NEW MUSIC rhythms , joyful piano motifs and joy-filled background singers that make these songs a pleasure to sing along with .
Some of the standout tracks include the opener , “ First Things First ” which reminded me of a Rend Collective tune with its bouncy rhythms and energetic hand-claps . The track is based on Jesus ’ words in Matthew 6 , we hear about the importance of keeping Jesus first in our lives and putting our trust in the one whose promises never fail .
“ Yes and Amen ” is one of the best songs on the album as we delve deep into Ephesians 1 exploring the deep theology found within . Here we are reminded that our God chose us before the dawn of time and now we belong to the Creator of the universe whose mercy endures forever as He calls us His own . The combination of rich theological truth and singable melodies will bring you to your knees .
Even though the intended audience for this collection is children and families , I honestly think this is just a great well-rounded worship album for all ages . The writing here is spot on , the songs are just different enough to keep things interesting and the mix throughout is really incredible . Shane and Shane just keep doing it right .
MATT MAHER AND LIZZIE MORGAN Song Spotlight : “ Leaning ”
The past two years have taken a physical and emotional toll on millions of people around the world as we are finally seeing a light at the end of the COVID tunnel of doom . In recent months , I have spent a lot of time thinking about what things in my own life I tend to lean on for strength and guidance during such a rough patch of life . To be honest , I am ashamed to admit that I tend to gravitate toward worldly comforts rather than resting in the promises of my Savior and His word . This is where Matt Maher ’ s newest single release , “ Leaning ” hits home with me while fervently pointing me again to the strength and unending grace of Jesus .
The song begins simply enough as Maher begins by quietly leading a group of worshipers with a chorus of the old classic “ Leaning On the Everlasting Arms ”. I absolutely love it when artists take a beloved song , keep the melody line intact and transform it into a more modern and relevant musical framework .
The melody changes with verse one as Maher confidently reminds us to say yes to the things of Jesus and no to the things of this world and as we do so to remember to lean on Christ whose promises are always true .
The chorus brings the musical energy up with its hook laden melodies as Maher confidently sings about the fellowship and divine relationship that we have with Jesus . The idea here is that when we lean fully on the everlasting arms of Christ , no matter how hard life gets , we can find true
peace . Honestly , this is one of the best chorus ’ I have heard in a while , and I couldn ’ t help but belt it at the top of my lungs after hearing it for the first time .
Powerhouse soprano Lizzie Morgan takes over the lead microphone for verse two as she sings about the unending promises of Jesus and how He never stops walking with us . The combination of her incredible vocals , the B3 organ and Maher ’ s tenor harmonies further raise the excellence level on this one .
Chorus two follows with a little bit more energy as the crescendo builds to the bridge which Lizzy begins with stripped back instrumentation . Here she points us to the idea that when we lean on Christ and concentrate on the promise of heaven , our earthly troubles seem to not weigh as heavy because of what Christ has done . The bridge then builds into an incredible celebratory anthem that leads back to a powerful chorus .
The song then goes to another alternate bridge as Morgan and Maher passionately declare ; “ What other shoulder could I lean on ? What other shoulder could I cry on ?” Which begs us to ask the question of ourselves , “ What shoulder have I ’ ve been leaning on when life gets tough ?” The answer comes when we hear the final chorus and I am reminded that Jesus is the only answer for true peace and promise .
Honestly this is one of my top songs of not only this year , but maybe ever . This is a song I cannot wait to teach my congregation and you should definitely check it out .
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