Reviewed by Stella Redburn It's quite hard to find songs for children that are not patronising, but this 2009 album from the talented Scottish collective contains a string of really catchy, well-arranged numbers that speak of various aspects of Christian life. Stephen Fischbacher has the rare ability to write songs in a dazzling variety of styles, from the folky fiddle-driven title track (which, incidentally, is a great Christmas song), to the blues (complete with some tasty blues harp) of "God Knows Everything". Then there is the East-End style take-off in "Here's A Little Story" to a nod towards rap with "Move On Up", which dramatises the story of the Prodigal Son. In all this wild variety, my favourite was "Music Maker": such a pretty, reflective piece, delightfully arranged - a modern psalm. Suzanne Adam's beautiful clear voice shines out in slower songs like "Part Of Your Plan". There is a huge range of possibilities for this CD, including church worship, Sunday school, RE lessons, school assemblies, and, of course, families. It is available as a standalone CD album or a CDROM teaching pack, which includes teaching notes, backing tracks, lyric sheets, videos showing BSL signs and actions, and piano/guitar arrangements. All in all, another fantastic resource from Mr Fischbacher and his friends.
The opinions expressed in this article are
not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed
views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may
not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a
later date. Interested in reviewing music? Find out
more here.
|