Various Artists [CompassionArt]
Posted February 02, 2009
By christianmusicreview,
[MAIN REVIEW]
When I received this album for review it came to me with the usual press material and a word from Jay Heilman (founder of Christian Music Review) letting me know only that the album was “highly anticipated”. I, myself, hadn’t actually heard of the project before, and since I make a practice of not reading any background prior to listening to an album I'm reviewing (my way of making sure I remain unbiased toward the music), I simply went ahead, pressed play and dived head first into the music.
So today, after listening to this album for nearly a week, I finally took my first look at the accompanying press material and the album’s website before sitting down to write this review. Man, I have to tell you how surprised and incredibly impressed I was when what I had assumed was strictly an extraordinary compilation of work, turned out to be something much more special and far more reaching than I had imagined – in reality, a trend setting movement.
Separated from all of the build-up and promotion, and apart from all the surrounding buzz, the CompassionArt release is quite simply a masterpiece of worship. The genius of the album not only comes from the 19 talented artists who contributed to it and the level of creative synergy that was reached, but the way the styles converged in a unity of cause and belief. The music presented a dynamic medium for a message which I believe can only be explained by the involvement of the Holy Spirit – the album’s 20th contributor. I want to tell you unequivocally that the compositions included here are as solid and meaningful as the worthy causes they support.
The CompassionArt initiative is an artist-backed charity founded by Martin Smith of Delirious? that is (to quote the website), "dedicated to seeing works of art generate income for the poorest of the poor." The current album is a central component for the launching of the charity. By releasing all current and future rights and royalties to the music contained in the CompassionArt album, Martin Smith, Michael W. Smith, Chris Tomlin, Darlene Zschech, Paul Baloche, Steven Curtis Chapman, Stu G (Delirious?), Israel Houghton, Tim Hughes, Graham Kendrick, Andy Park, Matt Redman, Kirk Franklin, Amy Grant, Joel Houston, Leeland Mooring, Christy Nockels, tobyMac and CeCe Winans have insured that 100% of the proceeds from the sale and reproduction of their work will go directly to helping those in need.
Conclusion:
After listening to the 15 inspiring tracks and learning the story behind this incredible album, if you're not moved by CompassionArt, you're simply not alive. Go out and buy this album because one of your favorite artists is on it. Go out and buy this album because you feel compelled to play a role in carrying out the Lord’s work to help the poor and needy across the globe. Go buy this album to witness a special moment in the history of Christian Music. Go buy this album because you long to experience the Holy Spirit at work. Whatever the reason…Go out and buy this album!
For more Christian Music Reviews By Aaron, visit: http://reviewsbyaaron.com
CLOSING THOUGHTS
Not often does a Christian album come along that combines music, message and purpose in a way that transcends an album or even an industry. This one does. You don’t want to miss it.
Rating: 10 out of 10 (100%, A+)
Review written by: Aaron Hassen | Review can also be found here.
This review has been reprinted on NRT with permission from ChristianMusicReview.org. Click here to visit ChristianMusicReview.org today! View All Music And Book Reviews By christianmusicreview | View christianmusicreview's Profile
|
