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CURRENTLY IN MUSIC
P&W album sets new standards

Nelson Boschman

City on a Hill: Songs of Worship and Praise Various Artists. Essential Records, 2000.

Once in about every 10 albums recorded by “various artists” in the contemporary Christian music community, a project that sets a new standard for this increasingly popular sub-genre is released. Thanks to the creative passion of producer Steve Hindalong (The Choir) and a number of very talented contributors, city on a hill has truly become a bright light.

According to the executive producer, the project “was born in response to a spiritual urging for a group of creative artists to not just write ‘about’ worship, but to do it, and do it as a community.” In my view, success has been achieved. Through inspiring and intelligent music with diverse influences, artists such as Jars of Clay, Sixpence None the Richer, Third Day, Caedmon’s Call and Sonicflood lead listeners into a well-designed tapestry of God-centred worship.

From an artistic perspective, the album is top-notch. The artists are among the best CCM has to offer. The songs have both musical and lyrical depth, and a variety of worship themes are utilized. Praise is the central focus of songs like “God of Wonders” and “With Every Breath”. “I Remember You” and “Precious Jesus” retell the story of the death and resurrection of Christ. The communal nature of the body of Christ is beautifully expressed in “Unified” and “Covenant Song”. One of the best tracks is the closing prayer “This Road” (Jars of Clay), describing the Christian life as a journey and reminding us that we need God every step of the way.

Although most of the album will appeal to young adults, there are a few songs that would also strike a chord with older adults. If you are a worship leader looking for congregational material, there are a few possibilities, but overall I think this CD works best for personal worship. I highly recommend this recording. City on a hill should definitely “not be hidden.”

Nelson Boschman is instructor in worship ministries at Columbia Bible College in Abbotsford, B.C.

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Last modified March 30, 2001.

© 2001 Mennonite Brethren Herald.
Published by the Canadian Conference of MB Churches.
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