Customer Reviews

Grown

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Too often, the fickle and mercenary music business requires listeners to work harder than they should need to in order to find the sort of quality contained in "Grown", not to mention Kendall's first album, "Jordan's Sister". The one-word title of this follow-up release says it all, for as praiseworthy as her debut was, Kendall Payne truly HAS grown, into an even more engaging, insightful, and entertaining performer than she was in '99. Her literate and challenging lyrics reflect those of an artist well beyond her years, and she does them justice with a voice that is at once comforting, passionate and pure. Each of Kendall Payne's songs is a journey, and she is a beautiful, trustworthy guide. Tim Schoenhals' production is truly outstanding. He seems to understand what Kendall wants and needs to convey with her music, and he has helped her shape these songs into a wonderful body of work.

Sitting in an anonymous hotel room in Sri Lanka, the distant sound of the TV alerted me to pay attention. I stood and watched for several minutes and was instantly captivated by a video from Kendall Payne's previous album 'Jordan's Sister'. I made a note of her name and album in my notebook. Back in Singapore, I bought probably the only copy available here of her second album 'Grown'. Whenever I have time for music, this and 'Jordan's Sister' are definitely on my play list. Yes, this is labeled as contemporary Christian music and Kendall Payne's lyrics deliver the personal thoughts she is trying to convey in a neat tidy, powerful and concise way, whether through a rock track or slower song. I also get the real impression she's not trying to ram a Christian message down anyone's throat either, just telling us what she thinks, which I think people will respect. So this album will appeal to a wide audience in so far as it stands up extremely well as a pop / rock album on its own merit. What this album also achieves (as with 'Jordan's Sister') is to rise above the benchmark for many good albums through the outstanding musical and lyrical talent of Kendall Payne which is well beyond her years. Despite not having a regular record label, this artist has a growing following. By listening to her two albums, it is not hard to understand why.

This is the first review I've ever posted over many purchases and many years. This CD will not disappoint. It's excellent on many levels, but the writing is just terrific. Get it.

Kendall Payne continues to amaze and astound both as a vocalist and muscian as well as a songwriter. Her work continues to grow and mature with this release. Unlike so many artists she does not keep churning out the same old thing; yet, she manages to keep her own unique style and sound intact.

I would say this is one of the best albums ever produced, ever. I highly recommend it.

I have been a big fan of Kendall's since seeing her in concert almost 5 yeas ago. She has an amazing voice, and her lyrics are great. I am so glad to see her back. I am amazed that the industry made us wait this long! The song Pray is amazing. This is a great CD. You can find out her story on her webpage, kendallpayne.com . I love her music and I hope to see her in concert again soon. I really hope more music follows in the future and that she gets the support she deserves this time !

I downloaded the album on a whim after hearing "Aslan" on Pandora, which piqued my interest for sounding similar to some female-sung (Sandra McCracken) songs from Caedmon's Call. I had an expectation that the rest of the album would be similar, but it was not similar enough for my liking. The more rock-driven tracks, such as Johnny, sound a bit dated, like slightly strident late-90's folk rock that has not aged with particular grace. The quieter tracks, like Moon, Aslan, Twenty Three and Pray, sounded more appealing to my ear. As I continue to listen to this album, perhaps the insightful lyrics that other reviewers have mentioned will become more apparent.

CD arrived quickly and in good condition, just as advertised. Great seller - unlike some of the creeps that get on here. Beware of new sellers. Go with a track record. Sounds like a Catch-22, I know, but too bad. Even 5 or 6 well executed sales would be worthwhile. I would definitely buy from this seller again

I'm not eliquent, however I'm honest and my opinion is that Kendall Payne is an excellent preformer/singer/songwriter. Her music cuts to the heart and moves the spirit. It's enjoyable and worth listening to again and again. I even convienced my metal loving husband to buy her cd. She performed at our church today 05/28/06 and we were able to meet her. She is as down to earth as one can be.

This CD is definitely a 'female' pick, but really is heartfelt and raw emotion.