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Here is a brief description of the many different Cds done by Heather Clark 1. Scripture CDs: These modern sounding cds have the lyric content that is strictly scripture. Selah 1 and Selah 2 are both focusing on the psalms while Dark Yet Lovely is a wonderful and intimate journey through the book of Songs of Solomon. Review: Over the years, reading and growing in the words of life given to us from the Scripture has been a combination of desire, delight and duty. Like many people, I am sure, enjoying the encouragement of the bible text is not a constant level of delight. Sometimes we continue in the word, simply because we are instructed by the Lord and the Bible itself to do so. Eventually, our duty turns to desire and then delight.
Along the way through that ongoing progression of our devotional lives, it is encouraging to have inspiration from the Lord come through other sources. One such source is scripture in music. If we were to trace the history of modern day Christian music (not just worship music, but even contemporary Christian music- CCM) we would find much of its origins in small publishing company called 'Scripture In Song'. From that company in the late 60's/early 70's (and other like sources) grew much of what we have today in praise and worship. There was a reason for the potency and application of those songs-- they allowed the authentic follower of Christ to draw in the God-breathed words of Scripture through their minds and emotions-- through words and music. It is that same strength that Heather Clark draws on to continue the 'Praying the Bible' series of projects with her latest CD 'Selah 2 - Like Men Who Dreamed'.
Using the Psalms as the base, she adds her signature vocals and growing musical palette to develop melody and vibe to a number of songs of the Psalms. It is suprising to me that this powerful combination seems somewhat lacking as a general rule through most praise and worship projects. But this CD certainly adds a wonderful example for all of us byt taking good music and melody writing skills and partnering them to the skill of the lyric writers in the Psalms.
You will find these not only resourceful as praise and worship materials, but you will be reciting Scripture joyfuly, as these infectious melodies work their way into your mind and heart.
What is great is that you can check out a number of the songs online by listening to some audio samples yourself. I think you will find, as I did, that scripture in song is alive and well, and has some heart and passion! See the above sound clips to hear it yourself!
Selah!
Kim Gentes 2. Studio Projects: These are project that have been produced in a studio. Undivided Focus, Wait for Me, Way Gone Place, Review: In the CD titled "Undivided Focus", artist Heather Clark has recorded music that elevates congregational worship to the throne of God. The theme of the entire CD is to stay focused on the Lord by praising Him, declaring our faithfulness to him and others, looking ahead to the new things God has done in our lives and forgetting what is past (Galatians verse), and by surrender to Jesus again.
My favorite song is "Joy of the Lord." It has an upbeat rock sound with a slight Celtic violin sound. The lyrics stimulate our flesh to choose to worship and praise our God. This song is celebratory and invites the presence of God. The fifth song, "Glorious Praise" points out God's personal provision for us "...Whisper to me...words for my heart to burn, water for ..my soul..." calling us to look back over our lives and remember how, from the first time we loved the Lord and called upon him, he has faithfully been there for us- through both good and bad times. This song is worded with contemporary metaphors people use today when speaking personally. Song number eleven, "Fires of Revival" is an awesome song of declaration, reminding God's children to be faithful to God. The words remind us that "...our labor has not been in vain..." and that it is good to serve Christ our savior. It states that no matter what other people say, we stand firm in our belief of the risen Lord.
This CD was written by a worship leader who knowsthe heart God has for his people. The songs invite and encourage vertical worship and are all great additions to any worship set. Congregations will be able to follow and relate to the songs on this CD. Musically, the songs have a rock beat that I don't think is too hard for older crowds yet hip enough for even teenagers. There are some instrumentals throughout the CD that compliment the mood of the songs and enhance the worship experience. The vocal range is within levels that most people can participate in singing- not too high and not too low.
This is an excellent worship resource CD that worship leaders and worshippers both will find user friendly and refreshingly inspirational. I will probably keep it in my CD player for a few months, enjoying the music and worshipping on the road. This is a great worship CD that I would recommend to everyone.
Review by: Jennifer Herrera 3. Live Recordings: These recordings are taken from live events or are recorded in the studio with a live feel. The Sacred Mystery series is a prophetic worship series. Glorious Praise, Sacred Mystery 1, Sacred Mystery 2, Vial of Worship 4. Christmas CD: Memories, songs for the Holidays and Christmas Eve are both Christmas cds done by Heather Clark |
