Sparrow Records has been introducing plenty of new music and artists for last couple of years, and while some of their latest signee’s have found some radio success, most have fallen short of their past greats like Chris Tomlin or Matt Redman. At last is seems they may have found a winner. This Tyler Texas based quintet has been publicized as a green debuting band, but all of the members are truly veterans to the industry, having experience as back-up musicians for artists like Building 429, Billy Ray Cyrus and By the Tree. Forming about five years ago, Luminate finally landed a record deal and are releasing their first major album as a self-titled EP this week.
“Spirit of Love” is a great kickoff track, full of catchy hooks and a driving pop/rock style, this one will catch unfamiliar listeners of guard with it’s power and confidence musically. The lead single “Shine (Love is an Action)” is next up, and this the time the lyrics are probably what will stand out, the first verse stating: I want to see Your Word alive/I want to see the orphans laughing/Want to see the sinners cry/Surrounded by the hands of mercy. Foreman Sam Hancock’s Brandon Heath-esque vocals are featured on these upbeat tunes, and with Ed Cash mixing in his top-notch production, there hasn’t been a better debut for a Sparrow artist in several years in my opinion.
Though this is just another 6-songer, this CD seems to last a lot longer than many other artists’ attempts in such a frame. Moving in a worship direction about mid-way through, things still stay right on track with more highlights later on. “My God” sounds like a mix of Leeland and Tenth Avenue North, while “Hear Our Cry” is one of the best here, with a softer praise feel that brings to mind anyone from Sarah Reeves to Phil Wickham or MercyMe. You could draw a lot of comparisons to this band’s sound because of their musical diversity, but that is a pro aspect for sure, just to be able to capture so many different feels in such a small time is something a lot of performers can’t pull off in the first place, and to do it this well is a whole different story.
So for once, I am asking you to try this one out. Get on iTunes and spare a few dollars for something brand new. I don’t think you’ll regret it. Luminate is a band headed for success, and I’m giving you a limited time offer to be the first to know. I like their style, and I love their heartfelt lyrics. This band will no doubt be the breakout newbie of the year, and I can’t wait to see what they have in store for us in the future. ~ Christian Lingner
“Spirit of Love” is a great kickoff track, full of catchy hooks and a driving pop/rock style, this one will catch unfamiliar listeners of guard with it’s power and confidence musically. The lead single “Shine (Love is an Action)” is next up, and this the time the lyrics are probably what will stand out, the first verse stating: I want to see Your Word alive/I want to see the orphans laughing/Want to see the sinners cry/Surrounded by the hands of mercy. Foreman Sam Hancock’s Brandon Heath-esque vocals are featured on these upbeat tunes, and with Ed Cash mixing in his top-notch production, there hasn’t been a better debut for a Sparrow artist in several years in my opinion.
Though this is just another 6-songer, this CD seems to last a lot longer than many other artists’ attempts in such a frame. Moving in a worship direction about mid-way through, things still stay right on track with more highlights later on. “My God” sounds like a mix of Leeland and Tenth Avenue North, while “Hear Our Cry” is one of the best here, with a softer praise feel that brings to mind anyone from Sarah Reeves to Phil Wickham or MercyMe. You could draw a lot of comparisons to this band’s sound because of their musical diversity, but that is a pro aspect for sure, just to be able to capture so many different feels in such a small time is something a lot of performers can’t pull off in the first place, and to do it this well is a whole different story.
So for once, I am asking you to try this one out. Get on iTunes and spare a few dollars for something brand new. I don’t think you’ll regret it. Luminate is a band headed for success, and I’m giving you a limited time offer to be the first to know. I like their style, and I love their heartfelt lyrics. This band will no doubt be the breakout newbie of the year, and I can’t wait to see what they have in store for us in the future. ~ Christian Lingner
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