"For where two or more have gathered together in My name, there I am in their midst." (Matt. 18:20) Four young men found an answer to their prayers in that Scripture verse. They wanted to find a way to share with the world their faith in Jesus Christ. And they also wanted to glorify God through the talents He has given them. The result is the debut album, Life In the Diamond Lane, by new Star Song recording artists, Two Or More.
Two Or More is Renatta Aguas, Eddie Aguas, Walter Aguas, and Lance Mowdy. Mowdy contributes his writing skills on eight of the ten songs on the album. With the production help of the Pakaderm Brothers (John and Dino Elefante), this project brings together a lot of quality musicianship. However, the influence of John Elefante is very evident throughout this entire album.
Many of the songs sound a lot like many other John Elefante-produced albums: rich harmonies, soaring lead vocals, combined with a unique style that distinguishes the group from other groups. Even given that unique sound, it is uncanny how much the vocals in the songs sound similar to John Elefante or Petra's lead vocalist John Schlitt (another Elefante-produced artist). Two or More's acoustic pop sound may remind you a lot of some secular groups from 80's pop music. It sounds like the lead singer of Two Or More probably grew up listening to secular groups like Kansas (Elefante's former group), Loverboy, Alias and Journey. The sound is so familiar that the message of the songs on the album sometimes gets lost. Yet the songs are filled with quality lyrics about sharing God's love, living the Christian life and the will of God. In fact, one of the tracks, "Our Father," features a unique acoustic version of the Lord's prayer.
However, the highlight of the album is definitely the first song. The first time I heard the song "He's There" on the radio, it sounded like the group Acappella had merged with John Elefante on a new album. There are a lot of "vocal" instruments on this song, a la Acappella. It's a fun song that proclaims that Jesus is everywhere and no matter where you go, He's there! Simple message, yet so many people need to know that at the sound of Jesus' name, He will be there for them in their time of need.
After hearing the song "He's There," I expected the rest of the album to be similar in style. Although it is not, the other songs are very good for a new group on their first album. I think this album is worth having just for the opening track. But fans of the style of John Elefante will love much of the music of Two Or More.
Similar sounding releases
1996David RobertsonSomeone Who Cares
1995Scott KrippayneWild Imagination
1995Wes KingCommon Creed
1994NewSongPeople Get Ready
1994Paul SmithExtra Measure
1995Greg LongDays Of Grace
