The Phantom Tollbooth

Music and more from a Christian perspective

Slow down, and have your change ready

Since 1996

Is Amerexotica a thing? It is now. This enjoyable singer-songwriter fare is only improved by its Indian decoration.

If there was a heavy house band at Westboro Baptist, they might sound like this…

Through the Turbulence accomplishes exactly what its title suggests: the album is full of frenetic solos and rapid sections, and deals with heavy thematic elements, but also showcases the musicians' appreciation for intense dynamic changes and quality songwriting.

Kevin Bacon makes the feel good summer album of the year. Really.

The highlights on this disc come from very different places, whether an arms-aloft-and-swaying anthemic chorus, experimental pop or a timeless bluesy ballad. Her beautifully nuanced vocal brings it all together.

Celestial Fire's sweeping, often majestic music combined with thoughtful and literate lyrics create a one-two punch to both spirit and soul, resulting in a listening experience as devotional as it is entertaining.

Dave Bainbridge Celestial Never one to use a straight 4/4 when a 13/12 rhythm will do, Bainbridge's musical spirit flies free on this prog tribute, as colourful, rich and majestic as the Hubble image that covers the digipak.

Inspired by such musicians as Jack Bruce & Keith Jarrett this collection of twelve improvised pieces is somewhat reminiscent of the piano release that Charlie Peacock put out a few years ago.

The multi-instrumentalist lays down all his other options to concentrate on solo piano. The midnight mood comes through.

Ereic_Baker_90 Eric Baker sounds right at home on his mature-sounding debut, full of thoughtful lyrics and a solid classic rock/pop musical foundation...

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Electric guitar may be anathema in some circles; it serves a higher purpose here.

Dominic Balli American Dream reviewed in Phantom Tollbooth This polished, reggae-spiced CCM is easy on the ear, but harder to get very excited about.

bamboPerfecto The real star of the album is the ensemble playing, live in the studio – funky jazz fusion with the kind of back-and-forth that only comes when human beings play together.