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
He Reminds Me, the highly anticipated third Christian recording from GRAMMY®-nominated singer/songwriter and guitar virtuoso Tim Menzies, is set to bow March 3 (New Day Christian Distributors). Showcasing a dozen selections all penned or co-penned by Menzies—one of Nashville’s most prolific songwriters—He Reminds Me was produced by Ben Isaacs (The Isaacs, The Oak Ridge Boys) and features collaborations with some of bluegrass and Gospel music’s leading names.
Among the album’s standout tracks is “The Church,” a tender ballad honoring the eternal impact of a humble country congregation. With vocal contributions from The Isaacs’ Ben Isaacs and multi-GRAMMY®, CMA and ACM Award-winning artist Ricky Skaggs, the song holds a deeply personal meaning for Menzies.
“My wife grew up in the church, but I did not become part of the church until later in my adulthood, so this song is based on observing my wife’s family through the years,” Menzies explains. “Ben and Ricky were both raised in the church and have beautiful voices that blend and fit the track perfectly. Having them sing on ‘The Church’ felt like a divine idea, and it’s been a complete blessing to me as well.”
Further highlights of He Reminds Me include lead single “On My Father’s Side,” a poignant look at Jesus as both the Son of Man and Son of God; “What Are You Waiting For,” a timely invitation to surrender featuring bluegrass/Gospel icons The Isaacs; toe-tapper “Sanding Off The Edges,” showcasing GRAMMY®-winning modern bluegrass trailblazers Rhonda Vincent and Union Station’s Dan Tyminski; and the album’s emotive closer, “One More Reason,” with GRAMMY®-winning singer/songwriter Jason Crabb and Ben Isaacs. He Reminds Me also includes contributions from acclaimed country singer/songwriter Rebecca Lynn Howard, as well as Menzies’ wife, Brenda, who is featured on three tracks.
“Every guest vocal and musician on this album has a distinct sound that complements the lead vocal, collaborating to convey the specific message of each song,” Menzies shares. “Our Savior Jesus says in Matthew 18:20, ‘For where two or three come together in my Name, there am I with them.’ When fellow disciples share our God-given creative gifts in His Name, His presence is undeniable. And when we sing together for His glory, I know His presence is also felt by the listener.”
“The Bible fundamentally informs my songwriting, and as a result, many of the songs on He Reminds Me function like parables,” Menzies adds. “The album has themes of God’s grace and the availability of the indwelling Holy Spirit to all who seek Him, while also recognizing that the time to choose Jesus as Lord and Savior and gather others unto Him is now.”
News Source: http://absolutelygospel.com/
Never for Nothing 