Given the nature of most modern worship CDs, I was already gearing up to write my usual "Talented but boring, better experience live than on CD" type of review. Then I actually listened to the Promise Keepers: The Awakening disc. I will say this just once: I was wrong.
This disc, in my opinion, is the finest work that Integrity has released. "I Am Free" is an upbeat, Greg Long meets Newsboys number that aspires to U2 status, but falls just short. "Again I Say Rejoice" is a funkier version of the chorus we all grew up with, performed by Anthony Evans.
"Sing to the King" is properly pitched, as opposed to other recordings, being done in a vocal range that is more compatible to Promise Keepers' audience -- men. A similar treatment would have been welcome on "How Great is Our God," a Chris Tomlin penned song featuring Dave Lubben on vocals. "Rescue" is a slower tune crossing the styles of Jeremy Camp, Newsboys, and Delirious?.
"Strong Tower" is notable, as singer Jason King does his best Third Day imitation. His song was co-written by Newsboys' Peter Furler and Steve Taylor. (No offense to Steve Taylor, but another album of originals sung by him would be much more welcome). "Still" and "All the Earth Will Sing" are the weakest tracks here, while several others will stick in your head.
Finally we have a worship album that doesn't become boring or repetitive, and is done in a style that most men will enjoy. Regardless of whether you are a proponent of the Promise Keepers organization or not, this disc is well worth your time.
4 tocks
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2005Reviewed by Bert GanglBorrowing their namesake from the Promise Keepers men's ministry's "Seven Promises of a Promise Keeper," worship leaders and studio musicians collectively known as PK7 offers an eleven-track collection of new and known praise choruses and hymns as a soundtrack of sorts for the 2005 Promise Keepers rallies. "I Am Free" kicks things off with a stirring slice of piano-driven modern rock that falls…Similar sounding releases
2002Jeff DeyoSaturate
2005Scott KrippayneGentle Revolution
2004Steven Curtis ChapmanAll Things New
2003TaitLose This Life
2005Casting CrownsLifesong
2005WideawakeNot So Far Away
