Kevin Max / THE IMPOSTER Review - ChristianMusic.com

Kevin Max - Mission Statement:

That THE IMPOSTER will take on a life of its own.

Kevin Max explains: "I want to make music that gets brand new people listening to it. And I want to bridge the gap between Christian and mainstream audiences. I believe the only way I can have an impact on both is to take off the mask - no hiding my weakness and no apologies for my faith."

That songs found on the THE IMPOSTER CD will encourage listeners to look deeper into themselves; taking an honest look at thoughts, feelings and actions, in order to have a better understanding of their weaknesses and things that tempt them and push them past their limits.

To encourage listeners to seek the Lord for help in this self-evaluation, depending on Him for strength and discernment.

Kevin Max continues: "THE IMPOSTER is all about questioning yourself; looking inward and knowing that the flesh prompts you to do things that are sometimes in direct opposition to the Spirit. It is about the desire to be better human beings. To understand our flaws and our base desire to understand our limits. Through the Spirit however, we can achieve great things."

Facts about Kevin Max

Does Kevin Max look and sound familiar? He should! Kevin Max spent the second half of the 1980's-1990's as a member of the Christian pop rock group dcTalk, (Decent Christian Talk), a hugely successful, award-winning Christian band, under the Forefront label, which sold over 8 million records world wide. Kevin Max and the other members are 4 time Grammy award winners.

Kevin Max is author of poetry books, including "At the Foot of Heaven" (2000), Unfinished Work" (2001), "Detritus of Dorian Grey" (2003) and "Devine Erotica" (2005)

Devine Erotica: Inspired by the Song of Solomon, "Puts beauty on the Pedestal, not bringing it down to lowest common denominator. God created sexuality to be beautiful and for a purpose. It's poetry about my male perspective of the female kind. It talks about how we relate, exposing true beauty as inward beauty." - Kevin Max (in an article from christianitytoday.com).

 

Kevin Max's debut solo album was STEREOTYPE BE, followed by
his second unfinished demo, BETWEEN THE FENCE & THE UNIVERSE.

STEREOTYPE BE was a $200,000 plus effort, using for the first time combining Kevin's poetry and lyrics. While this first effort received mixed reviews, all critics thought it was well worth listening to, had moments of brilliance and were looking forward to his future efforts, having great faith in his potential. His fans loved it and were very encouraging.

BETWEEN THE FENCE & THE UNIVERSE was a collection of 6 songs released in March, 2005 to keep his loyal fans happy, who were wanting more songs from him, wondering what he was up to in Los Angeles.

Kevin Max explains in an interview, "'Between the Fence' is just an unfinished demo I decided to put out for my fans, who've been wanting to hear something new since STEREOTYPE BE."

Music critics were pleased with this effort, calling it an example of an artist maturing and evolving, but felt he needed "a more personal quality to set him apart from his favorite musical influences." (Christianitytoday.com)

Being an inquisitive reviewer, I visited the music page on Kevin's website, where one can listen to a nice sample of songs from all his solo albums, and I agree with the general analysis. One can hear through Kevin's songs a maturing and transformation of a talented artist's musicianship and artistic vision which was just beginning to surface and transform into a unique musical identity, offering the listener moments of brilliance among generally above average Christian alternative rock selections, propelled and expressed by Kevin's most enjoyable vocals.

Ok, so Rome wasn't built in a day either. Creativity and an artist's evolving musical transformation takes some time. The good news is that Kevin got it all together in his third effort, THE IMPOSTER.

Kevin Max's Video

OVERVIEW of Kevin Max: THE IMPOSTER CD

Well, Kevin Max's newest album, THE IMPOSTER shows to one and all that Kevin Max has made much progress in evolving in several areas of his being; as a spiritual Christian, as a singer, as a musician, as a poet & lyricist, all which contribute to Kevin's transformation into a Christian music artist, who is following his heart and dreams in creating music and art that people can appreciate and relate to in a personal way.

For, the collection of songs found on THE IMPOSTER does set him apart from his favorite musical influences as well as sharing the results of his own personal self-evaluation, growing spiritual awareness in Christ, and artistic musicianship in this dynamic, solid album, sure to reach out to a wider audience.

While Kevin's first two solo releases pleased his fans and showed the progress of his developing musical creativity as an indie artist, outside the Christian music industry's limited standards, this third effort is the charm, providing the listener with both food for thought via Kevin's personal revealing lyrics coupled with Kevin and Andy Pricket's musical compositions which are sure to appeal to an audience beyond his usual fan base, appealing to both Christians and mainstream audiences.

The collection of songs found on THE IMPOSTER shows how Kevin Max has successfully evolved spiritually, musically, and artistically from being a spiritually inspired vocalist / team member within a very successful Christian rock pop band, dcTalk, to becoming a spiritually inspired artist in his own right and talent, serving the Lord Jesus through his own creative efforts, following the Lord's plan for him.

His willingness and his example of sharing his personal revelations about himself and other people through interesting meaningful lyrics add depth and relevancy to a variety of musical compositions, ranging from Rock and Roll (both classic and Euro) to nicely done ballads / prayer hymns in several styles. This unique combination results in a listening experience which meets the goals of this album stated above; blessing the listener, encouraging self-examination, and resulting in a closer walk with the Lord. His example of taking off his masks, "not hiding my weakness and no apologies for my faith," has not only made him a stronger Christian, closer to the Lord, but an inspiration to listeners to do the same.

Spiritual Truths and Themes in Songs

When asked by ChristianMusic.com to comment on the spiritual content of these songs, Kevin reflects, "I believe that it is a characteristic of being a Christian to subconsciously infuse your beliefs in the music regardless of intention. That is how I view what I do. Because I believe, I put it into the lyric and into the melody. It is a part of me whether I am writing about a past relationship or about God Himself. "

The lyrics of these songs explore the human condition we all live and struggle with, while living in this world; fighting our sinful nature, our tendency to do the wrong thing, the self-centered life, living for own desires verses what the Lord has planned for us. Though these revelations from Kevin are inspired from his own self-evaluation, his own experiences with others and his evolving thoughts about the Lord, we can easily relate to these pithy lyrical expressions of thought, which do have the result of questioning oneself.

Kevin shares in his promotional material, "THE IMPOSTER does not have just one basic theme, it is many small and individual thoughts creating a space in which to question and investigate the very presence of one's self. As in the line from JUMP-START YOUR ELECTRIC HEART!... and when I test the spirits left inside you, turn on your electric heart today."

Words and actions can hurt people and relationships - TAKE IT BACK* STAY

Exploring self-centeredness and its antidote - THE IMPOSTER * JUMP-START YOUR ELECTRIC HEART. * THE ROYAL PATH OF LIFE * LET IT GO (Hidden Track)

Seeking the Lord, focusing on his Word and leadings can bring us an inner peace and joy - a sanctuary in the world, despite the circumstances - SANCTUARY * LET IT GO (Hidden Track)

Ask the Lord to help us believe, find His will for us and stay on track - SHOW ME SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL * THE PLATFORM * LET IT GO (Hidden Track)

The Lord is an ever ready source in times of trouble * THE PLATFORM

The Lord loves us just as we are with no strings attached * TO GIVE YOU MY LOVE

Justice, Love, Peace and Truth will overcome evil when Christ returns, so stand firm * WHEN HE RETURNS * FADE TO RED

More About the Vocals and Compositions ......

Kevin's creative use of his evolving artistic freedom in this album satisfies both his fans who expect depth and a more raw rock indie sound, and those who find inspiration from more established genres, thus opening up the possibility of drawing a much larger listening audience.

Kevin's vocals are most enjoyable; being the perfect vehicle in every song to bring the lyrical message to life for the listener, in just the right performance style. This reviewer has noticed that his distinctive tenor voice has matured a lot in tone and musical ability to express since his dcTalk days, to become an impressive musical instrument! Kevin has quite a vocal range / has nailed vocal timing and dynamics, and provides for the listener quality vocal sound / a variety of styles and edge which points to great breath control, and the ability to focus and deliver.

When asked by ChristianMusic.com, how he would describe his music, Kevin shares, "I think the thing that is most apparent in all of music is my voice. I do not know how to describe the thing that God gave me to use, and to use well. It is hard to give it a name, other than the fact that stylistically I enjoy rock and roll, world music, gospel, country, R&B, and the alternative forms to the classics."

Kevin Max and co-writer / producer Andy Pricket work well together on this album, each bringing their ideas to the table, working with each other's musical talents, which is a fascinating process. The resulting collection of songs express Kevin's own creative version of Euro alternative rock, with some industrial rock, Gospel, acoustic / piano ballads, contemporary pop songs added as well to create a very inspiring variety of musical selections; something for everyone, sure to attract both lovers of Christian and secular alternative rock and contemporary music enthusiasts of several genres.

But whatever the genre or style, the listener is treated to really inspiring melodies, which are sometimes catchy, infectious, poignant, depending on the mood and lyrical message, and the counter melodies which give support to compositions and the vocals which almost always are the musical vehicle to carry the melody, which Kevin has no problem doing at all.

When asked by ChristianMusic.com, "How do you compose songs?"

Kevin explains, "I usually have a lyric or melodic foundation. I play piano, and have one in my home, so that becomes the starting point of a lot of idea's. On THE IMPOSTER I co-wrote a lot of the songs with Andy Pricket, Andy is a guitarist so the influence of the guitar is prominent on this project."

Great use of dynamics and just the right intensity of sound and reflection are flawlessly executed, bringing so much to the songs found on this album.

Bridge / Hook/ VAMP sections - Offer a very interesting musical change in the melody, which bring out the messages found in the lyrics.

Let's review why this album is so enjoyable. This reviewer heartily enjoyed the memorable, creative melodies, the wonderful lyrics, the interesting, driving various rock and roll styles to more poignant compositions and the spirit and strength of Kevin's various vocal styles. All these qualities come together to offer the listener a wonderful way to be inspired to partake in the process of self-evaluation to evolve into better human beings / Christians more pleasing to the Lord, in service to Him. I highly recommend this album, as it will truly bless you as it did this reviewer. To diversify your collection, this album is a must!

 

About Kevin Max

To fully appreciate Kevin Max's spiritual, personal, and musical evolution it is always interesting to see where the seeds of his faith started and how the Lord put people in his life to help him grow, leading him to this place in his life; A period of self-evaluation, and his sharing what he has learned about the struggle we as human beings have every day with our sinful nature; the battle between self-centeredness and the Spirit.

Kevin Max explains to ChristianMusic.com about his early life and the influences which the Lord used to mold him spiritually, musically and build his character as one of His children.

Kevin Max began his life as a baby given the gift of life in the form of an adoption by a loving, 2 parent Christian family, who made every effort to plant seeds of faith and give him opportunities to grow spiritually.

"I was adopted as a baby in Grand Rapids Michigan, and my adoptive parents were believers. They brought me up with the understanding of the scriptures and church. I came to know the Lord at a young age, believing in what I was taught but understanding it as truth as time progressed."

Kevin's parents instilled in Kevin as a child and young person ideas, values, self-discipline which served him well, helping him to grow into the person with character he has today, with the personal strength to step out in faith with courage and focus, using his musical gifts and sharing what he has learned through his own personal journey through his experiences and self-evaluation.

"My father taught me to respect other people, and that working for something and creating something from nothing is the most satisfying thing. Also, the love of my mother and how she ingrained in me the knowledge of self-discipline."

Spiritual and Musical Influences

Young Kevin's musical gifts surfaced early in his life. Kevin shares with ChristianMusic.com,

"At a very young age I was a voracious reader and lover of music. I think my first foray into the world of Christian music would have been The Imperials, Elvis, and the hymns that I sang as a young boy. I was always interested in the songs that had a deeper pull, and melancholy tunes always touched me more than jubilation."

Other musical artists which influence him include alternative rock / British pop artists: U2, Morrissey, The Killers, Coldplay, Blur, David Bowie, Franz Ferdinand, Keane, The Killers, Interpol, and Franz Ferdinand.

How were you led by the Lord to use your musical gifts?

"I started singing very early on, but not by the prompting of anyone really. I think music has, and will always have a strong influence on every thing that I do. I believe that the Lord is always present in my music, because He created it and He understands our desire for it."

Life-molding Experiences

We all have experiences in our lives which have influenced who we have become, how we use our God-given gifts, and aspects of our character, spiritual life.

Kevin reflects, "I have had many life-molding experiences. My childhood, growing up in Michigan, my career in music with dcTalk, my solo career, my personal life, and all of its encounters."

His Musical Career with dcTalk

By the time Kevin entered Liberty University, it is not surprising that he was playing in a rock and roll band, which performed in gigs on campus and off campus. Toby Mac, also a student at Liberty University, heard Kevin's vocal performance on campus, and asked him to sing on some song demos that Toby and fellow dcTalk band member Michael Tait were putting together to send to various record companies.

Kevin's personal goal as a young man during this time period was to sing and perform in a rock & roll band, which would "cross boundaries and cultures, like the Beatles, Queen, and U2."

The musical goal in the very beginning of the other dcTalk members, Toby Mac and Michael Tait, was to combine hip hop, R&B, Rock and Roll and classic genres into a musical format for the glory of the Gospel. It seems that it was possible to please everyone, and so they as a group started to send in demos to a lot of record companies.

Well, their dream came true, and a mainstream Christian music label, Forefront Records signed a contract with Toby Mac, Michael Tait and Kevin Max as the group dcTalk and the three very young men began a very successful music ministry for the Lord.

While outside music composers and songwriters provided the songs for the group, the compositions reflected the musical goals of dcTalk, providing a breath of fresh air in that the music creatively used a combination of hip hop, R & B, Rock and Roll and classic genres which reached out and grabbed the youth all over the world with both their sound and message, performed by three very talented young men serving the Lord through music.

Kevin shares on his website Bio, "Many times I felt the unmistakable presence of the Spirit, and many times I felt the elation of being a performer and vocalist to such a degree that I was moved both emotionally and spiritually."

Despite all the wild success they experienced with not only selling a whale of a lot of records and in ministering effectively to young people but also getting recognition from the music industry via awards, as an artist Kevin Max reflects that something was missing. The downside of being part of the mainstream Christian music industry, they as artists were not given much room to experiment. As they grew into more mature men, during this 10 year period, they felt the itch to compose their own music together as a group, and not use outside songwriters.

So, they began to do so for their SUPERNATURAL album. While more fulfilling, Kevin was still unsettled because of an inner need to express his talents in new ways. During the SUPERNATURAL tour, Kevin began to do a lot of soul searching, asking himself, "Why am I in this? What motivates me?"

The Lord was trying to tell him something. It was time to step out in faith and courage to go down a new path, depending on the Lord and grow as a Christian and a musician.

Kevin reflects in his website Bio, "The desire to speak of real things, sing about real situations was a strong force. I needed to voice what had been in my head for years and was too fearful for too long to bring it up to people."

When it rains, it pours. His struggles in his musical career were compounded with troubles in his personal life at the same time. Kevin married Alayna in 1997 and they lived in Nashville, TN. Around 2000, they had challenges in their marriage, and after a year of counseling Kevin was counseled from several sources to end the marriage, due to a major problem in their marriage. The divorce caused personal pain, isolation, self reflection and a tough existence in Nashville, where his divorce didn't go over well with some in the Christian music industry in Nashville, who feel that Christian music artists who divorce for whatever reason can't sell records.

Kevin came to the prayerful conclusion that he needed to leave not only dcTalk, the mainstream Christian music industry scene but also Nashville, in order to start over as an independent Christian music artist, with a revised goal: "To follow my heart and my dreams of creating music and art that people could appreciate and relate to. I am ready again to expose more layers of who I am, and who God has made me to be."

So, Kevin stepped out in faith and courage and relocated to Los Angeles, a town he spent some time in during the early days of dcTalk. He jumped right into performing in clubs, bars, theaters, churches and even did a theatrical performance playing Joseph in a stage production of "Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat."

He began this journey and is still in the process of evolving as a person of faith and a musical artist, much to the blessing of his audience and those who enjoy his unique blend and style of indie alternative rock, incorporating elements from Gospel, R&B, contemporary pop, ballads and prayer hymns.

Kevin Max and host Logan Sekulow - Logan Show

THE IMPOSTER CD Songs - Individual Commentary and Lyrics

All songs and lyrics c/o blind thief publishing.

* * * + + TAKE IT BACK- (Confessional Booth)

A confessional ballad / anthem which is a great blend of rock & roll with an edge and contemporary pop blended by nice seques and effective dynamics. Rousing rock & roll intro, with an energetic electric guitars and drums, playing the reoccurring counter melody heard again in the chorus. Segues down into a quieter but effective musical / rhythmic support for the main melody, as the smooth, expressive vocals star front and center. Revs up again in emotion, sound, and drive during the Chorus as the vocals do the same. Great example of alternative rock, which appeals to the musical taste of a much wider audience. Entertaining guitar riff during bridge.

Scriptural References: (James 3:5-7)

Lyrics:

If angels were men, well then they couldn't fly / If birds had souls they would forever glide / If people would love, then more of us would be alive,( oh my my, oh my ) If you were me, you wouldn't sleep at night.

Chorus: I take back everything I said / that ever caused you pain or stress / I take it back, just like that / I take it back, just like that!!!

If trees weren't chairs they'd all bring us life / If the truth didn't hurt so much then I wouldn't lie / If WE could trust then maybe we could have a try/ have a, have a, try / If you were me, you'd see the light...

I take back everything I said / That ever caused you pain or stress / I take it back, just like that / I take it back, just like that!

Bridge: You know justice is so blind / So help me tip the scales back tonight.

(Sung Softly) Tag: I take back everything I said.....I take back everything I said ...

(Rock SCREAM)

VAMP: I take back everything I said / That ever caused you pain or stress / I take it back, just like that, I take it back, just like that.

I take back everything I said / I take back everything I said / I take back everything, everything, everything, I said.

* * * + + THE IMPOSTER - Title song

Theme to think about: Fighting self-centeredness, thinking about the other person first in a relationship is a common struggle between people, part of the human condition; a message we all can relate to.

2nd favorite song of this reviewer. A song to breach Christian and secular music! Full guitar rock & drum sound pumps up the energy and drive during the introduction. Love the energy, drive, infectious dotted note rhythmic melody which grabs the listener and goes so well with the very original lyrics, which are refreshing to hear. Great dynamic changes especially through the Bridge to the chorus where Kevin shines vocally in both delivery and style.

Scriptural References: (Romans 12:10 & 14:15, Ephes. 4:2-3, 2nd Cor. 6:17, James 4:1-4)

Lyrics:

I saw your meeting at the New World Order / you looked very modern with your narrow shoulders / you were a vision of a holy grace and oh you held your place / Everybody wants a soul revival and you handed them the language and social title / You were the coco and the go-go baby and you shook me all over the place / Yeah you put me in my place.

Bridge: I wanted you, I followed you / Ended up leaving everything I ever knew / You fell for me / you believed me / please believe me, please believe me.

CHORUS: Stop, you know I need you! / The moment I see that tear run down your face / My disgrace is in your eyes / I'm trying (he's trying) / To stop you know I mean to / There will be no faking, no more of my charades / I know I'm giving up the imposter in me.

A few years later and I have you hostage to my ways of isolation of my selfish knowledge / I didn't understand what love was about until you showered me with grace / Yeah, you put me in your place.

Bridge: I wanted you / I followed you / Ended up leaving everything I ever knew / You fell for me / you believed me / Please believe me, please believe me.

Stop you know I need you / The moment I see that tear run down your face / My disgrace is in your eyes / I'm tying (he's trying) / To stop, you know I mean to / There will be no faking / No more of my charades / I know I'm giving up the imposter in me.

Hook: This is such a strange beginning / I follow you and I find new meaning / we are formed from all these pieces / you take my love and you give it reason and you know our day will come / And you know our day has come.

I know. (I believe you)... I know..(I believe you) I know..(I believe you). I know. (I believe you)..I know...(I believe you).

Chorus: SO STOP you know I need you (I need you) / The moment I see that tear run down your face / My disgrace is in your eyes / stop you know I mean to / there will be no faking no more of my charades.

TAG: I know I'm giving up the imposter / I know this is possible / OH! THE IMPOSTER IS ME.

* * * + + SANCTUARY-

Another strong favorite song of this reviewer. Prayer anthem done rock style - Verses are quieter, reflective of a person in prayer but build to the Bridge and bloom dynamically in the chorus. By the second time through Chorus 2, there is a victorious feel to the sound, as a result of answered prayer. Nice rock guitar interludes at the beginning and in other segments of the song.

Scriptural References: (2nd Cor. 5: 1-4 & 3:17-18, Romans 6:33)

Lyrics:

I tried everything to find You / I even took the stairway to hell / I just wrote these words down to remind you / That I know life is never pass or fail.

Bridge 1: So hand me the keys to your kingdom / Give me back my Garden of Eden / Lead me to a place that I can call my own...

Chorus 1: A Home! A sanctuary! Home.

And was standing on the edge of it / Trying to make some sense of it all / The fear is building and the hatred / Until you know were left with nothing left at all ( you know I'm falling).

Bridge 2: So hand me the code to your gates of knowledge / Teach me the truth I never learned in college / Let me walk this valley till I find a place that I call.

Chorus 2: A home! A sanctuary! Home. And its the architecture of peace / and its the streets that lead to release /And its the hallways and doorways of hope / And its a place that we call HOME.

Oh (I tried everything to find you), Oh (I tried everything to find you).

Hook: The military's leading tours through town / A couple more weeks and the walls come down / I don't care if its to the east or west /I just need to get some rest.

Chorus 2: I'm HOME.... said, HOME!!! And its the architecture of peace / and its the streets that lead to release / and its the hallways and doorways of hope / and its a place that we call Home -

Sha La, Sha La La La La, Sha La, Sha La La La La / Sha La, Sha La La La La, Sha La,

Home!

* * * + + SHOW ME SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL (Your Beautiful Mind)

Third favorite song of this reviewer. Starts off on a sad, beautiful note in a minor key. Starts softly and poignantly with piano and heartfelt vocals, bringing a lovely melancholy melody and lyrics to life. Great dynamics build into Bridge and Chorus. Electric guitars play an acoustic part, filling out the musical support base as song progresses.

Kevin comments: "I wrote this for a friend of mine who is an atheist. She's a university student, and she constantly debates me on Creation, Christ - Everything to do with who God is. The song is a conversation of sorts between us, and in the opera of my mind, she is a believer at the end."

Scriptural References: (Romans 8:18-25 & 31-38, Job 38)

Lyrics:

The question is / Where did this begin? / Who authored and who finished it? / Such a beautiful world / but such a twisted plan / For it to end before we really lived in it.

Bridge 1: Oh tell me why this is happening? / Oh tell me why should I believe in anything?

Chorus 1: And I find Your beautiful mind in everything / but everything can't make me believe / I Find Your beautiful eyes see everything / so show me something beautiful please.

Corporations rise / As the working man will fall / We bit the apple now the apple is eating us / We want our just 15 minutes / and then we want it all / And watch our own image bleeding us / I feel so cold, and I'm growing old / so come on now just finish it.

Bridge 2: Oh tell me what's the purpose of love anyway? She looks the best when she just walks away.

Chorus 2: And I Find Your beautiful hands make everything and everything is all I need / I find Your Beautiful eyes see everything / so show me something beautiful please.

VAMP: I cannot figure it /Oh show me Lord /I cannot get into it /Oh show me Lord, please let me see You / Is there a code that I can't crack? / My life is slipping right off the tracks / Don't even know if I want it back / Please take it away from me.

Chorus 3: And I Find Your beautiful mind / In everything and everything is all I need /And I Find Your beautiful eyes / See everything / So show me something beautiful / And I Find Your beautiful eyes / See right through me / So show me what You want me to be.

* * * + + JUMP-START YOUR ELECTRIC HEART......

Another strong favorite of this reviewer. Another irresistible melody which catches one's attention, and is the perfect vehicle for the lyrics. Industrial rock inspired synthesizer work get this song off to a lively, driving start, in the intro, presenting the driving counter melody which gives the main vocals and main melody in the verses a strong base. Kevin shows his large vocal range, hitting both low notes and higher range as well.

Scriptural References: (Romans 8:9, Ephes. 4:23-24, Col. 3:3-8, 2nd Cor. 5:17, Gal. 5:14-26)

Lyrics:

You've got a one track mind, held in Formaldehyde, you stay inside / You don't want anyone to find you / You've got a secret drug but its never enough / to take the place of love / But someday your masterpiece will revive you.

Chorus 1: And now you've got the body, you shock the party in everyway / But your vacant baby blues give you away / and now you've got the body, you use that body to get your way / But when I touch you there's no life inside you / Turn on your electric heart today.

You are an only child, yeah, you're spoiled and wild, so infantile / You just need a soul to trip the wire / Its time to draw the shades, eyes are open wide, a brave new world to face / Your maker is ready to connect the hard drive.

Chorus 2: And now you've got the body, you shock the party in everyway / But your teleprompter lines give you away / And now you've got the body, you use that body to get your way / But when I touch you there's no life inside you / Jump-start your electric heart / turn on your electric heart today.

Bridge AND Musical Interlude: Turn it up, feel the mix, insert the card.

Chorus 3: And now you've got the body, you start the party in everyway /but your programmed popstar moves are so cliché / and now you've grown your body, you use the party to get your way / But when I test the spirit left inside you / Turn on your electric heart / Jump-start your electric heart / turn on your electric heart TODAY.

* * * + PLATFORM

A heartfelt prayer hymn composed in a minor key, calling the Lord for help and direction, as well as a little expression of frustration with the Lord, (some would say whining) found in the lyrics of the chorus. One finds the usual fine dynamics, inspiring vocals and a message we can all identify with at some time in our lives.

Scriptural References: (Psalm 25, Is. 68:8, 2nd Cor. 4:1-7)

Lyrics:

Oh my God / here I go again / jumping off this platform / to another end / Oh my God / See me going deep / Won't you take these millstones from around my feet? / And its a tragedy this state I'm in.

Chorus: Why'd You choose me when You knew I wasn't tough enough? / Why'd You send me when You knew I would run? / why'd You put me into places that I didn't want? / Why'd You call me when You knew I'd hang up?

Oh my God / Can you see through me? / Can you pierce the darkness? /God your charity / is the only song that I cannot sing.

Chorus: Why'd You choose me when you knew I wasn't tough enough? / Why'd you send me when you knew I would run? / Why'd you put me into places that I didn't want? / Why'd you call me when you knew I would hang up?/

Bridge: You pick me up / And put me down / And twist me around in circles / And take me out / And put me back / Depending on the situation.

Oh my God / can I feel your hand? / I need direction / And a place to land./ Is this, is this my platform?

Chorus: Why'd You choose me when you knew I wasn't tough enough? / Why'd you send me when you knew I would run? / Why'd you put me into places that I didn't want? / Why'd you call me when you knew I would hang up?/

* * * + THE ROYAL PATH OF LIFE

A song which pleases alternative rock enthusiasts in both the composition and the edgy vocals, yet is musically acceptable to a wider audience. Nice changes in melody found in Chorus, and Tag.

Scriptural References: (Romans 5:8 & 15:16, Hebrews 13:15-16, 1 Cor. 6:19-20, Matt 6:21)

Lyrics:

So give it all you've got now / give it all away now/ give it up for free / Cause everything you got has been paid for eternally. / Shake it up for penance / shake it up for lent / shake it anyway you want to people, in the end.

Chorus: Everytime I try to get off / I end up getting right back on / And if it's right, and if it's wrong / Its just a merry-go-round.

Give it all away now / Give it up for free / Cause everything you got is gonna leave you eventually / Shake it up for breakfast / Shake it up for tea / You shake it up any way you want, you're here for eternity.

Chorus: Everytime I try to get off / I end up getting right back on / And if its right and if its wrong / Its just a merry-go-round.

Tag: And this is the way of it, I cannot get out of this /its the royal path of life.

So give it all you've got now / give it up for free / yeah know people were gonna live for it you and me /I know who's got the answers / I know what its gonna be, I know I know I know I know that I don't know.

Chorus: Everytime I try to get off / I end up getting right back on / and if its right /and if its wrong its just a merry-go-round.

Tag: And this is the way of it, I cannot get out of this /its the royal path of life.

* * * + TO GIVE YOU MY LOVE (The Imposter's Song)

A contemporary song with a lively melody and lyrics which make one think the conditional love humans have (verse 1 and chorus) verses the unconditional love of our Lord, who love us just the way we are, who wants a relationship with us (Bridge, verse 2).

Scriptural References: (James 2:13, Ephes. 2:4 & 4:2, 1 Cor. 13:4 & 16:14)

Lyrics:

We don't like your politiking get a new life, get a new love / This is where your soul needs stitching / get on the job, bang on a drum.

Bridge: Please believe, your beautiful when your not made up.

Chorus: Turn the switch to give you my love /a soul kiss and its all over ( yeah yeah yeah)/ turn the switch to give you my love / a hard itch and its never enough.

Later on this train is leaving / get on-a-board, sit in the sun / Praying knees don't need any breaking / use all your fun, sleep like a nun.

Bridge: Please believe your beautiful without the makeup.

Turn the switch to give you my love / a soul kiss, its all over (yeah yeah yeah) / Turn the switch to give you my love / a hard crush and it gives you a shove.

Please believe your beautiful when your not made up, please believe your beautiful and that's not made up repeat chorus.

Chorus:

* * * + + STAY-

Fourth favorite song of this reviewer. A moving contemporary ballad which effectively expresses the heartbreak of an unwanted relationship breakup due to the self-centeredness, cynical attitudes, unfaithfulness of one woman, which causes pain and a negative outlook on falling in love. Lyrics tell the story of this broken-hearted fellow, wistfully wishing that his love wasn't such a short-sighted, deceitful shallow person. He doesn't want this change.

One notices the memorable melody put together with a lyrical story.

Scriptural References: (Cor. 13, 2nd Tim. 3:2-3)

Lyrics:

Oh the English rain / It seems to follow me again / all the way from Sintra Portugal / its where I met you just one year ago. / Oh sweet memory (riding motorbikes down to the sea) didn't feel like reality, even when it was happening.

Chorus: And I want everything to stay the same as yesterday / Want everything to stay the same.

I saw you board the Paris train / Your little halo hung sideways / You didn't know I was there to see you go, oh no / Standing in your furs and your arms around another fool.

Oh tortured memory (Ceasar Paciotti's standing in the city square) / You smothered everything / just when it started happening.

Chorus: And I want everything to stay the same as yesterday/ want everything to stay the same.

Bridge: Love is a deadly potion it stabs the heart and bleeds emotion and / Now nothing will be the same again....Oh the politics of love oh / The politics of love, and not feeling loved./ I know you, you doubted me all along even when I told you that you were the only one and in the street I left a lonely rose that no one knows, and no one knows, and no one knows but me.

Chorus: I want everything to stay the same as yesterday / want everything to stay the same.

Hook: love is a deadly potion it stabs the heart and bleeds emotion and love is chain reaction / We just thought it was attraction / And I never wanted to change...(you forced me) / I never wanted to change../ Just wanted to stay the same.

* * * + + I NEED YOU, THE END.

Another sad, poignant ballad which explores the loss felt in a divorce or break up, composed in a 3/4 meter waltz in a minor key. Living with this loss is like a dance of sadness. It makes one want to cry, it is so sad. The human pain is made so easy to relate to throughout the composition, lyrics and the poignant delivery by Kevin Max, who is no stranger to loss and pain. It should bring comfort to someone who is suffering loss from a broken marriage or relationship.

Scriptural References: (Matt. 11:28-30, 2nd Cor. 4:16-18, 1 Peter 5:7, Psalm 34:18)

Lyrics:

The fairy tale has found an end / The beauty that belonged back then had gone / I wonder where it all went wrong / The dream, the love, the recompense the sorrow? / And here we are leaving each other wandering around, haunted like rain and.

Bridge: Why do we dance in sadness? / Why do we hold it in? / Why do we smile in our madness?

Chorus: Can't you see I need you? Can't you see I need you? Can't you see I need you? Can't you see I need you? I need you, the end.

The salt has never left my eyes / The honey in your words still seeps inside / I walk the night with ghostly steps / I wander up and down the past again / And here we are failing each other, wandering round like a storm in the night and.

Bridge: Why do we dance in sadness? / why do we hold it in /why do we smile in madness?

Chorus: Can't you see I need you? Can't you see I need you? Can't you see I need you? Can't you see I need you? I need you, the end.

The Masquerade we called the Ceremony was all for naught / forgotten / forgotten / forgotten, forgotten.

Chorus: Can't you see I need you? Can't you see I need you? Can't you see I need you? Can't you see I need you? I need you, the end.

VAMP: All alone, All alone I fall / All alone, All alone I fall / All alone, All alone we fall, we fall,/ All alone, All alone we fall, we fall / All alone, All alone I fall, I fall,/ All alone, All alone we fall, we fall.

Tag: The fairy tale has found an end.

* * * + + WHEN HE RETURNS Words & Music by Bob Dylan, rearranged by Kevin Max

Favorite song of this reviewer, because of Kevin's presentation of the vocals coupled with an absolutely inspired piano accompaniment. Kevin Max rearranges Dylan's original song into a majestic Gospel, poignant piano ballad and does a terrific job presenting the vocals with a presence to match. His considerable breath control and expressive vocals together with lovely dynamics makes it an uplifting inspiring message of what hope we have in the Lord Jesus who will return. The perfect song of hope which should cheer the listener up after being effected by the preceding song.

Scriptural References: (Matt. 12:36, 2nd Peter 3:10, 13,15, Rev. 22:12)

Lyrics:

The iron hand it is no match for the iron rod / The strongest wall / Will crumble and fall / To a mighty God.

Refrain: For all those who have eyes and all those who have ears/ It is only He / Who can reduce me to tears.

Don't you cry / And don't you die / And don't you burn / For like a thief in the night, He will replace wrong with right / When He returns.

Truth is an arrow and the gate is narrow that it passes through / He unleashed His power at an unknown hour / That no one knew.

Bridge: How long can I listen to the lies and prejudice?/ How long can I stay drunk on fear out in the wilderness?

Refrain: Can I cast it aside all this loyalty and this pride? Will I ever learn? / That there will be no peace / that these wars won't cease / Until He returns.

Surrender your crown on this bloodstained ground / Take off all Your MASKS / You know, He sees your deeds / And He knows your needs / Even before you ask.

Refrain 2: How long can you falsify and deny what is real? / How long can you hate yourself for the weaknesses you conceal?

Refrain 3: Of every earthly plan, that be known to man / He is unconcerned. He's got plans of His own, to SET UP HIS THRONE when He returns / When He returns / When He returns.

* * * + + FADE TO RED- all songs and lyrics c/o blind thief publishing.

A powerful song to end this CD. Song begins with a strong sound propelled in an easy majestic rock beat, using electric guitars, blended with strings and sythns. During this intro composed in a minor key, Kevin reads a scriptural prophecy about the physical signs of the 2nd coming and the day of the Lord.

This inspired blending of guitars, strings, and sythns in an easy majestic rock beat creates the perfect musical support for the interesting rhythmic yet beautiful melody and lyrics brought to life by Kevin's inspiring lyrics. Song leaves the listener with the hope we have in the second coming of Christ.

Scriptural References: (Rev .6:12-13 & 22:1-3, Joel 2:28-32, Acts 2:14-21)

Lyrics:

Bridge: And we want everything to end just like Nostradamus said / Everything is left for dead, fade to red.

In the gust /of the wind / on your back / in your gut / in the tracks / of your mind / this is how it ends everywhere there is hope there is oblivion.

Bridge: And we want everything to end just like Moses said everything that is parted then, will fade to red.

On the crest/ of a wave / on the fields of plain / in a faraway land its all the same / Even when there is love there is also hate.

Chorus: And when the sun breaks through the dark ( we know were close to it, close to it). And when the sun shines through my heart (I know I am close to it, close to it).

From the words of a mystic monk / to a drunk /on the edge /of a nightmare so it is, everywhere there is joy there is also dread / From the throne of a militant king, with the wings of the fallen, as they start to sing / inside I am just like you....

Bridge: And we want everything to end just like Nostradamus said / everything is left for dead, fade to red.

On the crest of a wave on the fields of plain in a faraway land its all the same / Even when there is love there is also hate.

Chorus: And when the sun breaks through the dark (we know we're close to it, close to it). And when the sun shines through my heart ( I know I am close to it, close to it, close to it, close to it).

Very nice guitar interlude.

Hook: These are all of the words that were formed before the blood / after the flood, feel the hand of love, and sing the song of songs from up above.

From the throne of a militant king, with the wings of the fallen, as they start to sing / Even when there is love there is also hate /...On the crest of a wave on the fields of plain in a faraway land its all the same / /inside I am just like you.

Chorus: And when the sun breaks through the dark ( we know were close to it). And when the sun shines through my heart (I know I am close to it, close to it,close to it).

Hidden Track: I'm at a loss why they hid this rock and roll song on this CD. Anyway, It has something for everyone: Entertaining lyrics, a lively beat, nice harmonies, yet another memorable melody and a nice message about letting go and giving the Lord the wheel in your life.

Reviewed By Julie Carr for ChristianMusic.com