Mission Six "Shockwave" MVP Review!

I have been a big fan of Mission Six since their 2008 debut, "Superhero". Well, since then the guys have released "Not Too Young" (2009) and this year's release, "Shockwave". Mission Six is known for their fun, pop/rock/dance music, and encouraging lyrics for teens. Does "Shockwave" take Mission Six one step further? Let's find out!

Let me start this off by saying "Shockwave" is not your typical album release. Rather than calling it a cd, "Shockwave" has been labeled, "MVP", which stands for Music, Video, and Purpose. The music aspect gives you 10 songs, (which can be downloaded for use on your MP3 player from an internet link given in the MVP case) the video part of the DVD means you will get 10 music videos, (more on that later), and an episode of iShine KNECT featuring Mission Six. The purpose portion gives you behind the song sessions, and includes the iShine episode.

Starting off the album, we have the title track, "Shockwave". Mission Six brings their signature style to this song, and it's definitely a top-notch track. The lyrics bring a great message of being a "shockwave" in our daily lives, by impacting this world for Christ.

"Lifted High" brings more of a worship aspect to the album. "Lifted High" brings a punchy pop/rock sound with lyrics that glorify God, and is sure to become a favorite among youth groups. "Heaven Down To Earth" brings a slightly different sound, and the lyrics continue to impact the listener, challenging us to bring Heaven down to earth and spread the Gospel. Definitely one of my favorites!

Next we have "Outshout The Lies", a slightly poppier rock track that challenges the listener to outshout the lies of this world and Satan. Overall, it's a great track from start to finish. "Shine" comes next and is my personal favorite off the album. I love it musically, and to me this track has the best lyrics of the album. I like the "harder" sound of this track, and it's one of those worship songs you would definitely not yawn at!

"Sweet Sixteen" is a song written by Noah Hayden, the lead singer of Mission Six after his 16th birthday. There's a lot of meaning in this song, because as teens, around 16 is when we really start solidifying our beliefs and what we want to do with our lives. The music fits the song perfectly, and overall this is a great track.

The next four tracks are all covers, so I won't focus so much on the lyrical themes, but more on how the band covered them. I was a little disappointed they chose to do four covers instead of four original songs, but M6 does a great job on them. I enjoy their own unique take on the different songs. The four songs are "Everlasting God", "Mighty To Save", "Never Let Go", and "Revelation Song". In my opinion, the best cover is "Mighty To Save", to which M6 brings a rockier sound. "Everlasting God" is also a great cover, and gives Anthony the opportunity to show off his guitar skills. "Never Let Go" and "Revelation Song" are also great covers.


The video aspect brings ten music videos, which are ten live performance videos Mission Six did at the KNECT Shoot a few months ago. The guys are great performers, but the audio you hear is the cd, not really the live performance. I personally wish they would have left the original live audio on it, but it's not a huge issue. The KNECT episode is all bout "being cool", and I enjoyed it very much.

Overall, I enjoyed "Shockwave" very much. This album focuses more on worship, but not in that pre-packaged formula a lot of bands follow today. I like the fact that you get a lot for your money with this album, and the behind the songs, Knect, and live performance videos were nice to watch.

If you are a fan of the Jonas Brothers, VOTA, FM Static, Robert Pierre, or any other iShine artist, I have no doubt you will like Mission Six. Be sure to check their tour dates at http://www.missionsixband.com/ for the Shockwave tour this summer and fall!

Anthem Lights Debut CD review!

THE TIME HAS COME!!!!! The project I've been looking forward to for several months now is here! Anthem Light's debut project, "Anthem Lights" hit iTunes and national retailers today! Does it live up to my excitement?

"Anthem Lights" starts things off with "Can't Shut Up" which is currently a hit single on radio stations all over America. An anthem for young people all over, Anthem Lights boldly declares that "This is why we stand up and sing, we can't shut up! We've got everything that we need! We can't shut up! Love has come and now we are free! We can't shut up!". A fun, energy packed track, "Can't Shut Up" mixes pop and rock in a great way, and there is no question about the impact the lyrics have on listeners.

Next we have "I Wanna Know You Like That" is another strong song that encourages men to stand up and be like David, but is a message applicable to every Christian. If you haven't noticed already, there isn't a main vocalist. As I mentioned in my Anthem Lights EP review , Anthem Lights is comprised of four singers, Alan Powell, Chad Graham, Caleb Grimm, and Kyle Kupecky. Vocals are often traded throughout their songs, and it's obvious these guys are talented. Overall, "I Wanna Know You Like That" is a great pop/rock track.

One of my absolute favorites from Anthem Lights is "Circles" which follows "I Wanna Know You Like That" It slows things down some, and brings a more serious tone to the album. This song has impacted me personally, and challenged me in my Christian walk with lyrics like "Before you even know it, I'm right back at the start, Doing what I hate, And breaking my own heart, I'm going back and forth , And then forth and then back, And then round in circles"  Once again the guys hit things right out of the park with their vocals and lyrics.

"Can't Get Over You" is another slow track, but the lyrics are powerful. A message of God's forgiveness, grace and love, "Can't Get Over You" doesn't bring a whole lot of new stuff musically, but as I mentioned, the lyrics are powerful. After what God has done for us, how can anyone "get over" His saving grace?

"Stranger"...yes!!!! I was dying to hear this kind of pop music again!! Anyone remember the days of TrueVibe,  90's era ZoeGirl, and Plus One? It seemed Christian music was done in that area, but Anthem Lights brings it back in this song! I don't mean the sound is dated, but rather it's a revival of GOOD pop music that has been missing from CCM for a while. Anyway, the lyrics of "Stranger" speaks of being a stranger in this world, waiting to go to our Heavenly home. "I gotta keep my eyes looking to the sky for you, the Son is on His way, and I wanna be ready, and I won't forget I'm not home til I'm with You, the Son is on His way!" reminds us of the coming of Christ. Definitely one of my favorites on this album.

"Outta My Mind" starts things off pretty neat, with a little auto tuned intro, then Caleb brings in the verse, asking God for happiness, then the chorus realizes that we need to have the mind of Christ in order to be truly happy. I love the bridge in this song, and I'm going to start telling people I'm outta my mind. :P Overall this is a good track, once gain with great lyrics and a fun pop/rock beat.

"Lifeline" has a fun pop/latino sound, and Chad Graham's voice really shines in this track. "Lifeline" speaks of Christ being our lifeline, saving us from our sin. I love the breakdown on the bridge, it definitely catches your attention, and fits the song perfectly.

The next track is "Lighthouse" which has a beautiful piano and string intro. I thought it would be a slow song, but it really isn't. "Lighthouse" has a strong beat, and the lyrics encourage us to reach the lost, saying, "It’s up to you, it’s up to me, To be the lighthouse, They should know they’re not alone, So shine so they can see the lighthouse, And find their way back home" This song is yet another example of Anthem Light's strong songwriting skills and powerful vocal ability.


"Freedom Into Slavery" was a track they recorded back when Anthem Lights was Yellow Cavalier, (more on that in my EP review) I believe it has been recorded for this release. "Freedom Into Slavery" follows the lines of "Circles" in a way, speaking of how we can turn the freedom Christ gave us into slavery because of sin. This is another favorite, the guy's vocal ability shines through, and the song is just great anyway you look at it.

Rounding out the album, "Where The Light Is" comes next. "Where the light is, darkness must be bound, where the light is, darkness can't be found" is so powerful and true. We can't say in words how powerful God's light is over Satan's darkness. This is the perfect ending to the album, a beautiful ballad for the hurting and lost. A favorite by far.

Overall, I was very impressed with the debut album from Anthem Lights. In every song we get a sampling of the strong voices of Alan Powell, Chad Graham, Caleb Grimm, and Kyle Kupecky. In every song we get powerful, heartfelt lyrics that encourage and lift up each listener. Of course we get some fun pop music as well! Who says "boy bands" have to sound like the Backstreet Boys?

I would definitely recommend this album. It's suitable for all ages, all people, and all music lovers. The heart behind the album is evident. If you like pop music with a bit of rock thrown in here and there, "Anthem Lights" is for you.

By the way.....check for an interview with Anthem Lights EXCLUSIVELY on Life With Lisa, coming soon!

Music Review: "Not Too Young" by Mission Six

Mission Six.Where do I start? Their first cd, "Superhero" was a favorite of mine back in 2008. Mission Six and The Rubyz are the "original" iShine artists. They've toured extensively all over the U.S., recorded three albums, have received airplay on radio Disney, and star in one of the most popular Christian teen shows, iShine Knect. Did I mention the oldest member of M6 is 17? It's amazing what God has enabled them to do in just three short years.

Comprised of Noah Hayden on vocals, Anthony Barthel on guitar, Isaac (Biff) Alling on keys, David Horner playing the drums, and Michael Powers on bass, Mission Six has become one of the most popular teen Christian bands out there. You can find out the story behind their band name in this VERY old video. But anyway, this is supposed to be a music review, so let's review some music!

"Not Too Young" is Mission Six's sophomore effort, released in 2009. The 10 track album is comprised of five regular tracks, as well as five karaoke tracks. For review purposes, I will just be talking about the five regular tracks.

"Not Too Young" begins with the title track, "Not Too Young".  A fun song that has a great beat and solid guitars, "Not Too Young" is an anthem for teens all over.  The chorus boldly states, "Here we go, now we're not alone, yeah we may young, but we're not too young to change the world!" The music of Mission Six is strong, and they have been compared to the Jonas Brothers and Relient K. They're a fun mixture of rock and pop.  Overall a very good track, and one I'm sure you will enjoy.

Second we have "Stand Out", another high-energy song that encourages us to "stand out" and not back down. This track even features a surprise from bassist Michael Powers, at the end of the second verse. I'm sure this song is a blast live! Featuring strong, high-energy music and thought provoking lyrics, "Stand Out" is a top M6 song.

Now we've come to my favorite song off the album, "Misfits" which pretty much anyone can relate to at some point in their life, no matter how old they are.  The song opens with Noah declaring he is a "misfit", then a catchy bass line. "Raise your hands if you don't fit in" starts out the verse, and once again Michael guests. Michael and Noah compliment each other very well vocally, and they did an awesome job on this song. The most stirring part of the song is the bridge where they slow things down a bit and sing, "Just when you think you're all alone, you find a place where you belong".  Overall an amazing track that without a doubt encourages teens everywhere.

I can't review this song without laughing. It's not the nature of this song AT ALL, it's what I can imagine all the girls doing when they perform this live. "Forever" is a beautiful song about how important it is to stay pure for the one you will marry. "Everything has got a place in time, so before I call you mine, I wanna make sure you know you're worth the wait" is just a sample of how sincere and important the lyrics are to teenagers in our day. "Forever" brings strong vocals, equally powerful music, and even a fun outro complete with a good old, "yeeooowww"!

Lastly, we have a cover of the popular Newsboys track, "I Am Free". The music differs from the original a bit, giving a it more of a teen feel. Mission Six definitely does the song justice, and does not disappoint. I actually think I might like it better than the original Newsboys version. (Shhh!) It's an excellent cover.

Overall, "Not Too Young" is a solid sophomore effort. I know not everyone likes "teen bands", so this cd won't be for everyone. However, it's a great album! the sound of Mission Six has matured a lot since last year, and they will be releasing their third album, "Shockwave" next week, on May 3rd. They have been posting clips on their Youtube channel, and right now you can hear clips of three songs off that record.

The guys of Mission Six are pretty funny, and have several podcasts on Youtube. One of their most popular segments is 'Band Vs. Food" where they take on challenges to eat "that weird food". I'll post one below for you to watch.



As always, thank you so much for reading my blog! I hope you enjoy the posts!
-Lisa

New Bands You Should Know: Part 2

Welcome to the second segment of New Bands YOU Should Know! First off, I'd like to start with.....

SHINE BRIGHT BABY!

I saw these guys on the roster for Creation NE 2011, and immediately checked them out. They're a new indie Alternative Rock band from Ohio, and they sound promising. I suppose if I had to compare them with a band, I'd say Paramore or maybe a punkier sounding BarlowGirl. They released an album independently on May 22, 2009. "The Heart And It's Hope" sounds pretty good, and you can read my review of it here, and scroll down to the review section. If you visit their Pure Volume page, you can download free an acoustic version of "Deadbolt". It's a very good song, and a great way to discover the band. Shine Bright Baby has even impressed the likes of Jared from House Of Heroes! 

Next we have.......

ICON FOR HIRE!

After looking at the new bands T&N had signed, and after being a little disappointed (Rocky Loves Emily), I saw this band....took a listen...and they are definitely a band to watch! Their music is a little harder than what I usually listen to, but Ariel has an amazing voice, and they are definitely talented! Be sure to keep an eye out for their first album with T&N, dropping summer/fall 2011. While you're at it, get a free downlaod of "Off With Her Head" at their Pure Volume page! Below is their song "Conversation With A Rockstar", an absolutely beautiful acoustic song about selling your soul just for fame. Enjoy!

Well, that's the last of my new bands to watch....let me know if I've missed any  by emailing me at lifewithlisap@gmail.com! 

-Lisa

Anthem Lights EP Review!

THIS IS JUST THE EP REVIEW. YOU CAN VIEW THE FULL LENGHTH ALBUM REVIEW BY CLICKING HERE. Thanks!

Anthem Lights is a new pop/rock band recently signed to Reunion Records. The band was formed in 2007, when Alan Powell and Chad Graham joined creative forces to write songs for Chad Graham's solo album. However, as they collaborated, they began to see God's bigger plan. The songs just seemed meant for a group. Soon, Liberty University students Caleb Grimm and Kyle Kupecky joined the band. Their debut EP as well as their forthcoming album (dropping May 2011) was produced by the Write Brothers, aka Seth Moseley and Juan Otero. How does their debut stand out in a industry covered in pop/rock artists? Let's find out.

 The EP starts of with the single, "Can't Shut Up". As the track starts off with a neat intro, it gives you a sense of anticipation. Within seconds a fun, catchy vocal and music mix catches your attention. "I had a heartbeat, I was breathing, and I kept going  and going without a reason, I was living to just be living, until He really gave me life.", are powerful lyrics that start off the lyrical message. This song is a powerful anthem, about how we "Can't Shut Up" about what God has done for us! "We got to break the silence, we've been quiet for too long" is a true message of many churches and youth groups in this hour. This is a strong song lyrically, as well as having a great pop feel. There is no "lead vocalist" in Anthem Lights, and I find it refreshing to hear different soloists.

"I Wanna Know You Like That" is next, and talks about wanting to give all to God, and to know God like David and other great people of God. "To live, to love, with everything I am, to give it all, I wanna know You like that, to become a man after your heart, and not look back." truly expresses the heart these guys have for the ministry. A song with strong vocals, great message, and fun music, "I Wanna Know You Like That" is sure to become a favorite among pop fans.

We're nearly to the end of the EP, and "Can't Get Over You" slows things down. Is it just me, or does it seem nearly every artist in the business slows things down for the third track? Just something I noticed....anyway, back to the review! This song is a passionate song of thanks to God, with lyrics that speak of God's great love, how He loves when we don't deserve it, and how He's changed our live. The chorus speaks of how after all God has done for us, we can't get over it! It's a beautiful song which is probably my favorite off the EP.

Lastly is "Circles" which has become a favorite among the Rock and Worship Roadshow audience. Another slow tempo song, hits the issue of how we as Christians can go in circles, one minute in, and one minute out. This song really speaks to us, and it challenges us to be committed to Christ, with ALL of our hearts. This is by far the best song on the EP, and if you could only choose one song from this album, it should be this song! Besides the amazing lyrics, Anthem Light's vocal talent really shines through.

This is a strong debut from Anthem Lights, and I can't wait to hear their full album in May. This EP has strong lyrics, good pop music, and talented yet diverse vocals. I kept hearing a voice that slightly reminded me of Billy Goodwin from NewSong, and it turns out it's Caleb Grimm. So if you think you're hearing Billy Goodwin, you're not!

If you like pop music with a bit of a rock edge, Anthem Lights is for you. Their lyrics are strong, and they have some amazing talent. Be sure to pick up the full album in May!

Rating: 4.5/5 stars.



Check out this video of a day in the life of Anthem Lights: