Artist: Kings Kaleidoscope
Album: Becoming Who We Are
Label: Tooth & Nail Records
Released: 10/27/14
I have long been anticipating the first full length album from King’s Kaleidoscope and now it’s finally here.
17 tracks of musical and lyrical goodness and there is just way too much to choose from.
Because of the sheer magnitude I will break down just a sampling of my favorite tracks. Grab the album and find your own favorites as well.
Without further delay, let’s look at “Becoming Who We Are”.
Glorious // The album open in a musical flurry that surrounds you in flutes, horns, and a driving beat. The lyrics speak of the sweetness of salvation and delighting in God’s goodness.
Seek Your Kingdom // This song comes from KK’s “Live in Color” EP releases earlier this year. It’s be redone a bit but lyrically is the same. It sings of God being our relief and seeking His kingdom and righteousness. It’s a rockin’ song with a lot going on. Listen close with headphones to pick out all the parts.
I Know // The chorus in this song is one my favorites on the album. It shouts, “I know I will run through Heaven’s brilliant streets of gold/Shouting “Hallelujah, Christ!” alone/I know I will dance and sing and bow before the throne/Yeah, this, I know. Oh-Oh.” It’s a great anthem with some very cool sounds.
Felix Culpa // Also from “Live in Color”, this track is one my favorites by far. The term “felix culpa” is latin for “fortunate fall”. The songs cries out that our sins are trophies of God’s grace in our lives. It’s a powerful and brutally honest track. Not a Sunday morning track maybe but still a killer song and a great reminder of our great God’s great grace.
All Creatures // This is a great rendition of a classic hymn with a great horn part and very fun beat. Not much here to say except, well done.
Grace Alone // A Dustin Kensrue original, Kings takes this track in a completely different direction musically. Have fun listening to the three different versions, The Modern Post, Dustin Kensrue, and Kings and picking out the differences. Lyrically this song is outstanding and easily reproducible on a Sunday morning. Take cues from the three versions and create what works best for you.
Redemption in Motion // At right under 2 minutes this short, poppy, and auto-tuned ballad sings of God’s redemption. The chorus sings, “Alpha Omega, Holy Jehovah, You died and set redemption in motion.”
Light After Darkness // This funky track is all about having hope in tomorrow because of God’s promise of peace. Lead singer Chad Gardner uses various opposites to highlight the transformation of light to darkness. Musically, sampling and auto-tuned vocals add to the complexity and progression of KK’s music, and it’s just plain fun to listen to.
How Deep // Once again KK remakes a classic hymn and does not disappoint. Take some musical cues from this track to add to your own arrangements. If you have an orchestra or horn players, use them!!
Defender // The last track on the album, also from “Live in Color,” is an anthemic powerhouse. With blasting horns, swirling flutes and strings, driving drums, and furious guitar work this song is sure to a favorite. The lyrics speak of Jesus being our savior, redeemer, defender, rock, and victor. A great encouragement to listen to and IF you can pull it off a good reminder for your congregation as well.
Once again, we didn’t cover all 17 tracks here. Grab the album and be surprised by the other tracks.
As with any album from any artist, we encourage you to change the arrangements to fit your congregation and musicians ability. These are all great songs that speak of the character of God and will be an encouragement to all.
To purchase “Becoming Who We Are” on iTunes click here.
To check out their website, see tour dates, and get some rad merch, click here.
Till next time…
Grace and Peace,
Miles
Have a favorite track? Let us know in the comments below! We’d love to hear from you and pass the feedback onto Chad and the band.