NEW MUSIC
Singable melodies , a Gospel choir and infectious instrumentation makes this simple song of praise the perfect celebratory opener for any worship gathering .
“ House Of The Lord ” follows keeping the energy up as worship leader , Phillipa Hanna lends her soulful vocals to this rootsy southern Gospel laden anthem that triumphantly proclaims that there is power in the house of the Lord when we gather to worship . The song speaks boldly of the power Christ has over evil and darkness ; “ Here in the house of the Lord , there ’ s no room for shame anymore , and fear you better pack your bags and go you ’ re not welcome so walk out the door ”.
“ Wait On The Lord ” brings the musical energy back a bit from the opening tracks as Aaron Baxtor sings with reverence and honesty about how we need to always be waiting on the Lord to speak and direct us .
“ Jesus Loves Me ” is a mellow piano ballad recalling the sacrifice that Christ made on the cross which was the only true way Christ should show the full extent of His love . The album wraps with the powerful female combination of Phillipa Hanna and Grace Olangunju who together blow the roof of the place with the African-esque “ None Like Jehovah ”.
I really enjoyed a few of these songs by Life Church . It is evident that they are listening to the sounds and music of people who are part of their faith community who are from different parts of the world and tapping into the culture , sound and feel of those countries and experiences to create something unique and beautiful . I would have enjoyed a song or two that showcased more depth of thought and Biblical knowledge as most of the lyrics were a tad on the simple , surfacy side . Still , there are some nice moments here that you and your congregation might enjoy .
PAUL BELL Arrows
1 . Heaven High 2 . Fire Fall 3 . Worth It All 4 . Known and Loved 5 . Bring It All 6 . When I See Jesus 7 . Scars ( O What Love ) 8 . Anything Can Happen 9 . Rule In My Heart 10 . Better Than Mine
Paul Bell is a song writer and worship leader in the UK who for years was a studio musician who had always wanted to write worship anthems . His debut album , Arrows was released a few months ago featuring ten newly penned songs of vertical praise that are already getting plenty of notice both in the UK and here in the states .
At first listen , Paul Bell reminds this reviewer a lot of a young Matt Maher or Pat Barrett with his gravelly , robust tenor vocal tone . Musically , I would say he fits into more of the pop / rock genre with definite UK musical influence and sound with just a bit of modern techno thrown in to keep things interesting .
Thematically , the tracks on Arrows reminds the listener of the perfect love of Christ that was played out in the upper room , on the cross and through the resurrection and that nothing can ever change that love that our God has for us .
“ Worth It All ” is a clever reworking of the parable of great price found in Matthew 13 while “ Scars
( O What Love )” explores the wonder of an unexplainable love by a Savior who poured out his life to pay the ultimate price for sin .
“ Heaven High ” is a gem of an opener with its big anthemic rock feel , incredible guitar work and rhythmic drums creating a tsunami of powerful and inspiring worship . I could easily see my own congregation singing this at full throat on Sunday morning and enjoying every word and note .
The theme of sacrifice through praise comes through loud and clear as worship leader Cathy Burton lends her wispy harmonies in this tender and honest song of surrender .
I enjoyed this first effort from Paul Bell . The term “ less is more ” rose to the surface as I listened to these simple songs of praise . The mix was not over produced , the musicians were solid throughout and these are songs definitely written for the local church . In future releases , I would like to see Paul dig a little deeper into some meaty sections of scripture and take a few more musical risks as some of the songs began to run together in the back half of the album .
Gerod Bass Worship leader in Tacoma , WA . Mentor with Worship Catalyst . Singer , songwriter , guitarist with a passion for impacting lives for the sake of the Gospel . www . oslc . com
20 December 2024 Subscribe for Free ...