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Roger Hodges fourth collection of worship songs comes lavishly produced in art work and music. This CD finds Roger once
again in the studio, with one live song thrown in for a rousing closing. On first listen I thought this is not a bad CD, to enjoy songs on first listen is always a good sign. Further listens revealed the heart of a man
sold out for Jesus! He has sat down and taken great care over the recording of this album.
There are many strong songs featured. Songs that are
singable, worshipful and could well be used by other bands looking for worship tunes to cover. The music has a Pop-Rock feel. Competently played and vocals are excellent throughout.
I played this CD over
and over again, as I did, I found small little touches that were surprising and could be missed without close listening on repeated plays.
The first song “Let the music play” has a nod to Chris Tomlin, an anthem of
praise for the redeemed! In fact Roger does sound like Tomlin, which is a great compliment! (Catch the great keyboard strings as they fade away!) “Edge of the world” is next. A harder song to get into, but I think it’s
mainly because of the amount of words, but it has an effective musical climax.
A frantic rock song called “Spinnin” is driven by maniacal guitars, and yet masterfully tied into a tight package! I could see my Youth
Group getting into this, with plenty of places for actions and dancing! (Changing keys is always a great dynamic in a song, Spinning’ has it as do at least two other tracks. It works to great effect.)
“I will Lift You
up,” is one of my favorite songs on this CD. A Small child’s voice introduces this upbeat, bouncy song that has some effective breaks and links. The chorus is excellent and has all that is needed to make a song an instant
worship favorite!
“Thanks God,” with some interesting v ocal effects, I felt that Roger was trying to do a Techno-Matt Redman song here, and it works well, has a nice intimate loving atmosphere. The last line of
the chorus, are words we should all be singing!“Thanks, God! For saving me, when I could not save myself.”
“The Voice of the Lord,” is another song with a driving beat and a strong vocal line! Dynamically leading into the chorus.
I could not help feeling that, like me, Roger listens to many other worship leaders, for I
feel Robin Mark could well have been proud to have written this song!
Space does not allow me to mention the other songs of which “Freedom Song” and “Love You,” were beautiful expressions of praise to God.
If you have not yet heard a Roger Hodges CD then this would be an excellent introduction to his music.
Review bt Bill Mason |
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