Is there a "worship trend" in Christian music? Yes and no. Yes, there are many releases coming out that are praise and worship oriented. Yes, there are many record companies making money from this particular type of album right now. Are labels and bands manufacturing praise and worship music to cash in on this heightened buying pattern? I don't think so. I think the labels are probably looking for authentic worship. I don't recall hearing very many (okay, I've heard a couple) albums that don't sound authentic, or that don't offer something that could easily be used to worship the Lord with. But, then again, I haven't been out looking for phonies, either.
Among Thorns takes a modern rock approach on Desperate, a la recent Collective Soul. Long on passionate vertical praise and strong hooks, short on heavy rock, it's pretty darn tight. I really enjoy about half the album. Progressive licks and fills, accompanied by a smart organ bed and sweet vocal harmonies offer much to enjoy. I start to lose interest about halfway through, when it begins to sound like so much Christian AC radio. While I can feel the rock sensibilities in this band, they seem to back off on the ballad material.
Similar sounding releases
2004Jerry GaskillCome Somewhere
2003DakonaPerfect Change
1999SonicFloodSonicFlood
2001Circadian RhythmOver Under Everything
2004LiveAwake: The Best of Live
2002Mindset 7Blur
