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Incredibly, this is the 38th musical output from Dallas based Christ for the Nations Institute
, and once again music director Keith Hulen acts as main worship leader. Uncharacteristically, however, he lends lead vocals to no more than 5 of the 13 mainly new songs presented here, a host of
other CFN talent stepping upfront on the remaining bulk of the tracks. Material source proves equally wide-ranging, featuring no fewer than 13 (co-)composers, only two tunes being created by the same writer
(guitarist Walker Beach). Diverse selection here then!
Diverse sounds and styles too. A stripped-down, somewhat tribal-edged opening anthem, a bit of Latino-funk on 'Ain't no rock', and
several slices of good'n'strong upbeat pop-praise, all backed by a formidable - and extensive - Praise band choir. There's loads of more tender expressions too; the gorgeously acoustic
'With You again' glides along to accordion and cello; 'Oh Lord, we've come' has a nostalgic 70's worship feel and strains to reach the heights of God's praise; 'Jesus' is a wonderful and
passionate duet, which, like several others, rises gradually in atmosphere. The good songs - and thoroughly accomplished singing - just go on and on! My only niggle is the Mercy Me classic
'I can only imagine' which gives the disc it's title - a terrific song, well relayed here, but to be honest, hardly a patch on the stirring beauty of the band's own performance.
Organ,
string section, brass arrangements (sax flourishes abound), even a didgeridoo! - all add texture to this set, and all unite to lavish honour on a wondrous and magnificent King. Once again the guys from CFN
have done a masterful job - releasing gorgeous, heart-felt worship all round, and giving plenty of opportunity to join in. Of course, one has to hear these sounds to truly appreciate their quality. Otherwise
all one can do is Imagine!
Review by tom lennie - June 2002 |
