Phil Keaggy, the master guitarist and singer released his 1988 album in full expression of his McCartneyesque power-pop tendencies. The album was titled Phil Keaggy and Sunday’s ChildThe album, which was released in 2003, was an infectious, joyful romp. Newly rereleased through Keaggy’s Bandcamp page, the ensuing 34 years have done nothing to diminish its lustrous glow.
This album is Christian rock, for those who don’t like Christian rock. Every, as in every, song is packed with hooks and brio channeling the uninhibited enthusiasm of early ’60s Britpop’s jangling guitars and irresistible dance beats, as evidenced by the album’s more-or-less title track.
Despite the album’s title and cover photo, there was no band named Sunday’s Child. Keaggy recorded many tracks with his touring band, as well as a variety of songwriting helpers.
Keaggy himself recalls:
We were young, and we had the courage to take on this big project.
When the album was finally finished, I got “word” that RCA Records was interested in releasing the album….but such was record company politics, and that prospect was abandoned. It was something that I loved about the Nipper being my label’s mascot.
Friends were extremely supportive of the album. The album seemed to be popular with British Rock musicians. I was probably not an easy marketer for my record label. Sunday’s ChildCCM. It was still a great album to take on tour.
Looking back, I see how special it was to work alongside some amazing talent — and the very gifted Mark Heard was truly a great asset to this album with two of his incredible songs, “I Always Do” and “Everything Is Alright.” (His wonderful demos are on the bonus discs, as well as a version of “I Always Do” with his vocal.)
We used vintage gear — old guitars and Vox amps. You can feel and hear the heat in these amplifiers.
So, now it’s been about 34 years since we made this project together and the music still stands and resonates.
Ah, but there’s more. You didn’t see the mention of bonus discs. Along with the original album’s rerelease comes two newly available bonus discs, conveniently named Bonus Disc [A]and Bonus disc [B]. Each is chockfull of song demos, tunes that didn’t make the final album but are still more than worth repeated listening, plus different arrangements and mixes of album tracks. This can easily turn into self-indulgent excess, but here, Keaggy’s craftsmanship in all parts of the creative process shines all the more. You will find the same exuberance that permeates the album throughout the bonus discs. They are a must-have for Keaggy lovers, as well as those who seek pure and uplifting music. One highlight is the late Mark Heard’s demo of “I Always Do,” showcasing his songwriting brilliance.
It is refreshing to once more hear talented artists working with purpose and light in a world that has become obsessed by recipe pop. The memories of those who were present at that time are cherished. Phil Keaggy and Sunday’s ChildIt is a welcomed return to our music library. If you’re the first to hear it, I envy your newfound joy.
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