Compassion All Star Band 1 by 1 (one by One) Live! (1989)

The Compassion All Star Band are a group of well loved CCM musos of the likes of Phil Keaggy, Randy Stonehill, Margaret Becker and Joe English, joining together for a concert promoting sponsorship of Third World children (information leaflet also enclosed with tape) organised by Compassion International. The result is a live recording that oozes energy and vitality. Here is tightly played rock gospel with lyrics which are honest, real and human - touching on feelings of doubt, loss, confusion, on side one while side two couldn't put the answer clearer ("…there's only one way out…").

One of two compilations released simultaneously in 1995, this collection does a great job of showcasing Keaggy's strengths (guitar playing and singing) while minimizing his weaknesses (inconsistent material). There is ample evidence of his diversity, as the styles on this album range from the acoustic folk of his first album to his later British invasion rock, with plenty of ballads, pop songs, and instrumentals included.

Blue is a 1994 album by guitarist Phil Keaggy, released on Epic Records. Blue was released in the mainstream market simultaneously with Keaggy's album, Crimson and Blue, which was geared to the Christian market. The most significant differences are the inclusion of three different songs (Keaggy's cover of the Badfinger song, "Baby Blue"; "All Our Wishes"; and "The Further Adventures of…" from the Revelator EP) and the exclusion of five songs from Crimson and Blue ("Love Divine," "Reunion Of Friends," "Stone Eyes," "I Will Be There," and "Nothing But The Blood.") In addition, several of the tracks on Blue are reworked.

This collection will primarily appeal to guitarists who are fans of Keaggy's acoustic work, because while there are a few fully developed songs, many of the pieces are exactly what the title states: sketches.

Keaggy is pretty much on a roll from here on out, producing album after album of great work comprised of good, solid, catchy songs that are accessible on every level, yet with enough sophistication to be appreciated by all manner of audiences. With a great band and great production, Keaggy really shines here. While still hearkening back to the '60s sound he was chasing on the previous year's Phil Keaggy & Sunday's Child, this record is more mature and full of new explorations. And littering the album in various places are little studio outtakes noted only on the sleeve with a picture of a guitar.

More than 25 years after the release of his first solo album, Keaggy finally has an eponymously titled work. Appropriately so, because after several instrumental, collaborative, and tribute works, he has brought all his influences together to create music that is diverse in its influences but cohesive in its execution. Stylistically, the album ranges from the opening acoustic pop of "A Sign Came Through the Window" to the Celtic influences of "Beneath the Blood-Stained Lintel" and "Above All Things" to the Beatlesque "Tender Love," but all the songs benefit from stellar arrangments, inspiring and intelligent lyrics, and the best vocals Keaggy has recorded to date.

Crimson and Blue found Phil Keaggy surrounded by old friends making new music, in an old Victorian cottage owned by Brown Bannister. Its high ceilings, hardwood floors, and vintage equipment made it a perfect place to record a rock record. Excellent album by a great artist. Virtuoso guitar work and solos, strong lyrics and songwriting, catchy pop to power rock and even an excellent cover of a Van Morrison classic. Every song is a classic, including a scorching version of John The Revelator. A must for every collection.

Phil Keaggy's 1997 CD "On The Fly" is a magical instrumental blend of breath-taking electric and acoustic textures accented with world rhythms. The title of the refers to the Parker Fly, Keaggy's main axe throughout the recording, but in addition to showcasing the Christian musician's guitaristic abilities, "On The Fly" concentrates more on sound and delivery, resulting in a fine release with compelling arrangments and lush ambience in addition to strong compositions. Keaggy also takes the time to develop these songs fully, particularly on the five-part acoustic suite "The Way of a Pilgrim" and the 24 plus minute "The Sojourner". After more than 25 years in the business, Keaggy's playing continues to amaze and provide inspiration to guitarists all over the world.

True Believer is an album by guitarist Phil Keaggy, released in 1995. More soft rock from Keaggy, but this one is even more mellow than some of the past releases.

The companion release to Time 1, Time 2 is similarly strong in selection of material, showcasing Keaggy's consistent musicianship through many different styles of music. As on the first volume, this collection pulls from all of Keaggy's different periods and is balanced with rock, ballads, and pop. Includes a live version of "Shouts of Joy" that doesn't vary much from the recorded version and two unreleased songs from Keaggy's early days (including a snippet of "Heaven Is Home," the first song he wrote as a believer). You won't go wrong with either volume from this inspiring and influential artist.