In The Studio with… Natalie Grant

ALBUM TITLE: Relentless
LABEL: Curb
RELEASE DATE: February 5, 2008
RECORDING STUDIOS: home studio (“It made it nice to record in my pajamas.”) and Shaun Shankel’s studio, Nashville, TN.
PRODUCER: Bernie Herms (Nate Sallie, Avalon) and Shaun Shankel (Mandisa, Rebecca St. James, Mandy Moore).
NUMBER OF SONGS: 11 new songs + 1 bonus cut

THE MUSIC:
“This album has more varied flavors than my other projects. It still falls in the melodic pop/rock category, but incorporates more of the diverse musical influences I have had in my life. The uptempos are much bolder, with a mix of old-school horns and aggressive guitar work. The ballads are very emotional and strong in message, but organic and transparent in their production. I wanted to write and record songs that communicate God’s unshakable promises in the face of life; real life full of questions, heartache and doubt. Relentless is the expression of my determination not to slip back into a life of the status quo, both spiritually and artistically. I also pray the music incorporates an overriding worldview of living for something beyond ourselves.”—Natalie Grant

THE IDOL:
“Melinda Doolittle added her brilliant voice on the BGV’s for ‘Make It Matter’ before she became a household name on ‘American Idol.’ She’s been a session singer for a long time, and the world has just finally learned what Nashville has known for years. Her voice is stunning.”—N.G.

THE CHALLENGE:
“When naming the album, one word kept coming to mind. God’s relentless pursuit of us is a pursuit like no other. Even the many times I have become complacent and comfortable in my Christianity, He has never stopped pursuing me. Relentless is a word that usually typifies the spirit of those who pursue a goal with unyielding ambition, but I pray my life reflects a relentless passion for the things of God and an uncompromising determination to make a difference in this generation. The Bible tells us it is those with a persevering spirit who overcome. I pray this album will awaken the relentless spirit within others, knowing that as you draw near to God, He will draw near to you. Be relentless and awaken the ultimate pursuit.”—N.G.