JourneyOnline
RRP $19.95
2011
Reviewed by Graham Hall.
THIS CD is a collection of 15 hymns which would be well known and loved by the older members of the Church.
For example, the first four are Praise the Lord, the Almighty, the king of creation, I vow to thee my country, Be thou my vision, and Abide with me.
I hoped this CD might be a help to struggling musicians some of whom I meet from time to time as I move around country churches, some of whom are blessed with very good musicians.
Not so, although guitarists who seem to be plentiful today could draw encouragement from various sections.
Several instruments are represented: banjo, mandolin, guitar, ukulele, double bass, piano, accordion, melodica, tin whistle, fiddle, and more.
Not exactly what I hoped for but instead an interesting and different presentation of some of the great hymns.
If you tire of strings being plucked this is not for you.
If, on the other hand, you are not afraid of novelty and innovation sit back and enjoy; even sing along.
The four instrumentalists (John Kane, Mark Walmsley, Mick Albeck, and Ian McKenzie.) meet the high standards we have come to enjoy from the ABC.
The tempo of the music is directed to the mood of the hymns.
All things bright and beautiful, for example, is especially pleasing.
The music moved along at a joyous pace capturing the miracle of creation and the majesty of the creator who made all things well.
I enjoy Christian hymnody and the fullness of the organ in worship (I am a Senior Citizen) but that aside, music has many forms and the versatility of these musicians is quite remarkable.
This CD would be a welcome addition to any collection or be a most suitable gift for that special occasion.
