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MP3 Tom Hipps - Then Went the Demons
10 MP3 Songs
GOSPEL: Contemporary Gospel, POP: Folky Pop
Details:
Then Went the Demons is the second helping of Christian-flavored nuggets by talented singer/songwriter Tom Hipps. This latest effort is a bit edgier than his debut record, Everybody & Their Brother; but like its predecessor it is big on melody, well-placed harmonies, and deep lyrical passion. Themes, as well as musical styles, are varied; song topics include overcoming vs. succumbing to temptation, religious piety, and the Revelation.
Stylistically, it raids the musical fridge; you’ll find stick-to-the-ribs rock, tasty power pop, down-home country/ rockabilly, and even some spicy hints of Latin throughout this 10-course musical meal.
The title, inspired by a stained glass window in a small-town Minnesota church, is the pervasive theme throughout the album: fighting and conquering our demons, and coming out safe in the end, though the battle leaves its scars. Now do these scars make for damaged goods, or do they ultimately produce a stronger, more beautiful, longer-lasting product? That is the question explored here.
The opening number, “Take You Down”, with its jangly guitars and counter melody weaving through the wistful chorus, is reminiscent of R.E.M. or Matthew Sweet. “Back to You” is punchy, featuring a brass section and a lyric based on the Apostle Paul’s comparison of life to an athletic event (“Gotta keep movin’/ don’t like the shape I’m in/ I’m not just shadow- boxing/ I am in this fight to win.”). “Below the Surface” thunders along, culminating with a closing section that brings Santana to mind. Echoes of Johnny Cash’s darker story-songs reverberate through “Blue Haze”, with its boom-chicka-boom rhythm guitar and spooky, thunderous bass drum (which could possibly represent the footsteps of some giant monster, slowly yet relentlessly hunkering toward you). “Home for Good” is a hopeful, upbeat look toward Heaven that acknowledges life can be tough, but in the end will be worth it (“I’ll know when I see you smile / that all this crap was all worthwhile / and I’ll be home for good”). “Turn Us Again” is a worship chorus based on one of the Psalms. “All Day Long” and “Your Love Won’t Leave Me Alone” are fun, foot-stomping country/rockabilly shindigs, the former boasting some wicked harmonica work. “Listen to Your Fears”, with its off-center groove through the verses and soaring chorus asks why we let our fears control us (“Why do you listen to your fears/ those evil friends you know so well?”). The album closer, the gorgeous, bittersweet “Other Plans” addresses this spiritual battle: we would like to make for ourselves a comfortable, peaceful existence but are all too aware that God doesn’t promise that… there are too many people that need our love, attention and service, and life often doesn’t happen the way we want or expect.
-Harold Heckuba
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Singer/songwriter Tom Hipps has an extensive background in the music industry as a performer, writer, and session vocalist. He has toured the U.S. and Canada with his duo Costello & Hipps, with the bands RITZ and UNSUNG HEROES, and as a solo artist. His songs were featured in the film Staring at Headlights and he has written music for Chicago’s Second City Theater. Tom was a lead vocalist on the 2002 Target Corporation CD Praise & Worship Christmas and is the recipient of a Billboard Musical Achievement Award. His songs are full-flavored, melodic and harmonic.
He released his first solo album, Everybody & Their Brother, in 2002; his sophomore set, Then Went the Demons, was released in early 2006.
He is a music worship leader at his home church, The Rock, located in Minneapolis, and continues to perform live shows in the Minneapolis area and beyond. Check https://www.tradebit.com for concert dates and more information.
What people in the business are saying:
“Tom Hipps has released a great album… a real gem.”
-Peter Waggoner, Patriot II Radio
“I really enjoyed Everybody & Their Brother. A unique sound… it made me keep listening! The songs are solid.”
-Jamie Statema, Go Fish
“Tom Hipps has been blessed with both songwriting skills and a voice of undeniable compassion and substance.”
-Loni Overing, ClearChannel Communications
“His message shines through not only in his smile and personality, but through his music. We always look forward to his next performance.”
-Tara Roeckers, Northwestern Bookstores
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