Beauty For Ashes, Crystal Lewis' latest offering, represents a significant change in her music. Dan Posthuma joins her husband Brian Ray as producer, and he brings a new concept of arranging and vocal styles. John Andrew Schreiner, Robby Buchanan, and Shawn Tubbs also help with arrangements, and play an important role in the band, as do Abraham Laboriel (Sr. and Jr.), and Dan Huff. The veteran praise leader Ron Kenoly joins in a duet on the title cut.
Most of the songs on the album were written by Crystal Lewis or Brian Ray. Chris Lizotte contributes the song "Healing Oil," a Vineyard-type worship song referring to the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Maria McKee and Patrick Sugg collaborated on writing "Over Me," which is arranged very much in a retro-80's type of beat very reminiscent of the Images album of Kathy Troccoli. Lewis also covers the gospel song "In Return" originally written and performed by The Winans.
Most of the lyrical themes center around the coming of Christ ("It's Heaven" and "People Get Ready... Jesus Is Comin'") and around the life and death of Christ ("The Beauty Of The Cross" and "Lion And The Lamb"). In short, the Christ-centered focus of Lewis' ministry and musicianship hasn't changed.
But what has changed is the musical style. Unlike some of the previous albums, this one is devoid of rap and urban beats. Lewis is singing in a lower register of her voice than what she has used before. There is a lot of keyboard work, some songs have a retro-80's feel. "Seasons Change" can legitimately be called a "ballad"-a first for Lewis. The shifting musical style makes the album no less enjoyable as a result-all the varied new styles are professionally done and make for very good listening. The unwavering commitment to Jesus Christ and sharing the good news makes it an inspiring project as well.
Other coverage for this album
The Lighthouse February 1997Reviewed by Vanessa CrooksBrilliant, ethereal, vocal magic. Crystal Lewis captivates listeners immediately and pulls them into her world. It's a world where God's unconditional love and mercy affect and transform every corner of the landscape. It's a place where the atmosphere is smooth and lush-allowing room for contemplation. Steeped in Southern California's spiritual tradition and musical style, Lewis' latest release,…Similar sounding releases
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