Shawn Thomas Wing "In Between The Shades Of Gray" CD Review |
CD Review "In Between The Shades Of Gray" by Shawn Thomas Reviewer - Len Rogers Over the years of listening to, sharing, and reviewing the works of Shawn Thomas I am always amazed by his generosity, resources, inspiration, and his prolific musical gift. "In Between The Shades Of Gray" is no exception. Fourteen full tracks point to the generosity Shawn exemplifies in sharing his talents, message, and musical ministry. |
Never sounding like a cookie-cutter contemporary Christian album, Shawn's messages are personal and in many cases scripture based. As is the case with "In Between The Shades Of Gray". Shawn has a real talent for bringing scripture based music alive and currently relevant. Brilliantly demonstrated in the opening song, "I'm Alive".
Shawn's music is a celebration of his beliefs. And that celebratory feeling and message is strong. It is no wonder that through the years I have heard from many who utilize Shawn's music as a large part of their worship services. Especially in areas where there little opportunity for open and affirming churches. No musical lectures will be found here. Instead the listener is treated to catchy songs, with individual sound and messages of acceptance and love. Personalized in only a way Shawn Thomas can do. With different styles ranging from rock to dance, Shawn brings his positivity to all genres and voices.
That Shawn's music is his personal message, not one supported by a particular denomination or church is also unique. As a matter of fact the artist Shawn Thomas probably has more reason to be angry, perplexed, and or defiant. Not welcomed in many 'Christian' churches as he is an out and open Gay contemporary Christian artist, and rejected for not being 'gay enough' by his own community. However you will not hear anger or angst in Thomas' music. His focus is clear and undaunted. Sharing his vision of how real Christian acceptance and open door love is supposed to be.
Make no mistake, "In Between The Shades Of Gray" is not just contemporary Christian positive fluff. There are messages here. Messages of questions, doubt, love, excitement, waiting and yes acceptance. In the third song, "Waiting For A Sign" Shawn deals with questioning and patience. Taken from Hebrews 11:1, Thomas' mastery is brilliant. Shawn's message and music allow for questions and doubts. A normal part of any belief system. Shawn does not sing do not question, instead exactly the opposite. Find your answers and strengthen your faith!
I have always felt the joining of two particular talents would be not just a musical blessing, but a social one as well. Joined by Rev. Yolanda on track #9, "Eye Of The Beholder" Thomas has in my opinion made contemporary Christian history again. A spirited song, one which bridges spirituality and Christianity in a truly beautiful way. Yes I did say bridges, as currently that is not always the case. The vocal talents and abilities of Thomas and Rev. Yolanda make for pure musical joy! Speaking of musical joy, Track 8, "Still Speaking" and track 10, "Here Comes Revival" are also joyous and true to the Thomas style and talent.
Picking favorites from Shawn's music, is never an easy task. I am always so impressed with his messages, resource material, and talents. . Of course the duet with Rev. Yolanda, "Eye Of The Beholder" is certainly right up there. I would be totally unjust in not pointing out the power of tracks 12, "Never Gonna Steal My Joy", and track 13, "Peculiar People". In the case of "Peculiar People", Shawn has shown a message in 1 Peter 2:1-10 that I have not seen delivered in such a positive and inclusive way. Bravo Shawn Thomas! You have certainly put the Christian back into contemporary Christian music.
Len Rogers
StoneWall Society
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