With so many other WoW compilations and worship collections in recent years, it's easy to overlook that there hasn't been a WoW Worship release since 2004's red edition. But time off may be just what this typically annual series needed after shifting focus away from sampling the latest worship music of the church (i.e., the first three WoW Worship collections), gravitating towards fluffy, predictable artist-driven recordings of the usual praise songs (i.e., the last two).
Providing more than two-and-a-half hours of music, this aqua set is a step in the right direction. No surprise that recent songs from popular worship artists like Chris Tomlin and David Crowder Band are featured, while covers from Tree63, BarlowGirl, and By the Tree match or surpass the originals. Credit the collection for also including strong contributions from esteemed worship leaders like Israel Houghton, Twila Paris, and Travis Cottrell ("Alive Forever, Amen," excellently performed by Warren Barfield).
The album's seven exclusive recordings sound less hastily recorded and more thoughtful this time. Bethany Dillon and Big Daddy Weave give predictable-but-good performances, but better are a programmed pop version of "Forever" from Rebecca St. James reminiscent of her earlier work, a stirring rendition of "In Christ Alone" by Natalie Grant combining inspirational pop with modern rock, and a powerhouse cover of "Indescribable" elevated by Avalon's near-bombastic pop vocals. The track receiving the most attention, however, is a new remix of Rich Mullins' "Sometimes by Step" that now also features Bebo Norman. Say what you will about duets with the dearly departed"the two voices sound terrific together.
But the album still suffers from too much filler. Though some tracks are understandably included despite overlap with similar collections (two songs here were featured on the red edition), it's hard to justify five-year-old recordings from Delirious and Third Day when both have more current material to offer. And insipid covers by Sonicflood and Building 429 waste space that could be better used to promote the worthy efforts of Paul Baloche, Jason Morant, or Desperation Band. Despite its inherent promotion of artists over songs, this aqua edition remains an adequate representation of today's best modern worship music.
Click here to add a video. Click to add lyrics if not listed.
01.
Sometimes By Step- Bebo Norman/Rich Mullins
02.
Beautiful One- By The Tree
03.
How Great Is Our God- Chris Tomlin
04.
In Christ Alone- Natalie Grant
05.
Blessed Be Your Name- Tree63
06.
You Are Holy (Prince Of Peace)- Michael W. Smith
great!| Posted October 07, 2008
i love this disc! my favorite song is "no one like you" by Barlowgirl... it is upbeat! i think i like their version the best! great cd !!!!!! i want more! LOL