NEW MUSIC
ANNE WILSON & CROWDER Song Spotlight “ My Jesus ”
“ Carol Of The Bells ” is an incredibly conceived musical creation that is part movie track , part show tune with a dash of Trans-Siberian Orchestra that shows off the arranging and writing prowess of Highlands Worship .
“ O Come All Ye Faithful ” is probably the most traditional arrangement of the Christmas classics on the album but the female lead vocals by Miss Alabama Jessica Proctor Gilmore are absolutely gorgeous and I was ready to stoke up the fire , grab a hot chocolate and set up the Christmas tree after listening to this track alone .
“ The First Noel ” begins simply with a traditional arrangement with piano and orchestra but then out of nowhere the arrangement flips on its head to a more soulful feel as the instrumentation and key changes before resolving to more of a triumphant climax . While I appreciated the creativity of such a drastic musical change , it kind of ruined the song for me personally , but some may really enjoy this out-of-the-box arrangement .
Christmas albums are tricky because rarely do you find collections that do justice and give honor to the classics while at the same time being just creative enough to remind the listener of the wonder and awe of the season . Comfort and Joy is a very nice mix of the two and these songs are not only great for personal listening to get you into the Christmas spirit , but will provide some great resources as you plan your holiday services .
The word ‘ uncertainty ’ is a word that we have heard over and over again with regards to experiencing life in the midst of a pandemic . People all around the world are dealing with unprecedented loneliness , sadness and isolation because of uncertain circumstances . They need hope , they need Jesus . Enter country music newcomer , Anne Wilson who wrote “ My Jesus ” after her brother died in a terrible car crash and the sudden call God put on her life to lead people to the saving power of Christ through her music . “ My Jesus ” is a song about how to let Christ overcome our uncertainties and it is a song we should all be singing at the top of our lungs .
Crowder begins the song by setting up the need for a savior in verse one as his syrupy vocal asks a few poignant questions of the listener ; “ Are you past the point of weary ? Is your burden weighin ’ heavy ? Is it all too much to carry ?” These are all relevant questions that set up the rest of the song well and right off the bat , connect people ’ s immediate needs with the real answer which comes later in the verse as Crowder confidently proclaims ; “ Let me tell you ‘ bout my Jesus ”.
We then hear about how Jesus did and continues to do the impossible in the chorus including making a way where is no way , rising from the grave , saving every sinner and changing lives . The writing here is slick and creative while being wonderfully Gospel centered . We also get a big dash of hope as
we are reminded here that Jesus “ can do for you what He ’ s done for me , let me tell you ‘ bout my Jesus ”. Mixed with the southern rock vibe including slide guitar , honkey tonk piano , B3 organ and sliding violins , this might be my favorite chorus of 2021 .
Anne Wilson takes over the vocal leadership in verse 2 as she confidently sings about how Christ alone can wipe away every tear and restore broken dreams . The 2nd verse also presents the idea of true forgiveness and how Jesus works for our good in every situation before taking us back to chorus 2 . Wilson ’ s sparkling alto gives these words depth and feeling and you can tell that she sings out of a deep love for her Savior .
The bridge brings back the musical energy a bit but keeps the same question and answer format as the rest of the song . The questions though become personal as Wilson now asks herself ; “ Who would take my cross to Calvary ? Pay the price for my guilty ? Who would care that much about me ?” We all know the answer to that .
The mixture of Crowder and Wilson is something to behold . Their voices blend seamlessly and really take this song to the next level . The southern rock arrangement gives the song grit and feeling . This tune could be a fun post-confession element to be in your worship experience . Find a great female / male duo and let the Holy Spirit do the rest .
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