Review

This is not your run-of-the-mill Christian album. It is contemporary, thought-provoking, driven, truly cross-centered.

The songs on this project run the gamut from introspective to horizontal to vertical, from proclamation to simple awe. There is a depth to the words not often found in contemporary lyrics. Many of the lyrics have plenty of theological meat on their bones, too-another refreshing change. These are not formula pieces with gimmick or "hooks"; these are songs that can be used in a variety of settings. If one were to read the lyrics on a plain sheet, without identifying publisher, author, or artist, one just might get a surprise from the speakers of one's sound system. The first cut on this project is a simple, rather unaffected female voice, a capella, beguiling in simplicity. "A portend of things to come?" one asks. Nah! The next cut comes in with typical effects-laden guitar band licks a-drippin'. Many of these lyrics suggest almost hymn-like sophistication, but the organ you'll hear is more of the B-3 sound than pipe.

Listening to this project provides some very interesting moments, from the hymn-like to the Celtic and back. This is a tapestry that will make you think, make you ponder, help you explore the wonder of the Cross. In the 65 minutes of music you get a very nice blend of aural texture. Acoustic, electric, electronic, Celtic, and traditional sounds. What a blend! I particularly enjoyed "This Fathomless Love," a prayerful conversation with Father God. Her voice, a few haunting violin licks, and great words: for me, the chorus really expresses the heart of the album, "I can't comprehend this fathomless love. I'm gripped and amazed by what You have done. Why would the adored become the despised to bear all the furious wrath that was mine?" One of the verses also asks, "Why would You adopt and take as Your own those who had crushed Your one precious Son?" How many have asked that question in different ways?

Some of these cuts could be used in church, but I think that most would be presentational rather than congregational. The words will get into the hearts of thinkers and those with ears to hear. The arrangements on the album are fairly complex, rich and fairly thick in texture, and will not be easy to replicate. Lots of layers, lots of timbres.

Technically, this suits my personal tastes perfectly. There is plenty of variety, plenty of sound, plenty of content, lots of music on the disc. The vocals all pop very nicely. The sound engineer did a good job of keeping the main thing the main thing. The producer had a vision and carried it out with style. Some of the songs have been recorded on other PDI (now SGM) albums, but I suspect that these are new arrangements.

Songs for the Cross-Centered Life is an easy listen for those who like worship with acoustic-rock underpinnings. The focus of this project is what I'd expect from Sovereign Grace Ministries (formerly PDI) and C.J. Mahoney, who wrote the liner notes: Jesus Christ and Him crucified. It doesn't contain your basic piano and organ Sunday morning songs, but the reminder of our salvation and its Source is clear and strong.

Review by Dean Thomas