Contemporary Album/EP of the Year
| Artist | Title | Label | |
| 1 | Tim Menzies | He Reminds Me | Grace Records |
| 2 | Katy Nichole | Jesus Changed My Life | Centricity Music |
| 3 | Kristian Stanfill | Make It Out Alive | Capitol CMG |
| 4 | Patrick Mayberry | Wild Faith | Centricity Music |
| 5 | Lucy Grimble | Between the Shadow and the Sun | Integrity Music |
Congratulations to all the artists listed.
Born in Mechanicsville, Virginia, Tim Menzies’ debut performance was at only three years old – backed by a band of which his mother was a member. Becoming “one of Nashville’s most prolific songwriters” and with several albums behind him, in 2014 Tim released his first Christian full length ‘His way of loving me’. This was followed in 2019 by ‘His name is Jesus’, which gained a Grammy nomination. Produced by Ben Isaacs, this latest release consists of “a dozen selections all penned or co-penned by Menzies ….. and features collaborations with some of bluegrass and Gospel music’s leading names”. It is common for albums to begin with an upbeat number but here proceedings open with the slow and gentle title track. Led by Tim’s beautifully played acoustic guitar, this is a personal reflection on a life being lived aware of the presence of Jesus. This is followed by an increase in pace for ‘The Church’ (“I thank God I was raised in the Church”) which turns out to be my standout, and is evidently based upon wife Brenda’s background. ‘What are you waiting for’ is the first track where things head towards ‘country rock’. As the rest of the album unfolds, the same musical variation is found. The band plays beautifully throughout, with Tim’s guitar sometimes brought forward and with frequently featured slide guitar. All songs are well written, structured, delivered and produced. Tim’s deep ‘country’ voice is attractive, and the general feel somehow ‘invites the listener in’. ‘On my Father’s side’ is based on Jesus speaking about His life. ‘I want to go like that’ (“when I go”) is about Tim losing his mum and dad. ‘How do I say thank you’ expresses gratitude to a teacher and then a soldier. ‘Made a mess’ is about the state of the world. ‘Say something’ is asking God to respond after years of praying. Yes, this is a very good album – and for those for whom it matters, everything is delivered with stunning ‘live in the studio’ sound quality. Even many who don’t naturally name ‘country style’ music as a preference, may well find much to enjoy here. I certainly did. As I can’t find anything to criticise, it has to be 10/10! Dave Deeks
Never for Nothing 