Can a finer tribute
to “Hallelujah” be found?
Wonder
Artist: Jean Watson
(www.jeanwatson.com)
Label: Suite 28
Records
Length: 11 tracks/44
minutes
With the recent
passing of Leonard Cohen, the instrumental of “Hallelujah,” a
bonus track on Wonder by Jean Watson, serves as an elegant
tribute. The violin playing is exquisite.
Unfortunately, the
song is only available on iTunes. Then again, better there than not
at all. It’s one of the finer moments.
Back to the violin.
It is not only proficient but soothing throughout, whether the style
is traditional Celtic or contemporary expressions of devotion and
worship. By the latter, I don’t mean the type sung in modern
worship circles. This is never that.
This is closer to
classical and folk in the singer/songwriter style.
Though the violin is
often heard, it’s not overdone. Keyboards are also prominent. There
are snatches of stylish guitar playing, and light, mostly programmed
percussion. Watson’s voice adds a delicate beauty. Neither she nor
the instrumentation is overpowering.
The mood ranges from
peaceful to worshipful and joyful. Serene also comes to mind.
“It is Well” is
an original that segues into the chorus of the popular hymn that has
the same familiar words in the title.
“Amazing Grace (My
Chains are Gone)” is indicative of the Celtic influence heard more
or less throughout. This is the version that includes the chorus
written by Chris Tomlin and Louie Giglio, and made popular by the
former.
A beautiful
guitar-driven version of the Matt Redman song, “Blessed be Your
Name” is also included. Aside from the standards, most of the
tracks are original.
I like the space
between the notes. They have room to breathe. It’s not cluttered.
It makes for a restful, God-centered experience.
I also appreciate
the sentiments expressed in the title song: “May we never lose our
wonder / Wide-eyed and mystified / May we be just like a child /
staring at the beauty of our King.” Amen, “fill us with wonder.”
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