From time to time I indulge in sharing music that many of you might not hear about in the main industry. Indie worship projects are as good or better than anything produced by major labels. Here is an example of a recent release.
I have to say I love the new album Songs in the Key of the Congregation by Rick Muchow, worship coach, songwriter, and former worship pastor at Saddleback Community Church. Rick’s music company is named appropriately “Encouraging Music”–a label easily attached to the years of encouragement dished out by Rick to worship leaders and congregations all over the hemisphere. Encouragement isn’t always the easy words one gives. Rick pulls us deeper with this project just as he does in his mentoring. Beyond all that Rick brings to the table, it is musically produced with excellence and the tones and sounds are as modern as anything out there.
With the modern worship flavored hymns such as “A Mighty Fortress is Our God” and “How Great Thou Art” as well as “Building My Life On Your Word (Solid Rock)” we find an appreciation with passing on to new generations timeless songs of our faith. These hymn arrangements are approachable but fresh. It is not hard to see my church using all of them this year.
What is even better are the originals. “Do What it Says” fits those songs that we sing to each other, encouraging each other to walk as followers of Jesus not in mere word but in deed. Add “Wonderful Words of Life” and “Building My Life On Your Word” and your worship set has three quality tunes with the theme of God’s word to choose from. It is interesting how hard it is to find fresh songs that sing about the word.
What is my favorite tune by far? “Broken Heart” is the first truly blues praise song, and the guitar and organ work are worth covering just for the musicianship. I dare you. The musical palette from modern worship, blues, to some jazz-influenced tinges makes this project shine. And, the Latin American reach Muchow has is well displayed in the last two cuts. I recommend you get this CD right away—here is the iTunes link. Note, you can also get original multitrack for your worship team on LoopCommunity.com.
What indie modern worship recordings are you recommending these days?