CD Review: Hope Keeps Writing the Song (Jim Brady Trio)

Well! My first CD review! This CD was actually released last September (I know...) I actually got really busy with concert reviews but I got time now! So how it works is, I will review each song separately. I won't be giving overall ratings because I don't feel that's necessary. All that really needs to be said is that CD's I review are great and well worth buying! The Jim Brady Trio, at the time of the CD's release, was comprised of Jim and Melissa Brady and Layke Jones. Layke has since moved on to other endeavours and Jim and Melissa are travelling as a duo now. So what am I waiting for? Let's get on with the review!

1. Livin' in the Rhythm of Grace: The Gaither Vocal Band actually recorded this one first, but honestly, this version is my preference. Both are great though. :)

2. Hope Keeps Writing the Song: The title cut, this one is a look at road life and mentions concerts, loneliness on the road... and fast food. Yep. Fast food. Hmm....

3. The Season When God Breaks Through: Mid-tempo and full of great lyrics about how God's glory can fill a situation. I also think it's relevant to Jim and Melissa's new journey.

4. Lost: The first single from this CD and I think it's an interesting title. The song features Jim and it's about how when we are saved, we go from being lost in sin to being "lost" in God's grace.

5. You Gotta Have a Song: This one's about how even through trials, gospel songs can help us get through and encourage us.

6. Follow Me to the Cross: An amazing song featuring Melissa. The first verse tells the story of a man who lived much of his life apart from God but through the prayers of someone close to him, he was brought to salvation. The second verse is about how we all have similar journeys.

7. I Got Out: Whooooo!!! This has got to be the fastest and most fun song on the CD! Another one about God's deliverance from trials.

8. I See a Crimson Stream: An old hymn that was first recorded on the Gaither Homecoming "Give the World a Smile" DVD. Each member takes a verse. Another highlight. So glad they recorded this!

9. Little Things: This song speaks of how the things we do, even though some things might seem insignificant, all make a difference, for better or for worse, so we should obey God with our lives and show his love to others. This one features Jim.

10. What a Beautiful Name: This one was originally recorded by Hillsong and is covered by Layke. Definitely another standout. Layke is such a talented vocalist and sweet spirit. I'm not usually a fan of CCM, but I love this song.

11. I Know Him Better Now: This one is about how trials bring us closer to God. No matter what you go through, God is always there.

12. When It Rains: No, this is not an allusion to "when it rains, it pours"... lol. It's actually a sweet reminder that even through trials, the sun's still shining and there is hope. You're not too far gone and you can make it.

Just a few more points I wanted to make. If I didn't say somebody was featured on a song, that just means they all were at some point. Also, when I was writing this post, I really noticed how hope in trials was such a theme through the CD. I would 100% recommend getting this CD!