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Take two stunning Irish female voices - those of Joanne Hogg (lead singer from Iona) and Clannad's
Maire Brennan, both highly distinctive names on the Celtic music trail - and link them to that of American CCM veteran (or 'slow burner' as she refers to herself!) Margaret Becker
. Pick an influential young Irish composer/producer - Keith Getty - with a stream of successful music works behind him. Gather together a host of thoroughly expert musicians - players from Riverdance, members of
Iona, guitarists Phil Keaggy and Jason Carter, not to mention the string section of the Prague Symphony Orchestra, etc etc. Invite them all to collaborate on an exciting new worship concept. What you'll end up with are
the striking sounds that make up this lush and innovative recording!
Getty wrote all the music; lyrics come variably from the pens of Joanne, Maire or Margaret, from other modern writers, or are
adaptations of 19th Century hymns. The girls take turns at lead vocals, while all of them join in the atmospheric, textured harmonies of each song. While mood and tempo varies from track to track - e.g. the chirpy,
catchy 'Song of the Kingdom' and 'Over fields of green', the line-dance rhythm of 'Hear all creation', or the more traditional hymnal structure of 'Jesus draw me' - the music is united by the
evocative 'Celtic' vibes everywhere in evidence (yes, inc. the Becker co-arrangements), and by the lyrical suggestion of ALL creation giving praise to God (a prominent theme in Celtic theology). Thus, while the
sounds of fiddle, whistle and uillean pipes are frequent, string orchestration is more subdued, being most notable on Maire's moving, fragile 'Communion' song.
This is beautiful music, appropriately
matched by rich packaging; viz. attractive slip-card cover and elaborate, gilt-tinged booklet with impressive photo-portraits. At least one of these modern anthems - Townend/Getty's poetic 'In Christ alone' - is
already a favourite in many UK churches. It takes little foresight to predict others among this set being classed as 'timeless hymns' in years to come. Don't wait till then. Enjoy them while they're young!
Review by
tom lennie |
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