Review

It's always been said, "If it's not broken, don't fix it." Fans of Terry MacAlmon's music will be happy to know that he has prescribed to this philosophy in making his new CD "You're My Glory." Recorded live at the 2004 Pikes Peak Worship Festival, "You're My Glory" continues to deliver the same piano-driven, straightforward worship that Terry MacAlmon has become know for. In addition to Terry's majestic piano styling, complete with cascading piano fills, this CD is the first of his live recordings to include a live orchestra.

At first I wasn't sure if this CD was going to appeal to me. To be honest, it sounds a lot like the music that I heard growing up in church. Another reviewer described the music on Terry MacAlmon's previous CD as sounding a bit "dated" and I would have to say that same is true of this CD. I don't hesitate to say this however, because I personally don't think that it's a bad thing. With so many new styles and elaborate worship projects out there, it's nice to just pop a CD in your player and get caught up in the flow of simple, no-nonsense worship. And that's just what you get with this CD.

The CD opens with a song that is familiar to many, "Made Me Glad," written by Hillsong's Miriam Webster. From there, listeners are treated to a great sampling of hymns and old choruses such as "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus" and "I Exalt Thee." Also included are several Terry MacAlmon originals, including the title track "You're My Glory." Every single song's theme is focused intently on God. In other words, these aren't just songs about worshiping God; these are songs about God Himself.

There is a very worshipful quality to "You're My Glory" that has nothing to do with music styles or eras. While listening, I began to understand that this CD isn't just a worship "project" but rather a moment of genuine corporate worship that has been captured so that the listener may also experience it. Another great thing is that you don't have to listen to this disc from the very beginning in order jump into the flow of worship. No matter which song you continue listening from, you are thrown right back in to the spirit of worship and adoration.

I've really grown to like this CD for its beautiful simplicity. This is a great CD, especially if you're looking for calm worship music with lots of beautiful piano playing. If you like Terry MacAlmon's other CDs, I am certain you will not be disappointed with "You're My Glory."

Review by Jeremy Dunn