Back in the mid-90's Kim began writing impromptu reviews of church music CDs (worship music) so that people who were looking for CDs would have an opinion from someone who is also a worship leader and is garnering music for local church use. Up to this point, this was rarely something that was done, because church music was revered as sacred and it was thought that any offering of that sacred worship shouldn't be criticised or evaluated. In fact, Kim wasn't as much a critic as he was an evaluator, helping people find what fit their church. He began posting his reviews on line in a email discussion forum, called the Worship List (website). After a while, when he helped launch Worshipmusic.com, he continued that same concept of trying to help other local church worship leaders and musicians find music that might be applicable to their situations. The reviews continued to be a part of that. Worshipmusic.com went on to grow a staff of writers that would add many more reviews to the collection they have, but Kim continued to participate as a key reviewer. This journal logs all the reviews Kim has written on worship music CDs and projects.
Kim's reviews of CD projects of worship music includes independents, label and main stream recordings, but all having to do with worship music.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at 8:49PM 
[stop for a moment. quiet the noise. rest your mind. read this.]
Welcome to the place of level ground
Welcome to the place where grace abounds
We all need mercy
We all need mercy
This is the first verse of the title track from Brian Doerksen's newest music experience, entitled "Level Ground". Like most of Brian's projects, this one is a woven, purposeful story. In this episode of his sharing with the broader church, the overarching theme is grace. The liner notes intro this CD well, where Doerksen says:
"This project began as a simple idea... a picture of grace."
The songs and arrangements of this album reflect this vision well. Having watched some of the video tracks from the DVD, it also keeps the poignancy of the grace-filled intention. In fact, even the website of the project (on braindoerksen.com) has several powerful video clips of individuals who share stories of their lives that express the struggle of our humanity and the grace of God- be sure to watch those stories, they are amazing. That is the core of this project- seeing grace through another's eyes. Being kind enough to hear and enter into the narrative of another person's story. If you miss this, you may hear some great music, but avoid the reality of theme it is built upon- God's grace, changing lives.
That said, let's talk about the music! As I mentioned, this album starts off with the title track "Level Ground". The keystone in both theme and musical presentation of this project, Level Ground is a very singable and inviting song. Medium tempo feel and, though it is presented with layers of Celtic/soft rock fusion here, could fit nicely into virtually any modern styled service.
I really enjoyed the second song "The Jesus Way", which builds intensity as the arrangement lifts you into guitar-driven vamp that allows you stand and declare your allegiance to the "Jesus Way".
I also enjoyed the dynamic rendition of Tim Hughes's powerful "Everything" (a lyrical tribute that nods to St. Patrick's Breastplate prayer). Staring pensive and stripped down with just piano and light touches for effect, it launches into power chord driven chorus. But after the explosion of heart in the chorus, the return to the simple verse is understated and perfect, ending with a beautiful piano instrumental to guide the worshiper into a space of humble offering to God.
"Will You Love Me In the Winter" is a beautiful and heart wrenching musical inquiry, from the human heart to what can seem like a distant God, when our bodies and lives are broken and cold. Speaking of the dark night of the soul, languishing in the struggle of discouragement and pain of the body, Doerksen gives voice to our question- will God be there when I am most in need of him? Thank you, Brian, for writing a thoughtful lament for the church. Much needed. Well done.
A couple of other favorite tracks on the album are "Altar of Love" and "Whatever Comes", both songs are well done. My favorite track on the album is the anthem "Thank You for the Cross". Excellent lyrics, great presentation, and a powerful song!
This project is recorded live, and with the musicians in the midst of a congregation joining in the worship. Visually and audibly it is an engaging and grace-filled experience. I encourage you to take a listen to this album! I love it!
Product Link at Amazon: Level Ground [+digital booklet]
The entire album is also already included in the WorshipTeam.com worship planning system.
Bring us to the place of level ground, o Lord!
In Him,
Kim Gentes
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