Matt Redman

Item: The Friendship And The Fear
Author: Vanessa Crooks

The Friendship And The Fear

(1997)

Reviewed by Vanessa Crooks

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Label Survivor RecordsThe LighthouseUnsorted 1998

modern rock pop rock worship

Worship music fans take note: though Matt Redman may not have name recognition here in America yet, he is an established artist and songwriter on the international scene. So, while The Friendship And The Fear is Redman's debut project stateside, he already has a substantial catalog in his native England. In fact, he is considered to be one of the most influential and respected worship leaders in the UK. Part of the staff for Britain's popular, charismatic evangelical conference, "Soul Survivor" (originally called "New Wine"), Redman has penned many songs which have become part of the liturgy in European churches. Understandably then, there is a maturity and depth to The Friendship And The Fear's delivery and material.

Stylistically, it seems that Redman has targeted a youthful audience with his mainly acoustic guitar-based sonic approach. Much more edgy and layered than the music of his compatriot, Graham Kendrick, Redman's sound is more akin to that of Deliriou5? (also huge in Britain) or the Australia Worship record. Built around a distorted guitar foundation, it wouldn't be a stretch to imagine a young U2 delivering the cut, "Can We Walk Upon The Water." In contrast, the title cut, which closes out the album, boasts a laid-back, sparse delivery that features simple guitar and only a sprinkling of synthesizer. For the most part, husky vocals, funky electric guitar, keyboards, and a variety of both programmed and live percussion bulk out this project's mix. Redman possesses a capable, but not outstanding, voice, which nestles on the right side of ragged. Assuredly, the musicianship on The Friendship And the Fear is first rate and full of energy - superior to much of this genre's standard fare. At times, however, the songs are drawn out for too long, which diminishes their impact. Perhaps, instead of trying to capture a "live," jam feel, Redman should have focused more on the art of the songs.

Thematically, The Friendship And The Fear offers more than just the expected songs of adoration; much of the album's lyrics exhort the Body to holiness. Indeed, Redman's honesty and strong adherence to Scriptural texts are refreshing. The power and poignancy of this verse of "Once Again" is representational of much of this project's content:

Jesus Christ, I think upon Your sacrifice; You became nothing, poured out to death. Many times I've wondered At your gift of life, And I'm in that place once again, I'm in that place once again.

Without a doubt, The Friendship And The Fear is a welcome introduction to one of the UK's most prominent artists. With a deft combination of introspection and Biblical text, as well as a winsome mix of accessible melodies with darker edges, Matt Redman provides a stark contrast to many of his fluffy American counterparts.