Abide

I love this album! "Be Thou My Vision" is the highlight for me. Such moving vocals set against music that is designed to emphasis and never cover-up the words. I've been playing "Abide" over and over all day. I expect to be doing so for a long time. I cannot wait to see what Joel comes out with in the future! "Write on" Joel!

In a sea of music that sounds the same, Abide sets sail on a course of not charted by many others in the "Christian" music industry. Joel blends an authentic live feel with an amazing balance of production and soul stirring lyrics.

This is a great record, and I would absolutely recommend it. With great energy and fantastic guitar and vocal work, the album spans from great original works to fresh voicings of a few hymns. I immediately relate to the lyrical content, and could see several of these becoming great songs in a local church setting. "We Will Abide" and "Gather Round" capture the listener and takes them on a journey into the presence of God, while "I will set you free" is an intimate song of hope. "Be Thou My Vision" is an anthemic retake with powerful lyrics and a powerful melody. Overall, I would absolutely recommend this album. Nice Work, and I'm looking forward to more.

Each song shows the heartfelt care of a true artist. "World Will Know" and "You are God" are well written and avoid some the usual cliche' treatment by Christian artists. His version of "Be thou" and "Old rugged cross" bring new life to familiar hymns. Definitely a must buy!

A new sound for Christian music... even when he sings an old song like "Be Thou My Vision". "You are God" and "The Old Rugged Cross" are amazing... Just bought the whole album... loved it!