|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
Jeff Johnson—Glorious Day December 10, 2007 By Jennifer Kies
Although this former American Idol contestant did not proceed to the next round, he has become increasingly popular in the Christian community. This album holds a variety of inventive songs that Johnson hopes will motivate listeners to increase their spiritual connection with God. If you’re a fan of contemporary worship music, it is certainly easy to enjoy the familiarity of the songs and quality of the lyrics. The music on Glorious Day is fairly predictable and safe in the perspective of an industry that welcomes pop/rock/ worship arrangements. It has a similar sound to some of the more renowned artists, such as John Waller, Matt Redman, Chris Rice, and Mark Harris.
The project opens strong with a rockier, inspired “God Over Us.” The more melodic “Ruin Me” proceeds with an inspiring set of lyrics and ensemble that speaks to our hearts and makes an easy environment for worship and praise. But the marvelous experience about this CD is Johnson’s straightforward vocals perfectly matching even the oldest of hymns. The disc’s longest track is Johnson’s brilliant rendition of “The Old Rugged Cross,” this song was pieced together so wonderfully with its explosive crescendos and tight vocal harmonies while accompanied by guest singer Shane Bernard.
Interesting modern rock overtones appear in some mid-tempo ballads like “He Rose.” which keeps the album steered away from being all too generic. It is both biblical and powerful in its simplicity. Jeff’s country music roots reveal themselves in the song previously covered by the Rascal Flatts, “I’m Movin On,” which is not a straight-up worship track. More worshipful pieces in this album include “Jesus is Mine,” holding an abundance of organ melodies and cheerful vocals, and “Glory to Your Name” resounding in very scriptural lyrics and a thick rock sound.
The project ends in “Home,” a lively and well-built song that finishes the album off well. It leaves the listeners wanting more of the powerful and inspiring CD that has brought many to the realization of Christ. Johnson’s whole purpose is to share what moves him and his band. God has faithfully taken his talents and used them to lead people all over the country into a genuine pursuit of God. They believe in the importance of devotion to the lives that God has commended them to lead, making it not only a priority to get to know their fans but building relationships and encouraging them spiritually.
During services Johnson shares his life experiences in hopes of relating to students. He feels that giving his personal testimony makes his sharing of Christ more at home and leaves a deeper impact on the crowd. According to Johnson, you don’t necessarily need a time for Bible reading and scriptures to minister to individuals, sometimes the more personal settings make it real.
I don’t know how Jeff Johnson has stayed under the radar so long especially with the professional gloss that sweeps over that whole album. I would definitely be looking into this CD because not too long from now Johnson’s career and popularity will be widespread.
ninetyandnine.com
© 2007, Jennifer Kies
--------- Jennifer Kies reviews CDs and prepares her wedding nuptials from the Illinois side of the Mississippi River.
|
|
|
