style...

"During my earlier years of walking with the Lord, I enjoyed listening to Keith Green's music. He always had a message to his songs and I loved playing his style of piano. Amy Grant was another artist I listened to. I also listened to secular music which was mostly pop, although I liked a real variety of styles. The only style I didn't listen to was Country, which is funny because that's about all Matt was allowed to listen to growing up. Being trained classical with piano and voice lessons, I was told to never 'slur' your notes and have lots of vibrato."

"When I sang the songs the Lord gave me, that kind of singing didn't fit with the style I was writing. I quickly developed my own style of singing. Today I really like the "new" country music. It's a nice blend of country and pop. My song "COLORS OF LIFE" seems like a left turn to my writing for this album but it is one of the styles I enjoy."

Her Songwriting Process...

Sherry shares with ChristianMusic.com about how she creates her music.
"Most of my songs were written out of personal experiences. More times than not my songs would come quickly, usually the tune and words would flow at the same time. (Although not every time) Sometimes I would write at the piano, other times with guitar."

"While I was a Worship Leader there were times when I was leading that the Lord would give me a song on the spot and I would sing it as He gave it to me. This took a LOT of trust in hearing Him and believing that it was His timing for it to come. One time I received a song and went into it and at the end, I couldn’t remember what I just did but it was beautiful and very special."

"Matt had tried to write it down as it was flowing out of me, but he soon had to stop because he couldn't keep up. Later Matt was talking with the sound man and found out that he had recorded it. I took the recording home and learned it and made it a regular song for our congregation. It was one of the best loved songs, and was recorded on our Praise and Worship Album. The song is called, LET HIM BE. It doesn't happen to me very often, but when it does it's really a blessing."

 

Other Important Faith-building Experiences....

Romans 8:28 - And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Sherry and Matt had a hard time having children... In the process of growing their family to 3 sons, whom Sherry and Matt were blessed with to parent, Sherry and Matt endured 5 miscarriages, depending on the Lord to get them through it, strengthening their faith. Through these trials, the Lord used these situations to build His relationship with them when they turned to Him for strength, comfort and hope.

Sherry shares her testimony with ChristianMusic.com, about how the Lord blessed them through their pain, their prayers and their joy, and how they were able to pass on what they learned to others.

"During the years of having children I lost 5 babies to miscarriage. Sure it was terribly painful, our hearts were breaking, but the Lord was who we leaned on. He was our strength and our comfort. He was the one we held on to in the pain and loss. Jesus said in His word, 'In this world you will have tribulation but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.' Even in this painful time, He showed us how to 'overcome' and He has helped heal our hearts."

"A man that worked for us at the time of our losing a son to miscarriage had asked Matt, 'How are you getting through this? Aren't you and your wife angry at God?'"

"Matt's response to him was (and I agreed 100%) 'No, I'm not angry with God. If I were angry, then I would be assuming that God owed us something. God doesn't owe us anything. We live in an imperfect world and that is how Matt and I looked at it.'"

Sherry also shared with ChristianMusic.com the results of prayer and stepping out in faith. Sherry shares about her first pregnancy, and the medical problems of this son.

"When I was 5 months pregnant with our first son, he was almost lost to miscarriage. There was tremendous prayer put forth by family and friends for his life. I ended up delivering him at full term. When he was 3-1/2 he began to have severe seizures. We prayed hard for 7 months for God to spare his life once again and he was healed."

Matt also has experienced the power of prayer and trusting in the Lord. Besides being a talented musician, Matt has been able to grow two businesses which support Matt and Sherry's music ministry, through the blessings, gifts and guidance given to him through the Lord.

Matt shares in 2005 Decision article by Jim Dailey, "I can truly say that I have seen the hand of God in everything that has happened in our businesses. Somehow, God has given me the gift to see the finished product in my mind and avoid a lot of steps in between."

In 1992, he finished his new invention, a revolutionary archery bow and through his company, Mathews Archery, produced the Mathews Solocam, the only bow with a single-cam bow technology.

Also in the 1990's, the concept of a revolutionary acoustic guitar began with a prayer, asking God to help him create a better acoustic guitar. The result was Matt's invention of "the mother of all" acoustic guitars, the McPherson Guitar, which has been embraced by many well-known acoustic guitar players because of its glorious sound.

Moving the soundhole to the edge of the instrument - increases the flexible surface area on the central part of the instrument.
Innovative, state-of-the-art bracing - Maximizes top vibration and resonation.
Unique cantilevered neck /fingerboard - Creates a "no-touch" design which allows "the top to vibrate and resound to its fullest potential."

Matt and Sherry together formed their own record label, Autumn Records

They have studios and offices in Nashville, Tennessee and Sparta, Wisconsin. They have made 3 of their own albums, and produced / sponsored 5 other albums of other talented Christian music artists.

Matt and Sherry continue to be involved in Christian ministry in this country and in projects abroad, giving of their talents, gifts, and time all for the glory of the Lord and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Individual Song Evaluations...

LYRICS - Printed with permission from Autumn Records.

* * * * + + SLOW DOWN - By Matt & Sherry McPherson and Lenny Leblanc ©2006 McHouse Music(Admin by FunAttic Music)SESAC

2nd favorite country pop song of this reviewer. Acoustic country & pop rock in a delightful package, with a bright melody, country two-step beat, and a peppy tight acoustic ensemble, which gives fine support to Matt's well done lead vocals. Back up vocals add a touch of soul to the overall sound.

Scriptural References: (Psalm 37:7 & 46:10, Matt. 6:33 & 11;28-30, 1 Peter 5:7)

Verse 1 Slow down, take the time to notice / I keep hearin' this in my mind / Slow down, time for me to focus / That's the place I just gotta find / So many things I miss, I'm goin crazy like this //

Chorus: I need to make life last / Stop movin' so fast, just slow down / This world keeps turnin' (keeps turnin) / There's a lesson that I'm learnin' / Just slow down, come on…slow down //

Verse 2 So easy, caught up in a hurry / Tryin' hard not to let it show / Every day brings another worry / I can't seem just to let it go / Such a vicious ride, got no place to hide //

Chorus:

* * * * + BECAUSE OF YOU - By Sherry McPherson & Dennis Patton ©2006 McHouse Music(Admin by FunAttic Music)SESAC

Uplifting, peppy acoustic pop anthem, which comes to life vocally because of Sherry's joyful vocal presentation. The intro gets the song moving right away with a driving broken chord guitar jig. Nice dynamics! Quiet broken acoustic guitar chords are the perfect accompaniment for verses. Sound swells into the upbeat, victorious chorus of thanksgiving to the Lord.. Effective background choral vocals support the lead vocals nicely in the chorus

Scriptural References: (Romans 8:31, Psalm 34:19 & 54:4 & 56:3-4a, Heb. 13:5-6, Joshua 1:9)

Verse 1 I just have to say / There's nothin' I can't face / Knowin' You're with me / Whatever lies ahead / I'm trustin' You instead Of fearin' tomorrow /

I've known the sting of pain / Felt the pourin' rain / Because of You I'm safe…oooh

Chorus I've been given this life I'm livin' to win the race /Because of You / because of You / I can face the insanity, deal with humanity every day I know it's true / I'll make it through / because of You

Verse 2 You are my Father and You have brought me farther / Than I could imagine / Every storm of life, well You were by my side Helpin' me through when /

I knew the sting of pain /Felt the pourin' rain / Because of You I'm safe //

Chorus I've been given this life I'm livin' to win the race Because of You, because of You I can face the insanity, deal with humanity every day I know it's true / I'll make it through, because of You

Bridge This world can be cold / But I believe You're still in control / I've been given this life / I'm livin' to win the race / Because of You, all because of You //

Chorus

* * * * + + SMALL TOWN PREACHER - By Matt & Sherry McPherson and Steve Siler and John Mandeville ©2006 McHouse Music(Admin by FunAttic Music)SESAC

Favorite country ballad! Acoustic country ballad with a memorable melody, expressive vocals. Piano gives melody chordal support and a nice counter melody in the chorus. Nice additions of slide guitar, and accents of organ sound, which complement the guitar accompaniment. Matt's lead vocals are perfect in telling the story, with nice harmonies provided by Sherry.

Scriptural References: (John 15:6, Phil. 2:13, Heb. 13:15-16, Galatians 6:9-10)

Verse 1 Turn the light on in the porch, I'm comin' home a little late / Brother Peterson took ill, and he's needin' a little faith /

So I won't be home in time / to kiss the little ones goodnight

Verse 2 Crawled in bed at half past three, just hopin' for a little sleep / Elder Jacobs rang the phone with a need that wouldn't keep /

We prayed for God's will to be done, until I saw the risin' sun //

Chorus 1 I wonder if I make a difference, cause sometimes it's hard to see / How God could use a small town preacher, like me (like me)//

Verse 3 Sister Mosely plays the organ, it's another Wednesday night / At the dinner after meetin', there's always apple pie /

Nothin' much here that is new / there must be more that I could do //

Chorus 1 I wonder if I make a difference, cause sometimes it's hard to see / How God could use a small town preacher, like me (like me)//

Bridge I'm just one man and there's so many needs / I preach (I preach), I pray (I pray), sometimes it seems like nothin's changed / Lord, am I getting through? //

Verse 4 Found a scrapbook in my study with a ribbon and a note / Looks like all my congregation just wanted me to know /

The little things I thought were small / turns out they mattered most of all / /

Chorus 2 Now I know I've made a difference, and it's a miracle to see / How God could use a small town preacher…like me (like me) //

End Turn the light on in the porch, I'm comin' home a little late

* * * * HOLDIN' ON - By Sherry McPherson and Dennis Patton ©2006 McHouse Music(Admin by FunAttic Music)SESAC

A driving acoustic ensemble playing an 8th note pattern and light percussion keep things bright and peppy from the beginning of the song, establishing the tempo. Light synths work and keyboard work offer chordal support and accents. Love the stellar lyrical message so nicely presented in Sherry's expressive lead vocals.

Scriptural References: (Romans 8:35-39, John 10:27-30, 1 Col.9-12)

Verse 1 In a world spinning out of control / I touch the ground and guard my soul / I am holdin' on to You / I feel a peace in the midst of the storm / You've made a hedge to keep me safe from harm / I am holdin' on to You

Bridge 1: Temptations try to pull me away / But I cling to Your words / And I seek Your face

Chorus There's nothing in this world / That can save my life, save my soul / Only through Your love/ are all things good / I'll keep holdin' on to You (Holdin' on to You)

Verse 2 I could live by the wisdom of man (the wisdom of man) / And choose to build upon sinkin' sand But I wild hold on to / You

Bridge 2: When satan tries to pull me away / I'll cling to Your words / And I'll seek Your face //

Chorus: There's nothing in this world / That can save my life, save my soul / Only through Your love/ are all things good / I'll keep holdin' on to You (Holdin' on to You)

Bridge: When satan tries to pull me away / Oh I'll cling to Your words / And I'll seek Your face / Seek Your face/ Seek Your face oh //

Chorus: There's nothing in this world / That can save my life, save my soul / Only through Your love/ are all things good / I'll keep holdin' on to You (Holdin' on to You)

Tag (Holdin' on to You) / I'll keep holdin' on, to you. I'll keep holding on to my Jesus, holding onto my Savior. Holdin' on

* * * * + + I FELT HIM BREATHE - By Matt McPherson ©2006 McHouse Music(Admin by FunAttic Music)SESAC

Favorite anthem of this reviewer. Testimonial anthem which has a powerful poignant punch, with a glorious melody, inspiring guitar and piano parts, with lovely string synths & piano duet the last time through the chorus, and the interlude. The heart-felt vocals by Matt and harmonies all come together to create a truly moving musical, worship experience. Yep, it chokes this reviewer up every time.

Scriptural References: (Heb.6:19-20 & 12:1-3, Ezek:26:26, Ephes.4:23, 2nd Cor.3:17-18 & 5:17)

Verse 1 I could spend my whole life livin' / For everything that this world has given / But tell me have you seen it satisfy?/ Instead I turned my head toward heaven / Gave Him my heart just like it's written / And found the peace the good book wrote inside //

Chorus Then He… breathed His breath on me / I felt Him… breathe His breath on me / Meltin' down those walls / Keepin' me from being free / When He breathed His breath on me //

Verse 2 What he's done for me's no secret / He gives me joy and He lets me keep it / Why God would care is such a mystery / And evidently He's not too busy / I know He's here, He's talkin' to me / Everything He does so amazingly //

Chorus 2 times

Interlude --

Meltin' down those walls / Keepin' me from being free / When He breathed His breath on me , You know he breathed his breath, I felt Him. Breathe his breath on me //

Breathe on me....Holy breath of God

* * * * + + MOVING HEAVEN AND EARTH - By Matt McPherson and John Mandeville and Steve Siler ©2006 McHouse Music(Admin by FunAttic Music)SESAC

Another inspiring, moving acoustic ballad, which pairs poignant lyrical message with a flowing memorable melody which ends with an intercessory prayer. Piano and guitar provide a lovely support for the inspiring melody. Vocals again are heart-felt and dynamic.

Scriptural References: (Proverbs 22:6 & 20:7, Psalm 127:3-5)

Verse 1 I still remember your first breath / That moment's still alive in me / The way your hand held on to mine / I saw a glimpse of heaven in your eyes / Though you may not see it now / Believe me my child //

Chorus I'm movin' heaven and earth for you / There's nothing a father's heart won't do / Though your whole life waits before you / You can rest on one sure thing / I'm movin heaven and earth for you //

Verse 2 I can't believe you've grown so fast / Those precious times have slipped away / (where have they gone) I'd love to hold on to those years / But in my heart you'll always be right here / Though I can't be there with you / Down on my knees //

Chorus I'm movin' heaven and earth for you / There's nothing a father's heart won't do / Though your whole life waits before you / You can rest on one sure thing // I'm movin heaven and earth for you //

For you... Though your whole life waits before you / You can rest on one sure thing / I'm movin heaven and earth for you / I'm movin heaven and earth / just for you.

VAMP Down on my knees ( I'm praying that they may trust you, Lord......)

* * * * + + COLORS OF LIFE - By Sherry McPherson ©2006 McHouse Music(Admin by FunAttic Music)SESAC

2nd favorite contemporary anthem on this CD. Bright and airy delightfully light on its feet accompaniment swirls along, courtesy of violin and acoustic accompaniment, light mandolin counter melody & accents - 3/4 meter, waltz-like feeling tempo. Especially love Sherry's lead vocals and the duet harmonies. This is the song to listen to when depressed or in a dour mood!

Scriptural References: (Jer. 29:11, Romans 5:1-5)

Verse 1 Colors of life, colors of time / So many colors to see / These are the things that we experience / Making us who we are / And what we will be Colors of life…oh…colors of life

Verse 2 Happiness brings color of green / Sadness brings color of blue / Testing of faith, patience to wait / Brings a yellow hue / We know it's true Colors of life…oh…colors of life

Chorus We must trust God (in every color) / He is in control / He has a plan for us (in every color) / Colors of life…oh…colors of life //

Bridge In hard times we say, "Take this away" In good times we say, "I wish this would stay"

Colors of life, colors of time / So many colors to see / These are the things that we experience / Making us who we are / And what we will be Colors of life…oh…colors of life

* * * * + MY LOVE - By Matt McPherson ©2006 McHouse Music(Admin by FunAttic Music)SESAC

A wonderfully acoustic country gem of a love ballad, whose memorable dynamics and melody are supported by guitar ensemble, the perfect musical support for this loving message, brought to life by Matt's smooth, poignant vocals. Sherry's harmonies are lovely.

Scriptural References: (Cor. 13)

Verse 1 I love the way you smile, my love / I love the way you laugh, my love All of these little things you do / Just make me crazier for you / And time has made me love you more / My love

Verse 2 I love to feel your touch, my love I love to hold you close, my love These little things I don't ignore It's all of your ways I need you for / And time has made me love you more My love

Chorus And some day when time grows old / They'll write about our love / But the books will never hold all they could say / For the ending, now I know, is not the end at all / For all time / you will be my love (my love) / For all time you will be my love //

Verse 3 You still believe in me, my love / You still give me your trust, my love / You seem to see inside of me / And know what it is I really need / And time has made me love you more / My love

* * * * + + HE IS - By Sherry & Matt McPherson ©2006 McHouse Music(Admin by FunAttic Music)SESAC

Favorite contemporary praise and worship song! A fun driving acoustic rock praise and worship anthem with a touch of soul, and plenty of moving dotted note rhythms and a touch of syncopation in the melody. Tight guitar ensemble (acoustic and electric & slide) cooks with energy, giving umph and sparkle to the melody, and offers some fun counter melodies as well. 16th notes played by electric lead and bass throughout add to the umph & rhythm. Sherry does a terrific performance. Matt's harmonies and vocal rhythms are also most enjoyable.

Verses are written in a minor key, while the chorus bursts forth in a joyous major key, celebrating who the Lord is to us and all creation!

Scriptural References:(Jer. 1:5a, Rev. 1:8, Psalm 102:25 & 110:1, Heb. 3:6 & 8:6)

Verse 1 See Him in the darkness / See Him in the light / See Him in the morning / See Him in the night / He is ever knowing, ever watching Ever loving, ever kind

Verse 2 See Him in the laughter / See Him in the pain / See Him in the sunshine / See Him in the rain / He is ever knowing, ever watching Ever loving, ever kind / repeat

His eyes are looking for the door to an open heart / And his grace can change a broken life that's been torn apart //

Chorus: He is the Father of glory Mighty King, our majesty / He is the Father eternal /And he watches over you, over me

Verse 3 Feel His holy presence / Feel His power of love / Feel His hand of mercy / Feel He is enough / He is ever knowing, ever watching / Ever loving, ever kind / His eyes are looking for the door to an open heart / And his grace can change a broken life/ that's been torn apart //

Chorus He is the Father of glory / Mighty King, our majesty / He is the Father eternal /And he watches over you, over me // Repeat

He watches over you, he watches over me / he watches over me / he watches over me /

* * * * + + CARRY ME- By Matt & Sherry McPherson and Steve Siler and John Mandeville ©2006 McHouse Music(Admin by FunAttic Music)SESAC

Moving, beautiful piano ballad prayer confessional hymn nicely supported by strings and guitars, providing a full sound. Dynamics build nicely throughout the composition. Another poignant, heart-felt song with a dynamic, memorable melody, expressive lead and duet vocals, which bring the listener into the spirit of worship. Would be welcome in any contemporary service or personal devotional time.

Scriptural References: (Matt. 11:28-30, 1 Peter 5:7, Romans 8:26)

Verse 1 So long, far away / So cold and afraid / I'd forgotten how to reach You / No strength left in me / Guess it took this to see / Just how much I need You…to

Refrain: Carry me / When I'm too weary for walkin' / Shoulder me/ 'Cause I can't stand alone / Cradle me / When all my hope has been broken / Cover me / And Lord I'm finally home

Verse 2 Well I faltered in faith / And I'm so ashamed / To come and kneel before You / Won't You take my hand / And help me to stand / Lord, I implore You…please

Chorus Carry me / When I'm too weary for walkin' / Shoulder me/ 'Cause I can't stand alone / Cradle me / When all my hope has been broken / Cover me / And Lord I'm finally home // Repeat

Carry me / Carry me / Carry me / Won't You carry me?//

* * * * HERE I AM - By Sherry McPherson and Dennis Patton ©2006 McHouse Music(Admin by FunAttic Music)SESAC

Acoustic pop, piano, & strings with a peppy tempo propels this prayer anthem, with touches of keyboard playing counter melody, and supporting melody. Nice dynamics, lovely melody, always enjoyable lead vocals by Sherry, and duet harmonies, which truly will encourage spending time with the Lord!

Scriptural References:(Jer. 29:12-13, 1 Chr. 16:11, Ps. 37:7)

Verse 1 It's that time / again /When I'm missin' You / I have to say / I didn't take / The time alone with You

Verse 2 I've let so many things (so many things) / Take the place of You / How can it be just You and me / When I'm not around //

Chorus Here I am (Here I am), I'm missin' You / I finally see what I must do / Here I am (Here I am), down on my knees / Waiting for You / I'm coming back to Your arms / Here I am (Here I am),

Verse 3 I've gone this way before / Will I ever learn? / You are to me / all that I need / I need nothing more //

Chorus Here I am (Here I am), I'm missin' You / I finally see what I must do / Here I am (Here I am), down on my knees / Waiting for You / I'm coming back to Your arms / Here I am (Here I am) // Repeat

I'm coming back to Your arms, Father / Yes, I'm coming back to Your arms

* * * * + + YOU LOVE ME STILL - By Sherry McPherson and Dennis Patton ©2006 McHouse Music(Admin by FunAttic Music)SESAC

A great favorite of this reviewer! Another glorious piano & string ballad, perfect for this prayer confessional hymn, which would find a home in any contemporary or blended service. Features a gorgeous melody, heart-felt vocals by Sherry, poignant lyrics and very effective dynamics!!!

Scriptural References:(Romans 7:14-25, 1 John 4:19, John 10:27-30)

Verse 1 Kneeling in silence / I have so much to say /So many times I've fallen away /Drowning in a sea of guilt and shame / Not really sure of how much you can take //

Chorus How many times will you forgive? / How many wounds can I inflict? / Oh how many times can I fail Your will? I'm amazed, some how, You love me still //

Verse 2 Oh tears flow like rivers / When I'm by myself / Then I hear Your words / and I feel like someone else Lord, I'm not worthy to call upon Your name /Yet I cling to the promise / Your love will never change

Chorus 2 How many times have You forgiven me? How many wounds have I inflicted? How many times have I failed Your will? I'm amazed, some how You love me still ///

Bridge Father, Father, forgive me of my sin / And give me the strength to stand up once again

Chorus 2 How many times have You forgiven me? / How many wounds have I inflicted?/ How many times have I failed Your will? / I'm amazed, some how / You love me still ///

* * * * + + THE SALVATION POEM - By Matt & Sherry McPherson ©2004 McHouse Music(Admin by FunAttic Music)SESAC

Lovely piano and string prayer hymn, lyrically simple and to the point, making it perfect as an altar call song, for any contemporary or traditional service, or for a personal moment to renew oneself to serve the Lord. It is the perfect ending for this most inspiring album! Love the poignant melody and lyrics, heart-felt lead vocals and duet harmonies!

* * * * + + THE SALVATION POEM (REPRISE) - This more lively acoustic version of this song was done for release on the radio. The composition now has a moving, swirling 3/4 meter feel in the accompaniment brought to life by crisp, triplet-sounding rhythms against dotted or running 16th notes, all played by an energized acoustic ensemble, who make it sound so easy! Nice counter melodies contributed by electric guitar and other additional voices add color and chordal support. Matt's vocals are very poignant and effective. Lovely choral support as well grace the Refrain. Very nice dynamics. Begins soft, and prayerful, building in sound through the Refrain, then quieting down once again.

Scriptural References: (John 3:16, Ephes. 4:2B-3, Romans 10: 8-10)

Jesus You died upon a cross / And rose again to save the lost / Forgive me now of all my sin / Come be my Savior, Lord, and Friend //

Refrain:Change my life and make it new / And help me Lord to live for You //

Change my life and make it new / And help me Lord to live for You /

Reviewed by Julie Carr for ChristianMusic.com

SLOW DOWN will be available on January 16th for sale. Visit their website for all the details.

They also have an artist’s website at: www.mattandsherrymcpherson.com

Sources:

ChristianMusic.com interview with Matt & Sherry McPherson
Quotes taken from: Addicted to Hurry: Spiritual Strategies for Slowing Down, Kirk Byron Jones, Judson Press, June 2003
McCain & Co. promotional materials: "The One Who Has the Answers" by Jim Dailey, 2005 Decision article
mcphersonguitars.com/activea.asp *autumnrecords.com

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