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CURRENTLY IN MUSIC
CDs appeal to all ages

Carol Riediger

Love in the Ruins – Hope in the Wasteland (copyright 1998,1999, 2000 and 2001) Stone Table Publishing. Dawntreader Productions.

Christmas CD – Once Upon a Time Forever After (copyright 2002) Dawntreader Productions.

Lianna Klassen, a talented singer/songwriter has partnered with other excellent musicians in her productions of these two excellent CDs. The first, Love in the Ruins, Hope in the Wasteland, was co-produced by Roy Salmond. While probably best described as having folk-like and Celtic qualities in the music, there was much variety of style and instrumentation, both with acoustic and synthesized/digitally produced sounds from penny whistles and bagpipes to basic guitar and sometimes piano-only accompaniment. The instrumentalists and background vocalists bring quality to this project. She included several choral background groups (male, mixed and children). Lianna has a warm, clear voice with a haunting quality to it. I was impressed that the words were so easy to understand and so balanced with the instruments.

It is obvious that Lianna is a dedicated and growing follower of Jesus Christ. Her music and lyrics – all original – have been inspired by Scripture, and by current and ancient Christian writers and teachers.

I was moved emotionally and spiritually through this album. What an encouragement it was to my faith, a true testimony that God is in control in all circumstances. I believe this CD will appeal to a great range of age, from early adult to the older generation, and cross the boundary of interest of many musical styles.

Lianna’s Christmas project, Once Upon a Time Forever After, also offers a very worshipful experience. This CD was co-produced with Graham Ord and Adam Dickens, both adding their British influences. Most of the music is again original. However, there are two lovely Christmas Carol arrangements – O Little Town of Bethlehem, using the traditional English melody rather than the one most of us are familiar with, and the Huron Carol, with its authentic First Nations’ sound.

Again, the instrumentation is fascinating and professionally executed. Fiddles, Celtic harp, whistle and mandolin add interest to the music, in addition to the more common “live band” instrumentation.

Lianna suggests that this Christmas CD is to give a worship experience and emphasize the Christmas story and her love for Jesus. She “wanted to stay as far away from ‘schmaltz’ as she could”. This is an inspiring yet enchanting album. It also appeals to a large range of ages and bridges the gap of many styles and interests of music. I highly recommend this CD.

Her CD’s are found in Christian Bookstores. Contact Dawntreader Productions at 1-877 999-4252. Her website is www.liannaklassen.com and e-mail address is lianna.klassen@shaw.ca

Carol Riediger, a registered piano teacher lives in Chilliwack, B.C. She works as receptionist at the health unit and is involved in worship and music at the Chilliwack Central MB Church. Formerly she has been involved in music and evangelism at Saskatoon Youth For Christ and Bethany Bible Institute, Hepburn, Sask.

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Last modified December 16, 2002.

© 2002 Mennonite Brethren Herald.
Published by the Canadian Conference of MB Churches.
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