A New Hallelujah: The Live Worship DVD - Michael W. Smith

Less emotional but more satisfying

A New Hallelujah – The Live Worship DVD
Artist: Michael W. Smith (http://www.michaelwsmith.com/)
Label: Provident Label Group
Length: Approximately 90 minutes

I will never forget what a friend told me in connection with Michael W. Smith’s (MWS) Worship DVD. After my friend’s dad died, he was alone and isolated. Worship DVD was a lifeline that kept him from getting lost in grief. Over and over again he would watch it with tears in his eyes. It was one of his few sources of consolation.

I remember how moved I was the first time I saw it. The opening segment and song medley are electrifying. A New Hallelujah DVD also has a dramatic opening (something characteristic of Smith’s live performances) but it doesn’t quite reach the same level of excitement.

It was also inspiring on Worship to see and hear 15,000 young people enthusiastically worshipping God on some classic contemporary praise and worship songs. A New Hallelujah is set in a larger venue (Joel Osteen’s church) with a more subdued audience.

MWS set the bar high on that first release. What it lacked technically it made up for in passion. However, in some ways, A New Hallelujah DVD is more satisfying. It’s a little more artistic. Some songs have more depth lyrically and musically, and it’s technically superior as far as the stage, lighting, sound and camera work. For those who are tired of the rapid MTV-style movement often seen in concert videos, this has a welcome relaxed pacing.

One reason the first DVD was such a phenomenon is that some of the songs, though simple, were classics. This DVD comes close to that on songs like "Mighty to Save." Smith is also in fine form on "Deep in Love With You," a signature MWS ballad addressed directly to God. Another highlight is seeing Uganda’s African Children’s Choir sing and dance in their colorful clothing.

It’s hard to replicate a prior experience. It’s best to approach this as something new rather than a continuation of an earlier event. A New Hallelujah may not be as moving, but it is rewarding for those who appreciate excellence.

This DVD will release on March 17, 2009.

(bluebird) EP - Randall Goodgame

A whimsical singer/songwriter balances world-weary sentiment with hope

(bluebird) EP
Artist: Randall Goodgame (http://www.randallgoodgame.com/)
Label: brite entertainment
Length: 6 tracks/23:09 minutes

You may have “heard” Randall Goodgame without realizing it. He’s written 15 songs for Caedmon’s Call and collaborated and sung with Andrew Peterson. In addition, he’s had three previous solo releases. His last, War and Peace (2004), included a three part ode to Charlie Brown. How can you not like someone who writes a song about that loveable loser? It’s indicative of the sometimes-whimsical nature of Goodgame’s songwriting.

On (bluebird) it’s the wistful lines that resonate. On the title song he sings, “Bluebird, bluebird, don’t you fly away. Bluebird, bluebird, don’t stay gone. Sometimes I’m up all night. Sometimes it just takes a bluebird, to write a song.” This is not about one species of our winged friends of the air. It’s a beautiful metaphor for the intense but complicated desire one feels for a lost love. It’s an extraordinary song that has more depth than the common fare about romance.

It’s also a masterpiece of pop. As it builds, every word and sound border on perfection. This and the next two tracks are my favorites. This middle-aged reviewer can relate to the struggle and world-weariness that are heard.

Goodgame’s pensive side is obvious on “All the Years.” “I’ve grown tired of all the years. I can feel my bones grinding down. I used to keep all my fears, but I've grown tired of all the years.” The chorus expresses a yearning for change and security, “Take me away; take me away my love. Can you find me a road I’ve never been on? Take me away; take me away my love. I’m tired. Can you just take me home?”

It’s the combination of longing and hope that make this such a delectable listen. You hear both on “Heaven Waits.” “Heaven waits. Heaven waits. There will be troubled times, but there will come a grace. Heaven waits. Heaven waits.” He longs for the day when he will see his Savior face to face. He imagines that “like a bird flown from the cage, all my questions (will) melt away.”

Musically, what makes this interesting is a subtle shift from the folk and Americana heard on previous releases to indie pop. Quinlan, the producer, adds light programming and fascinating production finishes that give Goodgame a slightly different sound. He has a great supporting cast that includes guitarist Andy Osenga (Caedmon’s Call), and his wife Amy once again provides backing vocals. John Catchings, the celebrated cello player, is part of the occasional strings that are heard.

The new sound is also partly due to an instrument change. Goodgame has gone back to writing with a piano rather than a guitar. He grew up with the piano, and it’s the instrument that he finds the most comfortable.

“If I had forty-two dollars, I would grant myself a loan,” Goodgame sings on the opening of “Jubilee,” the last track. At first I couldn’t comprehend what he meant by these words. Then it dawned on me that Israel’s jubilee every fifty years was the time when debts were forgiven and captives set free. It’s playful and creative way of looking forward to the time when all sorrow and suffering will cease. This is a rousing gospel song that takes a brief but delightful detour into the chorus of “Unclouded Day.” It sounds like Darwin Hobbs on an uncredited guest vocal.

Goodgame spreads his wings on this release and soars high. Grace and hope undergird the realistic perspective on the trials of life. This bird is worth repeated listens.

Steve Bell in concert with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra DVD

One of Bell’s finest moments

Steve Bell in concert with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra DVD
Artist: Steve Bell (www.steve-bell.com)
Label: Signpost Music (www.signpostmusic.com)
Length: Seven songs, and short interviews, cover approximately 48 minutes. Bonus content consists of four segments (two music videos plus two short documentaries) that chronicle Bell’s involvement in alleviating poverty.

It’s not every artist that has their songs performed by a symphony orchestra. For Steve Bell, this honor of a lifetime was captured on DVD, when he and a small band played at the Francis Winspear Centre for Music in Edmonton with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. Recorded in High Definition and mixed in 5.1 Dolby Surround Sound, this is the next best thing to being there.

As conductor Rei Hotada remembers it, neither artist or orchestra occupied the foreground with the other in the background. This is a collaborative effort where they played as one.

Much of the credit goes to pianist Mike Janzen, who did a superb job of orchestrating a selection of Bell’s best songs. He also shines on those moments when he takes a solo.

The arrangements bring new depth to compositions that were already poetic and beautiful. If you are not among the initiated, Bell is a singer/songwriter along the lines of fellow Canadian, Bruce Cockburn, whom Bell regards as an inspiration. It’s fitting that Bell’s cover of Cockburn’s “Lord of the Starfields” is included. The symphony adds majesty with brass that punctuates and strings that add delicacy.

One minor drawback for some may be the apparent made-for-TV format. You cannot watch the concert without breaks between songs. Some songs may have been cut, which might be one reason for some of the interruptions. Most breaks have Bell, band members and others providing thoughtful reflections. Paul McCartney’s most recent concert DVD was also done with interviews and commentary between songs. This format has the advantage of adding interest and variety and makes watching a concert less tedious. I also like this because it lets me learn more about the artist and the performance.

You only get a little of the dialog and storytelling that Bell is known for during the concert. One delightful exception is the funny story that introduces “Even So.” Performing with an orchestra may have made it best to keeping the talking short.

Of all the songs, the instrumental “Waiting for Aidan,” was ideally suited for orchestra arrangement since it sounds like a show tune. The symphony is broadly engaged here as it is throughout the performance. Again, Janzen deserves a lot of credit for this.

This presentation is capped-off appropriately with “Wellspring/Holy Lord,” which sounds like something right out of Handel’s Messiah. The horns in particular give it that baroque sound. Think of the piccolo trumpet solo in “Penny Lane” by The Beatles and you get an idea of the style. Getting back to the Messiah analogy, it’s almost a wonder that the crowd didn’t rise to their feet. It’s a moving piece of vocals and music.

I’ve had limited exposure to classical music, but it’s not hard for me to applaud the artistry and excellence that you get to see as well as hear. Seeing it performed makes me appreciate the music more.

Basic Christianity: 50th Anniversary Edition - John Stott

Revisit a classic of the Christian faith from a master communicator

Basic Christianity: 50th Anniversary Edition
Author: John Stott
Publisher: InterVarsity Press
Pages: 160

In searching for books at a thrift store I came across an old, well-worn copy of Basic Christianity by John Stott. Knowing that Stott is a popular and well-respected author, I debated about buying superior content in an inferior package. I regretted my decision to not buy it.

After reading Basic Christianity: 50th Anniversary Edition I realize what a strong apologetic (defense of Christianity) it provides. It’s ideal for any seeker, new Christian or anyone wanting a clear, concise presentation of a historic faith.

This new edition includes a foreword by Rick Warren. Warren’s critics have multiplied with his success. He certainly rises in my estimation when he calls this one of the rare landmark books that everyone in the world should read. Bravo Rick for using the platform that God has given you to point to another book that provides purpose for living.

Also included is a new preface by the author. He reflects on how God has used the book in the lives of others.

Along with updating the language of the original volume, Today’s New International Version replaces the Revised Standard Version text used previously. It makes the book even more readable.

The content is divided into four parts: “Who Christ Is,” “What We Need,” which deals with sin and its consequences, “What Christ has Done,” and “How to Respond.”

One of the highlights is Stott’s focus on the graveclothes in his discussion of Christ’s resurrection. He emphasizes that the position of these items was a clear indication that Jesus had risen from the dead. When those first eyewitnesses saw the position of the cloths, they knew. It’s an awe-inspiring moment.

There may be a number of books that cover the same ground and go deeper and broader, but there are few wasted words in this volume. If you love the truth of Scripture, and appreciate a straightforward presentation, you can’t help rejoicing as you read this.

The intervening years since its original publication have not diminished its power. If it’s the life that prays, it’s also what adds power to these words, which sometimes challenge. Stott has lived an exemplary life, reflected in his being recognized by Time magazine in 2005 as one of the “100 Most Influential People in the World.”

This belongs on any list of the top Christian books ever written.

If you ever come across it at a bargain price, buy it to give away, regardless of the condition. If you love what is pure and right, read this for the simple joy of being immersed in life-changing teaching. It does a Christian good, to reflect again on the old, old story of Jesus and his love.

Acoustic Storytime (Live Songs and Stories) - Jason Gray

Refreshing transparency and humor in song and story

Acoustic Storytime (Live Songs and Stories)
Artist: Jason Gray (www.jasongraymusic.com)
Label: Centricity Music
Length: 22 tracks/77:43 minutes

Acoustic Storytime by Jason Gray reminds me of the early days of Christian music. From the stage, artists shared not only songs but also their lives and stories. Real ministry took place between the set list as performers spoke honestly and intimately about their relationship with God. Back then, much of it aimed at evangelism, encouraging non-Christians to receive Jesus Christ.

On Acoustic Storytime the live songs, studio cuts and stories serve to encourage and build-up Christians. But even non-Christians will appreciate the transparency and humor found here. The songcraft and musicianship are also excellent. Everything fits together seamlessly.

What makes this unique is Gray’s perspective on weakness, brokenness and loss. He makes it all seem like gain as he talks about his speech impediment and God’s dealings in his life. He embodies and promotes the idea that “God’s strength is best seen in our weakness.”

The stories are funny and make a point without being preachy. The most hilarious is about a woman that prayed for Gray’s healing after a concert. The respectful way that he tells it says a lot about his character.

Gray reveals his whimsical side on the love song, “If I Were A Dog.” Here he imagines the benefits of being a canine in the presence of the object of his affection. Tom Petty’s “I Won’t Back Down,” reinforces the sentiment expressed on “Not Going Down,” a song about standing your ground. I can’t imagine anyone listening to this CD and not being encouraged.

A radio remix of “Everything I Own,” from All the Lovely Losers, his debut recording, is included as a bonus track. All the other songs, whether recorded live or in the studio, are just Jason and his guitar and occasional electronic enhancement. This song has other instruments, but what makes it so powerful is its expression of such a holy desire. It makes me think of Job. When he saw the holiness of God, he repented in dust and ashes. What would I give to be pure in heart? Gray answers, “I would give everything that I own.” He reminds us that life is more than passions, accomplishments and possessions.

As I listened to Gray’s dialogue, I couldn’t help wondering if this happens much today. Just when I might be tempted to think that singer/songwriter’s sharing their music and lives are disappearing, along comes Jason Gray with his wonderfully refreshing take on weakness.

Count me as one of the lovely losers and a new fan.

As Tomorrow Comes - Daniel Kirkley

Passionate inspiration and worship on a strong collection of songs

As Tomorrow Comes
Artist: Daniel Kirkley (www.danielkirkley.com)
Label: Centricity Music
Length: 6 tracks/25:18 minutes

Imagine the voice and conviction of CCM pioneer Steve Green, and the sound and style of Fernando Ortega, and you get some idea of what this sounds like. As Tomorrow Comes by Daniel Kirkley combines faith-inspired and worshipful lyrics with the sparseness of piano and cello.

It’s a production change from Let Love Win, his debut CD. Kirkley’s first love has always been the piano. This is like an intimate concert in the home where he grew up playing an upright piano. It’s where Kirkley first learned to read and write music. “I felt that it was important for each song to be a personal reflection of my life and relationship with my Heavenly Father,” said Kirkley. It adds to the power of the songs.

The spiritual depth in each track inspires faith and hope. The strong content should be no surprise when you consider that the songwriters include Matt Redman, Brooke Fraser, Fernando Ortega, Brandon Heath and Nicole Nordeman. Kirkley’s sole composition, “All is Well,” is of the same order. It’s an ideal end-of-day song and a peaceful and soothing way to closeout this six song EP.

With just two instruments, the sound may be a little too stripped-down for some, but it serves to highlight the lyrics and Kirkley’s passionate singing and performing. His version of “Give Me Jesus” has the same intensity as Fernando Ortega’s. He sings the chorus on “Lead Me to the Cross” in earnest. He communicates trust in Redman’s “God of our Yesterdays.”

This alternates between inspiration and worship, and Kirkley is adept at both. Believers will find challenge and solace in this CD.

Mombacho - Mike Janzen Trio & Friends

A collaborator with Steve Bell indulges his passion for jazz

Mombacho
Artist: Mike Janzen Trio & Friends (www.mikejanzen.ca)
Label: Signpost Music
Length: 12 tracks/77:12 minutes

My introduction to Mike Janzen comes through Steve Bell. Janzen’s classical-tinged piano playing and his orchestration on Bell’s Symphony Sessions is impressive and indicative of his talent.

On Mombacho, his sophomore release, Janzen is indulging his passion for jazz. For someone like me who has limited exposure to the genre, it’s like listening to someone sing in a foreign language. But superb craftsmanship, the warmth of a live-feel and the technical precision of a studio recording make this inviting even for the uninitiated.

This jazz evolves through plenty of improvising. It’s energetic, vibrant (not somber) and creative.

The piano-playing is like a swollen stream darting here and there on its meandering journey. I enjoy the short, odd-sounding bass solos. It’s not often that you hear them. They sound like something unhinged, twisting in the wind.

Crisp-sounding drums are also allowed brief moments of abandon. All the instruments celebrate the freedom of liberation from simple pop and rock structures.

The sound is gloriously organic with no synths or overwrought production. It is keyboards, bass and drums with occasional sax and other support. The use of organ on a couple of songs and its use as the only keyboard on the title song add interest.

Most songs extend beyond five minutes. Janzen is the primary composer with collaboration from the others. Three notable covers: "Mrs. Robinson" (Simon and Garfunkel), "All the Diamonds" (Bruce Cockburn) and "God Put a Smile on My Face" (Coldplay) get a jazz makeover.

“Masaya” and “All the Diamonds” are the only tracks with vocals.

Janzen is a master of music, who makes this a fun listen and something different.