Run the Earth, Watch the Sky (CD - 2003)

Personnel includes: Chris Rice (vocals, guitar); Steven Dilopoulas (acoustic guitar); George Cocchini, Scott Dente (guitar); Dave Davidson, Jeff Roach (keyboard); Mark Hill, Duncan Mullins (bass); Dan Needham (drums); Ken Lewis (percussion).

Recorded at Dark Horse Recording Studios, Franklin, Tennessee; Eb & Flo Studio, Franklin, Tennessee; Little Bifg Sound, Nashville, Tennessee.

This is an Enhanced CD, which contains both regular audio tracks and multimedia computer files.

Personnel: Scott Dente, George Cocchini (guitar); Steven Delopoulos (acoustic guitar); Kristin Wilkinson, David Angell (violin); John Catchings (viola, cello); Jeff Roach (keyboards); Dan Needham (drums); Ken Lewis (percussion); Ricky Jackson, Ran Jackson (background vocals).

Audio Mixer: Jim Dineen.

Recording information: Dark Horse Recording Studios, Franklin, TN; Flo Studio, Franklin, TN; Little Big Sound, Franklin, TN.

Editor: Ken Lewis .

Photographer: Jimmy Abegg.

Too many times, when a successful songwriter becomes a recording artist, it only serves as an example of why some writers should never perform their own material. A notable exception is contemporary Christian hit maker Chris Rice. Possessed of a smooth, assured tenor voice the equal of label-mate Michael W. Smith's enviable pipes, Rice delivers his tunes with a passionate conviction and obvious love of singing. That said, the real star here is the stunning songcraft. Rice not only uses his McCartney-esque sense of perfect pop melody to great effect, but has a real knack for ear-perking turns of phrase. His greatest accomplishment however, may be that he is able to employ these talents in the service of songs that are as overtly religious as anything in Christian music, yet, due to their easy-going, friendly feel, never oppressive-sounding to the non-Christian listener. minimize