Post Summer – Pre Fall New Music List

The title says it all

Life’s a little crazy right now but one of the things that’s keeping me trucking is the continual discovery of some great new music.  Here are some things that are inspiring me for congregational music as I look at the fall.

(click picture for link to the songs)

I’ve been a fan of Dustin Kensrue for a few years.  It’s even easier for me to be a fan of his new sound with his worship band, Modern Post, based out of Mars Hill O.C.  Check out their brilliant versions of “Before the Throne” and “Amazing Grace”.

 

 

I have not heard a song, any song, that has grabbed me like this since I first popped in Jonsi’s album “Go” 2 years ago.  Kenosis’ version of “How Deep The Father’s Love For Us” is not necessarily the greatest thing I’ve ever heard, but it’s probably the most exciting hymn rearrangement I’ve ever heard.  Love it!  Absolutely love it!

 

The Royal Royal came on the scene last year when they toured the U.S. with Hillsong United.  As soon as I heard their song “Praise Him” I was hooked.  It was what I wanted to hear from the worship music genre, because it didn’t sound like the genre.  And yet, while having a fresh sound that gives some nods to the influence of bands like Passion Pit the songs are still totally congregationally singable.  Great stuff.

 

I haven’t tried incorporating any Bellarive tunes into a worship set yet, but it’s only a matter of time.  I love their sound.  I’ll never be able to sing as high as this dude but their approach to worship music resonates with me.  I’m a fan.

 

 

This last one is something a little different, yet totally familiar.  Imagine some of the popular worship songs from the last few years…with a Punk Rock sound.  That’s what my buddy, Ryan Gartner from my home church has been working on.  Because fist pumps and praising Jesus just belong together.

 

 

What are you guys listening to?

Reason to Sing

click the image to view the album on iTunes

Today I’m not trying to teach.  Today I’m just giving you a glimpse of what’s rattling around in my head and heart.

Sometimes I’m expected to be the trendy worship leader.  Sometimes it’s assumed that I care more about lighting, staging, arrangements, gear, v-necks, and delay settings than I care about connecting people to God.  Sometimes (like now) I make too many assumptions.

I love Jesus.  Everything else is just peripheral.  For the few of you reading this who don’t have a relationship with Jesus yet, I hope and pray you soon will and that you’ll see Him in me.  For those of you who know Jesus, but you’ve forgotten about His goodness, or you’ve forgotten your identity in Him, or you’ve left Him in the corner while you live life on your own strength…I pray you feel an unquenchable thirst for His words and dive deep into His all sufficient love and faithfulness.  For those of you who are walking with Jesus daily…worship.  Worship Jesus. Whatever that looks like for you.

Do it.

All out.

Set the time aside.

I’m sitting in Starbucks, listening to the new album from All Sons and Daughters titled “Season 1″.  These songs are resonating in my heart.  There’s an honesty in their delivery that invites me to join in with them.  ”Reason to Sing” is particularly grabbing me.  This song   echoes the honesty and seeking of the Psalms of the Old Testament.

When I’m overcome by fear, and I hate everything I know

When this waiting lasts forever, I’m afraid I might let go

I need a reason to sing, I need to know that You’re still holding the whole world in Your hands

Will there be a victory
Will You sing it over me now
Your peace is the melody
You sing it over me now

To worship God is to let go of our un-knowns, our fears, our pressures, our anxiety, our sleepless nights.  That’s what you need, that’s what I need, and that’s what everyone needs.

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!  Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.  Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:4-7

Come, let us bow down in worship, 
let us kneel before the LORD our Maker; 
for he is our God 
and we are the people…under his care.          - Psalm 95:6-7

Christmas Music I Like

Every year around this time I find myself frantically searching for music that we can use during the Christmas season.  My goal is to find songs that are accessible to everyone but still sound fresh. Here are some of the songs I’ve found that we’ve used recently or plan to use this year.  Hopefully you find something in here that helps you in your search.

 

and check this out while you’re at it…and this too :)

Merry Christmas!

Free Christmas Song

Everyone likes “free”

And I think most people like Christmas.  Well at least the people that read this blog probably like Christmas.

A couple years ago I wrote and recorded a Christmas song with my wife (who is featured on cello and vocals on the track).  I’d like to give it away to you to share, use, drink apple cider to, and enjoy.  It’s a simple demo track recorded in our living room so forgive the “raw-ness” of it.

Enjoy!

“A Baby, A King, Emmanuel” mp3

click the arrow on the right to download

Chord Chart

click on this link above to download the chord chart