Hold on Tight: 3oth Anniversary Edition - Sweet Comfort Band

Hold to Jesus and the music he inspired

Hold on Tight: 3oth Anniversary Edition
Artist: Sweet Comfort Band
Label: Retroactive Records (http://www.retroactiverecords/)
Length: 11 tracks/39:51 minutes

I welcome the opportunity to acquire early Christian music. Maybe it’s because it was the soundtrack for my beginning as a believer back in August 1976.

The Jesus music of the late seventies was part of a move of God among the counter-culture. Chuck Smith and Calvary Chapel were part of it. Sweet Comfort Band (SCB) was featured on some of the early Maranatha Music (Calvary’s label) collections.

Unlike many of their contemporaries who developed a folk-rock style, SCB also incorporated elements of funk, jazz and R&B. Those familiar with Bryan Duncan’s solo career can hear the roots of it here, as he wrote and sang lead on many of these songs.

Randy Thomas, who would go on to a career with the Christian band Allies, and later co-write the mega-hit “Butterfly Kisses” with Bob Carlisle (also former Allies), is another major contributor.

SCB released a total of six albums, five of them now available through Retroactive Records. If you like SCB or early Christian music, get them while you can. Judging from past reissues of Christian music, they may never be found again, unless they become available on iTunes. By the way, some of the early Jesus music not previously available, like The Way, Paul Clark, Gentle Faith and more, can now be found at iTunes.

Last month, Derek Walker, a fellow Phantom Tollbooth writer reviewed SCB’s Breakin’ the Ice. Check out the review as he did an excellent job of briefly summarizing how the five SCB reissues compare. I defer to his judgment that Hold on Tight, which followed Breakin’ the Ice, was a low point among the band’s releases. The latter being a high point.

Though Hold on Tight may have been less dynamic, there is plenty to like. “Don’t Tell Me You Love Me” is classic Bryan Duncan. It has that feel-good R&B vibe and lyrics that recall the words of the prophet Isaiah: “This people honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from me” (Matt. 15:8 ESV). It’s written from God’s point of view: Don’t sing me your songs and tell me you love me, if you won’t give me your heart.

Several tracks including the aforementioned contain horns from Seawind, another early Christian group, and even strings. This, along with the style and musicianship, make this more mature musically then many of the early Christian recordings.

The harmonies and vocals are great. Three of the four band members contribute. Richie Furay sings background vocals on “Carry Me,” another highlight, and has the first guitar solo.

Early Christian music could sometimes suffer artistically from being too message-driven, but that emphasis can also be endearing. Jesus music artists were foolish enough to believe that God could use the lyrical content of their songs; their pointed messages are a refreshing contrast to the vagueness that has become more prevalent. Some of the songs on this CD are aimed at those searching for the truth; others encourage perseverance and not letting go of faith, as in the title track, “Hold on Tight.”

There is a simplicity and first-love kind of spirit in early Jesus music. Some of that spirit animates these songs. It’s worth hearing, and perhaps those of us who are Christians can consider how we can recapture some of that childlike faith and wonder, if we have let it slip away. I’m glad to have this early document from one of Christian music’s most popular bands.

Go Tell Somebody (Limited Edition – Remastered) - Commissioned

Timeless truths make this still relevant today

Go Tell Somebody (Limited Edition – Remastered)
Artist: Commissioned
Label: Retroactive Records
Length: 8 tracks/37:47 minutes

Listening to Go Tell Somebody by Commissioned helps to rectify a deficiency in my knowledge of Christian music. Having been raised on pop and rock, my early exposure to gospel music did not go much beyond hearing Andre Crouch & the Disciples. That was in the late 1970’s.

In 1982, six guys from Detroit, including gospel luminary Fred Hammond, formed Commissioned. The group recorded 11 albums between 1984 and 2002. Among the lineup changes along the way was the addition of another widely-recognized gospel artist, Marvin Sapp, in 1991.

Go Tell Somebody (1986) was the group’s second release on Light Records, which reached number two on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums list. It fuses R&B, traditional gospel, 80’s pop, and a little funk and inspirational, with passionate vocals and smooth harmonizing.

The stated purpose of the recording is to uplift listeners and let them know that no weapon formed against them will prosper. The group succeeds admirably with lyrics that reflect a mature Christian perspective that is uncommonly bold and informed by Scripture. “Who Do Men Say I Am” has a grand, epic vibe ending with references from Isaiah 53. “Go Tell Somebody” encourages continually thinking about the lost. “Love Isn’t Love” features smooth as silk vocals reminding us that we have not loved until we have helped someone else.

The solid, spiritual truths surpass much of what you hear today. This will especially appeal to those who like music with substance.

Even with the remastering, the music sounds a little dated, which is to be expected on a recording more than 20 years old. Overall, it holds up well in part because the R&B/gospel style may be more timeless than pop and rock. The arrangements and production are also excellent.

The catchy music and the timeless truths make this still relevant today.

Ordinary Just Won't Do: 20th Anniversary Edition (Remastered) - Commissioned

Classy gospel music from a pioneer group

Ordinary Just Won’t Do: 20th Anniversary Edition (Remastered)
Artist: Commissioned
Label: Retroactive Records
Length: 10 tracks/42:15 minutes

The group Commissioned epitomizes style and substance. There is nothing ordinary about Ordinary Just Won’t Do. It’s classy right down to the album cover and CD label.

I can’t help wondering, if their smooth and intricate vocal harmonies, and their winsome combination of R&B, pop, funk and inspirational, made them forerunners for gospel artists that have followed, and have, like them, enjoyed crossover appeal. This CD reached #4 on Billboards’ Top Gospel Albums list.

From within, the group gave birth to the solo careers of two members who have become familiar names in gospel music: Fred Hammond and Marvin Sapp. That’s not to take away anything from the others who helped produce music that is recognized as being ahead of its time.

Ordinary Just Won’t Do, originally released in 1989, is the second Commissioned recording reissued by Retroactive Records. This sounds a little more sophisticated and mature then Go Tell Somebody, which was first issued in 1986. With the remastering, and the progress in recording during the three-year period between the two releases, this is nearly on par sonically with what you hear today.

Aside from a welcome variety of styles, slick production, excellent arrangements and songwriting, like the previous reissue it’s the strong spiritual content that stands out. What we so often hear today seems watered-down in comparison. The title song, a ballad, and perhaps the most outstanding track, is a prime example. On it the group unashamedly proclaims that Jesus alone is the answer to our problems: “Only Jesus Christ can supply your need.” Commissioned is bold with the truth.

Their lyrics alternate between challenge and comfort. One song can be like a pillow for a weary head while the next is a summons to live the life.

They inspire faith toward that end by continually drawing upon Scriptural truths, and yet it does not come across as preachy. “If My People,” which is derived from 2 Chronicles 7:14, is not the inspirational ballad one might expect from the subject matter. A funky groove complements the exhortation to get it together so that God can bless us. “Back in the Saddle” makes use of a forceful rap, solid drumming and another infectious groove to encourage keeping on.

We need these spiritual affirmations, which are often missing from modern music. Twenty years later this is still fresh and inspiring. Both reissues are worthwhile investments for those who enjoy gospel music.

The Meaning of the Pentateuch: Revelation, Composition and Interpretation - John H. Sailhamer

More about hope

The Meaning of the Pentateuch: Revelation, Composition and Interpretation
Author: John H. Sailhamer
Publisher: IVP Academic
Pages: 632

A thought expressed by F. W. Boreham comes to mind when I think about The Meaning of the Pentateuch by John H. Sailhamer. Let your mind roam along new lines. Are you given to astronomy? Pick up a book on botany. If mathematics is your thing, a study of psychology may be in order. If you can’t get enough conversation, take the time to make friends with books. We are the richer when we break away from habitual ways of relating.

When it comes to studying the Bible, my preference in the Old Testament might be Psalms, Ruth or one of the Prophets. Studying the first five books of the Bible, commonly known as the Pentateuch, is further down the list. This book goes against my natural inclination, but I sensed my need to know more about the purpose of this section of Scripture. How many Christians are at a loss to know what to make of the Old Testament? I suspected this book would provide help.

I discovered that John H. Sailhamer is an excellent guide. He is a professor at Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary in Brea, CA. This book is for his students.

As with any author or person, our greatest strengths can be an area of vulnerability. Sailhamer’s lifetime of study make this a scholarly work. His familiarity with historical analysis and recent studies, make this a valuable resource, one that would be a fine addition to any theological library. His insights open new vistas, but readers not inclined toward the technical may become impatient with his exhaustive treatment. Though the book is written for academics and serious students, a patient reader will find this rewarding.

Sailhamer is evangelical, orthodox and precise. Though some ideas may be debatable, his analysis and commentary is on the mark. Sailhamer draws rich meanings from texts through painstaking analysis, not reading into the text but letting it speak for itself. That’s part of the benefit of this book, watching someone rightly divide the Word of Truth.

Sailhamer focuses on the final form of the Pentateuch, rather than the history behind the text. He believes that the meaning lies in the text itself, something that modern critical analysis has moved away from.

Most Christians associate the Pentateuch with the Law. Though it comprises a significant part, Sailhamer demonstrates, to my delight, that in addition to “obedience to the Mosaic law,” the Pentateuch is about “living by faith.” Think Abraham and Moses. The former was an example of faith that the apostle Paul references in the New Testament. The latter failed to keep the law and was kept out of the Promised Land. Is the Pentateuch more about the failure of the old and the hope for something new?

Sailhamer seeks to get at the author’s original intent by exploring in detail the compositional strategy of the Pentateuch. Especially revealing are the compositional seams that link together narrative sections and collections of laws. Four major sections of poetry form the core of these seams and provide critical insight and commentary.

Sailhamer concludes that the Pentateuch is about “the prophetic hope of a new covenant. At the center of that hope, and extending to the whole of the Pentateuch, is the role of the king from the house of Judah who will reign over Israel and the nations.”

Sailhamer’s slow and deliberate enfolding of this meaning is beautiful to behold and has forever changed the way I look at these poetry sections.

This book is also valuable in showing how a Christian should relate to the entire Old Testament. How are we to view it, and what is still binding?

This study shows the benefits of grappling with subjects that are not as appealing but with sustained effort yield meaning that can be like a bloom in an unexpected place.

Hymnastics - Brad Hooks

Hymns as you have never heard them

Hymnastics
Artist: Brad Hooks (http://www.bradhooks.com/) and (http://www.calvaryd.org/)
Label: Independent
Length: 11 tracks/45:49 minutes

If Hymnastics by Brad Hooks makes you think of gymnastics your thought matches the cover design, which includes sketches of gymnasts in various poses. Maybe it’s a reflection of Hooks’ acrobatic maneuvers with some of Christendom’s most venerated texts. He puts these verses through widely creative and intricate contortions along the lines of Sufjan Stevens minus the horns. His use of programming and modern beats reminds me of David Crowder.

As a singer, he covers a wide range. One moment his falsetto sounds like Brit-rock; the next he is warbling (and whistling) like Andrew Bird.

Hooks succeeds admirably in updating hymns like no one before him. He also adds a couple of excellent original songs that fall in the contemporary worship category. Chris Tomlin should checkout “All Blessing” for one of his future releases.

For a generation that doesn’t know or appreciate hymns the last thing you want is for them to sound dated. Hooks’ attention to detail keeps that from happening. He infuses these classics with a fresh vigor by varying the music styles, which makes this fascinating and anything but boring. Some songs get a radical makeover with new melodies and even added words.

The most traditional sounding is “Blessed Assurance,” which relies on keyboards that fluctuate between more and less. It feels like the right touch for this dearly-loved composition from Fanny Crosby, who though blind could see more than many who have sight.

Getting back to the gymnastic analogy, this isn’t just a fun exercise. It breathes a spirit of worship, which is what these songs have always been about. They are not diminished by Hooks innovative production, just reinterpreted for new listeners.

Hooks has the talent to make this a series, but he also demonstrates proficiency in modern worship. He serves as the music director for Calvary Chapel Montebello and tours as a worship artist. It will be interesting to see what he does next.

I like hymn releases because I enjoy new versions of these classics. From my growing collection, I can’t think of any that sound more modern, original and creative than this.

Wide Open Spaces - FFH

Their most significant recording

Wide Open Spaces
Artist: FFH (http://www.ffh.net/)
Label: Independent/62 Records
Length: 10 tracks/41:25 minutes

I wish I had more recordings like Wide Open Spaces by FFH. It must be their most personal and honest recording. It’s a reflection of what FFH, after taking a three-year sabbatical, has become: an extension of Jeromy and Jennifer Deibler, chronicling their recent highs and lows.

You might be surprised by the theme of brokenness, which is why you won’t hear some of these songs on Christian radio. It’s unfortunate that Christians are sometimes shielded from unpleasant or controversial subjects. It may be a reflection of our reluctance to embrace suffering as part of the Christian life. When I hear songs like these, I feel a little less alone and crazy. Those who live under cloudless skies may find it harder to relate, but their perspective might change when their hard times come. At the very least, this may encourage them to take up their cross and empathize with the less fortunate.

Don’t let talk about suffering scare you off. This is not a heavy and melancholy recording. The sound is the FFH that many have come to know and love: gorgeous husband and wife harmonies, a strong pop sensibility and familiar music that sounds more mature and better than ever. There are lighter moments; particularly the celebration of the couple’s deepened relationship on “Hold on to Me” and “The Time of My Life.” The former has such a winsome-sounding chorus. The Deiblers know how to make great pop.

The opening “Undone” and “Wide Open Spaces” soar with a rock edge. The latter was co-written by veteran Christian music writer, Chris Eaton. Mia Fields helped write “Undone” and “What if Your Best,” two of the strongest tracks. Another recognizable co-write is Jill Paquette on “Who I’m Gonna Be.” Jennifer takes the lead on this song and a couple of others and is excellent.

What distinguishes this from past efforts is the lyrical depth, which stems in large part from Jeromy’s MS diagnosis in 2007. That and the break from FFH, which included spending six months of anonymity in South Africa, and the birth of their second child radically changed their perspective. The songs that emerged were unlike anything they had written before.

The idea that the best art comes from an artist’s pain is debatable, but there’s no denying that this is the most significant recording of their career. How often do you find an album whose theme is brokenness and becoming undone? It’s a little like Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s interpretation of Christ’s call as an invitation to come and die.

This takes our humanity into account by being realistic about our trials and struggles. This is the soundtrack I need when I’m down and hurting. It encourages surrender rather than running.

This is a strong return for the Deiblers, who more than ever have something to say. This is art born in the crucible of life, which makes it all the more impacting.

Life in the Trinity: An Introduction to Theology with the Help of the Church Fathers - Donald Fairbairn

Sharing in the life of the Trinity

Life in the Trinity: An Introduction to Theology with the Help of the Church Fathers
Author: Donald Fairbairn
Publisher: IVP Academic
Pages: 248

Has the Church made too much of the Trinity? Reading Life in the Trinity by Donald Fairbairn makes me realize that this doctrine is crucial and practical.

What is the heart of Christian life? Fairbairn suggests “part of the answer is that a life reflecting the love Jesus has shown for us lies close to the heart.” He sees “first and foremost, then, Christian life is a process of abiding in Christ, of relying on him, of recognizing and maintaining one’s connection to him in all aspects of life.”

To take it further, and where the real beauty of this book lies, is seeing our relationship with Christ in terms of his relationship with the Father and the Holy Spirit. Fairbairn writes, “He (Christ) is offering himself to us as a person, that we might share in his most deeply personal relationship, the relationship he has with God the Father.” Seen in this context, the Christian life is a sharing in the life of the Trinity. This is the scarlet thread that runs through every chapter.

Fairbairn expertly walks readers through Trinitarian theology, which is fascinating, but his most important work is sharing relational and practical implications. He makes it clear that the worth of everyone lies in our being made in the image of God. “Christianity teaches us that our significance does not ultimately lie in what we accomplish or what we do: it lies in the one to whom we belong,” he writes. “Our significance is not something that can be earned; it is something given to us by God.”

He is also a wise guide into the thought of the Church fathers. He makes judicious use of their writings, to inform modern perspectives that can be lacking. He draws most from four Patristic writers: Irenaeus of Lyons, Athanasius of Alexandria, Augustine of Hippo and Cyril of Alexandria. Readers get some of their most fruitful and biblical thoughts.

The only time I felt unsure of Fairbairn was his discussion of John 6 where Jesus enjoins eating his flesh and drinking his blood. Fairbairn sees this as a reference to celebrating the Eucharist. He notes that “the early church saw its regular celebration of the Eucharist as crucial to believers’ continuation in Christian life.” He adds, “To say that the Eucharist is central is to imply that communal worship in general is central to the cultivation of people’s relationship to the Father and the Son.” He closes this section by observing that “in the mind of the early church, cultivating a direct relationship to Christ was not by any means an individual task. It involved the entire community of faith, as well as the devotion of each individual…. Life in the Trinity is life in the church and involves regular participation in the worship and the mysteries Christ has entrusted to the church.”

This is not intended to be a comprehensive book in theology but rather a supplement to the more exhaustive and systematic variety.

Just catching the glimpse this book gives of the Trinity is staggering. It is also mind-boggling to realize that becoming a Christian makes us part of this triune fellowship. Being able to better see the Godhead and the beautiful relationship it engenders, makes this a lovely book.