Check out the new concept album from Rusty Shipp!
Check out the new concept album from Rusty Shipp!

JFH Music Review


The Kry, You
CLICK COVER TO ENLARGE

The Kry
You



Artist Info: Discography
Genre(s): Pop / Rock
Album length: 11 tracks: 51 minutes, 55 seconds
Street Date: 1994


READER RATING:   


The 1990s were a special time in Christian music, where fervent conviction, emerging talent, and a deep sense of mission converged to create albums that continue to inspire thirty years later. Among these treasures is You, the 1994 sophomore release from Canadian Christian rock band The Kry. Though it may have slipped under the radar for some, this album is a compelling showcase of the band's artistry and devotion, combining polish with heartfelt sincerity in a way that feels both timeless and warmly nostalgic. While not without minor flaws, You captures the vibrant spirit of '90s CCM with an authenticity that beckons multiple re-listens.

Anchored by the remarkable vocals of Jean-Luc Lajoie, whose voice carries a soulful rasp and dynamic range, The Kry crafts a sound that fuses pop-rock accessibility with worshipful depth. Their music evokes the acoustic and introspective tone of early Jars of Clay, though they predate them by a year. The album opens with "I Can't Stop Thinking About You," an upbeat, melody-rich track that sets an inviting tone. Its infectious chorus and lyrics celebrating God's relentless love make it an instant classic, primed for congregational sing-alongs. The momentum carries into "You're All I Need," a soaring anthem highlighting Lajoie's vocal brilliance and the band's skill in weaving tight instrumentation with spiritual resonance.

A standout moment is "He Won't Let You Go," a mid-tempo ballad that offers comfort through its simple yet profound lyrics. Lajoie's voice shines here, conveying both tenderness and conviction, making the song a soothing reminder of God's unwavering presence. It's a track that could have dominated Christian radio with more exposure. Equally captivating is "Take My Hand," a reflective gem that leans heavily on acoustic vibes, creating an intimate, prayer-like atmosphere. The gentle strumming and Lajoie's heartfelt delivery elevate this song, making it a highlight for those who cherish CCM's ability to connect on a personal level. I remember it getting heavy rotation on the local Christian radio station, causing me to seek out the rest of the album. The acoustic elements throughout You add a layer of warmth, grounding the album's rockier moments with a fireside sincerity.

The production, overseen by the band and John Andrew Schreiner, strikes a fine balance between professionalism and raw energy. The guitars deliver a satisfying tone, the drums drive the alt-rock-oriented tracks with vigor, and the acoustic moments resonate with clarity and heart. If there's a critique, the album's 51-minute runtime feels slightly overlong; trimming one or two slower tracks could have tightened the pacing. Nevertheless, the overall sound remains crisp and engaging for its era.

Lyrically, You is unapologetically devotional, with every song rooted in themes of faith, surrender, and the transformative beauty of a Christ-centered life. The Kry's straightforward, earnest approach lends the album an approachable quality, like a warm invitation to worship. For those who hold the '90s CCM era dear, You offers a nostalgic return to a time when Christian music felt like a movement. Tracks like "Heavenbound Train" and "Jesus is Coming Soon" embody the evangelistic zeal of the period, gently urging listeners to draw closer to their faith.

While You may not outshine the monumental releases of 1994, such as PFR's Great Lengths or Newsboys' Going Public, it stands as a powerful effort. The Kry's musicianship, driven by Lajoie's exceptional voice and the album's acoustic warmth, ensures its lasting appeal. For collectors of '90s Christian music or those in search of hidden treasures, You will be a rewarding find.

- Review date: 5/24/25, written by Josh Balogh of Jesusfreakhideout.com



(JFH Sponsor Spot)

Check out JFH's Lloyd in his first-ever childrens book!

 

. Record Label: Freedom Records
. Album length: 11 tracks: 51 minutes, 55 seconds
. Street Date: 1994
. Buy It: Amazon.com

  1. Can't Stop Thinking About You (3:34)
  2. Everywhere (4:12)
  3. You're All I Need (4:53)
  4. I Keep Running (3:59)
  5. Lay Down Your Gods (5:22)
  6. Heavenbound Train (5:07)
  7. I Know Everything About You (4:18)
  8. Jesus Is Coming Soon (4:29)
  9. Take My Hand (4:49)
  10. He Won't Let You Go (4:12)
  11. I Believe In You (6:56)

 

 

 



Leave a Comment

 

 

go to main Album review page
go to Album review archive

 

 

                 
Check out JFH's Lloyd in his first-ever childrens book!

Search JFH



This Friday, June 27, 2025
ALBUMS
7eventh Time Down We Praise You [BEC]
The Browns 25th Anniversary: Better Days Ahead [StowTown]
Franni Cash Wild Child - EP [Capitol CMG]
Matt Crocker interlude [Anotherland]
Jimmy Fortune Songs of an American Dreamer [Gaither]
Roxanne Grace Road Trip - EP [DREAM]
JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise The Live Reunion: Washington, DC [James Town]
Kutless The Seventh Seal - EP [BEC]
Evvie McKinney It Ain't Over - EP (independent)
Rusty Shipp Capsized Empire (independent)
SEU Worship A Forgiving God [Provident]
The Shimmering Carnelians The Doorway (Version 2.0) (independent)
We Are Messengers A Thousand Times - EP [Curb]

SINGLES
Anchor & Braille Rattlesnake - Single [Equal Vision]
ANTHNY imposter syndrome - Single [Provident]
Blanca Right On Time - Single [Curb]
Landry Cantrell & Elenee sunshine & rainbows - Single [DREAM]
Eddie Clark Never Content - Single [Syntax]
Colony House Atomic - Single [Roon]
Megan Danielle Preachin' To The Choir - Single [Provident]
Drea LP & OnBeatMusic Don't Try Me (DTM) - Single [Syntax]
Joseph Habedank Running to Me - Single [Daywind]
Lonnie Hunter Flow (Like A River) - Single [Uncle G]
Kashh Kade HELP - Single [Syntax]
KB x KEANU Keanu's Song - Single [Provident]
Tasha Layton Singing In the Dark - Single [BEC]
Tasha Cobbs Leonard The Hand That Keeps Holding - Single [Motown Gospel]
Tim Lovelace Celebration of America Medley (feat. Charlie McCoy) - Single [StowTown]
Lecrae Tell No Lie (feat. Jackie Hill Perry) - Single [Reach]
LO Worship The Perfect Love of Jesus - Single [Integrity]
Patrick Mayberry Thank The Lord - Single [Provident]
Michael Monroe John The Baptist (feat. Chris Renzema) - Single [Provident]
Alexander Pappas A Great Awakening / Un Nuevo Despertar - Single [Integrity]
PEABOD Summer in Seattle - Single [RMG Amplify]
Rave Jesus Walk On The Water Remix (From The Chosen) - Single [Provident]
The Rocky Valentines Nat Song - Single [Velvet Blue]
Saints In Exile & Cutright My Dead End (ft. Jeannie Ortega, Luc DiMarzio, Jericko) - Single [Syntax]
Emilie Weiss Take Care (Studio Sessions) - Single [BEC]

DVD
Jimmy Fortune Songs Of An American Dreamer DVD [Gaither]

Next Friday, July 4, 2025
ALBUMS
Chad Cory America [DREAM]
Tenielle Neda The Way Of Love [Wings]

SINGLES
Christian Back Now - Single [DREAM]



For all release dates, click here!
 

Check out depositphotos for royalty free images