Review

When Roger Hodges released "Big, Big God", this website found it strong enough to name it an "Editor's Choice". Now, the question is, does he have any more great songs?

I'd have to say, unequivocally, yes! When I listen to music, I invariably line it up in my mind with similar stuff I've heard before. You know, apples with apples, etc... Unfair though it is, it's what happens. So, without drawing a comparison (for he stands alone quite well), but as a public service to help the reader who may be unfamiliar with Roger, I offer you the following artists that I was reminded of when I listened to this CD: Darrell Evans; Phillips, Craig and Dean; Kevin Prosch.

You will find songs on this album written in first, second and third person. He writes and sings a lot from the perspective of what God has done, or how the Lord has blessed him. Less prevalent, but still among the 12 songs, are the intimate "my-heart-to-Your-heart" type of songs. The reason I mention this is so that you worship leaders can make an informed decision. If your services run along the lines of victory celebrations, this album will you several nuggets. If you are a little more intimate, there are a couple of songs for you here, as well.

I always try to think about the songs, and if they depend on excellent musicianship and great production to pull off. Or can they be stripped down to guitar or piano and still lead people to the throne. On this very well-produced album, complete with electric guitars and keyboards, etc..., I still feel that most of the songs would fare well acoustically in a living room.

For those of you that have a pretty full, well-trained band and are looking for something rousing, I suggest 'Let the Music Play', 'Spinnin', 'I Will Lift You Up', 'The Voice of the Lord' or 'Freedom Song'. Not that these songs ('Spinnin' aside) couldn't work acoustically, they're all well suited for openers or Night of Praise kind of things.

"Edge of the World', 'I Was Glad' and 'Your Love' are good mid-tempo songs that could work in the Sunday service or at a home group. I would, however, limit the title track to a special song. It has a great sentiment, desiring to be with the Lord throughout each day, following Him, well, to the edge of the world! But it has 4 verses and may be a bit much for the congregation to sing along with.

'Psalm 27', 'Thanks God', 'Love You' and 'Hear Our Prayer' will offer some possibilities to those who are looking for softer, more intimate, more "me and You, God" type songs.

My favorite song on the album has to be "The Voice of the Lord". It's triumphant! "Whose voice is this that is over the waters, that thunders and shakes the mountains and plains... the voice of the Lord is calling His children, the voice of the Lord is shaking the earth, the voice of the Lord echoes in thunder, is awesome in Glory... Hear the voice of the Lord".

All in all, this is another solid effort by the worship pastor at Trinity Fellowship Church in Amarillo, Texas. I'm looking forward to hearing what he does next.

Review by John Ausmus