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Connersvine: Connersvine PDF Print E-mail
  Posted by Mary Dunn    04:03 PM   Tuesday, 06 November 2007 | Permalink         
Getting a record deal is a pretty significant step in any recording artist's life.  In the case of many artists, this may come in the form of signing with an independent company.  Yet, for Connersvine, the duo from Indianapolis comprised of punter Hunter Smith of 2007 Superbowl Colts fame, and Chris Wilson, the record deal is sweet.  INO Records is hoping that fans will be searching for more than a Superbowl win in their debut self titled album Connersvine.

The project is the epitome of everything familiar in a worship album; strong lyrics, lush guitars and a splash of passion that provides peaceful listening.  Right from the beginning, the listener is drawn into a world of pleasing melodies coupled with a sense of familiarity in "Glory Be".  Wilson's vocals are very strong and the acoustic guitar strums bring goose bumps with every word that is full of conviction on this track that is sure to become commonplace in many church services.

The lyrics found on "Hero" are typical expressions of the genre that tell the tale of turning sadness into hope, of not being the protector but never abandoning for something else.  The difference is the twist, as the abandonment is a free choice that people can make in being faithful to God.  "Lay Down" lets the lyrics carry the listener along with the sound of a country twang and some serious steel guitar.  However, it goes much deeper as the details unfold for laying it down in prayer and in giving all in the spiritual walk of faith. 

A full listen, however, reveals that the other nine tracks mine the same territory, possessed by recurring elements including soft acoustic tones and prototypically worshipful lyrics making a comparison difficult.  The songs are beautifully sung and played with a glimpse of professional musicianship.  No doubt, several of the ballads will be an excellent addition to any Sunday church service.  The evident picture painted within the album is one of likeness and a resurgence of worship music. 

Sometimes it is not always the artists fault when similarities occur on an album. Perhaps, INO Records could have provided some guidance.  Possibly this is what type of music that was being sought after by Wilson and Smith.  To focus strictly on worship and not creativity does not excite those listening outside of worship venue.

Producers have the opportunity to make a significant difference, but often in the Christian music world, they continue to settle in what must be a comfort zone.  Isn't it time to think out of the box?   People remember musicians who provide compositions that withstand time and have purpose, and it only takes place when a musician moves beyond what is safe without giving up values.

Because of the lack of diversity and excitement from the duo, nothing really stood out as begging for a repeat listen.  Although Connersvine is a beautiful portrait of worship, praise and purpose, the album doesn't take the plunge into deeper creative waters allowing the artists to set themselves apart.  Unquestionably, the next effort by Wilson and Smith must offer a unique vibe that will grab the attention of fans both inside and outside of worship services.

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