Fair Trade Services
Release Date: March 17th 2023
Reviewed by: Joshua Andre
Caleb & John– Hallelujah Feeling (Single) (Amazon mp3/iTunes)
Track Listing:
- Hallelujah Feeling
Don’t you get tired when you hear about an up-and-coming new artist, whether it’s a ‘Christian’ artist or a mainstream artist? They can either be very iconic or legendary or incredibly popular from the word go, and hopefully will continue for many years ahead. Artists such as Anne Wilson, Katy Nichole, Maverick City Music, CAIN, or Blessing Offor are in this category. Or they could just fade away after their first album. Austin French, The Royal Royal, Chasen, Abandon, Addison Road, or perhaps 1GN somewhat, fall into this second category. And with CCM artists and mainstream artists alike, some artists move labels, change their sound, and completely reinvent themselves. Jeremy Camp, Kutless, Sanctus Real, The Band Perry and Keith Urban come to mind. So what do we make of Caleb & John, the newest CCM signee to Fair Trade Services? Their debut single “Hallelujah Feeling” just released, and it’s super catchy. But does the country/pop/worship duo have staying power, and is the song just a tad too basic?
Firstly, can I just say that “Hallelujah Feeling” is full of enthusiasm, passion, heart, truth, and soul? Both Caleb and John exude intensity, joy, creativity and hope beyond my wildest expectations, and the truth that ‘…when everything is shaking, got that solid rock like pavement, I may bend but I’m not breaking, the Lord is on my side…’, is a truth that’s worth singing about. In that respect, “Hallelujah Feeling” is incredibly satisfying and inspiring. However, just because the lyrics ring true doesn’t mean that the music is inventive nor unique. Sure, these guys are creative in their music video style. But on its own, the song doesn’t stand out enough from the rest of CCM, and that’s not a good thing at the moment.
Granted, it’s these guys’ debut single, and perhaps the debut full length album will ‘iron out the kinks’ so to speak. As it stands though, “Hallelujah Feeling” is ok, not ground-breaking, but solid. It’s enjoyable and catchy and inspiring and full of biblical truth. But it’s not the song of the year. I hope I’m making sense, and this isn’t a diss to the duo- because I firmly believe that Caleb & John will only become better and better with each song and each album. Well done guys for a well-thought-out debut single, and I can’t wait to hear what’s next in store for you!
Score: 4/5
RIYL: Jonny Diaz, Dan + Shay, Jordan Feliz, Austin French, Keith Urban, Blake Shelton, Jason Castro, We The Kingdom, Rush Of Fools