Described by the artist as being written for electric guitar, this is a great Christian Rock album. "Fortress" has some songs which sound more heavy than others, while also containing songs that are lighter and sweet. Therefore, this album hits all the right notes for the themes contained (the life of faith) and is supremely focused on strength through faith in Christ. Contains themes from the Psalms about spiritual warfare, "the good fight" of faith in Christ and being strong in this faith we have been given.
This album's music style (Rock that sometimes gets a bit funky) is a perfect vehicle for Ward's characteristic and unique vocal style which has been described as soulful and exhibits a very wide range coupled with a great sense of rhythm. He started out as one of the pioneers of Jesus Music, and on this album he does something truly remarkable and unique, but sadly didn't make another album like this one. Every song on the album is equally strong, making it a masterful expression of many years in CCM by this point (1990).
A noteworthy song on the album is the title track, "Fortress" which starts out with Ward reading aloud from the end of Psalm 143 (verses 9 through 12) and then seamlessly continuing to read the beginning of Psalm 144 (verses 1 & 2), a dramatic and powerful introduction to what follows. Then Ward launches into the song powerfully, which is ultimately a unique version of Martin Luther's "A Mighty Fortress is Our God", that old hymn that is known as the battle anthem of the Reformation and was inspired by Psalm 46.
Somehow, Ward in his inspiration from God takes this old hymn, as well as the Psalms mentioned (46, 143, 144), and these potent seeds become the inspiration for a heavy hitting, powerful and fresh anthem of faith and victory through Christ alone. Praise God & thanks to Him for His servant, Matthew Ward. This album is not to be missed. This song should be remembered especially. God bless you!
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