Leeland - Sound of Melodies
Michael W Smith's career has spanned over 20 years and countless albums. He has written and co-written other artists' albums, starred in a major market film and has led worship for millions upon millions of people. You may find it interesting who he tapped to help write his last disc "Stand". 17 year old Leeland Mooring. Who is that?!
Let me tell you...
Leeland Mooring, the frontman of the band Leeland, (clever) that's who. Still not sure who they are? You are not alone. While this disc was released in late summer of last year it is just now starting to pick up some speed. I had not even heard of them until I read an article in CCM Magazine about the collaboration with Smitty in December.
A lot of today's ccm is so dry and over produced but this is one of those unique exceptions. "Sounds of Melodies" is a passionate release that combines inspiring vocals, deep lyrics and beautiful instrumentation. If I was a betting man I would say that Leeland has a few Beatles and Coldplay cd's laying around his room. Each song was written by Mooring (which in itself is amazing in this day of recording artists) and you can tell that he is emotionally attached to each word he sings. These songs are finely crafted "love songs" to his savior, God.
This band gives me more hope in the ccm industry, especially since they are so young. Hopefully they will stick to their recipe for great music and not be swayed by "what works" in the industry because this works just fine.
Do yourself a favor and get a fresh new perspective on Christian music.
Gems:
- Tears of the Saints - A very convicting song to the churches of today. We are called to be missionary minded and often times miss the mark.
- Sound of Melodies - Great praise chorus of the body of believers coming together to worship the King.
- Can't Stop - Driving and fun song.
Rating: ****/*****
PS: Anyone going to Chris Tomlin next Friday? I'm excited
You can look at the stars and make no sense of it
(Staring at the sky)
You can search your soul and find no light
Until you look in the Savior's eyes
And then you finally realize
The saving sacrifice is love divine
Maybe it's something that will grow in me as I mature musically :)but I think I'll wait a while to add to the ipod list. (Sounds like such a cheapskate sort of thing when songs are only 99 cents doesn't it?)
Can't wait for Chris Tomlin :) It will be great. I went to his concert a few years ago and after it was done I just had to sit in my car for a few minutes staring out into the night sky and quietly let me soul sit with God. (Granted part of that time I was waiting for the parking lot to clear but really I blinked and realized I was the lone car sitting in the parking lot.) (Comment this)