Refreshing Hope and Encouragement
Posted January 29, 2012
By KellyS, Staff Reviewer
Rachel Chan “Go”
3 Stars
Rachel Chan may be new to the music industry, but she’s no stranger to ministry. As the oldest child of world-renowned author and speaker Francis Chan, this 15 year old knows what it means to live for the Lord, and her music is evidence of this.
Co-writing every song on her debut album, Go, Chan admits, “I learned in a tangible way that relying on the Lord for my lyrics was the only way to create something productive.” As a result, every song is filled with truth and aims to encourage believers, young and old alike.
First track, “As Close” talks about how as believers, God has freed us to have a relationship with Him, but it’s up to us to determine how deep it goes. The chorus says: “We’re as close as we want to be to resting in a perfect peace, we’re as close as we want to be to God.” Though it has a catchy, pop sound, the lyrics make you stop, think, and reflect on your own walk with God.
“Prove It” is a humorous look at dating relationships and how a father’s love for his daughter can have a positive effect. Rachel sings, “I won’t believe it’s love until you prove it to my dad… he’s always loved me for better and for worse, he makes it easy to identify a jerk.” The song even features Francis Chan trying his hand at rap. It’s really a great way to look at how young girls especially, can determine whether someone is worthy of their heart.
Sung from the perspective of God, “Even Here” is a hopeful reminder that no matter what we face in life, God will never leave our side. “Don’t fear anything ‘cuz I’m here and I can bring you joy, even here I’ll bring you joy.”
Most songs on the album are upbeat and have a more energetic feel to them. However, “Show Me More” and “You Must Love Me” exhibit a more worshipful and reflective side of Chan, making the album more diverse.
“Ready and Waiting” touches on the hard decisions we sometimes have to make when our friends aren’t living the way they should. Chan sings, “I’ll be ready and waiting, here for you as soon as you find nothing satisfies your thirsty eyes, then you’ll see soon.” This is one of the more personal songs on the album, revealing Chan’s maturity and strength to never stray from her beliefs even if it means making hard choices.
Final track “Resting In You” speaks to those times in life when all we can do is wait for God to reveal the next step He has for us to take. The chorus goes, “I’m waiting here til you show me what I should do, Jesus, I’m resting in You.” Sometimes just knowing He will give us rest, is all the peace we need.
Closing Thoughts:
With all the negative music pervading the airwaves these days, Rachel Chan is a much needed breath of fresh air. With spiritually mature lyrics wrapped in a young and energetic sound, Go touches on real topics that young people face on a regular basis. Providing a message of hope and encouragement, this album paves the way for a generation wanting to stay the course God set out for them. View All Music And Book Reviews By KellyS | View KellyS's Profile
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