March 26, 2008 in
Album Reviews,Reviews,Updates with
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As one of the members of DC Talk, Kevin Max has been a favorite of Christian Rock since 1989 when DC Talk released their first self-titled album. As a band they have received numerous Dove Awards and three Grammy Awards, not to mention platinum, multi-platinum, and gold albums. Why not branch out and go solo? Kevin Max’s solo career began with the release of “Stereotype Be” in 2001. He stayed busy with the release of “Between the Fence and the Universe” and “The Imposter” both in 2005. Kevin Max’s fifth album, “The Blood” is different than any other album that he has released so far. It is a tribute, of sorts, to Johnny Cash. It is meant to sound “old” as it opens with the crackle of vinyl. It’s only thirty minutes of music, but it is fun to listen to. This album is a mix of old country gospel with hymns and spirituals. Expect to hear a little organ and even banjo. The song “I Know His Blood Can Make Me Whole” reminds me of the music from the movie, “Oh Brother Where Art Thou?” Five out of the ten songs feature different artists. “The Cross” reunites DC Talk. “Run on for a Long Time” is a remake of Johnny Cash’s “God’s Gonna Cut You Down” and features Chris Sligh. “Up Above My Head I hear Music in the Air” features music couple Amy Grant and Vince Gill.” “People Get Ready” features Erica Campbell from Mary Mary, and my favorite, “One Way-One Blood” features Joanne Cash. She is Johnny Cash’s sister. How cool is that? On this album, I believe that Kevin Max did a great job capturing the emotion and style of each song. This album proves, once again that Max is a versatile artist able to stay true to the roots of gospel and still put his own stamp on the music.
 
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