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They lead worship at a Vineyard Fellowship, but this is no typical Vineyard disc! With a band name of Moweebee Wafr
(‘moment we've been waiting for'), and music described as 'acoustic groove-Space rock with a world beat influence', it's clear that this is a worship team with a difference! The century-old church that now
hosts Seattle Vineyard is located in the heart of the city's university district, an area renowned for it's 'street kids, artists, musicians and young thinkers of every persuasion'; so Israel Button, band
leader and the church's Director of Music Ministries, sought to create sounds and lyrics that would capture the attention of a wide variety of worshippers and sceptics alike. Has he succeeded?
In fact,
numerous of these worship melodies are similar in structure to other contemporary praise sounds; this indie album being distinguished by the exploratory synth/guitar tones and hand-percussion tools that add their moody
textures to most tracks. These, along with Amber Bernard's support vocals, are most effective on the haunting 9-min 'ambient chillout' of 'Consumed' or the adorational focus of 'Almighty'. Other
notable moments are the funk-rock 'Get a kiss', the calypso celebration 'Before the Lord' and the guitar-edged 'You will not be silent', while the closing two tunes overlie a thoughtful acoustic
structure. In fact, despite the variety of sounds on this album, it has a semi-acoustic, uncluttered feel all the way through, giving clarity to the God-focused, Scripture-based lyrics.
Some of the songs
are ideal for congregational/small group use, which is why full lyrics and guitar chords have been clearly provided. Each Friday the band hold a 'Worship Infusion' event, where they blend music and various art
forms, no doubt creating a thoroughly participatory worship experience. To answer my own question as to whether this music makes sense 'on the street as well as in the sanctuary', I can only say - it works fine
for me. I leave it for others to make up their own minds.
Review by
tom lennie |
