I think part of my hesitation in writing this review is that Kevin Heider and his music strike a deep chord within me that I’ve had a hard time expressing. I am blessed to have the opportunity to hear lots of great music from a variety of artists, but “To Whom It May Concern” has stood out from the beginning. It is personal. I think that’s the best way to describe this album. Ever since my first listen – putting the CD on makes me feel like I’ve just invited Kevin into my living room, my cubicle, or the seat next to me on the airplane and am getting a personal performance.

Kevin’s lyrics are deep, he writes from the heart and he touches a wide variety of topics. I am very impressed with his songs that address topics that the current generation of musicians seems afraid to tackle. When one looks social justice concerns of the 60s and early 70s, many people believe that it was the music that changed how Americans felt about topics like race and the War in Vietnam.

You can’t help but to be saddened when you hear songs like “Christmas Without Brian”. Kevin’s tackles other social justice themes as well – the title track of To Whom It May Concern is an answer to John Mayer’s song “Waiting on the World to Change”. In his own words – Kevin states: “I wrote this song in response to John Mayer’s Grammy-winning song, ‘Waiting on the World to Change,’ which claims to represent the views of his (and my) generation with the defeatist and hopeless message that nothing we can do will make a difference. But I don’t believe that, not for one second.”

Now, I don’t want you think that this is a protest album, or that all the songs are depressing. There are plenty of optimistic songs – Kevin’s rendition of “An Irish Blessing” and “No More Tears” are both songs of hope with uplifting messages.

Overall, this album ranks high on my “must have” list. You will not be disappointed. Some listeners may wish that this album had a little more instrumentation and more variation in tempo. This album is exclusively Kevin and piano. When I first listened to the album, those were my thoughts as well. But then again, I feel like that simplicity is part of the appeal for this album. And, not to give any spoilers away, but Kevin takes the instrumentation up a notch in his next album.

I encourage everyone to go to www.kevinheider.com and check out “To Whom it May Concern”.

LINKS for this review:
Kevin Heider website



Copyright 2010 Jim Logue

The CD itself is a wonderful representation of the birth, life, suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus. There are Advent songs, Christmas, classic hymns, a true collection of songs that touch on many aspects of the Catholic faith.

The songs are well-produced and are a delight to listen to. The music is very professional, and the instrumentation is excellent. There is a mix of uptempo songs and the slower ballads.

I do recommend this CD, not just because it’s a good CD, but because it helps support vocations. You can’t go wrong with that!

Track Listing:
1. O Come O Come Emmanuel
2. Ave Maria
3. Silent Night
4. Bring A Torch Jeanette Isabella
5. What Child Is This
6. Earthen Vessels
7. Jesus Is the Vine
8. Amazing Grace
9. Hosea
10. O Sacred Head Surrounded
11. In the Breaking of the Bread
12. Jesus the Lord
13. Breathe On Me
14. One Faith
15. Breath of Heaven
16. Blessed Be Your Name
17. O Come All Ye Faithful

LINKS for this review:
Vocare Website
The Laboure Society



Copyright 2010 Jim Logue

The song was written by Galea and Bishop Joe Grech, who is featured on the song. The main theme of this song is that we should have a better appreciation of ourselves. Sometimes we tend to put ourselves down. Humility is one thing, and a very important thing, but having a negative opinion of ourselves is contrary to God’s Will for us.

Production-wise, this song is very well-done. The instrumentation is excellent, and Robert’s voice is very professional.

This song is available for digital download from iTunes or from Robert’s website – see below for the link.

LINKS for this review:
ThatsWorship.com – official site for Rev. Robert Galea



Copyright 2010 Jim Logue

The songs on this CD speak to the heart of one who is looking for Jesus or looking to build on their faith. Songs like “Jesus, I Trust In You”, “Hold Me In Your Heart”, “How Magnificent You Are” are songs that were written for that very purpose – to express faith in Christ and how much we need Him.

The Rolando Rivas Band is made of up of Rolando Rivas, Angela Geis, and Kevin Lira. Rolando wrote all of the songs for this project and performs the music, while all three provide the vocals.

Track Listing:

1. What Else is There to Sing About?
2. When I Am Weak, I Am Strong
3. Jesus I Trust in You
4. Nothing But You
5. Hold Me In Your Heart
6. This is Our Time
7. So Good to Me
8. You Have Pierced My Heart
9. Peter on the Water
10. How Magnificent You Are
11. I Will Seek You
12. No Need to Be Afraid
13. I Adore You

LINKS for this review:
Rolando Rivas Band website
Rolando Rivas Band on ReverbNation
Rolando Rivas Band on Facebook



Copyright 2010 Jim Logue

Advent begins Sunday, November 28. This is a special time to begin “sweeping out your interior stable” in preparation to celebrate the anniversary of the Lord’s coming into the world. It’s a time to focus on the task of making your soul a worthy dwelling place for Jesus coming in Holy Communion and for the reception of His grace which prepares us for His final coming.

The pressure of preparing for the “holidays” – the cleaning, the planning, the lists, the lights and decorations, the baking, the cooking, the parties, the money and the SHOPPING – can be cause of serious distress and distraction from the true purpose of this season.

Maintaining spiritual focus and avoiding Christmas commercial chaos is easy if you do some responsible shopping on the internet from the comfort of your home. CD’s and DVD’s are terrific and affordable stocking stuffers. I’d like to recommend these inspired and inspirational selections for your consideration.

Something About Us by Michael O Brien. You wouldn’t be the first to think that this is Michael Russell O’Brien who recorded Sounds of Medjugorje. This Michael O Brien, former front man of the Christian pop band, Newsong, is quite gracious, even appreciative, of the common mistaken identity with his fellow artist of the same name. Something About Us is lyrical ROMANCE in it’s highest, most sentimental and purest form. “It’s old and new, it’s a classic tale of two, in a perfectly perfect love.” This collection is full of heart-swelling, slow-swaying melodies, beautifully orchestrated strings, smoky jazz club piano and guitar, flawless falsetto and amorous, breathy vocals. Listening to Something About Us with your spouse can be a honeymoon awakening. To read the O Brien’s triumphant marriage testimony as the inspiration behind this album is a bonus blessing. In the words of Michael’s One and Only, Heidi O Brien, “Like the Songs of Solomon we know this work is divinely inspired—both sacred and sensual. We pray that this music will open doors to share the truth of God’s power both to a lost world and our spiritual family in Christ. We also pray it will inspire tender affection—blowing a gentle, concentrated breath on the embers of committed love, igniting sacred passion!” Read, listen, embrace, dance, and love again – deeply. www.michaelo.org

Emmanuel – The Story of Christmas and The Christmas Concert DVD by Tajci –Tatiana.  There is much to be experienced for the human heart and spirit in the gift who is Tajci. The artistry of Los Angeles producer and renowned electronic instrumentalist, Denny Bouchard, spans more than three decades. His inspirational arrangements for prayer and meditation can be found on iTunes and Amazon.com. Emmanuel is the first collaboration of Tajci and Denny. Tajci re-tells the story of Christ’s birth using brief scriptures between fresh and beautifully arranged traditional and original songs. The Hands That First Held Mary’s Child is one of the most beautiful contemporary songs recorded in honor of St. Joseph. www.idobelieve.com

The Christmas Concert Special, available on DVD, is regarded as “one of Tajci’s most remarkable performances of her career.” In the words of director and producer, Jack Gorton, “It is obvious from the opening notes that these very original arrangements have been painstakingly honed to produce what is a near magical effect on the listener. This is not a typical Christmas Special. For Tajci, the Christmas experience is steeped in mystery and resonates with emotion. For someone of faith, the season of Christmas is a path to the very origins of their beliefs. Viewing this concert is a wonderful way to embark on that journey.” Establish a Christmas tradition by viewing this concert every year with your family. www.idobelieve.com

Home For Christmas by Michael O’Brien. This is Michael Russell O’Brien of Sounds of Medjugorje – “Catholic Entertainment’s Best Kept Secret!” Michael was a rock n roll recording artist for Oceana/BMG in the 1990′s. As a “non-practicing Catholic”, an unexpected pilgrimage to Medjugorje changed his worldly and artistic direction. Michael now uses his talent and abilities to bring people back to the faith. He’s since performed and has given his testimony at more than 100 major Catholic conferences and 800 concert events from huge city arenas to small town churches across North America. Click here to visit Michael Russell O’Brien on Facebook. Michael modeled his annual Christmas concert tour after the success of this beautiful Christmas album. Whether a peaceful rendition of Silent Night, a powerful voice on O Holy Night, a dreamy vocal on I’ll Be Home for Christmas, or even the fun filled recordings of Here Comes Santa Clause & Blue Christmas, this Christmas album will become your family’s favorite! www.sacredtown.com

Refuge by Annie Karto is a brilliant, multi-faceted heavenly gem. This is Annie Karto’s most intimate, sophisticated and spiritually edifying accomplishment to date. Words and music flow gently, as a river of mercy, through the listener’s heart. Each arrangement is deeply imbued by the Holy Spirit with such tender and genuine love that settles on the soul like a fragrant, healing balm. Within this work is a pure and beautiful echo of the call of Jesus, Divine Mercy, for all mankind to relinquish their woundedness and pain and make a refuge of His most Sacred and Eucharistic Heart. This album contains Annie’s beautiful tribute, Song for Immaculee, which was inspired by the story of genocide survivor, Immaculee Ilibagiza, and dedicated to her honor and to all the victims of the 1994 Rwanda genocide. www.anniekarto.com

Cake for Dinner – A Children’s Album by Alexander Fedoryka, Daniel Fedoryka, Larissa Fedoryka and Melanie Fedoryka. This is a family collaboration par excellence! Each sibling is an accomplished and seasoned professional in their own right. Daniel and Alexander are members of the wildly popular Celtic rock band, Scythian. Larissa and Melanie began playing their instrument (cello and violin) at the age of three. Both have performed at prestigious venues such as Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts and the Kennedy Center. Both Larissa and Melanie have toured nationally with Tajci. Cake For Dinner was written for their 25 nephews and nieces. Daniel and Alexander draw on memories of growing up in an immigrant family of ten kids to create a sonic trip around the world that keeps things interesting and interactive. Kids will expand their world listening to music ranging from Ireland to Ukraine to Americana to Gypsy melodies and more. They’ll also learn sing-along-campfire songs and rounds, a sea-shanty and even a song that will help them clean their rooms! www.scythianmusic.com

+JMJ+

Copyright 2010 Brian K. Kravec

This CD is an incredible project that features some of the most beautiful songs every performed for our Blessed Mother. The music is from the classical and world music genres, and features a variety of artists and groups.

Among my favorites, Schubert’s “Ave Maria” peformed by Sweden’s Elisabeth Andreassen and the late Jan Werner Danielsen; world music singer Ashana and her original composition of the “Ave Maria”; The King’s Consort recording of Claudio Monteverdi’s “Ave Maris Stella”, and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas’ Wind Orchestra’s performance of Eric Whitacre’s “Lux Aurumque”. While these are my favorites, all of the songs on this CD are true masterpieces, as they should be to honor Mary.

1. “O Maria, Stella Maris”, performed by Trio Mediaeval
2. “Ave Maria” by Franz Schubert, performed by Elisabeth Andreassen & Jan Werner Danielsen
3. “Viridissima” by Hildegard Von Bingen, performed by Jocelyn Montgomery
4. “Et Lidet Barn Saa Lystelig” by Anonymous, performed by Anne-Lise Berntsen & Nils-Henrik Asheim
5. “Magnificat” (excerpt) by J. S. Bach, performed by Miah Persson, Yukari Nonishita, Akira Tachikawa, and Bach Collegium Japan.
6. “Cavatina: Se D’un Dio Fui Fatta Madre” by G. F. Handel, performed by Anne Sofie von Otter & Musica Antiqua Koln
7. “Ave Maris Stella” by Claudio Monteverdi, performed by The King’s Consort
8. “Pavan: The Cradle” by Anthony Holborne, performed by The Rose Consort of Viols
9. “Ave Maria” by Ashana, performed by Ashana
10. “Regina Coeli” by Nicolas Gombert, performed by Huelgas Ensemble
11. “Nesciens Mater” by Jean Mouton, performed by the Monteverdi Choir
12. “Lux Arumque” by Eric Whitacre, performed by UNLV Wind Orchestra
13. “Ave Maria” by Charles Gounod, performed by Anne-Maria O’Farrell & Aisling Drury Byrnie

LINKS for this review:
Valley Entertainment website

Copyright 2010 Jim Logue

According to Bob Halligan, Jr, “I know it’s a quirky name, but that’s me and this project is filled with songs about radical and healing love. There are more love songs, and songs to make you love. There are more hot button issues, and buttons that shouldn’t be issues at all. It’s a different Ceili than you’ve ever heard before! We’re taking a new approach, however, to getting this one out there once it is complete. Of course we’ll have a “suggested” price (for those who can), but for those with no dough, who need this CD, we’re going to send it to them for whatever they can give us. This gives new life to your role as a sponsor. No preset donation limits this time. Donate via Paypal for ease and convenience. Give little change or big change but most importantly… BE the change and be hip to the love.

We’ll set up a webpage (as we did for CR6) so you can follow our progress and every contributor will be recognized for their “love” offering. Every donor will have an opp to pre-purchase advance copies for a “significant” discounted price off the suggested for a limited time (probably just after the New Year). We expect the CD to release mid February 2011. Shorter timeframe, so we gotta act now.”

LINKS FOR THIS ARTICLE:
Ceili Rain Official Website



Copyright 2010 Jim Logue

In an interview I did with Fr. Stan, he related to me that in the back of the church in the Bronx where he lives, he has a small studio with all kinds of professional equipment. With his hectic schedule, he finally had about a week and a half to work on the new project, and then his computer crashed. So he ended up getting an old laptop computer he had, and he worked on the project on the road, recording parts of it in Portugal, London, Africa, Canada, and other places. He wasn’t sure about how the quality would be, but the engineer at Sterling Sound in Manhattan told Fr. Stan that he felt it as some of the best music Fr. Stan had ever brought him.

This project is indeed one of the best albums I have heard, not just from Father Stan, but from all of Catholic music. It is important that when we put our time, efforts, and money into albums, that we make sure that the album is of a quality that represents Catholic music well. “Seraphic Wanderer” does just that. But it’s not just a “nice sounding” album. The message of the music is important, too.

The project kicks off with a quote from Pope John Paul II, whose reflection on Leviticus 25:23 “You are strangers and sojourners with me.” The message of this reflection is how Abraham’s descendents viewed themselves as wanderers and strangers on this earth. That is the message of this album. The rest of the tracks reflect this message.

Track Listing:
1. JPII “Wanderer” Text
2. Everything Will Be Alright
3. Fresh Eggs and Fish
4. Uganda Are You Ready
5. Stretch Me
6. Wings of Love
7. 1-11-04
8. 7 From Heaven
9. Immigrant Soul
10. Something About Love
11. Morning Offering
12. Lift Up
13. Love Giver
14. SW Outro

LINKS for this review:
Francesco Productions – Fr. Stan Fortuna

Copyright 2010 Jim Logue

This album is a wonderful collection of inspirational songs from a variety of songwriters. There are contemporary songs like MercyMe’s “I Can Only Imagine”, and classical selections like Puccini’s “O Blessed Child”. There are songs like “Some Flowers” that talk about a child’s questions about why people die, and songs like “A Baby’s Prayer”, a song written from the perspective of a child that was aborted.

If you like inspirational songs of faith and love, this is the album for you.

Track Listing:
1. Unbelievable Love
2. Enough Grace for Today
3. Be Still My Soul
4. I Can Only Imagine
5. If You can See Me Now
6. Do You belive
7. Some Flowers
8. Thank You
9. A Mother’s Kiss
10. O Blessed Child
11. A Baby’s Prayer
12. The Gentle Visitor
13. My Sin

LINKS for this review:
Fr. Charles and Laurie Mangano – official website



Copyright 2010 Jim Logue

The project itself is an eclectic mix of Catholic artists and music, an excellent resource for anyone who wants to listen to songs from some of the best artists in Catholic music. The songs are well-produced and are geared towards the youth of the Church. It’s also a great project for anyone just starting to listen to contemporary Catholic music and looking for some great songs. You can download from their website (see link below)–with the download, you get the music plus some high-quality videos. Give this album a try–you won’t be disappointed!

AfterMass Records exists to produce diverse relevant music for the youth and young adults of the Church.

Track Listing:
1. Flip Francis, Sammy Blaze & Yung PK – A Dedication
2. Popple – We’re Getting Loud
3. Last Day – Midnight Shadows
4. Holy Soul Movement – It’s OK
5. Move Merchants – Get Over (Re-run)
6. Lee Roessler Band – Mile Away
7. Chris Padgett – I See You Breathe
8. Rich Dittus – Ship
9. Joia Farmer – Until the Sun
10. The Thirsting – Ocean of Mercy
11. Popple – Salt & Light (Mt 5)
12. Last Day – Calling in the Night
13. Rich Dittus – Simple Song
14. manuel3 – 40 Dayz & 40 Nites
15. Sammy Blaze – Four Marks

LINKS for this review:
After Mass Records website

Copyright 2010 Jim Logue Jr.

I am thrilled to share the following conversation with very talented Catholic musician and composer David Isaac. Readers with children who possess an interest in music, please take note of David’s very generous offer at the end of this interview!

Q:  Please briefly introduce yourself and share a little bit about your musical background.

I am a composer who believes that music can change the world.  I write music based upon story and themes of Christianity and ancient myths.

My background?  Growing up, I was an odd kid.  I listened only to classical music, with the exception of orchestral soundtracks.  In high school, I even wrote a paper on the “Mozart effect.”  Music school didn’t work out for me.  (Some professors were dictators.)  I began writing on my own, and now I am a freelance composer, orchestrator, and music copyist.

Q:  How did you begin composing?

I began taking piano lessons again at age 15, and I immediately started to write.  With my allowance, I bought inexpensive music notation software.  My piano teacher wasn’t supportive.  So I began to learn as much as I could on my own, by reading scores, listening to music, and checking out books from the university’s Fine Arts Library.

One of the biggest challenges for a composer is to prove himself to all sorts of people.  Conductors, teachers, musicians, other composers, and audiences.  Other composers are particularly harsh.  Some have told me that my music is “no good” and that I could never succeed as a composer.  “Why are you even trying?”

On the other hand, I have received standing ovations and have met audience members and musicians who really enjoy my music and help me out in many ways.

When you don’t come from a family of musicians, you have to go into the industry from the bottom up.  You prove yourself by writing great pieces of music.  (Harder than it sounds.)

Q:  How does your faith background impact upon the music you create?

In every way.

I write music that inspires people.  A lot of my music doesn’t have lyrics, but I draw upon uplifting poetry and story as a source of inspiration.

I write in the classical style, because I believe this is the music that can affect people on the deepest level.  Unlike Hip-hop, it is not meant for dancing.  Unlike some Pop, it is not cheesy. Unlike Country, it is not meant for singing about your ex.  Excuse my gross-generalizations.

Writing classical music is the best ability we have to describe the everlasting, the great beyond.  And to describe God.

Q:  Who are some of your musical influences and how have they had an impact on your work?

Any sincere composers, who have something important to say.  Some of these are Samuel Barber, John Williams, James Newton Howard, (American), Sergei Rachmaninoff, Dimitri Shostakovich, Igor Stravinski (Russian), Claude Debussy, Maurice Ravel (French).  Actually the list is too long.

Q:  Who do you listen to for fun?

Maybe I’m not good at separating work from play, but the above composers are same ones that I listen to for fun.  My iPod has 32 days worth of classical music, and I am always adding more.  Also, I enjoy classical concerts when a.) my works are not being played and b.) I am not trying to meet new musicians.   [Laughs]

Q:  What are your goals for your compositions?

To move at least one person in the audience in a permanent and profound way.

Q:  Where can listeners learn more about your music?

Visit http://www.davidimusic.com.

My album Dreaming is piano solo music inspired by poetry from Shelley, Field, Kilmer, D.H. Lawrence, and Solomon’s Song of Songs.   It is available at  http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/isaacryder.

Q:  Are there any additional comments you’d like to share with our readers?

Catholics moms, get your children into classical music.  You can do this in a several ways:

1.  Instrumental or vocal lessons.  (This is the best.)

2.  Expose them to excellent recordings of the best classical musicians of our time: like Yo-Yo Ma, Joshua Bell, Hilary Hahn, Lang Lang.  If you are curious about who is good, Google “grammy nominations classical.”

3.  Soundtrack music can be an intro to classical music, especially for boys who enjoy movies and games.  Composers like John Williams, Howard Shore, Michael Giacchino, and Dario Marianelli are better than Danny Elfman, Brian Tyler, and Hans Zimmer.  The last three have more “sound design” and less real music.

Classical music can open up a whole new world of experience for all.  It is a tremendous comfort in times of need and a tremendous blessing in times of joy.

If anyone has a child that is interested in writing music, I would be happy to help.  Email me at contactme@davidimusic.com.  Also, if you are interested in getting involved in my music, you can email the same address.

Culture Challenge of the Week:  Explicit Music

Every twelve-year-old knows Rihanna.  And Katy Perry and Lady Gaga. Do you?

The music industry today is huge, racking up over 1.5 billion in sales in the U.S. alone—and kids are their target audience. It’s an industry that’s no longer primarily about music. It’s become another avenue for selling porn and sexualizing younger and younger children in the process.

Last week, Mike Stock, one of Britain’s top songwriters and producers, denounced his own industry for marketing music that is “99% soft pornography.” The “music industry has gone too far,” he says. Stock, whose own music portfolio in years past included some very explicit lyrics, has changed his tune. He’s a parent now. In Stock’s view, “Kids are being forced to grow up too young” because music videos expose them to explicit images and “sexualize” even young children.”

Gone are the days when parents could protect their children from raunchy music by checking CDs for Tipper Gore-inspired advisories. Much of the music’s not just raunchy anymore–it’s explicitly sexual. And it’s only a download away from limitless play on your child’s iPod.

And the industry excels at promoting across every platform available, especially video.  Nearly every major pop star produces pornographic music videos and pushes them to your children through Facebook fan pages (new videos generate tens of thousands of hits in just hours) and YouTube videos, plus MTV. Live concerts are often worse, like Rihanna’s recent New York appearance, which simulated sex and masturbation before an audience full of pre-teen and adolescent girls.

The stars often reach down into the children’s market to cultivate new fans, creating brand awareness among even the youngest children, ensuring future success and million dollar revenues.

Take, for example, pop star Katy Perry. Wildly popular with the pre-teen set, she has long left her Christian roots behind.  In her latest album, “Teenage Dream,” her nearly naked, pornographic romp flashes between beach flirtations and sex in a hotel room.  She boasts about resisting record company efforts to tone down her song Peacock, baldly sexual in its connotation, because she spells success “s-e-x.” The same Katy Perry was just featured on Nickolodeon’s “Kid’s Choice” music awards, guests on Sesame Street this fall, and appears in the 2011 kids’ movie, The Smurfs. [The fourth grade girls in my neighborhood love her.]

It’s the kind of purposeful, deliberate, crossover marketing that the music industry has perfected.

How to save your family by monitoring your child’s music.

First, understand the problem. Research shows that exposure to sex on TV dramatically increases the risk that children will become sexually active.  Music videos multiply the effect, imprinting pornographic images in our children’s minds that replay every time they hear the song.  Even with “neutral” lyrics, the stored images continue to do their damage.

Second, monitor. Unplug the iPod from your child’s ears and check song lists.  Don’t recognize the songs? Try Pluggedin.com for the latest music reviews.

Take the time to become familiar with the latest artists, celebrities, and songs so you don’t rely on vague assurances of older siblings or neighbors that “it’s all right.” Use TV parental controls to block channels that feature music videos or music celebrities.

Third, don’t facilitate bad choices. Pop singers perform to sell-out crowds across the country, even in today’s recession.  As one observer noted after Rihanna’s lewd performance, “The children attending these shows must have gotten there somehow.”

Fourth, provide alternatives.  We can’t simply say “no”—we need to spend time promoting the good too.  There are many artists who still have high standards and are actually true musicians.  Help support them by introducing your children to them too.

Finally, be consistent. Don’t let battle fatigue wear you down. Our children need to know that we protect them because we love them. And even when we’re tired or worn down, that will never change.

© 2010 Rebecca Hagelin

Noelle (who recently became Noelle Garcia McHugh) resides in Michigan where she and her husband are immersed in youth ministry. It is with this focus that she writes and shares her music to teens and adolescents regarding depression, self-image, cutting, and peer pressure. She has found that these are some of the biggest challenges to faith, family life, and personal development that they are facing day to day.

There is a great variety in styles throughout this CD ranging from meditative prayer in to jazzy, upbeat songs that make you just have to move in their rhythms in joy of our Lord and His goodness.

There were a few songs in particular that drew my attention. I felt as though Noelle was speaking for me in “Stay by My Side” where she is calling for God’s guidance and love in her weakness. The delivery is very powerful.

Another song “Song for Our Soldiers” is a song of dedication to our men and women who put their lives on the line every day for our safety and freedom. I, too applaud all of those persons who have dedicated their lives in these efforts. Having a nephew in Afghanistan, it hits close to home.

The visual of a small child in Noelle’s “Like a Child” drew me into this song. It depicts a child leaving their crayons aside as their father comes home, the center of their life, and they run to him. In our fast paced world, we forget about the humble simplicity of a child and seeing the world through pure eyes.

Lastly, as I eluded to at the beginning, is the title track “Set the World on Fire.” Noelle challenges us all to follow our Lord and put ourselves out there to make a difference in this world for love of Him. Noelle has the gifts to be a key player on this front. I highly recommend this CD to all ages, but know that it will be a draw for the teens that she works with on a regular basis.

This CD is available through World Library Publications at WLPMusic.com to get your copy today!

Visit Noelle Garcia’s website at NoelleGarciaMusic.com.

Reviewed by Sally Bolderson

Copyright 2010 Jim Logue

“The Narrow Road” – Katholicus kicks off their newest album with this song about taking the narrow road to Heaven, rather than the “easy” road to hell. Adam Miller is by far one of the best guitarists in Catholic music, and his talents are quite evident here. This one will liven up that Altar & Rosary Society meeting!

“There’s a Home” – In this world where we can think we have no place to go, we have a home–The Church is our home on earth. A lighter-tempo song with great melody and harmony. And I think I hear a Peter Frampton-like guitar solo towards the end. Love it!

“Where Have the Angels Gone” – “Where have the angels gone? Where are the miracles? How can we carry on? There’s alot that can go wrong.” We need faith in order to do God’s Will, and sometimes it’s frightening. But we are called to help others, so we need to trust in God. Great melody, great lyrics.

“Do You Hear Me” – Do we hear God calling us, or do we shut Him out? That’s the message of this song–listening to God calling us. I can imagine this being sung live in concert.

“Pull Me Through” – A fast-tempo song, driving beat, great guitar and vocal harmonies. “We need Your grace to carry on, to pull me through”. We need God’s grace to do anything. Otherwise, we’re lost.

“Carry on My Friend” – “Carry on in love, carry on in charity, that’s the way it’s meant to be.” A song reminding us to live our lives faithfully to God and to each other, to carry on faithfully to the end, until we meet God face to face.

“Follow the Light” – I love the orchestral opening to this, then it expands to a powerful rock anthem. This song reminds of St. Paul saying that he ran the race, running towards the prize. Keep your eyes on the goal – follow the Light.

“Fire Life” – Great acoustic guitar solo starting off this song, a slower-tempo song. Fire means several things to us – the Fire of God’s mercy, the fire that cleanses us in Purgatory, and the Fire of God’s love that will never end. That’s the fire we want to experience–His love for us.

“Reconciled” – ballad dealing with reconciliation and confession. This was Jesus’ message throughout His ministry on earth–the Kingdom of God is at hand, and we need to repent and turn back to God. As with the other songs, the harmonies are tight, and the instrumentation is excellent. There’s a little Spanish touch to the acoustic guitar on this song.

“The Crusader-Pilgrimage” – an instrumental track that highlights the excellent musicianship of Katholicus. This band can go from quiet ballads to all out rock anthems. Indeed, this song does that. A great example of people using their talents to serve God and His people.

“Heaven Forever” – start off with a quiet electric guitar solo with acoustic guitars guiding it. Then the vocals come in, singing about Heaven. Seek the Lord and His Kingdom, and you will live forever. That’s what we’re all aiming for! Katholicus brings this album to a close with a powerful song that will remind us that we need to keep our eyes focused on Heaven, our eventual Home.

Visit their website at Katholicus.com to get your copy today!



Copyright 2010 Jim Logue

There are several dedications on this album. “Song for Immaculee” is dedicated to Immaculee Illibagiza, who has drawn world-wide attention as a survivor of the Rwandan genocide. “Into the Air” is dedicated to Mother Angelica, foundress of EWTN. “Pilgrimage of Love” was written for Father Peter Mary Rookey, OSM. “Refuge for You” is dedicated to Annie’s sons, Pete and Ben. Annie also recorded Christine McVie’s “Songbird” in honor of her husband, David Karto. The CD also includes three instrumental tracks of “Song for Immaculee”, “Hail Mary, Gentle Woman”, and “Into the Air”.

I am deeply impressed with the quality of the music and the faith of the lyrics, whether they are songs written by Annie herself (Give Thanks, Christ is Passing By, Refuge for You, Song for Immaculee, Pilgrimage of Love, Eyes of Mercy, and Into the Air), or other artists’ songs she recorded (Hail Mary Gentle Woman, Songbird, Let it Be, Prayer of St. Augustine). This is an album of faith – faith in God and the faith of us who are trying to be the best people God wants us to be. If you’re looking for some time to spend in meditation with God, this CD is an excellent resource.

Track Listing

Give Thanks
Christ is Passing By
Refuge for You
Song for Immaculee
Songbird
Prayer of St. Augustine
Hail Mary, Gentle Women
Pilgrimage of Love
Let it Be
Eyes of Mercy
Into the Air
Song for Immaculee (instrumental)
Hail Mary, Gentle Woman (instrumental)
Into the Air (instrumental)

Annie Karto: “Refuge” – is available on Annie Karto’s website at www.anniekarto.com.



Copyright 2010 Jim Logue

The songs on this CD titled “Calling You” were written over 25 years of ministry by Mary and Louis. They were immersed in liturgical music during Charismatic Renewals of the late 70′s and 80′s. They live in Canada and share these gifts in many venues throughout Canada. One of their goals of this album is to raise money for a project spearheaded by a Catholic nun in Uganda. Their eldest daughter, Nicole, who accompanied an American Catholic lay evangelist on a mission trip to Uganda in 2007, met Sr. Mary Bernard Tumusiime, who runs an orphanage for children whose parents have died of AIDS or are too sick to care for them. Wanting to take the burden off overseas donors and the diocese of Torolo, Tumusiime was looking for funds to help build a rooming house that could provide ongoing income for the orphanage. Portions of the CD profits have been earmarked for this need. It gives a higher purpose in God’s work by doing this.

As you listen to the CD you find the beauty in the voices from youngest to eldest. The blending of their voices in beautiful, pure clarity brings out a contemplative sound. If I had to pick my 2 highlight songs (although this is very difficult in this wonderful collection) I would say “Let the Children Come” which displays the joys of youth and Jesus’ love as he invited them to come to him. My second favorite is a wonderful rendition of the “Hail Mary” prayer. I also must compliment the excellent instrumentation throughout. Although most of this album will bring you to a prayerful place, there are a couple tunes which will have you tapping your feet to their upbeat rhythms.

I look forward to more from this gifted family!

Find out more at their website, FamilyRichard.ca.

Reviewed by Sally Bolderson

From the website: “The journey from death to Life is one we must all travel. For anyone with terminal illness or involved with end-of-life care, re-tracing the stages of Jesus’ walk to Calvary has particular poignancy.”

If you or someone you know is dealing with terminal or severe illness or injury, this Way of the Cross is a deeply personal and spiritual look at the Stations of the Cross. The reflections from Sister Penny are especially helpful in dealing with the emotions of those who suffer.

You can learn more at Val Goldsack’s website at ValGoldsack.co.uk.



Copyright 2010 Jim Logue

These psalms are beautifully composed and recorded. While the music is composed for liturgical use, the CD sounds good enough to play other times as well. The interchange of the solo voice and the choir is something that I have always enjoyed hearing, and is cathedral-quality here.

Here is the track listing:

Let Us Go Rejoicing
May God Bless Us in His Mercy
Lord, Make Us Turn to You
Lord, Come and Save Us
Sing to the Lord a New Song
My Soul Rejoices in My God
Forever I Will Sing the Goodness of the Lord
Let the Lord Enter
Today is Born Our Savior
A Light Will Shine on Us This Day
Cry Out With Joy and Gladness
The Lord Has Done Great Things for Us
Blessed Are Those Who Fear the Lord
Lord, Every Nation on Earth Will Adore You
Blessed are They Who Dwell in Your House

Brian J. Nelson has composed other selections as well. Visit his website at NelsonMusic.com.



Copyright 2010 Jim Logue

Without Words features ten songs composed by Matt, plus bonus tracks of two of his songs that were remastered with additional instruments.

I had the chance to speak with Matt during an interview he did with me on the Catholic Music Express, and I was impressed with his desire to share his faith with people wherever possible. He has shared the stage with other Catholic artists like Dan Duet and Fr. Kent O’Connor. Several videos are available on YouTube featuring Matt and some of these other artists.

You can learn more about Matt Di Filippo and his music on his page on MySpace.com/MattdiFilippo.



Copyright 2010 Jim Logue