Jon Bauer
Surround
Crossway Records
Grade – B+

My first impression was that this was a very professional worship CD. For an independent artist it had all the qualities of the prevalent modern worship leaders like Chris Tomlin, NAME, and NAME. There is an intensive effort to make each song an epic masterpiece of praise and worship. I was particularly drawn to the excellent guitar playing on songs like “Call to Me,” “Surround,” and “A Love to Die For.”

The quality and professionalism of the recording is equally matched by Bauer’s gift of songwriting. The bulk of “Surround” has a fresh sound for more contemporary church praise bands. The music however is just one part of Jon Bauer’s ministry. A good reason the songs are as accessible as they are is because Bauer wishes to equip churches with fresh songs. Bauer has an alternative site for worship leaders looking for chord charts and more. It can be found at www.jon-bauer.com/freeworship.php.

“Surround” is an excellent, purely original and spirited new project birthed from a heart of service and worship. For more information on Jon Bauer himself, his ministry, and music you can find him on MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/jonbauerworship.

- Ken W.