Avalon - Reborn (10 tracks) +Album Reviews

Avalon [Reborn]

Kevin R. Davis | Perkasie, PA | 09/15/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"During Avalon's illustrious career, the modern pop quartet has sold over three million records and garnered 21 chart-topping singles, six Dove Awards, three Grammy nominations and an American Music Award. In addition to founding member Janna Long, the group is comprised of Greg Long, Janna's husband and group member since '03, Jeremi Richardson, and its newest member, Amy Richardson, making her Avalon debut on Reborn, and who also happens to be Jeremi's wife. With Reborn, Avalon took a daring move and tapped modern rock producer Ian Eseklin (All Star United, Krystal Meyers, Stellar Kart), joined by Barry Weeks, to produce the group's 13th project. Along with a new label partnership with E1 Music, formerly known as Koch Records, Avalon's latest endeavor is arguably their most ambitious to date.

I happen to have every previous album recorded by Avalon, and it took me awhile to start writing my review as I wanted to really compare whether Avalon's sound had made any significant changes. 2004's "The Creed" has a similar sound in my opinion, minus Jody McBrayer and Melissa Greene. I have also listened to Melissa's solo album "Next Step" several times and if you are a long-time Avalon enthusiast, you probably want to pick up both projects. The album starts with title track "Reborn", all 10 tracks are one word titles by the way, which introduces the `new' sound and yes, there are a few more guitars and Avalon's signature sound of men and women harmonizing together. I saw the "In A Different Light" lineup of Avalon at my church in 2000 and I will agree that the pop sound of "Reborn" is more refined and more modern sounding. The best comparison I have is Melissa Greene's solo album "Next Step" and perhaps Selah's "You Deliver Me" . In fact if you like those albums, you'll love Avalon's "Reborn" as it has more energy and is more melodic in my opinion. Next track "Alive" is also catchy and harmonic, and stays in your head. The messages of the songs are very much about faithfulness and being "alive" in God.

First single "Arise" is next and is my favorite song on the album. I like how each of the band members take a line of the song, first the two guys and then the two women each join the song and bring the song to a higher level with the catchy chorus "grace will reach your lowest low and never let you go...arise...arise..." The next few songs "Feel", "Fragile" and "Destined" all flow nicely and keep the same melodic sound going. Janna's vocals are very distinct on "Destined" and reminded me the most of classic Avalon in the style of "All", which is not a bad thing. "Stay" and "Angels" are also nice songs and the album closes with two more memorable songs "California" and "Holy", which is based on Isaiah 6.

If you've always liked Avalon, then you'll like "Reborn". Although the lineup is new, the sound is catchy pop that is very accessible and instantly recognizable. For me the standout songs are "Reborn", "Alive", "Arise", "Destined" and "Holy". If you like Melissa Greene, Selah and well, Avalon, you'll like "Reborn"."

Took a while to grow on me

K. Doss | MO USA | 01/06/2010

(3 out of 5 stars)

"I have been a devoted Avalon fan since "In a Different Light." I've adjusted through the member changes, and somehow just kept loving Avalon more and more. I have to say my all time favorite is "Creed." So, I knew this CD would be different - and it is. My first reaction on hearing it was sadness. Don't get me wrong - If it would have had a different artist name on the cover I would have said it was a great CD. But for AVALON (my "pet" group) it was disappointing at first. I like the songs and I like the new "rockier" feel the other reviewers mentioned. However, I simply cannot get over losing the Jody/Janna dynamics - I guess that is what really made the group for me. Sadly, I am afraid the glory days are over for them. I will continue to be a fan (although a somewhat quieter fan) and will enjoy this CD, but it will not make my list of favorites."

Avalon Reborn cd Review

jos | 11/19/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a great cd! This anointed group and cd, will encourage you and lift your spirit. This cd has relevant and good music. The lyrics are great! I also found the music entertaining and it keeps my attention. I like all the songs on this cd unlike other cds I have bought where I only liked one or two songs. You will be blessed. I don't get tired of listening to these songs! They are catchy and great songs by themselves. The songs have great messages. This cd has helped me grow closer to God, grow in my walk/relationship with God, and want to know God in a new way. This is a different sound for Avalon, and I don't know if Avalon will continue with this type of sound in the future. But it is a refreshing, change of pace from their last cds. The music is not too rocky in my opinion even if it sounds a little rockish from the song clips. The "Rockiness" (don't know if that is a word) does not overpower the music. The new members blend really well. Some of the past Avalon members left for various reasons. Jody McBrayer had to leave because of cardiac problems and Melissa Greene left because she felt God had called her to be a music minister and serve at a church. Every person of the current Avalon lineup has a great voice. These are some of the best voices I have heard of or seen anywhere, including cds, concerts, tv specials, etc... They are amazing voices. I do have one thing I wish was added to the cd. I do miss a ballad soulful type song sung by Janna like "When the Time Comes", "Can't Live a Day", "I Don't Want to Go", etc... But the song "Destined" on this cd comes really close. I highly and strongly recommend you buy this cd if you like Contemporary Christian music, or even just good music. This is an enjoyable cd. This is an A+ effort by Avalon. I give it five stars.

"

A New Avalon

John J. Mcgeough | 11/17/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"When I inserted the CD into the player I was prepared to hear something new. This is not your fathers Avalon. Compared to the early almost acoustic sound relying on tight harmonies between the singers I find this to be more of a rock feel. This is Avalon in a much more agressive tonal mode. They tight harmonies are there. The singers often trade off lines. The characteristic Avalon sound is present. But this album is one that almost seems to want to expand its audience to those who enjoy a more rock feel to their worship music. The final cut in the album is Holy which I think is destined to become a great worship anthem. If you like an edgy approach to the tonality of your worship music you will love this album. This is certainly Avalon with an edge. I highly recommend it."

Search - Avalon :: Reborn

CD Details

Synopsis

Similar CDs

Similarly Requested CDs

Member CD Reviews

CD Reviews