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Review by Tom Lilly for Sandi Patty : Hymns Of Faith...Songs Of Inspiration 2004-09-14
Can I hear Somebody say, "AMEN?!" Just when you might think Sandi Patty couldn't possibly produce an recording better than the last album she has made, she comes out with an album like "Hymns of Faith ... Songs of Inspiration." With twenty-two dazzling arrangements of hymns and songs we all love, Sandi stirs the heart to worship, the hands to clap, and on numbers like "Shout to the Lord" and "Blessed Assurance," she even got this stodgy Presbyterian dancing! On my first listen my greatest struggle was whether to hit repeat or go on to the next number ... EVERY TIME!
Whether you are from a charismatic church or are into more reserved "smells and bells high church," you'll find something here you can't resist playing again and again.
Sandi packs the album with her signature crescendos and high notes on many wonderful pieces like "Crown Him With Many Crowns/All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name" and "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God." She brings a wonderful Celtic feel to "Amazing Grace" and offers a long-awaited and much requested rendition of "His Eye is on the Sparrow" sung from a faithful and grateful heart. Sandi is accompanied by lush orchestrations on many pieces, but also nurtures an intimate spirituality on pieces like “The Old Rugged Cross" and "No One ever Cared for me like Jesus," with simple unplugged piano accompaniment.
In a time of war and struggle here in our homeland, Sandi salutes our country with stirring renditions of "God Bless America," America the Beautiful, and the Star-Spangled Banner." Each of these will bring you to your feet and your hand to your heart!
Sandi revisits and renews some songs familiar to her fans on this album, as well. Particularly stirring is her new arrangement of "We Shall Behold Him" with new orchestration and a renewed hope for the coming Kingdom.
I could go on and on, but the bottom line is this is the perfect album for the hymn and worship enthusiast, and it's the perfect gift for anyone for ANY occasion!
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