Review

One of the best kept secrets (and it shouldn’t be) is the worship music that comes from PDI. PDI is a family of churches, and over the years they have developed a rich heritage of songs with excellent theological substance, sung in very contemporary ways. They are truly contemporary hymns.

For 20 years Mark Altrogge, Bob Kauflin, Steve and Vicki Cook and others have written songs that praise, teach, affirm and cry out. Usually no review of PDI is complete without mentioning Mark Altrogge’s classic song “I Stand in Awe of You”. But there has been so much more over the years. And, as a movement, they haven’t felt called to be the Vineyard, or Hosanna, or Maranatha… they have just consistently put out an album every year or so that showcases the many talents they possess.

With “No Greater Love”, PDI has delivered again. Altrogge’s “Your Mercy and Kindness” kicks off with a driving guitar and Chris McRea’s Sting-like vocals bring home a Psalm 23 message. This isn’t what I was expecting! Mark Altrogge gives us seven songs on the album, three more are written by Steve and Vicki Cook and two by relative newcomer Eric Grover. Six different vocalists are featured, as well. What this diversity brings is an experience that gets neither stale nor ordinary. Three different writing styles, six different vocal styles, resulting in magic!

After the first three song’s rockin’ energy, the next three songs offer us a taste of what PDI has done all along. “Your Holy Majesty” is destined to be another classic from Mark Altrogge. Steve and Vicki Cook’s “Know You” reveal once again the couple’s extraordinary ability to put into words the cries of the hearts of humanity. The next song is “I Will Glory in My Redeemer” and this is a fantastic gift! The Cook’s have written a hymn that will stand along with the greats for years to come. Vicki Cook’s soothing and soaring vocals will lift you up as you, too, glory in your Redeemer.

As I listened, I thought that Eric Grover’s “Who is Like Our God” was going to be my least favorite song on the album. It has a syncopated rhythm, and maybe because it follows the song just mentioned, I felt it out of place. But when the song reaches the chorus, the song makes sense… it gets us up on our feet to proclaim God’s sovereignty.

For those who are aware of PDI, you probably already know about this album and just need to get it. For those who’ve never heard of them, beware… When you get this release you will want to hear more by this talented group of worshipers.

Review by John Ausmus