Russ Taff cover

Russ Taff

Russ Taff · 1987

48 min · 11 tracks · contemporary Christian music

A soulful blend of rock-infused melodies and heartfelt lyrics that resonate deeply within the contemporary Christian music scene.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    I Still Believe — This track stands out with its passionate delivery and message of unwavering faith, becoming one of Taff's signature songs that resonates with audiences seeking hope.
  • →
    Believe In Love — With its uplifting message and melodic hooks, this song encapsulates the essence of Taff's optimistic songwriting while showcasing his vocal prowess.
  • →
    Higher — The soaring chorus and introspective lyrics make this track a memorable highlight, reflecting Taff's journey of spiritual elevation and personal growth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100
Foothills
Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid songwriting and vocal performance but follows familiar patterns in its genre.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a high-energy track, 'Shake', and maintains a consistent mid-tempo pace through the first half before slowing down in the latter half.
  • Taff's vocal delivery is prominent throughout, often layering harmonies that emphasize emotional peaks in the lyrics.
  • Several tracks feature instrumental bridges that shift dynamics, creating moments of tension and release within the songs.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo progression
  • heartfelt vocal delivery moments
  • uplifting themes of resilience
  • reflective listening during introspection

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of fast-paced tracks
  • prefer standalone singles only

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1987, this self-titled album marked Russ Taff's transition from his earlier work with the group The Imperials to a solo career. At this point, he was establishing himself as a significant voice in contemporary Christian music following the success of his previous albums.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Shake 4:20
  • 2 Walk Between The Lines 5:32
  • 3 Believe In Love 5:03
  • 4 Down In The Lowlands 5:07
  • 5 This Love Is Strong 5:01
  • 6 I Still Believe 4:31
  • 7 Steal Away 0:43
  • 8 (Living on the) Edge of Time 3:41
  • 9 Higher 4:54
  • 10 Breathe Life Into Me 4:24
  • 11 Healing Touch 4:44

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata