BLUD BROS. - NOT WHAT YOU
THINK CD REVIEW
A Closer Look...
. The Lord has worked in all of their
lives to prepare them for this music ministry; seeking them
out, helping them through trials and life experiences, developing
gifts which all helps to produce the spiritual and musical power
found in their first CD together, NOT WHAT YOU THINK
Rich Cook; married to Mary Jean - Though
raised in a Christian home in northwest Indiana, Rich was a
troubled teen whose flirtation with drugs turned into an addiction
which led him downward into a dark abyss until he hit rock bottom.
The Lord reached down and helped him through it all through
12 step programs; AA and NA. He has been clean and sober for
20 years, has run an Expresso Shop and earned a PHD in psychology.
Roscoe Hoffman - He is the son of missionaries
from South Africa, and grew up participating in his family's
Christian ministry in the United States. At age 15 he began
learning the keyboard, in order to help his father lead an exciting
music worship program. Young Roscoe won a full scholarship to
attend the University of Tennessee where he further broadened
his musical ability, developing strong interests in Jazz, Blues,
and classical music. "He truly is a blessing to anyone
who comes in contact with him, his ready smile and his excitement
for life are contagious."
Dan Kelly; married to Sue & has 3
kids - Dan Kelly hails from Kankakee, IL. His father was a Christian
Pastor and his mother was the choir director for his father's
church. Dan grew up participating in the church music program,
singing in various choirs, and learned to play the mouth harp
in elementary school. He followed the good example, set by his
parents of being the Lord's servant, and was called to serve
the Lord through music. A trombone player for nearly forty years,
Dan has played with numerous worship teams, concert bands, brass
choirs and orchestras. Recently, he began to play the mouth
harp again when his church did a blues number, much to the delight
of the rest of the band members.
Bob Frank; married to Chris & has
4 kids - Growing up in the greater Chicago area, Bob Frank started
his musical career as a guitarist playing in various bands during
his youth. As an adult, Bob held down normal full-time employment
as a salesman, but still played in various bands in the Chicago
bar scene every week. Bob Frank enjoyed doing regular guitar
work and vocals, with some bass guitar gigs as well, on occasion.
He married the love of his life, Chris. When it became clear
that Bob Frank had developed a problem with alcohol, a common
obstacle for many in the music industry, Bob went into a church
program and with the Lord's help, was able to kick his alcohol
habit. He decided to remove this ugly temptation by stopping
his weekend music gigs in the Chicago Music scene. After being
alcohol free for nine years, the Lord called Bob to once again
play in a band; a Christian band, in a music ministry to the
Lord. In February 2003, Bob Frank became the Bass player for
the BLUD BROS., after Denny Brubaker left the band to pursue
another calling.
"Large Al" Harvey; Married
to Brenda. - Large Al's musical talents surfaced early in his
life, as a vocalist. He first began singing at the age of 8,
often performing at his father's Farm Bureau Meetings. His interest
in guitar told hold when he was 12, and he began lessons. As
Alan was "raised in a culture soaked in Blues music, being
able to sing the Blues style music was a requirement for those
gifted in music."
"Having come to God for salvation
and forgiveness in his late twenties, and having lived in the
joy of that discovery ever since, singing the Blues for Jesus
is just the right thing to do for 'Large Al' ."
"Large Al" Harvey's thoughts
about his spiritual journey, and how the Lord led him into this
musical ministry with the BLUD BROS...........
ChristianMusic.com asked Large Al Harvey:
"Could you share in more detail how the Lord prepared you
for your music ministry, how he got you as a band all together,
i.e. - any reflections on your ministry, how you got to this
place in your lives - Any experiences you wish to share?"
Alan comments, "I have been a musician
and vocalist since I was a child. I come from a musical family,
especially my father whose band helped give Gene Autry his start..
I grew into my teen years to be a somewhat accomplished folk
and bluegrass musician, but my real joy was playing and singing
blues based Rock & Roll."
"I had no clue about Jesus, except
to use his name as a swear word until I was 27 years old. By
that time I was already a fairly established musician, and because
of giving my life to Christ, that sort of made me a Christian
Artist automatically. During the time that the Holy Spirit was
in the process of reaching me, I made a vow to be involved in
some of the most beautiful music that God has ever heard.. I
guess I have always been a person of lofty goals!"
"Over the years of walking with
Jesus I continue to learn what "beautiful music" means to Him.
I take responsibility for the quality of my musicianship, because
I don't want to offer God anything but my best (He deserves
so much more than my best) At the same time I also understand
that what is really beautiful to my Lord is music that draws
people closer to Him, regardless of the technical competence
of the performance. "
"So I have been blessed to operate
as a worship leader, a musical evangelist and a tool for the
building up of the body of Christ all at the same time. The
BLUD BROS. ministry is one part of a multifold music ministry
that God has given me. Another wonderful part of that ministry
is encouraging the strength and growth in Christ and musicianship
that is so evident in all the members of the BLUD BROS. band.
We continually encourage each other in fixing our eyes on the
goal of being God's instrument to all types of people from all
walks of life."
The BLUD BROS. began ...
When Alan Harvey and Rich Cook "ran
into each other due to a mutual interest in music and coffee.
Their discussions ran over many topics, but mostly came back
to music and God. They started playing together for the 'sheer
joy' of making music, and soon that branched out into multiple
groups including worship teams, and bands that did festivals,
parties, benefits and dances."
About Their Music.... On NOT WHAT YOU
THINK CD
These gifted and talented musicians'
musical sound, created in the genre of Chicago Style Christian
Blues, can best be described as "Faith Based Blues, Roots, Gospel,
Jesus Music."
One wonders, how is this accomplished?
Large Al Harvey graciously answers the questions of this Chicago
Style Christian Blues music novice, who is trying to explain
what is so unique and enjoyable and uplifting about their special
form of music on this remarkable CD which proclaims the Gospel
so well through the musical talent of Large Al Harvey and the
BLUD BROS.
Their Music is created in the Chicago
Style Christian Blues Genre, which means?
Al Harvey explains."Well, blues
is designed to be simple, it's more about leaving spaces for
creative freedom both vocally and instrumentally than it is
about structure. There needs to be just enough structure for
the band to know what should happen next along with enough freedom
to seriously express deep emotions."
ChristianMusic.com asks Al Harvey; "How
do your describe the different meters? I recognize the blues
patterns, but don't know what their official names are."
There are some primary blues chord progressions
like the twelve bar blues which is a repeating 12 bar pattern
of the 1st, 4th and 5th chord of the key (usually referred to
as "I,IV,V") and certain musical signatures like the "II-IV
turnaround" which adds the 2nd chord of the key signature before
the fifth chord to create an expectancy of resolution. Let me
add that if you said the words "expectancy of resolution" to
Albert King he would laugh and say "blues ain't about 5 dollar
words" and he'd be right!"
"Finally, one of the major things
that sets the blues apart from most other music is the pentatonic
scale (another word that Albert King would probably laugh at).
This scale is a cross between a major scale and a minor scale
and only uses 5 of the 7 notes in a key. This scale pattern
reflects deeply felt pain of the soul, and was originally imported
to the united states in slave ships. A good example of a pentatonic
scale is to play only the black keys on a piano, melodies based
on the use of those keys generate the same feeling that blues
music is designed to convey."
Okay, so while Chicago Style Christian
Blues is a genre that has some unique structure and characteristics
in its composition, there is a lot of room as well for self-expression
in its delivery, and the BLUD BROS. can create their faith-based
Blues, Roots, Gospel, Jesus music, much to the entertainment
of the listener and to the Glory of the Lord.
The BLUD BROS. excel in their special
musical form of self-expression and delivery of the Gospel message,
using their collective talents to offer the listener a nice
variety of songs written in their most interesting style, rooted
in the Chicago Style Christian Blues genre. Every musical selection
on this CD is unique in composition and message, giving the
listener a variety of the blues styles explained above, and
meters, major and minor keys, with a healthy dose of their own
musical creativity, which is both a delight and results in an
inspirational music listening experience. All the songs offer
strong counter melodies, rhythms and excellent vocals. Vocals
are always clear, whether energetic or heartfelt, passionate
or smooth, carrying the melody and song's message loud and clear
to the listener, all which is strongly supported by a group
of talented musicians also called to express their love for
Jesus through their own unique talents.
ChristianMusic.com. asked Large Al, "How
do you as a band put the songs together... in a joint session,
everyone contributing their part (improv jamming?) or is it
more formal - composed beforehand?"
Large Al answers, "As far as song
writing, it is difficult to sum up the approach we use, it tends
to be different from song to song. I am the primary songwriter
for the group, although Roscoe is quite skilled at it also,
and so is Bob Frank although he really hasn't had the opportunity
to bring any of his original music to fruition. As lyricist
I also receive great help from my wife (who is quite the wordsmith)
and other friends in the industry (John Sellers for example
of "Come into the Holy of Holies" fame made a significant contribution
to "Dead Man Walking", as did my hunny). "
"We do a lot of jamming, it is a
prerequisite to being a blues artist. Sometimes those jam sessions
bear fruit in rhythm arrangements and riffage that are later
used with lyrics that fit the sound we are making. Sometimes
we are looking for a particular "feel" in the presentation of
a song, and we try multiple beats, approaches, break patterns,
chord structures, etc. until we find the right combination to
support the message. A long time ago I was taught that in a
good song, the music and the lyrics work together to present
a message to the whole person. Words are language to our minds,
music is language to our hearts, the music needs to say the
same thing to our hearts that the lyrics say to our minds. We
work hard to get that to happen."
Christian Truth and Other Themes Found
in their Music.....
The song lyrics themselves and their
vocal delivery on NOT WHAT YOU THINK reflect the strong witness
of Large Al Harvey and his love for the Lord.
"Alan's life is about Jesus, passion
and truth, period. Alan's songs reach to the heart with a different
appeal than what most people have grown to expect from 'Christian
Entertainers.'"
Large Al Harvey's song writing gift and
vocal talent brings the hope, joy, love and faithfulness we
have in Jesus Christ, to the listener in lyrical form, in songs
given to him by the Lord. While Large Al Harvey's songs found
on this CD explore the truth about our Lord and Savior Jesus
Christ, they also at the same time blend in life truths that
most people, believers and seekers, can already relate to, and
apply in their lives, and be spiritually enriched and entertained
at the same time!
Some of these life truths include: "There
is such a thing as right and wrong. That living right and "believing
in God" ought to fit together. That no human being has any more
or less value than any other human being. That God's gonna be
there for you, no matter what. That He loves you, no matter
what. That He's proven His love by kicking the gates of hell
open from the inside out. And finally, most importantly, that
not one single human being has got it all together, or has got
it all figured out. Those who think they do are the biggest
liars of all, because they are lying to themselves."
In Conclusion.....
What a combination of meaningful lyrics,
strong, expressive vocals and combined musical talent of Large
Al and the BLUD BROS.! The vocal talent of Large Al, his range
in delivery and his passion for Christ all work together with
this talented group's considerable combined gifts to create
these lively, musically interesting and diverse Chicago Style
Christian Blues compositions on this inspiring Christian music
CD, NOT WHAT YOU THINK, that really blessed this reviewer, as
well as being a wonderful introduction to a genre new to me;
Chicago Style Christian Blues, done the BLUD BROS. way.
I highly recommend this CD of well-performed,
well put together Faith Based Blues, Roots, Gospel, Jesus Christian
Blues songs which will uplift the listener, help put the right
heart attitude in the soul and bring the listener to a better
place spiritually, all while having a good time listening to
great music at the same time! It is the perfect addition to
the believer's Christian CD collection that will bless and encourage
a closer walk with the Lord and is also the perfect answer to
the seeker as well looking for meaning, joy and peace, which
can only come from Jesus Christ.
CD Dedication: Always remember . . .
"the Truth will set you Free!"
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 give 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 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 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. Song gives the listener
some peace and a challenge at the same time.
Message of the song encourages the listener
to examine the way 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 give 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 in a round form the chorus
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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