Crystal River - Taking a Stand, CD Review

Mar

2006

Crystal River - Taking a Stand

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[11] Comments

Producer: Glen Bates/Arthur Rice
Label: BSA World Records
Website: www.crystalriveronline.net

When I reviewed their last recording, "For the First Time", I commented that there was a ton of talent and potential with this group. Well, you could say the potential has been realized in many ways and it raises the bar for them for their next recording. Produced by Glen Bates (husband to famed booking agent, Beckie Simmons) Taking a Stand is definitely several steps in the right direction for these guys. As a side note, Bates also wrote all but the final tune on this recording.

The country sounds of "IN THE HEAT OF THE FLAMES" gets things underway and the excitement of this song whets the appetite for what remains on this recording.

Two songs, "I’M HERE BECAUSE JESUS WENT THERE" and "IF THERE HAD NEVER BEEN A CROSS", done back to back, reminds us that our hope is in the finished work of Calvary, while the uptempo, "IT’S A BREEZE" reminds us that God can turn the storms raging in our lives to a gentle breeze.

Another song about Calvary is the striking tune, "WHEN THE HAMMER STRUCK THE NAILS", while more traditional Southern Gospel sounds abound on the bouncy tune, "THERE’S A DIFFERENCE IN THE DIFFERENCE".

Reminding us that God hears our prayers, "BEFORE THE TEARDROPS HIT THE GROUND", offers reassurance that "the answers can be found, before the teardrops hit the ground." I think this would make an excellent radio song, as would the country flavored, "MERCY RIVER", which is a really cool story in song about finding salvation "on the banks of Mercy River." From there, things move on to the fun-filled tune, "HE’LL COME WALKING ON YOUR WATER", which features a bit of Jamaican spice.

"STAR OF HEAVEN" is a song with slight patriotic undertones, but is solely about the cross and the price Jesus paid there for us. In some ways, the song makes me think of the Neil Enloe classic "From a Star to Stripes."

Taken from Kirk Talley’s live recording, "Live at the River-My Story, My Song", (in which Crystal River makes a guest appearance), we come to the final track, "HIGHER GROUND", which is a nice inclusion and conclusion to the recording.
As I said at the beginning, I was impressed with this group the first time I heard them, and am thrilled to see and hear the great potential I heard materialized on this brand new release. My only hope for their next recording is a little more variety in songwriters, as using different writers gives different musical and lyrical perspectives. But I must say, Glen Bates wrote some great songs. Look for a lot to happen with these guys with this new recording. It’s time for everyone to sit up and take notice of Crystal River!

Personal Favs: IN THE HEAT OF THE FLAMES; WHEN THE HAMMER STRUCK THE NAILS; BEFORE THE TEARDROPS HIT
THE GROUND; MERCY RIVER; STAR OF HEAVEN; HIGHER GROUND

Reader Comments

These guys are GREAT......look for this group to make a BIG impact on Southern Gospel Music.....I hear they have been nick nameed the "Rascal Flatts" of SGM..any once you hear them,you will know why.....Don't miss the chance to hear these guys!!!!...they have it ALL...the sound and the personality to go with it.

Commented by (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) On 03/17/2006

Congratulations. I hear this album is wonderful. Keep up the great work.

Commented by Steve Bridgmon On 03/20/2006

I am eager to hear the new project. I've heard the first one and was very impressed. There's no doubt, these young men have a very bright future in this business. I'm encouraged by the modern, progressive image. And being partial to bass singers, I would have to say that Jeremy is a cut above (even though I don't particularly like young bass singers..just kidding). If he sounds this good now....wow, what will he be in five years? Look out.

Commented by Andy On 03/20/2006

You guys did a great job on this CD. I can't wait to see what is in store for Crystal River. I know God is working thru your ministry. These guys sing from the heart. Looking forward to seeing you all soon! Keep up God's work, you are doing a wonderful job!!!

Commented by (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) On 03/20/2006

I have become a southern gospel music fan after hearing CR For The First Time. I consider them to be a new wave gospel group There look and sound brings something differant to gospel and I have seen young people realy enjoy them. At one concert Zack felt lead to give an invitation there was a small youth group there and 3 teenagers went forward and prayed for salvation. Keep up the good work the new album is the best. Love the beat box RDT

Commented by (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) On 03/20/2006

I love the new C.D., all the songs are GREAT. My 3 favorites would have to be In the Heat Of The Flames,When The Hammer Struck The Nails,and Before The Teardrops Hit The Ground. My husband loves Mercy River. I would have a hard time picking one to play on the radio. This group is awesome to hear on C.D. but even better in person. Their Faith and Dynamic personalities really make them click as a group. Keep up God's work you guys, only good things have to be instore for you.
Patty Smith

Commented by (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) On 03/21/2006

Glen's country roots shine on this album. It's definitely more country than their first CD but this one is great. Lots of nice leads for bass Jeremy Lile.

Nice job fellas. I can't wait for your next one.

Commented by (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) On 03/21/2006

After watching Chrystal River on the "Unfolding Majesty Show", I was amazed at the talent. I could not believe I had not heard them before. They are taking it to the next diminsion. Wow!!

Commented by (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) On 03/27/2006

I cant believe I misspelled the word dimension. I am a teacher!!!!!! (of Math) So sorry. When I tuned in to the show, I heard the most beautiful tones coming out of Jeremy and the other guys were singing without music. They took an old hymn and made it into one of the most gorgeous melodies I have ever heard. I am so anxious to find them in concert. They are the NEW group to watch! Cant wait to hear more!!!!!

Commented by (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) On 03/28/2006

I love this new album. It is one of the most ministering I have ever listened to and we listen to it all the time. We play it for everyone we know and would like to see it played more on the radio. Keep up the good work.

Commented by (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) On 03/28/2006

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