Faith, hope, commitment, optimism ... the third studio album from Maryland-based singer-songwriter Lisa Fenstermacher is upbeat pop rock with a buoyant groove and inspirational compass.  Lisa’s strong, warm, controlled voice emerges as an irresistible force of emotion and clarity above an instrumental foundation of well-arranged drums, bass, guitars and keyboards courtesy of Nate Brown, Marc Nelson and Michael Sauri. At tracks 4 and 10, the gospel-infused “With His Love” and “Peace” are pure delights with their added incorporation of the horns of Todd Butler and Jeff Chiaverini, in arrangements designed by keyboardist Brian Simms. Upright bassist Max Murray adds his low end to the melodic mettle on three tracks, including the group’s nod to the life-affirming reflections and spirit of the traditional hymn, “Near the Cross.”  Rather than the effect-laden lead guitar solo rendered there, I would’ve preferred more acoustic-driven strings for that arrangement.  While some of Lisa’s songs have the requisite catchy hooks that reel listeners in, she more often conveys genuine pleas that simply resonate with compassion and conviction...messages welcome to those in search of meaning in their music. “Hope Waits” lacks some of the vocal edginess found on the rest of the CD, but it reinforces the central theme of her touching music. From the album’s opening line (“I’m waiting for my life to change”) to its last (“Everything’s gonna be fine..”), Lisa Fenstermacher’s originals (often written in collaboration with Michael Sauri) are sublimely crafted to keep one’s focus and perspective in life. (Joe Ross, Twentynine Palms, CA)
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I first heard Lisa sing at her brother's wedding.  We were all seated at our tables and my back was to the DJ area.  In between other songs I heard a fresh rendition of a familiar song (unfortunately the name slips my mind).  I will never forget, I turned to my wife and said "wow, that's a great version of that song, I have to ask the DJ who did it."  I turned just to hear better and was blown away when I realized it was a live performance by Lisa.  What a voice!!!  Good luck with all your work now and into the future.
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So often when Christian artists start writing music, the resulting songs are much akin to a collection of miscellaneous bible verses and sayings put together in a way that rhymes, and the music is just filler to separate the sections.  With her third CD release, Lisa has achieved a level of maturity in writing and music that are well beyond what you might expect from an independent artist.  These songs are about the reality "where the rubber hits the road" of living as a Christian - the good times, the bad, the joy, and the pain.  Just as everybody has a variety things they like, Lisa's diversity of influences are all on display here, from rock to latin flavors to traditional hymns.  Each establishes that connection to your own experience - you'll immediately recognize the emotion rings true, and the songs stick with you through the day.
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Be sure to listen to the high-quality "broadband" versions of the songs!  Some favorites: "This Between" is a rocker with images that stir the imagination. "Born to Me" blends massive guitars with a universal message of hope. "Peace" moves your feet with a touch of Santana and Latin horns.  "Dandelion Wishes" is wistful and heart-warming, and Lisa's faith really sings in her simple acoustic/electric arrangement of "Near The Cross".  More powerful imagery and a guitar solo reminiscent of Pink Floyd on "Still This Hollow Sound".  "Fit For His Plan" reflects on the choices we make, with a touch of Allman Brothers.  Another favorite is the back-to-basics faith-rock of "He Will Be There For You".
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