The Sonflowerz - All Over The World

When Elissa Leander began writing worship music at age fourteen, she was unaware that this gift eventually paved the way to her first band and a budding recording career.  Along with her sister Becca Leander, The Sunflowerz have blossomed in a short period of time in the contemporary Christian market.  Already on their third CD since their debut in 2002, All Over The World, their third CD since their debut in 2002, is an unassuming but bold proclamation for their adoration of Christ.  Before they even took to the studio with their own projects, the Colorado born sister act joined another sibling band, the rock trio, Barlow Girl on Sweet Storm. The Sunflowerz, who first performed as a full band featuring all female members who added drums and keyboards are now paired down to a duo.   Besides recording, Elissa and Becca have been invited to lead worship at conventions and churches throughout both the U.S. and the U.K.  Their well-respected worship music prompted Integrity Music Europe to distribute their previous projects, Alive In You and You Remain outside the U.S.   Their single from their second CD, Move Me, was number four on the European Music Charts over top selling Christian artists Stephen Curtis Chapman and Kutless.

Their musical transformation on All Over The World to more polished but still solid worshippers is due to the expertise of Don Koch, who has worked in both Christian and country music - from Brooks & Dunn to Amy Grant.  The title track that celebrates victory in Christ all over the world was also recently performed by The Lakewood Church Children’s Choir from Houston Texas to their congregation. 

The title track is a fitting opener from a duo that has traveled many miles for Christ during their young years: “We can hear it down in Houston, It’s changing lives in Hong Kong, It’s filling up the streets of London.”

Two songs for different radio audiences are receiving attention on the radio.  Representing the contemporary Christian charts, Edge of My Seat is a bright pop ditty about yearning for what the Lord has to say and to hear His voice.  The more subdued My Adoration, pours out gratitude towards the Savior for being our rock: “In your presence you empty all my doubts.”

An interesting twist on this CD is the same song treated in two different manners.  Cover Us, the most intense track musically, is reprised with a string orchestra, but manages to convey the same theme: to saturate our souls completely in spiritual areas like forgiveness and living for his glory.

The Leander sisters also convey compassion for the body of Christ.  More Than I Think I Am tackles an all too familiar subject with the battle between inner and outer beauty: “You see beyond the masquerade behind the pretty face, You search beneath my skin right to my heart.”  The prodigal son is certainly another popular bible story that hits home, as Prayer For The Prodigal teaches everyone to walk in the truth for those who are struggling inside themselves.

They also recognize an unsung friend with Legacy, a moving tribute that also challenges us on how we want to be remembered as a true follower of Christ.

As lead vocalist, Elissa presents a vulnerable but strong quality to every song, proving powerful pipes are not always necessary in getting the message across.  Koch’s production guidance balances acoustic worship and rock and pop underpinnings without sounding too mundane.  Both the Leander sisters have traveled long distances in such a short time with sincere hearts and talent to bring God to the hurting and bring joy to the masses all over the world. 

Go to www.sunflowerz.com for more information on Elissa & Becca Leander and to purchase all The Sunflowerz music.