Howard Gripp

Overall Impression
With a powerful message at its core, infectiously energetic performances across the board, and a sense of spirit that instantly draws you in, Howard Gripp's delightfully anthemic  Welcome To Your Life serves as a rip-rolling piece of Christian rock songwriting that's deeply committed to its central theme of spiritual renewal through faith. The groove is buoyant, the hooks are catchy, and there's an engaging sense of dynamism coursing throughout both the writing and the performances. Whether it's the conviction filled vocals, stadium sized beat, or catchy riffs throughout, Welcome To Your Life proves itself to be a thoroughly enjoyable and positivity-spreading rocker that knows exactly what its doing.

Strongest Point(s)
With a message as poignant as the one that powers Welcome To Your Life, an equally compelling vocal performance is required in order to bring the lyrics vividly to life, and thankfully, Howard absolutely delivers. It's a performance that's dynamic without feeling inconsistent in tone and powerful without feeling over the top. It also helps that the lyrics Howard is working with are equally vibrant in character. There's always a risk of a message feeling overly preachy, yet  Welcome To Your Life finds a great balance that helps ensure the track always feels accessible. The supporting performances are equally stellar and between the solid guitar work and foot-stomping bass and drum combo, an irrefutably powerful sound is created. There's also a great feeling of dynamism underpinning the arrangement. The band knows when to alter the dial regarding the tracks intensity levels flawlessly, giving each distinct section its own sense of character. Whether that's the more restrained verse sections or anthemic chorus moments, the track flows seamlessly. All of these strengths are thankfully captured in their purity due to the excellent mix. It's loud but still dynamic, polished yet not sterile, and boasting oodles of personality.

Target Audience Appeal
Fans of Christian rock will certainly appreciate what  "Welcome To Your Life" has to offer.

Artist target suggestions
Chris Tomlin, Matthew West, Phil Wickham, Third Day, Jeremy Camp, Kristian Stanfill, Casting Crowns, Cody Carnes, Big Daddy Weave

About The Reviewer
Andre is a freelance session guitarist, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar as well as teaching it, helping students learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and become proficient in home recording.   

Vocals: Strength

Lyrics: Strength

Instrumental Performance/Execution: Strength

Melody/Rhythm: Strength

Arrangement/Flow: Strength

Recording Quality/Overall Mix: Strength