One Man's Opinion. Pentatonix PTXmas

So right off the bat, I realize that Pentatonix is not a Christian group...but this is about Christmas music.  The five person a cappella group, based in Arlington, Texas got their big break by winning NBC's "The Sing Off" last year.  What makes this group so unique is their complex and innovative arrangements.  They do more with five human voices than most bands do with a tractor trailer full of instruments.  In all transparency, I'm a fan.  I followed their journey on TV and loved them more each week.


Needless to say, I was excited to discover the Pentatonix 6 song Christmas EP titled "PTXmas".  This is total ear candy.  The thing that impresses me most, is the fine line the group walked in giving each song a fresh sound, without losing the classic, familiar feel of these well known tunes.  Again, the arrangements are spot on and just cool.  Of course, the vocal performances are nothing short of breathtaking. 

It would be hard to pick a favorite from the EP...but if forced, the complexity of Carol of the Bells would probably sway my decision.  Here are all of the tracks:

• Angels We Have Heard on High
• O Come, O Come Emmanuel
• Carol of the Bells
• The Christmas Song
• O Holy Night
• This Christmas

So here are your instructions...

1. Buy and download the entire E.P.
2. Listen.
3. Enjoy
4. Get dumbfounded when you remember there are no instruments being used!
5. Thank me later.

Also, on a quick side note, Pentatonix beat-boxer Kevin Olusola is a professed Christian and has worked with Michael Gungor.  Check out the videos on YouTube of Kevin beat-boxing and playing the cello..at the same time...while playing with Gungor.

One Mans Opinion - Jenny Simmons - Heaven Waits For Me

Well, this is my very first music review.  I am a disc jockey, not a writer, so please excuse the occasional run-on sentence and other errors in my grammar.  Here we go...

A few months ago, I was saddened to hear that Addison Road was to be no more.  Over the past few years, I felt connected to their music, especially "What Do I Know of Holy" and "Hope Now".  On the other hand, I was glad to hear lead vocalist Jenny Simmons would continue on as a solo artist.

Jenny has a unique and powerful voice, but moreover, possesses an ability to let her personality shine clearly  through her vocals.  I feel like I know her, even though we have never met (yet). I have always found Jenny's treatment of song lyrics to be honest, real and vulnerable.

Heaven Waits For Me:  Jenny's first solo release on Fair Trade Records is "Heaven Waits For Me".  Here is your basic uptempo, bubbly, toe-tapping tune about...dying.  Not exactly what you would expect, but it really works.  The song shares the joy of how God blesses us in our present life, and how, as believers, we are promised life eternal in His Kingdom.  The lyrics are laced with God's goodness, contentment and anticipation for the future.  As I mentioned earlier, Jenny's cup-cake-loving personality  pours out of the vocal.    This is a great first effort and I am looking forward to hearing the rest of the album.

One Mans Opinion - Music Reviews - Introduction

I have always had a deep love for music, it's one of the reasons I chose radio for a career.  With that in mind, I thought it would be cool to share my thoughts on the newest releases from Nashville on the Christian Contemporary Music scene.  What you will find in the posts to follow will be my personal impressions, and feelings about the music.

I am a huge fan of our format. I am honestly amazed at how God is working through the artists, song writers, producers and everyone who is involved in the music making process.  I have been blessed to meet, and to some small extent build relationships with many of our artists.  It is a wonderful community of people, who humbly serve the Lord.

I will send this warning to any industry folks and artists who may read this blog:  I don't love everything that crosses my desk.  If I pan a particular song, it's not a personal attack, and it doesn't mean I don't love you.  It just means that I didn't care for the song.  Please don't be offended.

About the Author:  I have just marked my 25th year as a radio broadcaster.  For the past five years, I have been the program director and music director for Spirit FM, a CCM station based in Lynchburg, Virginia.  Over the years, I have had the privilege to work in a number of different formats, from country to oldies,CHR, adult contemporary, alternative and even a small stint playing nostalgia.  I have enjoyed each one for their own unique take on music.

I hope you enjoy this blog, and reading my take on music.

Blessings,