Album Notes

With her second project, "New Creation," Christian jazz recording artist Karen Grant makes a fresh impact, with an assertive, fun, unforgettable style.

There's no mistaking Karen Grant's unique, sophisticated sound - and yet, "New Creation" breaks new ground, as Karen explores topics from the need for daily integrity, all the way to healing from sexual abuse, all from a Godly perspective. And like the lyrics, the music doesn't disappoint: It's a jazzy journey, from reggae to an intimate club sound, with plenty of stops in between.

There's a lot here: 14 original songs, 67 minutes of music, and proof positive that Karen Grant has joined the ranks of America's top Christian jazz personalities.

From the very first note, "New Creation" commands attention. The opening track is the title song, performed in a Latin big-band style that you can't help but notice. Karen introduces herself, and pulls no punches: "I was a worm, but now I am a butterfly...I am a sinner saved by grace, no more, no less."

But it's OK to relax a little, too. "Brought Us Together" is a pop tune about the love and peace that God gives to husbands and wives who keep Him at the center of their relationship.

On "Word of God," Karen stands confident: "The word of God is sure and true/There is no need to fret/for what He's said is what He'll do/He's not through with your life yet."

Two songs on this project show that Karen is not afraid to tackle tough subjects. "Don't Run Away" looks at teenage pregnancy: "I see your face, little brother/You're really in a bind...She says it's your child...What will you do...Don't run away, but stand and pray/And ask the Lord to be your guide."

And based on the true story of a longtime friend, "Where Would I Be?" takes on the issue of child molestation: "I was forced to do such ugly things...But Christ removed that curse...In Him, now I can persevere."

"Lord, You Are Worthy" is a gentle worship song: "We want to thank You/For sending Your Son/By His blood You have made us all one."

"New Creation" ends with the exuberance of "Like Jesus": "I want to be like Jesus/Committed to You, till the end...Say it all in how I live."

Once again, Christian jazz saxophonist Reggie Murray has joined Karen as producer and arranger. Murray sweats the musical details, and keeps every instrument in its place; but you won't notice, because it all comes so perfectly together.

Karen calls what she does "thoroughly jazz music, completely Christian lyrics," and after listening to "New Creation," you'll know why. Karen Grant is truly an artist to watch, and "New Creation" is an experience you won't soon forget.