Review

Those who have relished the uncommon intimacy found on Vineyard’s “Why We Worship” series will be thrilled to know that “Prayer”, while not officially packaged as part of that series, is a worthy offering to sit alongside the likes of “Intimacy”, “Holiness” and “The Cross”. Curiously, this release features a different producer for each worship leader. While most listeners won’t be able to notice when the Production changes, they will subconsciously appreciate the subtle variety afforded each song when the songs are being played back. Many of the songs here are original to this recording, with only a handful of re-recordings spotting the playlist. This also adds to the overall appeal of the disc as we hear many of these songs for the first time.

The majority of the standout tracks on this recording come surprisingly from newcomers Sarah Greeno and Jessica Ketola. Greeno, whose vocal styling is part Crystal Lewis, part Sheri Keller, is perfectly suited for such vulnerable songs as these. Ketola’s vocals are clear and strong as well, displaying a sense of energy on her songs that not many acoustic albums dare attempt. Of course, no one is going to slight the veteran Scott Underwood here either. Hearing his voice and songcraft displayed here only confirms once again that an entire album of Underwood songs is long, long overdue. His set of songs is so skillfully done that he leaves you expectant for when his turn at the microphone comes around again.

Production wise, there are brilliant moments where cello and viola and even the occasional electric guitar shimmer through the earthy acoustic sounds of guitar and plaintive piano stylings to add just the right amount of spice to these lush arrangements. Lyrically, there are many great songs here that are sure to make the rounds in your small group worship times, and maybe even your Sunday Morning gatherings too.

Especially powerful are the songs “How Much More” and “Truth Be Told” by Scott Underwood as well as the simple truth found in “Your Blood Says Everything” written by Billy Somerville which says, “In the presence of your holiness/ I cannot speak/ Your blood says everything/ In the presence of perfect love/ I am too weak/ Your blood says everything/ Hear the word/ spoken from the tree/ Heaven broken open/ Your blood says everything,” (from “Your Blood Says Everything”).

This CD is certainly among some of Vineyard Music Group’s recent home runs in the songwriting department and should receive repeated listenings during those times when you long to draw near the Lord in worship and prayer.

Review by Keith Giles