STYLE: Roots/Acoustic RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 159332-23524 LABEL: Towhee FORMAT: Digital Only Album
Reviewed by Joy Attmore
The Psalms have to be one of the most well-read books of the Bible with their honest, raw and poetic songs giving words to our humanity and relationship with God in a way that we can often struggle to. In McCracken's 12th solo album, she has dedicated her gift as a music minister to delve deeper into these ancient songs and adapt them for a 2015 audience. This new work is clearly not just the result of McCracken having a bright idea, but comes from spending time marinating and encountering God in these songs and poems, only lifting them off of the page when they were ready to be sung. In a recent interview with The Gospel Coalition the singer said, "These are sacred, borrowed words, with new melodies to help draw the longing and joy up out of our hearts and onto our lips, as we watch and wait to see his story come in its fullness." The first song on the album, "All Ye Refugees" (also included as a bonus track featuring Chelsey Scott on the bonus edition of the album) is a particularly poignant song in light of the refugee crisis that Europe is currently facing. Music group All Sons & Daughters also feature on McCracken's album both with their writing skills as well as vocally and musically, as on "Almighty God". "We Will Feast In The House Of Zion" is another highlight and is quickly becoming much sung in congregational worship. Overall this is a beautifully crafted album and one of the best ever attempts to bring a new set of musical clothes to the psalmists' timeless lyrics - a quality project from vocals and production right the way through to the photography and design of the digital booklet.
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