Customer Reviews

One and Only

5 star:		(11)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I normally write reviews of Christian books, not of Christian music. This new group however, has gained my attention and my admiration. Recently while visiting Louisville, KY and listening to CD demos in a bookstore, I tried this one. I immediately tried to buy a new copy for myself, but learned the store was sold out!

Christian music with a good sound is easy to find, but Christian music with a good sound AND a strong, Scriptural message is very rare. The lyrics of these songs, all written by Mike Weaver, are what impress me most. The track "In Christ" comes straight from Philippians 4:13. "Friend Like You" speaks of God's providence and grace. "One and Only" reminds me of Psalm 139. "Being in Love with You" speaks most deeply to Christian workers like me who constantly are tempted to place the work of the Lord ahead of the Lord of the work. The Scriptural basis of this track is Jesus' visit to the home of Martha and Mary.

If this group continues its present course, I wouldn't be surprised to see a ministry emerge with the diversity of a Steven Curtis Chapman and the depth of a Twila Paris. Don't let the group's unique name discourage you -- this CD is one to own!

The first time I heard the album all the way through I knew it would be in my "most often played" stack. From the first release "In Christ", to the beautiful and aptly named "Rest", the entire album has a consistency and flow that is normally expected out of much more established artists. I can't wait to hear the next effort and I am eternally grateful for "A Friend Like You". These guys have the talent and they obviously have the anointing, and I hope to hear more of their great instrumentation lifted up to the Lord.

My biggest criticism of christian music is that often the musicianship is not up to par with their secular counterparts. I guarantee you will be blown away with this group on two fronts; the music is incredible, and the songs are well-written and meaningful. I have seen comparisons to Dave Matthews Band, my personal favorite, I instead liken them to Edwin McCain, if they draw any comparison at all.

This cd has taken the place of Third Day - Offerings as my number 1 christian cd, and is top 5 of all my cds. You must have this in your collection.

The previous reviewer described this band as a "hidden treasure" and I could not agree more. I stumbled upon them by accident, as the opening band for FFH, my favorite group. I was pleasantly surprised to hear songs of deep, spiritual meaning and great musicianship. Soon after the concert I bought the CD and it has become a favorite of both myself and my wife. Too many favorites to list here but suffice to say this is an album you will enjoy listening to from beginning to end. I would highly encourage you to purchase this CD as I believe the words will add meaning to your spiritual life.

Being new to the contemporary christian music scene I feel like I have stumbled on a hidden treasure. I previewed the first two songs before I bought and was blown away. If you haven't had a listen yet and are coming from pop/rock/alt on the radio, think Dave Matthews mixed with a little Edwin McCain. And I love up tempo music with saxaphone.

I LOVE their new work. I realize a few songs appeared on their indie project, but the songs are definitely today! The sax brings a refreshing punch that makes the heart dance. And with all songs written by Mike Weaver I am even more impressed. The band's ministry comes through in this recording of worship and devotion to God. This is definitely a beautiful beginning to what we hope is a long line of great albums! (Now I'm anxious to see them on tour!)

I was first introduced to Big Daddy Weave through their sophomore effort, Fields Of Grace. As soon as I heard the first notes of the title track I was hooked and had to hear more! I immediately rushed out to see what else was available and I was not disappointed.This band is tight! I have to say I'm a little dissapointed none of the other reviewers mentioned my all-time favorite track from the first cd, 'Never Goin' Back'! That song just makes me wanna get up and Boogie! I'm sure there are

No matter how you slice it, "One and Only" has it all. Lyricists will find poetry in motion and clever, catchy phrases like in "Neighborhoods". Once you hear "Friend like You" or "In Christ", you can't get the tune out of your head. Musicians will not be disapointed. You will find a wealth of well placed licks and dynamic accents (too many examples to list). Being a musician, I appreciate the use of smooth, melodic chord progressions that combine sometimes intricate tranistional licks nicely. Although the music is obviously acoustic driven (by Bid Daddy Mike Weaver), Jeremy (electric), Jeff (drums) and Jay (bass) are exciting, cohesive and rock solid. Joe(sax) adds an incredible edge with his playing. On the surface you may compare Joe to Le roy Moore (Dave Matthews Band). Keep listening! Joe flat jams it out and shows some great versitility. Most importantly, you will find songs that deliver a very clear messege about an awesome, loving, living God. Every song is obviously scripture based or inspired by scripture. Not many CDs keep your attention from beginning to end. This one will! I promise you that this CD is a must have, and the next Big Daddy Weave CD is only gonna be better this fall.

This is Christian pop music in fine form. Catchy hooks that have you singing along in no time. This CD is fun, plain and simple.

Big Daddy Weave is produced by Jeromy Deibler from FFH and some of that influence can be heard on this recording. Its pop sound is similar in style to Steven Curtis Chapman and some will compare the sound to the Dave Matthews Band, I however will not. I guess the comparison is made because Big Daddy Weave has a saxophone player. To me, the Big Daddy Weave sound is much more a "pop" style than the creative, alternative rock style of the Dave Matthews Band, so the addition of a saxophone is really the only link between the two bands that I can hear. I am pleasantly surprised to hear the distinct sound of the Hammond B3 organ and that is really cool. (What ever happened to the organ in popular music?) The instrumentation is unique among Christian bands today and that is refreshing. Big Daddy Weave will have mass appeal because young and old ears both can appreciate their music.

This CD stands out among recent releases in Christian music for a couple of reasons. One reason is the name "Big Daddy Weave" which is rather unusual and was named after lead singer Mike Weaver. It's a band name that makes one say "Is that the name of the band?" and people will give it a spin simply out of curiousity, "wonder what they sound like?". The other reason is because of their unique instrumentation, melodic style and simple lyrics.

The lyrics are very scripturally based. Big Daddy Weave is not ashamed to say "Jesus Christ" in their songs and their faith shines through from every track. Their first hit track "In Christ" did well on CCM charts but is now being surpassed by the ballad-style prayer of "Audience of One". It is an honest and simple plea from the heart of the singer for the Lord to accept his praise and let "me live for You, this song of humility...And Lord as the love song of my life is played, I have one desire to bring glory to Your name". The song is a metaphor; that living a life for Him is the "love song" to God, the One, the Audience, hearing this prayer.

This is a delightful CD to listen to when you are just chillin' around the house. It contains nice smooth ballads, but most of the album is filled with upbeat tempo's and funky rhythms that carry sweet melodies that simply float out of the CD player. This group has some great musicians in it and I will look forward to them settling into their own style. Right now it is so easy to say "they sound like Steven Curtis Chapman" or "with that sax they are comparable to Dave Matthews" and as I mentioned above, the FFH influence can also be heard. They have enough talent to develop their own sound and not have to be compared to anyone else.

3.5 Stars of 5

I had the opportunity to hear them following a youth weekend in Starkville, MS. They are destined for great things due to the inner spirit that comes through in their music. Live or recorded, they are a pleasure to hear.