A Classic In Every Way
Posted April 14, 2015
By KevinDavis_NRT, Staff Reviewer
I've been listening to Amy Grant for over 25 years, as I first heard "El-Shaddai," "Thy Word" and "Tennessee Christmas" when I was in high school. Like many avid Christian music collectors, I agree that 1988's Lead Me On was one of the most influential albums in the history of Christian music. Amy truly paved the way for all female artists and today I hear her influence in some of my favorite artists, including Sara Groves, Britt Nicole and Francesca Battistelli.
Be Still and Know -- Hymns & Faith is a fresh take on the timeless hymns of the church. Modern arrangements, new choruses and sometimes-complete re-imaginations help these deep and meaningful songs shine.
Featuring new recordings "Power in the Blood" and "Be Still and Know" in addition to other classics "Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus," "Holy, Holy, Holy" and the heartfelt anthems "Carry You," "El Shaddai" and "Deep as it is Wide," Amy's soaring yet intimate voice take us on a journey to "Be Still and Know" that He is God.
Whatever struggle or depression you are facing, you can know that God is with you always. The comfort and rest offered by Jesus is beautifully captured in "Carry You," where Amy softly and tenderly sings "lay down your burdens, I will carry you, I will carry you, my child, my child."
I know that many of us struggle with the idea that our past and present mistakes are unforgivable, yet the Bible tells us that isn't true. Read the great translation in The Message of Matthew 11:28-30. Jesus tells us "Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest." What an amazing comfort to know that when we struggle with our pain, pride and unloving natures, we can all lay it at the feet of Jesus.
"Deep as it is Wide" was written by Eric Paslay, and he and Sheryl Crow sing with Amy on this standout song about the depth of God's amazing love. James 4:8 promises that when we draw near to God, He will draw near to us.
Reverent recordings of "Softly and Tenderly" and "Holy, Holy, Holy" close out this powerful worship album.
Closing Thoughts:
I greatly enjoyed hearing one of my favorite female vocalists sing these amazing hymns. I feel a calling as a father of 3 young daughters to teach them diligently the Word of God and to pass on the biblical truths woven throughout the classic hymns of the faith. Amy does an amazing job in making these songs sound fresh and contemporary. Some highlights for me are "Power in the Blood," "Be Still and Know," "Jesus Take All of Me (Just as I Am)," "Carry You," "El Shaddai," "Deep as it is Wide" and "It Is Well with My Soul." If (like me) you've always enjoyed Amy's vocals and you want to hear great recordings of hymns, get Be Still and Know -- Hymns & Faith. You won't regret it. This album is what Christian music is all about: Jesus.
Song to Download Now:
"Be Still and Know" (Get it on iTunes here.) View All Music And Book Reviews By KevinDavis_NRT | View KevinDavis_NRT's Profile
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