Award-winning singer-songwriter, speaker and worship leader Tanya Godsey, whose artistry occupies the space somewhere between the sincerity of Sara Groves and the passion of Bethel Music's Steffany Gretzinger, releases her third independent, full-length album, Love Lines The Last Horizon, internationally Sept. 30.
Produced by Ben Shive (Colony House, Rend Collective, JJ Heller, Mercy Me), the album is framed with Tanya's signature piano playing, fervid vocals and an array of cinematic touches paralleling the spectrum of human emotion.
The first single from the album, "We Are Your Song," released June 10 to digital retail outlets internationally. With all the proceeds from the single going to International Justice Mission, the song's compelling lyric video also garnered over 50,000 views and hundreds of shares on Godsey's Facebook page within the first 36 hours of its release.
In a culture caught up in a fury of differences, fear and uncertainty, Tanya offers Love Lines The Last Horizon as a hope-filled and timely reminder of the unflinching love of God. Her story of perseverance in hardship, faith in the face of despair, emancipation from fear and the ultimate triumph of God's love, is a mirror to the making of the album. From the hopeful ache of "All Things Right" to the worshipful anthem of "Foundation," the picture of God's love is painted in brilliant colors. See the story behind the album at this link.
"My greatest desire for this record is that it would serve as a tool for every listener as they press into their process with God, with others and the world around them," says Godsey. "I hope more than anything they're reminded that there is no place the love of God cannot reach. When we're too broken and weak to reach for Him, He is reaching, always reaching for us."
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Not Your Typical CCM Album| Posted September 27, 2016
The night before she was set to begin recording her third independent album, singer/songwriter/worship leader Tanya Godsey was awakened by sobs-- the desperate sobs of her husband, who was beginning to walk through the harsh darkness of depression and anxiety. Battling the heartache and fear that comes from watching someone you love struggle so deeply, Tanya stepped into the studio and began to work on Love Lines The Last Horizon.
Through that long, unexpected season, these songs of redemption and hope were born, and with a mix of beautiful sincerity and passion, Tanya recorded them from a place of faith. Love Lines The Last Horizon is a project built on the unwavering belief that there is a "beautiful chorus of hope being sung over us because of the Gospel, and we're invited to join in and sing redemption's song."
Tanya's raw and emotional voice opens the album with the hauntingly beautiful "Wild Love," a powerful track that will keep the listener engaged from start to finish. Poppy "All Things Right" is as lyrically strong as it is sonically, bringing Tanya's vocal to life through lines of redemption and encouragement. Hopeful "Watchmen" is a standout track here, speaking of faith in the midst of waiting on the Lord: "Oh saving light, You'll come for me / here I will wait, here You will be." Sonically creative pop tunes thrown into this pack of worship anthems, "We Are Your Song" and "Beautiful World" are fun listens.
Beginning with a gorgeous piano melody, "Quiet Street" is another lyrically stunning and thoughtful moment that displays Tanya's versatile vocal range well. "Worth The War" is a timely call to lay down our disagreements and focus on coming together in unity and love. With a beautiful string section in the background, "Anywhere You Are" is a moving piece, followed by the worshipful "Foundation," a Scripture-drenched track that focuses on His unshakable character alive in us. Closing out the album, "Open Hands" features more flawless piano melody against poetic lyrics.
Closing Thoughts:
To be honest, I wasn't familiar with Tanya's music before I started this review, but only halfway through my first listen of the album I was baffled that more people don't know about her yet. Mature, deep, poetic lyrics flow from every track (and even into the album's hopeful title), only made better by her powerhouse vocals and the creative sonic diversity we find throughout the whole album. No two songs sound the same, yet Tanya weaves a uniquely unified feel into each one by covering them with a genuine spirit and unmistakable passion. These songs come straight from the heart, and you can hear it in every note. Love Lines The Last Horizon is not your typical CCM album, but in the best way possible. If you've never heard of Tanya before, I suggest you go get this album and enjoy it--it just may be one of the best this year.
Song To Download Now:
"Worth The War" (Get it on iTunes here.)
to add lyrics if not listed.
