Andrew Peterson – After All These Years
Jan 19, 2015 CD Reviews
Andrew Peterson
After All These Years
Centricity Music
Release last fall, “After All These Years” is a redux of some of Andrew Peterson’s best songs spanning a 20-plus year career.
It is more than a re-pack and re-release as Peterson spent considerable time working on “revisiting and reinterpreting” several songs, releasing some songs that were formerly unreleased, and a writing a new title track. This cumulative retrospect is represented well in this 18-track release.
One of the things I most realized when I started listening to this CD is that my perspectives on the songs have changed over the years. That’s the thing. We grow and we go through new experiences and so songs can sometimes take on a new meaning for us over time. And in some ways, it is like I am experiencing a few of the songs for the very first time.
One of the songs that have had an impact on me the most is “Lay Me Down.” Probably because of the fact that in the past few years my family has grown to 6 children! I have a more eternal outlook on life compared to my 21year old self. It also speaks to my personal growth when it comes to my faith.
Right along that same vein is “Dancing in the Minefields” which is a reflection of marriage that resonates with me.
I have a lot of respect for Andrew Peterson as a musician, author (The Wingfeather series), and as a family man. As an artist he has been unwavering, hardworking, and impactful.
– Ken W
Haley Montgomery – Dry Bones
Jan 19, 2015 CD Reviews
Haley Montgomery
Dry Bones
“Dry Bones” is the third independent release from Haley Montgomery. Haley is a worship artist from the San Diego, CA area. While the first two tracks start out with a bit flashier soundtrack, I was most impressed with the softer more tender sounds of “Undone,” “When I Think Upon the Cross,” and “Sing Hallelujah.”
It’s in these three songs that I really connected with her heartfelt worship. I love how reflective and personal “When I Think Upon the Cross” comes across. It’s a wonderful hymn of adoration. Lastly, the power of the closing chorus of “Sign Hallelujah” is just amazing. It has a powerful way of moving you into worship.
I believe the songs of “Dry Bones” give you a good idea of how well Haley can lead worship. You can check out http://haleymontgomery.com/ to sample Haley’s music and to discover more about her worship ministry.
– Ken W.
S’ambrosia – My Name, Your Seal
Jan 19, 2015 CD Reviews
S’ambrosia
My Name, Your Seal
Independent
S’Ambrosia is an independent worship artist currently living in Nairobi, Kenya. She compares her music to that of Norah Jones, Lauryn Hill and India Arie. While not quite familiar with the style, I found it quite relaxed and searching.
The lyrics are inspired and softly sing praises to the Lord. The title track speaks of the security of dwelling in the Lord’s great mercy. She goes on to echo this quite eloquently on “This Is My Lover” as well.
The spiritual depth of the lyrics and the tranquility of the soundtrack make “My Name, Your Soul” a very enjoyable listen.
For more information on S’ambrosia including audio and video, check out http://noisetrade.com/sambrosiac.
– Ken W.
