Alisa Childers
Alisa Childers
Alisa Childers
Independent
December 1, 2007
Alisa Childers
by Jenny Bennett
Christian rock/pop group ZOEgirl's career was prolific, producing four albums in four years. The girls consistently delivered their message about purity, self-esteem, faith and love, until in September 2006, the group announced that member Alisa Childers would be leaving to pursue a solo career – a year later she has released her self-titled debut, self-produced and co-produced by her husband Mike.
Sweet and pure, tinged at times with a slight raspy quality, Alisa's voice is captivating and draws you into her world, where she tells stories of guilt, sorrow, struggle, hope and redemption.
The first track, The Truth Is immediately grabbed my attention by speaking to something we all feel the need for – approval from others. The song then gracefully moves on to offer a replacement for that need – reliance on God, allowing it to serve as the album's signature praise & worship track.
Alisa’s music doesn’t shy away from tackling some of the tough issues faced by believers. Take It From Me is an interesting combination of electric guitar and pop vocals that speaks as the voice of God, telling the listener "I will be your hope. I will never leave." Skeletons takes on a rock ballad feel, and deals with the demons we all face and our need for forgiveness in reconciling them. Bar on 59th seems an unlikely title for a Christian song, but Alisa is delightfully brave enough to talk about the unlikely places Jesus can be found. Acoustic guitar-driven Baptize Me explores a young girl's relationships with the male figures throughout her life and how that affects her need for a heavenly Father.
Although by-and-large a pop album, Alisa's vocals add an element of surprise – particularly when she's singing in the lower register – a beautifully haunting presence that adds authenticity to the weight of the subjects she sings about. But my favorite track on the album would have to be Glory – a lullaby featuring Alisa on piano and Matt Butler on cello. Alisa's angelic hallelujahs soar and background harmonies build and crescendo until settling back down into the final, quiet chorus.
The project also includes a cover of Bob Dylan's The Times They Are A Changin', a political call to action which provides a nice contrast to the album's other socially motivated song I Say, which advises against being judgmental of others with different beliefs.
For fans of ZOEgirl, Alisa's natural storytelling ability and unique vocals make this an album to add to your wish list. With a strong debut project under her belt, this newest chapter in her career is likely to bring forth more in the future.
