Soul-stirring and stunning
Posted May 12, 2020
By KevinDavis_NRT, Staff Reviewer
What You Need to Know:
For more than a decade, Jillian Edwards—who now resides in Nashville with her husband, Will, drummer for indie rock band Colony House, and their daughter, Willow Faye—has consistently written and recorded music through the lens of faith. Jillian says, “I want to provide healing, and that for me comes in beauty. So that’s the heart of these songs. I really want them to be medicine for hurting people, and that’s everyone. If my biggest dream for Meadow comes true, it would be that someone who is walking through the worst day of their life could hear these songs and have peace take over their heart knowing that God is crazy about them, and He works all things together for good.”
What it Sounds Like:
Meadow is best described as an intimate personal worship experience with an ethereal tone. If you enjoy Where His Light Was by Kristene DiMarco, Evergreen by Audrey Assad, and Red Sea Road by Ellie Holcomb, this album is an excellent addition to your music collection. Jillian’s engaging music and thought-provoking lyrics are something to truly savor, and her soothing vocals will remind you of some of my favorite gourmet artists, Ellie Holcomb, JJ Heller, and Audrey Assad, both in vocal tone and subject matter.
Spiritual Highlights:
A sincere desire for the presence of God and to see His Kingdom on earth is found in every song. Each of her songs are about proclaiming her dependence on God throughout this incredible worship experience, which stirs my heart, mind and soul to bow before Jesus, our Savior. The album is designed to be listened to in track order as you’ll go on the journey with Jillian from the opener “Whisper Hymn” and the title track “Meadow” with the Psalm 23 inspired prayer, “I need only to breathe in Your love” to the closer “Mighty God” with the confession, “Mighty God/I will follow You/You keep me safe in the palm of Your hand.” I am moved by the spiritual and peaceful tone of the songs. The chorus of “Heaven’s Eyes” soothes my soul, “Speak over me/tell me again that I’m someone You love/let it sink in/tell me a million times/who I am in Heaven’s eyes.” Many of the lyrics in “Trusted” give me words to pray such as “This is where You can be trusted,” which is especially comforting in this time of anxiety as we all face this pandemic together. These songs give insight into Jillian’s walk as a fellow believer.
Best Song on the Record:
I generally rank my favorite songs based on how they move me emotionally. On this album, that’s every song. I can’t listen to “Weak, Proudly” without welling up. Jillian’s tender, emotive and powerful vocals take listeners on an emotional journey that gives me goose bumps every time I hear the song, filled with truth. I can’t get enough of “Heaven’s Eyes” and I lift my eyes and heart to Heaven every time I hear the song. For me, "Heaven’s Eyes" provides an opportunity for God to whisper your true identity – not found in what you do or don't do, but in who you are – more importantly to whom you belong. You'll be worshipping right along with Jillian. You can sincerely sing these prayerful lyrics, and cling to the truth of these powerful songs. Every song will have you hanging on each word that Jillian tenderly sings. Her vocals will soothe your soul, and the vertical lyrics will direct your attention and focus on Jesus.
For Fans Of:
Kristene DiMarco, Steffany Gretzinger, Ellie Holcomb, Audrey Assad, JJ Heller
Final Word:
Jillian Edwards is an anointed singer-songwriter, and she has a profound way of examining the deeper feelings buried in my heart and bringing me closer to God with her poignant words, tender singing and inspirational truths. If you are looking for the words to express your feelings to God in times of hurting and pain, these songs are a wonderful companion. All the songs are memorable, personal and worshipful. These moving and reverent recordings are all prayers and personal confessions of submission to God and they are poignant songs of adoration. Every song is completely anointed, Spirit-led and emotionally captivating. Jillian’s tender and gorgeous vocals keep me hanging on every word she sings. She invites listeners into her life by sharing what's on her heart. The standout songs each feature an engaging and emotive musical style while phrasing her prayer-filled songs in a creative and personal way, making it one of my top albums of the year. View All Music And Book Reviews By KevinDavis_NRT | View KevinDavis_NRT's Profile
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