Aug 27, 2001 04:06 PM
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Wes King is clear about the motive behind this album. His short write up quotes Handel - ''My Lord, I should be sorry if I only entertain them. I wish to make them better''. So the end product is an unfolding of the gace, love, joy, hope and power that Christ depicts. The album's inlay card has plenty of quotes by 'People Wes admires' like Spurgeon, Paul Brand, Parker.. and also from the Bible.
The Music: This is mainly guitar based music - quite evident from the cover photo showing Wes with an acoustic guitar. The vocals are mainly dominated by Wes and there's not too much of backing vocals.
The Lyrics: Beautiful and based firmly on the Word. Very straightforward! The album showcases Wes' songwriting and music skills which is supplemented by those of others like Michael W Smith, Michael Card, Phil Naish, Jeff and Gayla Borders and many others. Here's a short review of each song:
Common Creed Featured in Wow 1996, this was the only Wes song I heard before I bought this album. A lovely blend of guitars with other instruments it talks about the unity of the Church through a common creed. There's a great guitar solo in the middle of the songthat leads to a powerful bridge. Common struggle, common to the everyday man. Common table, the body and the blood. Common Savior, for God so loved the world What we need, is a common creed
Life is Precious A lively song with a peppy beat to it it speaks a simple truth. Life is Precious because Jesus died for you ... so don't risk it! A reminder to all those who overspeed and take reckless risks. The bass guitar is solid on this number And this truth makes it complete Knowing Jesus died for me Life is precious, Life is precious Life is sweet
The Love of Christ A beautiful song with clear vocals and a smooth flow, it is keyboard based and speaks about the unlimited love of Christ. The lyrics are a masterpiece (by wes and Michael Card) and really touches you.
Mercy Another lively song with a catchy beat, this song will definitely ring in your head the whole day! This is my favorite song in the album. The bass piece here is amazing!
Fisher of Men A slower song with wes' characteristic vocals dominating the song. It has a fade in intro with the organ that breaks into soft guitars and then Wes' voice joins in. The song builds up well. It's laying down your nets It's laying down your life To take up the cross And follow the Fisher of Men
Lazarus While the meaning behind this song is beautiful, this is not my favorite musically. It lacks uniformity and appears forcefully sung in a few places.
Hold On The beginning and the verse of this song sounds a little off - like it's searching for a foothold, but it takes off well with the chorus
Salt of the Earth To quote Wes '....the most important job in the world is to be a mother, the second is to be a father and the third is to be the President of the US' Agree? Disagree? I agree with the first part! This splendid song is dedicated to all the mothers who sacrifice so much to bring their children up and yet live simple humble lives. This is the most touching song in the album.
He's the One An average song, this did not stay in my mind too long.
Do you Tremble A soft yet strong way to end this album there is tremendous power in these words and music.
