The Altar and the Door
“The Altar and the Door” was written in 2007 and is overflowing with insightful lyrics that will soon grab hold of the listener’s attention. A lot of thought has gone into writing this album and as most of the songs are based on verses or books from the bible, the content is sound. This album is packed with passion throughout and although Casting crowns have swerved away from their signature “rock” feel, it is replaced by beautiful melodic songs with a clear message in each.
The Altar and the Door CD Review
What This World Needs - The powerful start to this Christian music song leaves the listener waiting in expectation for lyrics that are just as strong. They will not be disappointed. Based on the book of Galatians, this song speaks out against false prophets, and reminds us to focus on Jesus. Casting Crowns are telling us not to be scared of being different as it is “the difference that sets the world free“. What an excellent start to this thought-provoking album!
Every Man - The listener is now brought into another strong Christian music song. Casting Crowns is imploring us to help the people who live in darkness and sadness, and to offer them hope. This song is quieter than some of the original Casting Crowns Christian music songs, but allows the listener to totally focus on the lyrics. The end of the song ensures us that there is hope for “every man“ and as the music gradually fades it allows the listener to focus on the words of truth and hope that is available for everyone.
Slow Fade - Mark Hall sings very passionately during the Christian music song “slow fade“. This song refreshingly brings back some of the rock that Casting Crowns is so well known for. Casting Crowns is warning us of our actions, and reminds us that we need to lead people to the truth, so be careful what we do. The excellent pulsating beat perfectly mirrors the powerfulness of the lyrics and the importance of what Casting Crowns is saying. This musically upbeat song gently ends with the beautiful singing of Mark Hall’s daughter, Reagan Hall.
East to West - This next Christian music song certainly struck a chord with me, and I am sure it will with most people. These are incredibly thought-provoking lyrics talking about the struggle of accepting total forgiveness. Casting crowns are crying out for help, as they are terrified of becoming what they used to be, but are unable to move on. The background Christian music is amazing and complements these lyrics perfectly.
The Word is Alive - The listener is now brought into a quiet and melodic song that sings of the truth of the bible. The explosive chorus passionately sings that that “the word is alive“. This Christian music song is different from others on the album as it is more upbeat and sings of truth, not struggles.
The Altar and the Door - This is an amazing Christian music song both lyrically and musically. The struggle inside Mark Hall can be felt as he passionately sings about allowing himself to be who the Lord wants him to be, and to stop trying so hard. This is a very enjoyable song to listen to.
Somewhere In the Middle - The devastation and pure sadness of never getting where God wants us to go is sung about in this incredible Christian music song. Mark Hall sings about not having the courage to “lose control“ and walk entirely for God. We must allow God to be who He is, not who we want Him to be. Casting crowns is thanking God and praising Him for always being there for us even when we don’t surrender ourselves completely for Him. The ending instrumental gives perfect time for reflection on an incredibly insightful song that must strike a chord with many.
I Know You’re There - The listener is now treated to a simple praise song that thanks God for always being there. This Christian music song is upbeat and fun to listen to, as well as being passionate. Casting crowns sing adoration to God, and gives the listener a break from the powerful thought-provoking lyrics of the previous songs.
Prayer for a Friend - This beautiful Christian music song is a compassionate cry for help. It is sung to gentle lullaby-like music that allows the listener to completely focus on the lyrics. This heartbroken person is lifting up his lost friend to God, as he has done all he can and doesn’t know what else to do.
All Because of Jesus - This insightful album ends with a simple praise song. Although upbeat and enjoyable to listen to, it lacks the shrewd lyrics that many of the other songs possess. Despite this, it is still a good song for the album to end on as it gives God all the glory.
