Andra Moran

Andra Moran is a very talented singer, guitarist and songwriter from California, now living in Nashville. She's also part of my tribe of Christians, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

I first became aware of Andra when we each appeared on a compilation CD, Disciples Sampler. Then, along with a few thousand Disciples, I've been blessed by her presence in the worship band at General Assemblies (the biennial gathering of U.S. and Canadian Disciples) in Portland and Fort Worth.

This past week, Andra led worship at a conference on new church planting for a group sixty or so pastors, lay leaders, and denominational leaders. Her musical gifts are obvious, but Andra is also a very gifted worship leader. She skillfully led us through three days and five worship services, stitching it all together nicely with coffee. (In a way, you just had to be there.)

I came away from the event enriched and in possession of two of Andra's CDs. The Someday Sessions (2003) is a short collection of seven tracks, mostly original tunes. It's recorded live, which features Andra's vocals and guitar with some supporting guitar work from Chris Cottros. The liner proclaims, "no vocal tuning," but none is needed. Andra's soprano rarely strays off-pitch, and she nails her beautiful melodies dead on.

Listening (2005), released on the Insta-Rock label is a fine studio effort recorded at Alex the Great in Nashville. She assembled a stellar cast of supporting musicians for the project, and the production stays out of the way, allowing her writing and vocal stylings to shine through.

To pick up a copy of these recordings or If Not For This, Andra's first release with friend and co-writer Josh Elson, visit her web site at www.andramoran.com.