Music review: Mike Farris
by Caitlin Bletscher, Guest Reporter
Mike Farris' new CD "Salvation in Lights" definitely has the most unique and original sound currently available in contemporary Christian music. His specific stylings reach out to a wide range of music tastes. His southern, jazzy, alternative feel allows the listener to engage in his lyrics while tapping their foot along to the beat. The first song of the CD, "Sit Down Servant" prepares the listener for the rest of Farris' musical offerings. Such a southern, jazzy, New Orleans feeling combined with a trumpet/piano duo only adds to the gospel singing, and allows listeners to stand up, dance, and worship. A similar 'jiggy' feeling is exhibited in the "Streets of Galilee." However, it's also contrasted with the other somewhat mellow piece, "Oh Mary, don't you Weap", with a longer drag in the voice that set its apart from Farris' other songs. This song almost seems to be similar to an alternative/techno-like style with its sharp, off voices in the chorus. Farris' somewhat folk/rock and upbeat song "Can't No Grave Hold my Body Down" is a new style of worship music that has everyone excited for more. The artist's song "The Lonely Road" is by far his greatest piece. The amazing lyrics add beautifully to the uplifting tone despite our inward struggles. The song conveys the message that we are all under the unfailing grace of Christ. The actual musical aspect of the song includes a great combination of alternative jazz, somewhat like the styles of Gavin DeGraw. Farris amazingly concludes his Salvation in Lights with "I'm Gonna get There," wrapping up all his previous songs by going back to the melodious folk stylings of his first song. Farris' new and interesting style is definitely unique and reaches to multiple and varying people; it's a great CD for all ages.