Dangerous Prayer

Sounds like … high-energy worship blending the pop/rock styles of Kelly Clarkson, Joy Williams, and Krystal MeyersAt a glance … Kathleen Carnali ups the ante for ministry-driven music with challenging lyrics and compelling pop/rock sensibilityTrack Listing I'm Just Gonna Praise More Popular Than Christ Just Another Day Dangerous Prayer Fill My Cup Start Over Again Carry Me Oh Oh Lord Rejoice Highest Praise

Over the years, Christian music has gotten a bad rap for a slew of reasons— too clichéd, too preachy, and the most popular complaint, too many years behind what's going on in mainstream music. Of course, that critique has certainly been warranted from time to time, but there are fortunately Christian artists who overcome such stigmas. Some, like Kathleen Carnali, offer the best of both worlds: a decidedly Christian worldview and an ear for what's musically relevant.

Carnali penned all the tracks on Dangerous Prayer herself, showing a knack for crafting intricate, congregational-friendly worship songs, particularly "I'm Just Gonna Praise" and "Carry Me." It's a talent she's shared all across the USA, as well as in countries like South Korea, Haiti, Honduras, and soon parts of Africa.

But what really sets Carnali apart artistically are challenging power anthems like "More Popular Than Christ" that dig deeper with challenging lyrics: "Christian or Pagan, Jewish, American/Idols all with their own name/We dress them up differently/With each generation/But underneath they're all the same/They keep us staring/And always comparing."

On "Dangerous Prayer," Carnali addresses the ramifications of praying to be used by God; though it sounds like something we need to ask for, we also need to remember that we're asking God to potentially transform our lives for his purpose. Later, the contemplative standout "Start Over Again" passionately addresses spiritual complacency, mourning a time when her "heart grew cold."

Such engaging lyricism is certainly appreciated, but it's never quite as effective if the accompanying music is dated or a second-rate knockoff. But with Dangerous Prayer, Carnali manages to avoid such pitfalls. With superb pop/rock arrangements reminiscent of Kelly Clarkson and Krystal Meyers, high-octane production by Ian Eskelin (All Star United) that surpasses most independent efforts, and Carnali's distinctive vocals, Dangerous Prayer is proof positive that meaningful, Christ-centered dialogue and cutting edge pop music need not be mutually exclusive.

For more information about Carnali, check out www.kathleencarnali.com.

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Christa Banister
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