Review

It's not often that a groundbreaking event happens in the arena of Christian Contemporary and Worship Music. Fresh winds are blowing across the North American Continent. The Holy Spirit is breathing inspiration and creativity into an ancient indigenous sound. Christian music abounds with diversity. Black Gospel with its solid rhythms and powerful vocals, the sounds of Celtic/Irish music, Reggae, Latin, Hispanic, Messianic/Jewish, R&B, Pop-rock, Heavy Metal, Rap and other cultural and counter cultural expressions, all blessing the body of Christ with their unique flavor.

But something is missing! Where is the music of the indigenous people of this Land? One answer to this question comes from Jonathan Maracle and his band 'Broken Walls'.

Jonathan grew up in the Akwesasne Mohawk Territory of Canada. Jonathan's father raised him with a strong faith in Jesus Christ but also to value his Native culture. His music reflects an uncompromising faith in his Savior expressed through the beauty of the Mohawk culture blended with a solid, blues/rock sound.

'RISE UP MIGHTY WARRIOR' the title cut, featuring Jonathan's smooth vocals, combined with an acoustic/rock sound, is an inspiring ballad declaring the power of forgiveness through the blood of Jesus as the answer for the bitterness and shame that is a daily reality to many First Nations People. It is a call for all of us to abandon shame and rejection, to receive life through Jesus Christ and Rise up as Mighty Warriors in Him.

'COME AND SEE' blends contemporary musical instruments with a traditional Mohawk invitation into the presence of the Creator. The chorus will surprise you as this indigenous chant brings you into the presence of God.

'AH NI:IO' brings Mohawk and Hebrew names and titles for God together in this gentle but powerful song of repentance and renewal.

'KHENORANHKHWA' (Good Medicine), 'THE RIVER OF LIFE', and 'RAKE'NI:HA' are three songs heavy with Native shakers and drums deeply reflecting a true indigenous worship. You will find these songs to be very 'Indian'. The distinctive sound of the Native drum reflects the heart beat of our Father God (the meaning of Rake'ni:ha). Jonathan's songs reflect the heart of a worshiper.

This CD is not an experiment in Christian/Native music, it is a release of worship to the God of our Lord Jesus sung with passion and conviction, simplicity and power, healing the land with a heart of forgiveness and reconciliation. Calling all people to worship together with one voice! This groundbreaking CD will inspire you to dance, drum, sing and embrace the beauty and uniqueness of the Host People of our Land. You won't be disappointed.

Review by Terry M. Wildman