Keith Getty is an important writer of hymn texts and music for our generation. This collection (Kingsway Music KMCD2858, 3 CDs) of 44 songs represents a significant cross-section of Getty's work over the past several years. Those who are familiar with Getty solely as partner with Stuart Townend on the text "In Christ Alone" will find here a more complete representation of what Getty is about. The texts are good, in some cases quite good. They reflect a classic spirituality with vibrant images that speak to a new generation of persons seeking to grow in faith. The tunes are often good, sometimes only so-so. There are plenty of effects which make one think, "Irish music," but they grow ever so slightly predictable after 40+ songs.
In addition to his own hymn texts, Getty adds a couple of older hymn texts (adapted), a nice homage to the history of hymn-writing. Upon first hearing a song like "In Christ Alone" or "Speak, O Lord," folks are struck often by the contemporary sound of the tune and the lyric. I try to remind folks that Getty writes in a very traditional hymn-text format: very often straightforward verse forms, or verse/refrain. Folks seem to get drawn in by the often soaring melodic lines and effective orchestration, in addition to vivid imagery. There are here the essential tin whistle, bodhrans, and Uilleann pipes, but also well orchestrated strings and other percussion. Couple that with standard harmonies and simple bridges and you've got a pattern that obviously speaks to the listener and conveys the message of faith well. Folks who loves Irish music will get a kick out of this collection. Listening to all three CDs in one sitting is only for the most stalwart listener! + + +
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