Search - Christ Community College Ministry :: Indelible Grace I

Great hymns with tunes to suit our day

mtlimber | Orlando, FL | 08/29/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"When it comes to music to be sung corporately, I tend to be logo-centric and focus on the words more than the tune. These songs, which are old hymns - some beloved and well-known, some obscure - by the likes of Charles Wesley, Augustus Toplady, John Newton, and William Cowper, for instance, are rich in imagery, biblically solid, and have meaningful words which both proclaim the grace of God and elicit praise and thanksgiving from the worshipers. Part of the stated purpose of "Indelible Grace" is "to help the church recover the tradition of putting old hymns to new music for each generation," and that they have done well. How much better does their acclamation of "Arise, My Soul, Arise!" capture urgency of Wesley's self-adjuration, for how can one whom Christ has drawn linger in guilt when "before the throne [his] Surety stands"? And what wonderfully assuring words we're given in the lines: "Yes, I to the end shall endure / As sure as the earnest is given / More happy but not more secure / The glorified spirits in heaven." In my experience, one can profitably meditate on the words herein. Though the album is performed by a college ministry, it does not at all betray its unlikely origins. It surpassed my expectations and is done remarkably well. Indeed, most of the artists have their own recording contracts (go figure, them belonging to a church near Nashville and all). I will admit, I did not like some of the new tunes at first (e.g., "And Can It Be") because I was familiar with and so enjoyed singing the old ones in church and in the shower, but they grew on me. I did not initially care for their rendition of "O the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus," but now I can't imagine it being done any better (Katy Bowser's sound reminds me of Alanis Morrisette). I recommend this album for private devotion or to give new songs and ideas for public worship, especially if you are already familiar with the songs. I am also much pleased that this group has recorded a second album, which Amazon does not yet carry. Look into that one, too!"

WILL CHANGE YOUR VIEW ON HYMNS

mtlimber | 07/16/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you grew up singing hymns (or not) that made you feel as though you must have been living in a parallel universe because you couldn't "connect" with them, this is most definitely a must-buy for you and your contemporaries. The solid lyrical content is there, but the tunes are crafted in such a way as to relate to everybody from baby boomers to pre-teens. The tunes are not cheezy (like too many contemporary Christian songs and choruses), but are in the folk-alternative style, and delivered with as much passion and skill as you will ever hear. And, they are all easy to listen to. The musicianship is top-notch, and it is well produced. In short, it's something you could pop into your CD and enjoy anywhere, anytime, you could give a copy to your friends, and they would thank you. Oh, yeah, and be sure to buy volume 2 of this series. It is likewise great, plus it has a song or two on it from Derek Webb (formerly of Caedmon's Call). Enjoy! Well worth your time, effort, and sheckels!"

"Grace" is Amazing!

David Dunton | 07/09/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

""Indelible Grace" places the amazing lyrics of classic hymns into music newly written for the songs. A very high standard was obviously demanded, as the result is stunningly joyful and beautiful, with impeccable production, talented musicianship, and wonderful vocals. This is a truly professional creation, and it sounds like it.In style the disc is alt-folk rock (somewhat like Caedmon's Call), with a mix of electric and acoustic guitars, bass, piano, drums/percussion spiced with accordion, mandolin, jew's harp, and harmonica. This is a masterful recording and a delightful listen, full of beautiful music and timeless lyrics. I whole-heartedly recommend it!"