- Some people criticize Christian music way too much and are resolved to hear nothing good, true, or beautiful in it.
- Some people criticize Secular music way too much and are resolved to hear nothing good, true, or beautiful in it.
Is there a balance?
Worship Podcast & Blog
Is there a balance?
Some of these albums came out in 2008, and others I bought in 2008 and loved. These are in no particular order.
Angels & Airwaves – “I Empire”
Derek Webb & Sandra McCracken – “Ampersand EP”
Fleet Foxes – “Fleet Foxes”
Future of Forestry – “Advent Christmas EP”
Hammock – “Maybe They Will Sing For Us Tomorrow”
Ian Mcintosh – “Awakened”
Johnny Parks Band – “Break the Silence”
Mogwai – “The Hawk is Howling”
The Myriad – “With Arrows, With Poise”
Sigur Ros – “Med sud i eyrum vid spilum endalaust”
What were your favorite albums?
Most of you reading this have probably never heard of Eoghan Heaslip. The first question you are probably asking is, “How the heck do you pronounce that name?” It is pronounced “Owen” and I would love to introduce you to his music. I have followed Eoghan’s music for a number of years – from the independent “Deeper Still” to the live “Powescourt” album with David Ruis to the Integrity released “Mercy” and “Grace in the Wilderness”. There are a number of things I appreciate about his music: It’s saturated in scripture, contains unique phrasing, is very passionate, and his delivery is contagious.
Eoghan’s new album “Wonderful Story” is his first studio album in a number of years and contains the production wizardry of Nathan Nockels, most well-known for his production of the “Passion” worship albums. Nathan is the master of acoustic pop production in Christian music; some may even say he overproduces. I happen to love how well thought out it is – every instrument is tight and layered beautifully for a compelling ‘radio friendly’ sound.
Eoghan’s songs are really strong here. I’m finding myself challenged as I listen. There really is not a bad song here, which in my opinion makes a great album. I love the lyrical simplicity of the opening rocker, “This is Our Story”, which states succinctly, “This is our story…Jesus died for you, for me“. Most noteworthy is the deeply personal “What You’ve Called Me To”. Try and listen to this without crying – “This is going to take the whole of my life. This is going to take my every breath. But I know it’s true. There’s nothing to fear in what You’ve called me to.” This song really connects my heart with what I want to say to Jesus. I also can’t get enough of “The King Has Come”. Strong theological expressions of Christ’s reign with melodic phrasing that is really fresh. I can’t get enough.
Eoghan is currently the worship director for New Wine UK, and worship leader at St. Paul’s Ealing, London. This is worship music born from the battlefield.
For more info, check out his website. Head over to iTunes to purchase. It’s worth it.
A few glimpses of pure awesomeness:
Future of Forestry Advent Christmas EP – This is really fantastic. If you have not bought this yet, you need to. My only complaint may be that they didn’t include any originals. Then again, do you need original Christmas songs? With music this good, I don’t think so. My #1 holiday pick this year.
Sufjan Stevens Songs for Christmas – Pure genius. This music captures the wonder of childlike simplicity, love for Jesus, and hilarious randomness. Lots of music to keep you occupied here. This will become a great tradition for you. Nobody is making music like Sufjan. Go download a few free songs.
The Violet Burning Divine – For fans of the VB, this is a treat. Two words sum up the VB for me – rock and honesty. This is beautiful rock n roll. They’re giving it away for free on their website, or you can support them for $10. I’m a fan of that.
Sojourn Advent Songs – This is a beautiful recording. Sojourn is making great worship music that is very theological, stirring, and well done. Very fresh. Head to their site and download a few free songs as well.
Sleeping At Last – For the past few years SAL has been offering a free Christmas song around Christmas time. Head over here to listen and download. Sleeping at Last makes some of the best music out there. These Christmas tunes are gentle, nostalgic, and beautiful.
Raw recording, but beautiful. I love the Album Leaf for their electronics, relaxing sound, and, of course, the rhodes. Pretty cool backdrop as well. Enjoy.