Swan Song contains five original tracks with engaging arrangements, poignant lyrics and haunting melodies. Moved by the metaphor of a swan’s last exhale before leaving this life, Hunter’s crafted lyrics and soundscapes explore the paradox that life is a vapor, while being ever connected to eternity. Marked by phrases such as “May I sing as if these words would be my last…,” the album takes an honest stance toward what it means to remain unreserved in love even when life’s circumstances try to convince us otherwise.
Hunter’s songs are raw, vulnerable and ultimately hopeful. Declaring “at the end of my days, I’ll look back and I’ll say, it’s worth it just to love You, worth it just to love You…,” the album’s overall tone is reminiscent of David in the psalms, reflecting themes of resilience and rising again. In its entirety, the project is a powerful acknowledgement of who we are and who we become, not in spite of pain, but through it.
“This record is for those who have withstood the test of time and have chosen to stay the course,” shares Hunter in the dedication found in his album liner notes. “We have fought a noble fight; we have fallen, but kept crawling forward. We've been misunderstood, and some of us have been broken. To all of you, may your ears be met by a familiar voice, and may your heart have permission to give it one more try.”
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Soft Spoken Worship| Posted December 01, 2014
Worship minister Hunter Thompson, part of the intensely powerful ministry that is continually changing lives over at Bethel Church in Redding, California, is making a splash with the debut of his new EP titled Swan Song.
Going into this EP, bells and whistles are the last thing you'll find. This is as stripped down and intimate as it gets. However, with the glory-provoked opening found on "Song Of David," you'll discover that there is a soft spoken intensity on this EP that might take a few listens to fully comprehend.
"Maranantha" boasts some acoustic vibes while still keeping Christ the focus of every melody. "To Love You Rightly" almost sounds like a childlike lullaby with the inclusion of some whimsical whistles and harmonious strings: "Above all that these hands complete, let Your love always be / be the prize my heart will seek, beyond the day I die."
"Swan Song" is the darkest offering here, yet still offers such a proudly splendid hope within the midst of deeply formal lyrics: "If these words would be the last words I speak / I would know that these came from the depth of me."
Closing Thoughts:
Fans of Bethel's prophetic and personal style of worship will not want to miss this EP by Hunter Thompson. It captures all the splendor of the King, while remaining a phenomenal piece of art in its own soul-soothing right.
Song To Download Now:
"Song Of David" (Get it on iTunes here.)
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