Alternative Ulster Review

Rock music about God has got a bad press over the years. This is odd because song-writers have mined the Good Book for its stories about redemption, betrayal, sacrifice, and love for years. While most 'Christian Contempary Music' it is derivative of ‘secular’ artists some can hold its own. It’s unfortunate that ill-conceived pre-conceptions will probably stop people listening to ‘Break the Silence’ because it is a fantastic record.
The Belfast band kicks off with thumping drums, big guitars and a bigger chorus on ‘Brand New Day’. Their use of the synth is very reminiscent of The Killers, and elsewhere shows more than a passing reference to Death Cab for Cutie. The majority of the songs are easily accessible sing-a-longs, but that doesn't mean they are lacking in imagination or ingenuity. Johnny Parks has a great voice and is ably complemented by Claire Hamilton. Rooted in it’s homeland, the album explores the impact of The Troubles on its inhabitants and their hunger for change and peace. It closes with an epic soaring Sigur Ros style soundscape with “Walk Beside Me Jesus”. Hopefully it won’t just be people in churches that get to listen to this album.
For fans of: Death Cab for Cutie, Wheat, Arcade Fire
Download: Walk Beside Me Jesus, Our God is Mighty, The Troubles Are Over
Rating: 8/10
5 Comments:
Congrats!
Cheers Alan - i feel really pleased about it.
J
Fantastic reviews Jonny. am so pleased you are all getting some recognition even acknowledging you can write 'sing alongs' record companies take note!!
The revolution song def pushes the boudaries in church but I think its a prophetic song that others will catch on to. I beleive it's your calling to push the boundaries which means you might be out there on your own a bit so get some good support around you.
Revolutionaries have a habit of getting shot at!! I am praying protection over all of you.
..........any chance of a chord book for all your songs...the way i play it never sound the same as you!!!!
Hey man, that's top notch! great to see the big wide world taking note :)
Hey Johnny,
Just spotted another good review on Cross Rhythms:
Reviewed by Jamie Hailstone
"The atmospheric introduction to the opening track tells you this is no ordinary praise and worship CD. "Brand New Day" kicks in with sound effects and then Mikey Randon's powerhouse drums propel the song into action. Johnny Parks is already well established as a worship leader both in Northern Ireland and the US, having toured with Chris Tomlin, but 'Break The Silence' promises to give him a higher profile. It certainly has some big names attached to it, including Matt Redman and Tim Hughes, who co-wrote some of the songs with Johnny. The CD was also engineered by Shane Wilson, who has worked with the David Crowder Band and Michael W Smith. There's also an appearance by part-time Snow Patrol member Iain Archer on guitars. But what sets apart this CD from the competition is the Celtic influence in both the music and the songs. Although it is a modern, guitar-driven album, there are snatches of fiddle and Uillean pipes. Several of the songs are inspired by Northern Ireland's troubled history, including "The Troubles Are Over" and "Walls". By incorporating themes like social justice, Johnny Parks delivers a CD which is free of the normal clichés which sometimes drag modern praise and worship albums down with "Great Church" being a real highlight. 'Break The Silence' is one of the most original praise albums of the year and deserves a wide audience."
Hope this encourages you all as well!
Kev
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