Review

When I saw that Maranatha had a series of CDs labelled as "Alternative Praise" I wasn't sure what to expect. The back cover describes "Dry Bones Dancing" as "an alternative worship experience combining the raw honest sounds of today's generation with passionate songs of praise." I can tell you that "Dry Bones Dancing" delivers what it promises!

Musically this project will appeal both to the younger generation as well as to baby boomers who still appreciate the roots rock styles of their youth. Ranging from alternative to blues to electric-driven rock, each song is an honest expression of worship, both musically and lyrically.

Produced by Chris Lizotte, Peter Shambrook and Shawn Tubbs, this CD has the raw and earthy feel that you might expect. Lead vocalists Peter Shambrook, Todd Warren, Tim Taber, Chris Lizotte and Jamie Eichler sing with a passion that inspires the listener to join in with their worship.

Familiar themes of worship and praise can be found in the songs on this CD, but they are expressed in fresh new ways. I didn't find myself thinking "Oh no, another song about seeing the Lord seated on his throne!" Instead I was drawn into the throne room wanting to sing "Holy is the Lord" with the angels. Even the traditional hymn "The Solid Rock" gets new life in a sweet bluesy arrangement.

The title song "Dry Bones Dancing" is based on the vision of Ezekiel of the valley of dry bones (Ezekiel 37) where upon hearing the word of the Lord a pile of dry bones received life and breath.

"In His time, see His purpose revealed
In His time, every promise fulfilled
In His time, every nation be healed
In His time, In His time.
Dry bones dancing,
Breathing the breath of God..."
Other songs reflect a gut-wrenching dependency on God and a deep need for His presence, in good times as well as bad. "God of Mine" declares the belief that God WILL be there when we are drowning and in need of Him.
"God of mine, in Your faithful way
You hold my head above the waters.
Grace and mercy in You I've found
For only You have saved my soul."

Similarly, the haunting alternative vocals of Jaime Eichler on "I'm in Need of You" draw the listener into a place of longing for God's presence.

While this is a wonderful CD for personal worship, the songs are accessible and well-suited for corporate use by congregations comfortable with rock and alternative worship styles.

Review by Lori Lindsey