Susan Ashton

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Ironically, maturity is the word that dominates this self-titled debut. Susan Ashton's voice is no beginner's; in fact, it is no wonder that she frequently sings along with celebrities in the secular music arena: her vocal talents are comparable to Phil Keaggy's on guitar. Moreover, the production is surprisingly sophisticated. Instead of simply showcasing a beautiful voice, a refreshing diversity of sounds stands on its own right with plenty of guitar, some rock inflections, and an underlying country influence. If you're not a country fan, rest assured: it only evidences itself in the disc's uncrowded rhythms, which are closer to Patsy Cline classics than contemporary country pop. Ask anyone, however, and it is the message of the recording that merits Susan Ashton the accolade of a classic. From the first song on the track to the last, her songs are seasoned with understanding that can only come from a life with Christ. They range in simple tones--forgiveness in "Remember Not," experiencing God in the twilight of a Sunday evening in "Waiting for Your Love...," and the determination of conviction in "There Is a Line"--but the earthy metaphors and the sincerity of her lyrics touch on the deep and very present things of a walk with God. It is because of these that this recording is one of those everlasting standbys: the songs penetrate the very essence of our lives.

Susan Ashton, Music, Susan Ashton, Adult Contemporary, CCM, Contemporary Christian Music, Pop, Religious / Contemp. Christian

Songs from the Loft
Average customer rating:

Great fun songs of faith

Great music!

Songs from the Loft
Amy Grant , Gary Chapman , and Susan Ashton
Manufacturer: Reunion
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

So Far: The Best Of Susan Ashton Volume 1

Unguarded

Behind the Eyes

Lead Me On

Anybody Out There?

ASIN: B0002DR0NU

Tracks:

What We've Come Here For - Michael W. Smith
I Got The Want To - Donna McElroy
Seek First - Susan Ashton
Joy! - Wes King
Where Do I Go - Gary Chapman
Salt And Light - Amy Delaine
How Do You Know - Kim Hill
We Come To Praise - Michael James
We Believe In God - Amy Grant
Hope Set High - Gary Chapman
Hey Now - Amy Grant

Customer Reviews:

Great fun songs of faith.......2007-07-07

This CD contains some of my favorite music and is a must-have for anybody remotely interested in religious music. The songs are energetic and the fun is contagious. These songs are from the early 90s but are just as good now as they were then. This is an extroverted, sunny vision of Christianity, which is the way I like it. Anything Amy Grant touches is worth acquiring, of course, but these songs really make you want to join in, clap, and sing.

Great music!.......2007-07-05

My brother sister and I listened to Songs from the Loft constantly when we were little. We had it on tape and we would listen nonstop in the car-it was a great variety of fun Christian music to listen to.

Average customer rating:

Absolutely wonderful CD
Three great women singers together on one awesome CD
A wonderful, uplifting CD!
Voices clear as a bell
Blessed By Angels

Along the Road
Susan Ashton , Margaret Becker , and Christine Dente
Manufacturer: Sparrow
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

Singer-Songwriters | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

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Contemporary Christian | Compilations | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

So Far: The Best Of Susan Ashton Volume 1
Susan Ashton
Distant Call
Closer
Wakened by the Wind

ASIN: B000005KWQ
Release Date: 1994-09-20

Tracks:

Angels
Song Of Reconciliation
No Other
Walk On
Breathe On Me
Blessing In Disguise
Taking My Time
Near To You
Oh Me Of Little Faith
What Am I
Waiting To Be Found
Along The Road

Customer Reviews:

Absolutely wonderful CD.......2006-10-23

This is one of my husband's and my favorite CDs. There is only one song we don't really care for - "Walk On", but the rest more than make up for it. I had been wishing for a sequal for a long time when I heard that 2 (Susan Ashton & Christine Dente) of the 3 had teamed up with Michelle Tumes for a CD called "Lost in Wonder". It is nice, but does not measure up to "Along the Road". I'm still hoping the original 3 will do another CD.

Three great women singers together on one awesome CD.......2004-07-09

I ordered this CD to add to my collection of Christian CDs quite a while before I had even discovered Margeret Becker, Susan Ashton or Christine Dente (from Out of the Grey). It was listening to this amazing CD that I became interested in all the three singers and have subsequently bought several of each of their albums. They are highly talented and their voices blend together like voices from heaven as they sing their way through these awesome songs. It literally sounds like music from Heaven and definitely lifts your soul and causes you to think deeply about your walk with the Lord Jesus Christ. This is why I buy Christian music... for daily inspiration and soul upliftment and all the songs featured on this CD certainly do both.

I know that Susan Ashton, Christine Dente and Point of Grace also grouped together to bring out the wonderful album "Girls of Grace"... I am not at home at the moment as I am in the States taking care of my grandsons for their Summer vacations, so I cannot refer to it to see if Margaret Becker was also on this album. However, I truly wish that they would get together again and make another album.. They are just the best!!

A wonderful, uplifting CD!.......2003-12-13

I took a chance when I bought this CD. I own a lot of Christian music, and have heard Margaret Becker and Christine Dente before, but didn't have any of their music. Let me say that you won't be sorry if you decide to buy this CD! I love every song on the album. I can't write a good enough review, and 5 stars are not enough! I can't pick a favorite song, they are all great! (Incidentally, there is another CD that I purchased which is similar and also a wonderful album. It's called "Heaven & Earth - A Tapestry of Worship".)

Voices clear as a bell.......2003-09-22

This album consistently takes me over. It is as beautiful and visceral as the voices that sing it. Of course I recommend it! I also hope the three get together to make another.

Blessed By Angels.......2003-09-21

These three talented woman created a CD that was truely greater than the sum of the parts. The harmonies grab your soul and squeeze out the tears of joy. In listening to this album, you sense the fun they were having and the reverence they give to to their creator. It is almost a guily pleasure, because you feel as though your are eavesdropping on their musical communion. Thank you ladies for allowing us this blessing.

Average customer rating:

Can't Cry Hard Enough is not quite enough here
Loved her Susan Ashton Album
what a voice
Excellent!
Decent stuff....but not her best work

Closer
Susan Ashton
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Country | Styles | Music

Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music

Country Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Distant Call
So Far: The Best Of Susan Ashton Volume 1
Susan Ashton
Along the Road
Wakened by the Wind

ASIN: B00000IJPG
Release Date: 1999-07-27

Tracks:

Come On Out Of The Rain
Closer
Our Little World
You're Lucky I Love You
I Ain't Gonna Fall For Love Again
Breathless
Shot For The Moon
Getaway Car
Supernatural
Think Of Me
Faith Of The Heart
Can't Cry Hard Enough

Amazon.com

Susan Ashton has been a leading light in the contemporary Christian music scene since her award-winning self-titled album was released in 1993; Closer is the adult contemporary vocalist's attempt at a country crossover hit. The Christian music community that once supported Ashton has typically shown disdain for artists who leave its cozy environs for the secular pop world, but fans of tasteful mainstream country will find much to like on Closer. Ashton has an admirable vocal range, an expressive gift for phrasing, and good taste when it comes to production (check the subtle cello-six-string intro to "Shot for the Moon" and the chiming 12-string guitars on "Come Out of the Rain.") When she tries to rock out, however ("Breathless"), or get bluesy ("Supernatural") the result is no more appealing than cereal-commercial music. Ashton is the spiritual and artistic progeny of the Boone clan, and her music is best when soft, slow, and sweet. Anything else is like white bread passing itself off as multigrain. --Mike McGonigal

Customer Reviews:

Can't Cry Hard Enough is not quite enough here.......2005-07-19

I am not a fan of country music, so it's not really fair for me to rate or review this entire album. But I had to check out what she did to "Can't Cry Hard Enough" as soon as I heard about it. Personally, well... I think Susan Ashton is at her best when she collaborates with others whose style or influence is evident in the work, for example, the vocals she has done on Jim Brickman's albums. The same is true here, "Can't Cry Hard Enough" is by far the best song on this album, mostly due to the fact that it is one of the best songs ever... There are many others I'd love to hear cover this song (Annie Lennox?), but don't settle for any less than the original version by the guy who wrote it (see The Williams Brothers), it's so beautiful and full of emotion (and so different when it's being sung by a man), it's chilling (BTW, remember it on 90210?). Go out and get the real thing. Go... now...

Loved her Susan Ashton Album.......2003-11-06

I have the first Susan Ashton album ~ and I LOVE it. I felt this CD was just plain 'lacking'. It left me missing the old Susan. Perhaps I just prefer her to remain a Christian artist. After reviewing the lyrics and the album cover I am not impressed. Not something I would like to put in to spend some time alone with God and I could do that with her first album. Sorry but I have to poo poo this album. It's to bad too because I really was hoping to enjoy this one too!

what a voice.......2002-11-11

So many have commented that Susan Ashton's previous work in the contemporary Christian genre is superior to this crossover release. I agree wholeheartedly, but the previous reviews here amply speak to that.

The voice is such an incredible gift. It is truly compelling. While I'm not really impressed by the bulk of this album, there are two songs that make it worth owning: "Shot for the Moon" and "Can't Cry Hard Enough". "Shot for the Moon" is a spare yet lush ballad that lets Susan's voice shine, and the ballad "Can't Cry Hard Enough" is a work of art -- the range of emotion here is heartbreaking.

I hope another album is forthcoming, because it would be a shame if we never hear her sing again. I am so grateful for her career in contemporary Christian music, though -- in my opinion, those releases truly showcase her talent, conviction, and artistry -- they are still some of my very favorite music.

Excellent!.......2002-09-17

As others have said, this is a well done and fun album. Susan Ashton's voice is clear and strong, and it is encouraging to see a Christian artist reaching into the mainstream. I'm sure it doesn't mean that she will leave the Christian message of her previous work behind. Instead, expanding her audience will mean that many more will be willing to hear that message. Enjoy the album, it's worth the purchase.

Decent stuff....but not her best work.......2002-02-17

Susan Ashton is probably my favorite singer in the world, and she still is. Nothing can top her voice and style that is most certainly hers. But we can have some constructive criticism for even our favorites. There's some very nice tracks on this album, but it didn't have the quality and consistency of her past albums. On previous albums, I usually love all the songs...while some on this album were pretty good, most were mediocre. If I was buying any other artist...I would be pleased, but I'm just used to nothing but the best from her. As for the non-christian aspect of this album, I have no problem with christian artists going popular as long as the artist's choices are governed by His spirit and with Him always in mind. I don't think Susan had Him in mind when she shot that cover. But aside from that criticism, I see nothing else wrong with her choice to go popular. I am actually pleased that non-christian listerners will be able to experience her amazing talents. Perhpas this will inspire them in turn to buy her other, and certainly much better albums.

Tracks:

Joy To The World
It Came Upon A Midnight Clear
Starbright
Angels
Fireside
What Child Is This?
Hope Is Born Again
Winter Peace
The First Noel
Oh Christmas Tree
Little Town Of Bethlehem
Dreams Come True
The Gift

Amazon.com

Jim Brickman's 1997 holiday package is all satin bows and glowing hearth embers, precisely the approach his romantically inclined legions would have wished him to take. Those with less sentimental ears might argue that at times the pianist's approach is a touch too sweet. "Joy to the World" would be more affecting as a solo work, for instance, and we could have done without the strings and music-box embellishments heard in "Angels." Yet Brickman compensates by delicately tracing a path to our heart-of-hearts in the album's two superb, nonholiday originals, "Fireside" and "Winter Peace." Three vocal tracks surface here: a breathy Kenny Loggins sings on the album's obligatory lullaby ("Starbright"), the female gospel group Point of Grace takes a bow ("Hope is Born Again"), and country vocalist Collin Raye performs a heart-clutching duet with Susan Ashton on the title track. It's not Brickman's finest record, but it's a very pretty one. --Terry Wood

Customer Reviews:

Jim Brickman Christmas CD.......2007-02-07

We love this CD. It is beautiful music. We bought more to give as gifts.

Good Christmas music but not the vocals.......2006-12-31

I'm not fond of the vocals on any of Jim Brickman's work and this is no exception. His playing is lovely as always but I wish he'd stick to instrumentals and not have vocalists on his albums. They always seem to ruin the mood.

Jim Brickman CD "The Gift".......2006-02-23

A friend loaned me her CD and I absolutely loved it......but I could not purchase it ANYWHERE.....my daughter suggested I contact you.....results, results!!!! Thank you! A most outstanding seasonal soft listening CD.

Christmas Music at its best! .......2004-12-20

Jim Brickman makes the piano sound like bells and how appropriate for Christmas music! This CD is a must have in your holiday music collection!

Lovely religious Christmas piano music.......2003-11-29

I purchased this cd because I had heard "Joy to the World" on a compilation CD of various artists. I was otherwise unfamiliar with Jim Brickman. I liked his piano style on this song with some light jazzy overtones. "The Gift" is a mostly instrumental CD. I would have liked a bit more variety in his piano playing from song to song. I enjoyed the largely traditional treatment of my favorite Christmas carols. I recommend this CD to anyone looking for religious Christmas piano music. The music is both spiritual and soothing.

Average customer rating:

Great CD Anywhere, in the car, at work, at play, &while resting
An overlooked masterpiece.
Fantastic!
If you worship through music, It's a MUST!
When I'm tired or low, this CD definitely lifts my spirit!

My Utmost for His Highest: The Covenant
Various Artists
Manufacturer: © 1996 Myrrh Records / Word Inc.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Contemporary Christian | Compilations | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Gospel | Compilations | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

My Utmost for His Highest
Quiet Prayers
My Utmost for His Highest: Quiet Prayers
My Utmost for His Highest

ASIN: B000002BJO
Release Date: 1996-04-23

Tracks:

All of Me - Be Be Winnans
Reprise (All Of You) - London Session Orch/Gavyn Wright
The Covenant - Annointed
Someday (Set The Children Free) - Michael W. Smith
Through All The Years - Greg Long & Joanna Carlson
Psalm 121 - Susan Ashton
Make It A Promise - Clay Crosse
I Will Follow You - John Elefante & Lisa Bevill
Reprise (My Utmost For His Highest) - London Session Orch/Gavyn Wright
Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee - Michael W. Smith/Annointed

Customer Reviews:

Great CD Anywhere, in the car, at work, at play, &while resting.......2007-02-19

HI: I just bought this CD and I really like it. It is a great CD for anytime. The songs are great and not old churchy. I like listening to this Cd during stressful periods in my days, and when I am exercising.
The songs are wonderfully written and the vocals to match them. The words really make you think about your soul and your choices in life.
I wish there were more songs on this CD. I want to hear the next compilation for MY UTMOST FOR HIS HIGHEST. I also bought the other CD for My Utmost for his highest and I really enjoyed both.

An overlooked masterpiece........2001-03-22

This CD was released 8 months after the huge success of the first My Utmost for His Highest project. Unfortunately, it failed to sell in the same numbers as the first. I will admit that at first, I didn't like it as much as the first. But it has grown on me, and now I like it more.

In my mind, one of the reasons it failed to sell in the same numbers as the first is that it doesn't have the name recognition the first did. While the first had Amy Grant, 4Him, Point of Grace, etc., this one has Anointed, Clay Crosse, Greg Long, and Lisa Bevill, among others. Michael W. Smith does make a return visit for two songs, the incredible SOMEDAY (SET THE CHILDREN FREE) and a recording with Anointed of JOYFUL, JOYFUL that's similar to Crown Him with Many Crowns from I'll Lead You Home.

Still, the reason this CD is so powerful is because of the overall theme and message of the songs. The idea was to release a collection around God's covenant with us and our response to it. When I really sat down and listened to the CD with that in mind, I was blown away. Some of the lyrics include: "I have made a promise/And so it will be...I belong to you/And you to Me." "I say it's a promise/A covenant, a destiny/I will come to set My children free." Susan Ashton contributes a beautiful version of Psalm 121 taken almost word for word from the Revised Standard Version of the Bible. By the time I reach the response to God, I find it easy to be praying "I promise all of my ways" and can claim the promise that "We will follow You, knowing You'll lead us through." The two instrumental songs, incorporating melodies from the other songs, add to the reflective mood.

This CD belongs in every Christian home. It is a great reminder of Who is ultimately in control of our lives and our world, and what He has promised to those who believe in Him.

Fantastic!.......2000-05-29

I loved this CD as much as the first one. If you have read Oswald Chamber's book, heard the first CD or are looking for an inspirational religious CD with music to please every taste, you have to buy this CD!

If you worship through music, It's a MUST!.......1999-10-02

A perfect sequal to "My Utmost For His Highest". You truly feel the Spirit! A wonderful mix of todays top gospel musicians. Contemporary mixed with traditional. Make sure you read the excerpts on the inside cover!

When I'm tired or low, this CD definitely lifts my spirit!.......1999-07-14

The technical mixing of the CD is top quality! We have a surround sound home theater system, and you can hear every instrument and voice distinctly. The separation is superb! The music is annointed and Jesus' presence enters as you praise Him and listen to this music. I would highly recommend this CD to anyone that wants to enter into God's presence.

So Far: The Best Of Susan Ashton Volume 1

Average customer rating:

Susan Ashton sings like an angel
testament to an amazing voice and a life lived for Christ
Susan Ashton
Amazing!
one of my favorite christian artists

So Far: The Best Of Susan Ashton Volume 1
Susan Ashton
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Susan Ashton
Distant Call
Along the Road
Closer
Wakened by the Wind

ASIN: B000000V4K
Release Date: 1995-08-29

Tracks:

Here In My Heart
Waiting For Your Love To Come Down
Stand
Remember Not
Down On My Knees
No One Knows My Heart
Hide Or Seek
Ball And Chain
In Amazing Grace Land
Grand Canyon
Hunger And Thirst
Beyond Justice To Mercy

Customer Reviews:

Susan Ashton sings like an angel.......2003-11-20

Susan Ashton is a contemporary Christian vocalist who is writing and singing songs that are as good as (or better than) any pop artist in today's Top 40.

This greatest hits album is a perfect introduction to Susan Ashton's music. One of the most immediate things you'll hear is her magnaminous voice: God gave Susan Ashton some impeccable pipes, and she knows how to use them. This singer has one of the most pristine and herculean voices in popular music today (think Martina McBride, a good comparison). Moreover, Susan sings with passion, knowing instinctively how to convey the personal feelings associated with her songs.

Of course, a central dimension to these songs is the unmistakable Christian themes. Whether she's encouraging us to "reach out beyond justice to mercy, going more than halfway to forgive," or acknowledging that "no one knows my heart better than [God]," or proclaiming she'll "stand...for what I believe," you can expect to hear messages to which all believing people relate.

This album contains some of the finest songs in contemporary Christian music. I highly recommend it!

testament to an amazing voice and a life lived for Christ.......2001-07-08

Many may not know that Susan Ashton was one of the most popular and respected contemporary Christian vocalists for most of the 1990s before her crossover to country music. This compilation highlights some of her greatest work in that genre and includes selections from her first three albums (Wakened by the Wind, Angels of Mercy, Susan Ashton) and two additional cuts.

Susan Ashton possesses a pure, gorgeous voice that immediately captivates. It is an incredible, expressive gift honed by a passion for her craft and a commitment to her calling -- it is a precise, masterful vocal presence. "So Far" is a testament to an amazing voice and an even more amazing partnership with songwriter Wayne Kirkpatrick. His intelligent, thoughtful lyrics and gorgeous melodies go straight to the heart of the Christian walk. Together they create some of the most honest testimonies of living faith you may ever hear.

Much of this material would be considered acoustic pop/rock with some country leanings and even a little jazz ("Remember Not"). It's difficult for me to pick a favorite -- the entire album is excellent. I do wish that more material from the third release ("Susan Ashton") had been included -- "Summer Solstice" in particular.

If you are a fan of warm, rich, confident vocals over spare, sophisticated lyrics reflecting a life for Christ, then SO FAR -- and all of Susan Ashton's earlier work -- is for you.

Susan Ashton.......2001-06-16

After listening to a few new country women act, I came across Suan..she has a beautiful voice and her choice of song material is outstanding and thoughtful,,Yeah! I think she could be a big cross over star.

Amazing!.......2000-07-07

Wow! That's what I said to myself when I first got this CD a while back. This is the CD that first introduced me to the music of Susan Ashton and to put it simply, all I can say is that it is truly amazing. Hearing "So Far", I was very impressed by the clean cut and clear vocals of Ms. Ashton. More importantly, the faith in God that each and every song on "So Far" stands for has been so uplifting. "So Far" is a collection of Ashton's biggest hits from '91-'93 as well as two new songs for 1995. The two new songs, "Stand" and "Hide or Seek", are two powerful ballads of faith and hope. "Stand" encourages us to not be afraid but to go in God and praise him-following his will as we confess each sin and just let him bring joy to our lives. "Hide or Seek" tells us not to be afraid of anything, but to stop running and come to God for love, help, and hope because he already knows everything about us and loves us anyway. These are two very heartfelt optimistic songs. Of Ashton's previous hits that appear on this album, my three favorites are "Ball and Chain", "In Amazing Graceland", and "Grand Canyon"-all ballads. "Ball and Chain" and "In Amazing Gracelane" just fill me with so much hope about God's mercy, and they really help the listener appreciate more fully the love and warmth of God. "Grand Canyon" makes you think about driving out in the country and admiring the view-the song totally makes me see God and his grandeur in the beauty of nature everywhere. "Grand Canyon" just makes me want to love Him more. This CD has gotten me through many rough times with it's positive encouragement, and I recommend it to anyone looking for truly uplifting spiritual music. Each song on "So Far" also has a clear country music sound to it, so mainstream music listeners who like country music will also enjoy "So Far". Excellent work, Susan-I predict that you'll go far not only in the Christian music world but in the country music world too! Keep up the good work!

one of my favorite christian artists.......2000-04-25

Like I said ,Susan Ashton is one of my favorite christian artists. If you like Trisha Yearwood as your favorite country artist (like me) then you will probably also like Susan Ashton. Too bad that now that she went country, that now on my local christian radio station. (Since she's from around here in Houston) If you remember listening to her or going to a concert of hers, gauranteed this cd will bring back memories of whatever you think of while listening to it. It does for me.

Average customer rating:

amazing!
Susan Ashton touches the heart
Susan Ashton ~ Susan Ashton
Just a "disclaimer" of sorts!
A powerfully moving blend of lyrics and musicality

Susan Ashton
Susan Ashton
Manufacturer: Sparrow
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music

Distant Call
So Far: The Best Of Susan Ashton Volume 1
Wakened by the Wind
Angels of Mercy
Along the Road

ASIN: B000002UEL
Release Date: 1993-11-02

Tracks:

Summer Solstice
Waiting For Your Love To Come Down
Remember Not
There Is A Line
Heart Like A Rock
Agree To Disagree
Hold The Intangible
Call Of The Wild
No Remedy For Love
A Rose Is A Rose

Amazon.com

Ironically, maturity is the word that dominates this self-titled debut. Susan Ashton's voice is no beginner's; in fact, it is no wonder that she frequently sings along with celebrities in the secular music arena: her vocal talents are comparable to Phil Keaggy's on guitar. Moreover, the production is surprisingly sophisticated. Instead of simply showcasing a beautiful voice, a refreshing diversity of sounds stands on its own right with plenty of guitar, some rock inflections, and an underlying country influence. If you're not a country fan, rest assured: it only evidences itself in the disc's uncrowded rhythms, which are closer to Patsy Cline classics than contemporary country pop. Ask anyone, however, and it is the message of the recording that merits Susan Ashton the accolade of a classic. From the first song on the track to the last, her songs are seasoned with understanding that can only come from a life with Christ. They range in simple tones--forgiveness in "Remember Not," experiencing God in the twilight of a Sunday evening in "Waiting for Your Love...," and the determination of conviction in "There Is a Line"--but the earthy metaphors and the sincerity of her lyrics touch on the deep and very present things of a walk with God. It is because of these that this recording is one of those everlasting standbys: the songs penetrate the very essence of our lives.

Customer Reviews:

amazing!.......2006-05-22

Susan has the best female voice on the planet..and this album is so awesome..every song touches you..she has such a clear, and bright voice..with an amazing range. Summer Solstice, Hold the Intangible, Heart Like a Rock, Agree to Disagree are my favorite songs on here..but every song is a hit. There is no way on earth that you could dislike this album..even if you dont like contempoary christian music. Her best of vol. 1 is so fabulous also. She writes a lot of her songs too. Buy it..you wont be diasappointed :)

Susan Ashton touches the heart.......2004-09-29

I well remember the first time I heard Susan Ashton. I was in a Christian bookshop in Chelmsford, England, and this CD was playing. I was going through a tough time in my personal life. Then "A rose is a rose" came on. I just had to stop and listen to the whole track, wipe away a tear or two, and then buy the album there and then! This album is charged with truth and emotion, and I would challenge anyone to question the divine inspiration which runs through it.
This is an album of the highest quality imaginable: beautifully crafted songs, a voice that reaches out and grabs you, and a team of musicians and technicians who know exactly how to get the best out of the two. I'd happily recommend this to anyone - of any religion or none.

Susan Ashton ~ Susan Ashton.......2003-08-22

I remember when this first came out the words and lyrics and music are awesome and gave a few insights to susans soul and the way she sang. Her heart was really in this album and I hope she continues to keep it in the right place.

Just a "disclaimer" of sorts!.......1999-09-29

This is a wonderful album, but the Amazon review has one piece of info wrong - this was Susan's third solo album, not her debut. Her debut is called "Wakened by the Wind" and "Angels of Mercy" followed that. Terrific singer with the sense to pick strong songwriters. The opening two songs "Summer Solstice" and "Waiting for Your Love to Come Down" are worth the price of the CD alone.

A powerfully moving blend of lyrics and musicality.......1998-06-27

Susan Ashton is one of the best artists in the world of contemporary Christian music. This CD is wonderful--Susan has a beautifully pure voice and pours the deep emotion of someone who has "been there, done that" into the lyrics of her songs. I never get tired of listening to her!

Average customer rating:

CCM wakes up to a new talent
The Best of Susan Ashton.
What a benediction!
A Gorgeous, Five-Star Debut

Wakened by the Wind
Susan Ashton
Manufacturer: Sparrow Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Susan Ashton
Distant Call
So Far: The Best Of Susan Ashton Volume 1
Angels of Mercy
Along the Road

ASIN: B000008CZN
Release Date: 1992-10-28

Tracks:

Down On My Knees
No One Knows My Heart
Benediction
Ball And Chain
I Hear You
Land Of Nod
In My Father's Hands
In Amazing Grace Land
Suffer In Silence
Beyond Justice To Mercy

Customer Reviews:

CCM wakes up to a new talent.......2005-03-11

susan Ashton first came to the notice of observant Christian music listeners as a backing singer on Wayne Watson's hit "Watercolor Ponies". This 1991 CD became her debut and introduced the CCM world to a thoughtful new chanteuse. Ashton's sound leans toward the acoustic, at times more country ("Land of Nod") in others almost folk ("No One Knows My Heart") with an occasional dash of acoustic blues creeping in.

It established Ashton as a fresh face in CCM thanks to 4 big hits: #2 "Down on my Knees", #4 "Benediction", #3 "In Amazing Grace Land", and #18 "Ball and Chain".

Strongest cuts here are the cry of the hypocrite seeking redemption ("Down on my Knees"), the believer asking for God's sure direction in the midst of change ("Benediction"), and the caution against complacency ("Land of Nod", which also features a sparkling fiddle break from Eric Silver). Phil Keaggy guests on guitar for "Beyond Justice to Mercy", a message many of us Christians don't heed as oft we should. "Ball and Chain" was a hit off the album, where the title comes from (a metaphor for God's spirit seeking out the souls of men).

The misses are few but "I Hear You" is overlong and never seems comfortable in its spare skin. It sounds like it wants to be a big pop anthem instead. "Suffer in Silence" has a weak hook and a reedy keyboard section pushes it into cheeseville.

Bottom Line: A pretty good debut...

3 1/2 stars

The Best of Susan Ashton........2004-07-08

I recently bought this CD and did not realize that it predated the other CD's that I have featuring this amazing singer. I was so thrilled hearing all the songs on this amazing CD. Wayne Kirkpatrick has a wonderful gift for writing inspiring lyrics and the songs "I Hear You", "Benediction" and "In Amazing Graceland" just bring out the best in Susan Ashton's voice. However, I must admit that my favourite song on this CD is "Beyond Justice to Mercy" which was co-written by Susan Ashton and her rendition of this song is truly awe-inspiring. I also found it strange that only two reviews have been written about this truly wonderful, uplifting CD. I would honestly recommend it to anyone that enjoys great Christian music and especially when it is sung as these songs are.

What a benediction!.......2004-04-05

I've recently rediscovered Susan Ashton and have come to the conclusion that this is some of the most awe-inspiring music I've heard. Why is there only one other customer review for this album?!! Everything about these tracks is near perfect---the song-writing, arranging, instrumental performances from some of Nashville's best, the production, and finally, Susan's incredibly pure and transcendent voice, singing lyrics in a truly inspired way that could turn a stone-cold atheist into a fervent believer (okay, I can dream can't I?). The peak of the album for me is "I Hear You" which is a song about the experience of God's glorious presence whereby He speaks (when least expected) to believers in times of quiet devotion and meditation: "And when my soul hits the mark, and the light splits the dark, I hear you; and when my heart starts to move, I know that it's You I hear...."

I am always left with the feeling of having received a special benediction after hearing this music. I'm amazed that songs like these can be swept under the rug of our ever-changing, always looking for the next new thing-culture. This is classic material that truly glorifies God in its aesthetic and spiritual excellence. Her next two albums---Angels of Mercy and the self-titled one---are just as good. Her fourth album, A Distant Call is where Susan began to explore "secular" music, and although a fine recording in itself does not have the spiritual essence of the first three. However, some of the tunes are Christian and are excellent as well.

A Gorgeous, Five-Star Debut.......2003-07-07

During the 1990's Christian music fans had the pleasure of hearing the voice of Susan Ashton frequently grace our airwaves. After paying her dues on backup Susan was signed by Sparrow and at the age of 23 she saw the release of her first record, WAKENED BY THE WIND. With executive producer Brown Bannister, veteran Wayne Kirkpatrick producing, and a solid cast of backup musicians Susan had the studio muscle to make a successful first impression. Solid songwriting and some gorgeous vocal performances ensured that the final product lived up to expectations.

Gentle percussion and an acoustic guitar open "Down On My Knees," a song penned by Kirkpatrick which speaks of prayer in terms of longing, desperation, and dependance. Though understated, it's a stunning way to begin the record, lyrically, and the sound perfectly captures the acoustic-based pop that Susan would become best known for. Traces of folk and country would sneak into her work, but she was always at her best outside of those genres.

"No One Knows My Heart" showcases Susan's voice, demonstrating the emotion she is capable of but not overdoing it or over-singing. Picking up the tempo a bit, "Benediction" follows and is the best song on the album. It's got a cool mid-tempo groove and a great hook and is another example of Kirkpatrick's writing elevating Susan's vocal gifts. She actually contributed to the writing of three of the songs but Kirkpatrick handled the lion's share of the writing duties and it shows. It remains one of the best written debut projects that I've heard.

Other highlights include "Ball and Chain," "I Hear You," and "Land of Nod." "Beyond Justice To Mercy" closes the album, and lyrically it is one of the most poignent moments on the project. Inspired from James 2:12-13, it speaks of the need to show grace because, in spite of our human desire for vengeance, mercy actually brings freedom and heals heartache. It's a beautiful and memorable performance and one of the best songs Susan ever recorded.

There really are no bad moments on this project. And though a case could be made for ANGELS OF MERCY, I believe that WAKENED BY THE WIND still stands as the best of Susan's projects. It certainly was a remarkable debut album. FIVE STARS

Average customer rating:

One of the Best Christian Cds of All Time

A CCM album for the ages...

Bigger beat for Ashton's sophomore CD

Still Wonderful After All These Years

Angels of Mercy
Susan Ashton
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music
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Susan Ashton

So Far: The Best Of Susan Ashton Volume 1

Wakened by the Wind

Distant Call

Closer

ASIN: B000008CZM
Release Date: 1993-01-12

Tracks:

Here In My Heart
Grand Canyon
Better Angels Of Our Nature
Hunger And Thirst
Innocence Lost
Started As A Whisper
Alice In Wonderland
When Are You Coming Back
Walk On By
Let Me Go

Customer Reviews:

One of the Best Christian Cds of All Time.......2006-09-01

Susan Ashton and producer Wayne Kirkpatrick team up again and hit it out of the park. Kirkpatrick wrote most of the songs on the cd and Ashton sings them with everything she has.

Standout tracks include the rocking 'Here in my Heart', the teary 'Grand Canyon', the humbling 'Better Angels of our Nature' and the toe-tapping 'Walk on By'.

The cd is filled with songs concerning our closeness to God, the temptation to sin and to judge, and the fragileness of our humanity. Great songs sung by one of the greatest singers in Christian music.

Excellent from start to finish.

A CCM album for the ages... .......2006-05-17

I started listening to contemporary Christian music seriously at the time this album came out. It is my favorite Susan Ashton album (Wakened By The Wind is a close second). It is an essential ccm album for any collection.
Songwriter/producer Wayne Kirkpatrick is her partner here. What a collaberation it is! His songwriting and production are absolutely phenominal.
Here In My Heart is a great opener. Grand Canyon is a gorgeous soaring ballad. Started As A Whisper and Better Angels Of Our Nature provide some edge and keep the album from getting too "soft". There aren't really any clinkers on this disc so there shouldn't be too much reaching for the skip button.
Susan has one of the most beautiful, expressive voices in creation. These days she's working as a nanny and enjoying working with kids. Selfishly, I hope she comes back to make at least one more good album at some point. We can always use some good songs from an artist like Susan. These days we need the reassurance. In the meantime, pick up Angels Of Mercy and enjoy.

Bigger beat for Ashton's sophomore CD.......2005-03-03

Although it won't be mistaken for rock, Ashton adds some new flavour to her sonics this time out, letting electric guitar play a bigger part than on her debut. It also landed 4 chart hits with "Here in My Heart" (#3),"Grand Canyon"(#17),"Hunger and Thirst"(#20), and "Walk on By" (#6).

Best cuts this time out are pop-rocker "Here in my Heart" (covered by country singer Martina McBride on the "Evolution" album, ASIN:B000002X49), the "God big, us small" ballad "Grand Canyon" (covered later by country singer Kathy Mattea on her "Walking Away a Winner" CD, ASIN:B000001E2L), the scathing diatribe against holier than thou types of "Started with a Whisper", world-weary lament "When are You Coming Back?", acceptance that life isn't clearcut even when you walk with Jesus (the Billy Sprague co-penned "Alice in Wonderland") and the dark side of growing older. ("Innocence Lost")

The only weak tune on here is "Let me Go", which is pleasant but not really memorable.

A big step forward for Ashton.......

Still Wonderful After All These Years.......2004-01-28

Isn't it funny how some songs come to represent a time in our lives? For me, this entire CD always brings back memories of summer 1994. I bought the CD in May of that year and listened to it almost non-stop going to and from my summer job. To this day, every time I stick it in, I'm transported back to that summer.

Fortunately, that was a good summer because I still love this CD. Susan Ashton had a way of picking songs that spoke directly to me and still seem to do so.

The CD opens with the only song she co-wrote, the wonderful "Here in My Heart" reminding us that God is patiently waiting for us no matter what is happening in our lives. "Grand Canyon" was another classic from this album that made an analogy about the distance that can seem to develop between us and God. A personal favorite is the tug of war captured so eloquently in "Innocence Lost." The power of gossip is tackled in "Started as a Whisper." Susan Ashton loved to pick songs with literary illusions in the title and that continued on this CD with "Alice in Wonderland," talking about facing the difficulties in life even if we don't want to. "Walk on by" is a fun warning about giving into temptation. And I always loved the closing ballad "Let Me Go."

Even after 10 years, I still pull this CD out on a regular basis, and the songs seem as fresh now as they did then. While I love Susan's other CD's, this is still my favorite. A definite classic of Christian music from the early 90's.

To Have & To Hold : 15 Christian Songs of Love & Marriage
Average customer rating:
To Have & To Hold : 15 Christian Songs of Love & Marriage
Susan Ashton , Avalon , Steven Curtis Chapman , Michelle Tumes , Twila Paris , Chris Eaton , and Various
Manufacturer: Emi Cmg Distribution
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
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I Will Be Here: 25 of Today's Best Wedding & Love Songs

ASIN: B000BKECM6

Product Description

What better complement to a Christian wedding than the love songs of Christian artists! Enrich your ceremony or reception with "I Will Be Here" (Steven Curtis Chapman), "Unrelenting Love" (Susan Ashton), "Bonded Together" (Twila Paris), and 12 more gems. 1. Unrelenting Love~Susan Ashton 2. Can't Live Day~Avalon 3. I Will Be Here~Steven Curtis Chapman 4. My Constant Love~Michelle Tumes 5. 'Til The End Of Time~Steve Green 6. How Beautiful~Twila Paris 7. The Love I Know~PFR 8. All Or Nothing~Chris Eaton 9. The One I've Been Waiting For~Out Of The Grey 10. Household Of Faith~Steve Green 11. Song Of Reconciliation 12. Bonded Together 13. You Take Me There 14. Grace 15. Go There WIth You

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