But finally a new recording has been released that has really caught my ear. It is by Matthew Smith called Watch the Rising Day . He has released a few CD's now under his own name .He was part of a group called Indelible Grace. They took old hymns and renewed them with contemporary sounding arrangements . Think of folk/rock in the vain of Springsteen, without the pop side.
With Watch the Rising Day he continues this excellent track record. Taking old forgotten hymns and rearranging them , adding some of his own lyrics when needed to either fill out the song or enhance the verses. But he never changes the meaning. In picking the songs to do , one thing that sets these songs apart from much of new christian songs out there , they are Christ centered and gospel affirming.
One of my favorite songs is The War . Talking about the real struggle we have has a believer after conversion. The lyrics are poignant and blunt . Not making light of the fact we do struggle with sin. The idea that we are at war with the flesh , the world and the Devil. But it is one of triumph , pointing to Christ as our victor .
Another tune Goodnight ,sung form the perspective of a dying saint, is a sad song in some ways. It does not diminish the fact of loss but at the same time it builds towards a triumphant crescendo . It is very moving and powerfully reminds us that death does not have the final say .It is the Lord Jesus Christ who has conquered , in Him we are secure.
I could go on, but needless to say ,this will be a CD that will be spending time in my player. It is so refreshing to hear these old unknown hymns brought back to life . Matthew Smith has done another great job .
Plus I love the picture , cool.
1 comment:
Can't wait to hear the whole thing. You've showed me some of the old songs that he's redone, very good. Have to listen to it this weekend. Love you, Mrs Reg
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