David Crowder*Band
Sixstepsrecords/Sparrow
crowdermusic.com

Even thought David Crowder*Band disbanded in 2012, it is only fitting that an outfit that has dedicated so many years of its time together give worshipers and worship leaders a compilation of some their finest works. That compilation is here in 2013 called All This For A King: The Essential Collection. Filled with 13 tracks of DC*B standards with one bonus track from Crowder’s new solo album, you get what you expect, except this time all in one place.

Of course there are a couple reasons for DC*B completists to throw down the dough for songs they already have. Technophiles will enjoy remixes of “Shadows,” “After All (Holy),” and “No One Like You.” It seems to be fitting that the songs evolve to today’s movement of dubstep and techno, after all, DC*B has been known for creating music that pushed the musical norm of the current musical soundscape. The band’s post-breakup album echos the same nod to musical evolution. Crowder’s one original on the album, “This I Know” touches roots of country—a simplistic approach that Crowder has shown in recent performances of returning to his “original roots music.”

More: Remixes on the album include collabs from Family Force 5, Capital Kings, and the collective remains of DC*B (sans Crowder) better known as “The Digital Age.”

Less: Same as it was in 2012 … really? This is the end?

4.5 Stars
Jason Whitehorn

David M. Edwards
Maranatha! Music
davidmedwards.com

Venerated worship leader and educator, David M. Edwards marks his newest release, Heart Full of Soul, with an unexpected yet absolutely suitable groove. Solidly placed in the gospel/neo-soul music category, Edwards’ new release is the best version of himself. But we won’t call it a complete revamp because there are elements of Edwards that you can always expect: solid lyrical content, songs saturated with Scripture, and beautiful—at times soaring—melodies, being among the most notable.

Some of the highlights, musically and lyrically, include the opening track. Complete with jazz piano and a full backing brass section, “I Love the Lord” is a psalm of rescue with a catchy beat and a singable chorus with an uptempo groove. But the richest vein of Heart Full of Soul comes halfway through the track list with the incredible back-to-back prayers of worship: “Heaven’s Prince of Peace” and “The Same Spirit.” The first is a ballad rife with tenderness as well as honor and praise to the Prince of Peace. The second ascends with the overwhelming truth of the living Spirit of God, the same Spirit that once raised our Savior, is living in us now. It seems the creative director of Regent University’s International Center for Worship gets what comprises music that is designed to encourage worship. Heart Full of Soul is both a lesson on how to compose worship music and an experience of worship you will treasure.

More: This is David M. Edwards as he is meant to be. The best and brightest release we have heard from this respected artist and worship leader.

Less: The only problem here will be if longtime followers miss the old Edwards style.

4.5 stars
Jeremy Armstrong

North Point Music
northpointmusic.org

North Point Music releases its first album created just for elementary-aged kids with North Point Kids: Shine! Worship leaders like Casey Darnell, Eddie Kirkland, and Seth Condrey lead out this relevant power-pop collection.

North Point considered four important elements for these songs: a clear message with no big words, plus language and an approach that encourages movement, current musical style, and lyrics that allow kids to worship God for who he is and what he’s done for them. They nailed all the elements.

More: Catchy and memorable with savvy beats and declarative lyrics. Kids will grab these cuts and own them.

Less: Nothing. They were aiming for a unique kid’s worship release and they nailed it. Great job, North Point Kids!

5 stars
Mike Pueschell