Quality Worship From the Heart| Posted January 24, 2018
As the Worship and Creative Arts Pastor at Gateway Church in Shelbyville, Tennessee, Corey Voss fills several roles-songwriter and worship leader at the top of that list. Though Corey's may not be a familiar name to you yet, you probably already know his work, as he has writing credits with successful worship artists like Paul Baloche and Jaci Velasquez and helped pen Selah's latest hit "I Got Saved." After signing with Integrity Music in mid-2017, the multi-faced artist released his debut EP Songs of Heaven & Earth Vol. 1. Now following up with his live full-length album of the same name, Corey offers a powerful new batch of songs for the church.
Foot-tapping "The King Is Here" opens with all the energy and passion you would want to begin a worship service, setting the tone for the rest of the album. "Lift Oh Gates" follows suit, digging deeper into the power of Christ with its lyrics while staying pleasantly upbeat. Previously released on Corey's independent records, "Praise The King" brings an atmosphere of worship and resolve: "Praise the King / death's defeated, hallelujah, He's alive."
Putting his own vocal work on songs he had a hand in bringing to life for other artists, Corey's reverent versions of Jaci Velasquez's "God Who Moves The Mountains" and Selah's "I Got Saved" find a home here. Co-written by fellow Integrity artist Alisa Turner and also appearing on her album, "As It Is In Heaven" serves as a bold prayer.
Diving back into the more lively side of things, vibrant "Nothing Is Impossible" proves to be a highlight on the album with its resilient message of faith. An intimate longing for more of Christ, "Canyons" and "Don't Ever Let Me Go" both fill spots as impactful worship moments before closing with equally strong "You Promised."
While it may be too early in the year to begin making "best of" statements, I feel confident in saying that Songs of Heaven & Earth will be a leading contender for worship album of the year. Every moment from beginning to end feels beautifully heartfelt, inviting the presence of God through well-written lyrics and melodies that stick in your heart from first listen. For a debut release, it's impressive that Corey is already crafting worship anthems that stand up with the greats in both quality and authenticity.
The Bottom Line: With every piece flowing perfectly into a well-rounded effort, Corey Voss's Songs of Heaven & Earth is one worship album that I won't soon forget.
For Fans Of: Alisa Turner, Elevation Worship, Iron Bell Music
Song To Download Now:
"Nothing Is Impossible" (Get it on iTunes here.)
to add lyrics if not listed.
