Andrea Emmes’ story is another powerful one of a talented, beautiful person whose life is going uphill and then life happens and starts a mudslide. This is the story of many God-loving Christians who have never forgotten Him along life’s road but were given a brazen reminder as they slid down the hill pushing Him back into the forefront of their minds. It is a story that never grows dull because it is a joy to hear the uplifting triumph of the soul at the bottom of the muddy hill get up and start the ascent once again.
Emmes is all ready a seasoned stage performer but now her own heartfelt words are exquisitely sung with passion instead of a rehashing of some other composer’s pop or cabaret tune. The two biographical ballads “Beautifully Broken” and “I’m On My Way” are excellent. Both of these gems hold mass appeal but at the same time touch each individual listener with their reverent honesty.
Not wanting to just deliver an album of slow adult contemporary standards, Emmes showcases her vocal diversity with the rock anthem “Lost.” Reminiscent of Rebecca St. James with her powerful mid-range, smooth lower register and occasional girly squeak at the end of phrases, this fun tune is heavily guitar driven but could use more drums to pump up the backbeat. Another great power pop tune, albeit a little slower, is “You Are.” Emmes pulls out all the stops with falsetto jumps and a whole step modulation for extra dramatic emphasis as she belts out the chorus: ‘Cuz You are Holy / You are wonderful / You are Father / King of Kings / Cuz You are Jesus / You are my true God / You are Mighty / God, You’re everything.’
Emmes range is a gentle mezzo-soprano that is easy on the ears but can also pack a punch. She holds back when appropriate but can also control it and deliver during a more heavy-handed tune. Because of this, the stark instrumentation on “Meet Me Here” works with its quirky keyboard and Emmes’ lilting vocal stylings with appropriate vibrato. However “Don’t Cry” could use more production. Emmes melody and vocal delivery could stand out much more than just what an acoustic guitar has to offer.
The track that holds the most subdued energy is “Thank You.” This soulful, gospel number slowly builds up the excitement levels in anticipation of an explosion of praise – which never comes. But in a way, it works because the listener is left yearning for more. In a live setting no doubt this anthem could go on for thirty minutes with Emmes leading the shouting and hand clapping in a triumphant victory over life’s setbacks thanks to our heavenly Father.
All ready garnering radio play .. Christian stations, time will hopefully bless Emmes as she continues her climb up on the hill and reaches more listeners with her inspirational story and music. She knows all too well that God controls her steps and she is “on her way.”
-Kelly O’Neil
(from ReviewYou.com)
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Customer Review
ITunes
By Infinitemus
Ms. Emmes displays a great depth of understanding and emotion through her music. Each selection is its own “story,” and yet they blend together to make a thoughtful, insightful and expressive whole. A wide range of both vocal performance and genre is found here…very simply “Intelligent music”. A heartfelt expression from an artist who uses a lyrical approach to define herself and describe her life. The listener is engaged by mental and emotional pictures that stay with you long after the CD has finished playing. You’ll find yourself humming along to your favorite songs throughout the day!
Amazon.com Review!
Very seldom have I felt the urge to review a CD online, but I was so compelled by the music of Andrea Emmes, that is was no longer a choice, but an absolute must.
In a world of corporate popcorn that is shoved directly down our throats, Emmes is a welcome change reminding us that music is more than just music, it is emotion.
It is specifically fitting that this is a spiritual album, since the vocals on the first song "Father", can only be described as angelic. With a fusion of a gospel chorus, the phrase "audible art" comes to mind. This is further emphasized by the inspirational lyrics of "Beautifully Broken" and the urgency & repetition of the message in "I Don't Wanna". Track 2, "Lost" reminds us of the fun female rockers of the 80's: Joan Jett, The GoGos, or The Bangles. Then she turns the album upside down by following the song up with a pure vocal concerto, "Don't Cry". No instruments to hide behind here; rather, it is only her and one acoustic guitar. Further illustrating her flexibility, she launches into an authentic blues song, "Meet Me Here". The brilliance of the meter breaks the rhythm time and time again. Meanwhile, Track 5, "I'm On My Way" shows off the levity of her voice against the deep tones of the piano. Further emphasizing this is track 8, "You Are" where she portrays a childlike innocence before its father. (Quite fitting for a spiritual album.)
All and all, this is s fantastic album for not only fans of spiritual music, but also for fans of music. It is refreshing to listen to an entire album that focuses on the intangible qualities of music, and not on what will sell best to the Brittany Spears crowd. I highly recommend this and look forward to her future works.
Review by Justin Bowler--Los Angeles, CA
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Cross Rhythms Review...www.crossrhythms.co.uk
Reviewed by Tom Lennie
Andrea was born in Hollywood (a little-known town in Florida!) and worked for a time singing with Walt Disney World MGM Studios/theme parks. Quickly developing a passion for writing, when aged just 13 she wrote over 35 songs. A move to LA launched her into a stint as a cover musician, touring the country, singing in casinos. This, Andrea's debut record, ably showcases her gifting as a singer and songwriter - a diverse batch of interesting and pleasant tunes with thoughtful lyrics. The opening "Father" seeks Divine direction in raising a child. With the rock-thrust of the proceeding track, it's clear that Ms Emmes' music shuns easy classification. This is confirmed by further listening - quirky pop tunes, several hints of jazz/funk and smacks of inspirational. It's especially on these latter, semi-acoustic piano-based numbers that the singer shows her vulnerability - as she openly expresses the love, joy and pain ("Beautifully Broken") of life in general and the ups and downs of walking with the Lord in particular. Christ is unquestionably the central focus here, and a couple of tracks comprise pure heartfelt adoration. Ably produced and making use of creative instrumentation, this is a worthy debut.
Here is the video of one of my performances from the LA Music Awards.
CHECK OUT MY RADIO INTERVIEW ON KAZ RADIO--BLOG TALK RADIO WITH PASTOR LARRY JAMES http://www.blogtalkradio.com/kazradio
Influences
Since I was a little girl, I have been in love with music. I’m moved so much by the lyrics of a song and the driving force of the music just enthralls me. My writing and musical style is influenced by Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Stephan Curtis Chapman, Take 6, Anointed, Out of Eden, Elvis, Jewel, Lisa Loeb, Alicia Keys, Aretha Franklin, Mariah Carey, Toby Mac, Rebecca St. James, Bebe and Cece Winan, Stevie Wonder, Christina Aguilera, Crystal Lewis, MaryMary, Babyface, Richard Marx, Lionel Richtie, Alanis Morisette, so so many great song writers and artists out there that I respect and love. There really are too many for me to truly list as I am a lover of all music and all styles, but for me, my poetry, my expression, comes from the Lord, who is my main musical and life influence.
Winner of the 2008 LA Music Awards Contemporary Christian Artist of the Year, Andrea Emmes had everything going for her: she was singing nightly on the Las Vegas strip as one-third of the popular all-girl group “GG Girls” and still making it out to LA to work as a studio singer; previously she had performed as “Ariel” at Disneyworld, and numerous film, TV and Voice Over jobs (Xbox, Pizza Hut, Skype to name a few) .” However, this success was not meant to last.
In 2006, Andrea was involved in an accident and sprained an ankle. She was diagnosed with RSD, a pain disorder that causes the body’s nerves to misfire and send a deluge of pain signals throughout the body. Suddenly—after a seemingly innocent injury—Andrea went from singing seven nights a week, to constant, crippling pain: at times even unable to walk. As a result, Andrea was forced to slow down—and reconsider everything about herself: personally, professionally and spiritually. Andrea, who was raised in the church, found herself once again turning to the Lord. She began soul-searching—and finding herself waking up at 2 or 3 AM (often with inspiration for new songs.) It was at this point that Andrea realized she needed to stop singing for herself, and begin singing for the Lord. And from that moment on, everything else fell into place…
Andrea began writing constantly, revisiting a poem she had written in college, “Father.” She submitted the track to a small radio station in Arkansas, who began giving it some airplay. That was all the motivation she needed: reinvigorated by her connection with the Lord, Andrea set off on writing a full album and truly pursuing her dream of becoming a recording artist. She teamed up with some amazing musicians—including Richard Smith, Maia Rodriguez and Chris Mendez—all “beautiful and amazing talents” according to Emmes. And with their support, Andrea’s music began garnering serious attention.
Even over the airwaves (or internet), Andrea’s music reaches people on both a universal and intimate level. When she sings, “You’re beautifully broken, perfectly made; With all that you’re given, how can you complain? For I know His purpose, is given to you; With words from His Spirit, Who resides in you?” it sums up her experience—and reaches something we can all relate to. And this glorious message is made all the more convincing by her wonderful voice. It has a beautiful, lyrical soprano quality—but sounds equally good digging in on flat-out rockers; outwardly warm, it also has an edgy undercurrent that hints at some of the tribulations she has been through.
Andrea released her debut CD titled, "I’m On My Way", and is currently writing her second album, hopefully to be released before Christmas. Besides touring locally promoting "I’m On My Way", she works very closely with many wonderful charitible organizations such as 3 Points of Light, The RSD Foundation, Giving Children Hope, The Women's Transitional Center, ITS, Beadiful Sisters as well as enjoys working with the G.E.T. U.P. Youth Group as their musical director.
Although things might not have turned out exactly as Andrea Emmes had planned, the events of her life have opened up other doors. As Andrea states, “Because of this challenge, my greatest dream is coming true: I have been able to use my gifts for God’s purpose.” As listeners, we’re just glad that we are along for this wonderful, inspiring ride—and we’ll be with her as she’s on her way.
Andrea’s prayer: “That the music moves you, inspires you, touches you, makes you think, smile or even cry, but above all…changes you.”
Hey There, I just wanted to give you an update on how things have been going with the ministry... I hope all is well with you?
There are over 2100 Christian bands on the site now... God is Good! Eh? Check it out @ http://www.christianrocker.com
Hey, If you know of any other Chrisitan bands out there, please spread the word for me... that the site is great resource for them to promote themselves on the net and get gigs n' stuff....and for music lovers to find cool new Christian music...it's FREE to sign up!
Let them know about our monthly BATTLE OF THE BAND contest... the winner gets music industry exposure each month.
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Andrea, How's it going? I just wanted to let you know that my debut CD "Like I'm Beautiful" is now available on iTunes, on sale for only $5.94 this week!
Hope that you enjoy and have a blessed day! Kelly Murray
Father God, our Provider we come before You seeking a right standing with You, Your Forgiveness, Grace, Mercy and Direction for us and our loved ones, let Your Will be done as we cast our burdens on You and give You total control of our circumstances, for You Provide all of our needs according to Your Riches and Glory. Your 7th Commandment tells us to not commit adultery, sexual sins outside of marriage, help us to flee all sexual sins, in our minds, bodies, and souls, create us to be fit for our marriage duties, standing trusting and leaning on Your Word which is profitable for correction, instruction and direction, guide us to who want for us to have, help us to wait until marriage to have sex for it is wrong for us to treat these bodies that You Sent Your Only Begotten Son Jesus Christ to die for, like a harlot, which can bring for disease, shame, worry, stress and even death, help us to wait and stay obedient on who You have in store for us, as You conform us to the image of Your Son our Saviour, we cant do it without You. Genesis 2: 18Now the Lord God said, It is not good (sufficient, satisfactory) that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper meet (suitable, adapted, complementary) for him. 20And Adam gave names to all the livestock and to the birds of the air and to every [wild] beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found a helper meet (suitable, adapted, complementary) for him. 21And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam; and while he slept, He took one of his ribs or a part of his side and closed up the [place with] flesh. 22And the rib or part of his side which the Lord God had taken from the man He built up and made into a woman, and He brought her to the man. 23Then Adam said, This [creature] is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of a man. 24Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and shall become united and cleave to his wife, and they shall become
Beauty Call…………………… I nicknamed her my beauty call cause she'd do it all from the rolling of my els to the midnight calls with all my issues I be her tissue when she chooses to rain down on me calmly I warm the sheets And how we talk things into existence the family that prays together wishes themselves out of conditions that's felt ever so vicious while some fantasize, I realize the beauty I have e'rytime I try to disguise she reflects why all my doings are few and ever so chosen frozen is ruined when you think of the night capped movements do I ring her? or simply bring her my words of wisdom processed and extended by a hug and some friendship my beauty call truly y'all could never understand the transitioning of what it is to grow into a man flow and not expand and for sure I do my damn thing can we all get along to our own beauty calls....
You are officially Tied to the M.O.B. Consider ya'self a MajaThreat. Chanj.....M.O.B.Tied MajaThreat
Thanks for Adding STONEBREED to your circle of friends! We really appreciate the opportunity to share our music with you, and hopefully you will like it! With the addition of our new Guitarist TIM JONES, We are working hard & geting ready to do some Local Showcase shows around the Los Angeles/Hollywood area, were also getting ready to start pre production on our debut release coming soon! We are trying to figure out wich song of the 5 that are posted should we do a video for? If you get a chance give us a listen and tell us wich song YOU think we should do a video for! Thanks again for your Time, and Your Friendship! STONEBREED
We had a great time at the Node last saturday night Andrea, and tell Dave he did a great job singing also... Let us know when your doin another show... Thx
Please take a moment and be a blessing. Vote for Armor of God at www.bestoftheblessed.org, go under cast your votes, then Group/Band, click on Armor of God, go to login under vote here, register and then Group/Band, click on Armor of God and Vote Here, vote as many times as you would like.
Lord Jesus Christ we thank you once again for this day you have given us, as we walk and start our day, we dont want to walk out unprotected we ask that You would help us put on Your armor that we may be able to withstand any evils that might come upon us or our loved ones (Eph6:10 10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.) help us to trust Your Word like we trust our own heart beat, Lord we believe, please help our unbelief, help us to walk in the Spirit and not fulfill the lusts of our flesh, Lord we thank You and believe that we recieve and if we are holding on to any anger in our heart we forgive their evils towards us(Mark11: 24Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. 25And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.". We give You all the glory and honour.God's armor brings victory be
Father God, the Judge of all that has ever been, and will be, what a beautiful day You have made, let us be glad and rejoice in it, help us to examine ourselves today, for we should be judged on everything we do, hidden , open ,good or bad(Ecclesiasts12: 13All has been heard; the end of the matter is: Fear God [revere and worship Him, knowing that He is] and keep His commandments, for this is the whole of man [the full, original purpose of his creation, the object of God's providence, the root of character, the foundation of all happiness, the adjustment to all inharmonious circumstances and conditions under the sun] and the whole [duty] for every man. 14For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it is good or evil.) remind us of our sins, as we confess them, so You can deliver us from them, so we can be used as a clean vessel for Your Divine will for our lives, for there is no darkness thick enough to hide wickedness from You(Job34: 19[God] is not partial to princes, nor does He regard the rich more than the poor, for they all are the work of His hands. 20In a moment they die; even at midnight the people are shaken and pass away, and the mighty are taken away by no [human] hand. 21For [God's] eyes are upon the ways of a man, and He sees all his steps.22There is no darkness nor thick gloom where the evildoers may hide themselves) allow us to not judge one another, for we have to give account for our own actions, we don’t want anyone to stumble, because of our sin against You(Romans 14: 10Why do you criticize and pass judgment on your brother? Or you, why do you look down upon or despise your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of God. 11For it is written, As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall confess to God [acknowledge Him to His honor and to His praise].12And so each of us shall give an account of himself [give an answer in reference to judgment] to God. 13Then let us n
