Description
Here and Now is the sophomore gospel album by the American singer and songwriter Trace Balin, released on DaySpring Records in 1989, a division of Word. The album was produced, recorded, and mixed by Jonathan David Brown at his studio Johnny dB’s Basement in Antioch, Tennessee. Arranged by Carl Marsh who also played keyboards (Fairlight 3).
With one listen, this collection of songs is immediately likeable, interesting, and definitely not run of the mill. Brown’s production expertise combined with the artist’s gritty, gutsy vocals makes an immediate impact. Side one is a blockbuster, beginning with the title cut, then to a moving rock ballad entitled, «Well Done», in which the artist sings, “I’m not looking for the rapture, but I want to live like the time has come.” These words epitomize the lyrical theme of the project. The message is strong and clear toward holiness, commitment, and rubber-meets-the-road Christianity. Further along is the tune, «I Don’t Have Love» – as close to a true rocker as this records get. It is tasty, replete with the raspy squall of Balin sounding frighteningly like Tina Turner (yes, Tina Turner!). The side finishes with the rousing proclamation, «Never Let It Be Said». Good material. Happening voice!
Side two is equally as strong, featuring a song that just oozes sincerity called, «Between You and Me». Then, just when you think you’ve got Trace Balin pegged, she offers a tune in a traditional style with «All Hail The Power of Jesus’ Name». The artist sings with conviction and agility. Her vocal style is aggressive and credible without a hard or blaring edge. Clearly, ‘Here and Now’ features some powerful songs; its pop production makes radio airplay a sure thing, while the somewhat edgy, quirky side of Balin’s voice assures that the listener won’t be bored. No pablum here, but one question: Where did Trace Balin come from? Among the mass of new female artists over the last few years, Balin stands apart with this album, as an inspiring and strong force for the future. A definite find. [Stephanie Bennett, CCM, January 1990]
According to the press release that accompanied this album Trace Balin has “a voice so unique that it demands attention”. That’s quite a statement to live up to, but this time they might just be right. Her voice could be described as a hybrid of Amy Grant and Bonny (Lang-ford) Tyler, strange but true. The album takes some getting into – on first play it sounded all too like that “Contemporary Christian” speciality, badly beefed-up ballads with a few guitar licks so as to “reach the kids”. But there really is much more to this set. What initially sounded like wimpy rock actually turns out to be a rather clever platform for Trace’s voice and perhaps more importantly the lyrics go way beyond standard evange-speak. Although none of the tracks leap out and grab your attention there’s a synergy that gives the album an appeal that is greater that the sum of the individual tracks. Plus without getting heavy there’s a real spirituality about these performances. This is not an album for all occasions. I found that I was most receptive to it whilst driving to and from work, it soothed the soul rather than blasted the hassles and aggravations. Worth taking the time to get into. [Tim Cockram, Cross Rhythms, July 1990]
> Apple Music (https://music.apple.com/us/album/here-and-now/1679058577)
LP tracklist:
Side One
A1. “Here And Now” – 3:50
A2. “Well Done” – 4:55
A3. “If I Don’t Have Love” – 4:11
A4. “Eye Of The Hurricane” – 3:47
A5. “Never Let It Be Said” – 4:31
Side Two
B1. “When The Well Runs Dry” – 5:15
B2. “Jesus At The Heart” – 3:54
B3. “Just Between You And Me” – 3:50
B4. “All Hail The Power” – 4:44
B5. “Why Me” – 3:33
Note: Simultaneously released on cassette, 12-inch vinyl LP, and CD by DaySpring Records.
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