Sincere Worship and Encounter With God Posted July 16, 2019 By JasminPatterson_NRT, Staff Reviewer
What You Need To Know
Cleveland, TN based sister duo Kaylee + Erica release their live album, Heaven Is All Around (Live).
What It Sounds Like
Kaylee + Erica have created a sound that is the perfect blend of contemporary and Gospel influences ("My Soul Says Yes," "Speak Victory"), and overflows with a passion that comes from deep relationship with God and longing for His presence. Kaylee + Erica are passionate worshippers, stellar vocalists and great songwriters and all three of those elements are evident on every song.
Of particular note is the way the instruments support and accent the lyrics and moments within the songs in such a way that they help your heart connect with God as much as the lyrics do ("Mountaintop," "Peace Reigns"). Every drum hit, chord change, build, break and melody line is intentional and serves a purpose in the song. The album also includes stirring renditions of known worship songs such as "To Worship You Live," "Shout to the Lord," "Draw Me Close", and a cover of Rita Springer's "Never Lost" that will stir your faith and leave you hitting repeat.
Spiritual/Lyrical Highlights
"All of Creation" contains a particularly beautifully written lyric. It's a poetic declaration of the truth that God has created us and redeemed us so that we could know Him and praise Him with our lives. From dust we came, scattered and broken / You gave us a name, worthy, chosen / You took our shame and made us beautiful / We want to know You, Creator, Redeemer / Tell us all about Your deepest secrets / And we'll shout the praise of everything You are
Best Song On The Record
"Heart's Desire" is a standout on the record. With beautiful gospel-influenced chord progressions that bring the song to life, "Heart's Desire" is a raw cry of love for Jesus and desire for Him more than anything and the end of the song captures a powerful spontaneous moment of worship. Kaylee + Erica's heart for God shine through especially in the vulnerability of that moment and give us a special glimpse into the type of encounter with God they desire to bring people into through their music and ministry.
Final Word
In the Bible, the Psalms are filled with vulnerable songs of seeking God, praising Him, and declarations of faith and prayer with passion, longing, sincerity and vulnerability. Those are the types of songs Kaylee + Erica have crafted and the types of worship moments they have led us into with Heaven Is All Around (Live). More than simply offering good music to listen to, this album will lead you into a personal encounter with God.
