Glory Pt 2 EP - Planetshakers

Starts as the musical equivalent to the Fast & Furious

Glory Pt 2 EP
Artist: Planetshakers
Label: Venture3Media (V3M)
Length: 4 songs/25 minutes

Glory Pt 2 EP starts off as the musical equivalent to the Fast & Furious media franchise.

I’m gonna shout it out
I won’t be silent or quiet
I’m gonna let it out
For You I’m giving
All, all, all, all

The above words and music from the opening “Living Louder” highlight a neglected side of praise. This is loud, bold and intentional. Defiant praise!

The pace does not slacken on “So Good,” which follows. Towards the end the worship leader even exhorts the bass and drum players to praise the Lord with their instruments. Their intricate solos are the highlight, and the momentum never wanes.

At first I thought that the “Encounter Song,” clocking in at over 10 minutes, might be too long and repetitive. Some may find that to be the case, but on repeated listens I kept making new discoveries. Led by female voices and melodious keyboards it now strikes me as meditative and soothing, no longer seeming so long.

The music flows and ebbs like the changes in the tides.

I’m pushing through the crowd
’Cause Lord I need you now
Jesus I’m desperate
For a touch from heaven

These words remind me of the woman in Scripture that had the issue of blood. “And there was a woman who had had a discharge of blood for twelve years, and who had suffered much under many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was no better but rather grew worse. She had heard the reports about Jesus and came behind him in the crowd and touched his garment” (Mark 5:25-27 ESV).

In her desperation she pushed through the crowd to touch Jesus and was made whole. I would not be surprised to learn that the songwriter was inspired by this incident. It aptly illustrates the longing that characterizes the song.

The only music heard in the first part of “All” is a chord progression on electric guitar. Subtle textures on this instrument are added later on followed by a brief but explosive solo. This musician is certainly accomplished.

During the bridge I delight in hearing what sounds like a tin whistle in the background.

Female vocals are once again in the forefront. Unfortunately, well worn phrases detract somewhat from the mesmerizing sound. Even though it’s a common challenge in this genre I hope for better from this talented group.

This EP may not quite achieve the same heights as some of their previous work but it’s certainly close. I don’t think fans will be disappointed. There is much to commend it.