Reviewed by Darryl Tempero
When a room has been closed up a while, it’s a natural response to open a window and savour the feeling of freshness flowing in. That’s the sense I have listening to the album “ One Voice” by Malcolm Gordon.
The CD cover opens with the statement, “People remember what they sing” and goes on to describe the importance of the authenticity of the words of our songs. For many years people have lamented the lack of theological depth in some contemporary songs, and here is part of the answer. Some of the images that emerge from these songs have real strength and provide impressions to mull over long after you’ve heard them. They have a blend of justice, reflection, statements about God, and worship expressions we can sing from our heart. All could be used in a worship service context, some as congregational songs, some as items for music teams, and some simply by playing the CD and meditating on the words.
The title track “One Voice” helps us join God’s song for justice, reminding us that it’s “not about us,” but about us joining God in God’s mission. Other highlights include “Lead O Spirit, Lead”, which those at General Assembly 2008 will remember. The chorus is really strong, providing us with an anthem to crank out in song and a lyric that sums up our existence wonderfully - “What you sing we will echo.” I’m looking forward to playing “Break the Bread” as we share in Communion next time, and be reminded anew why we join Christ at his table.
I know it’s subjective, but for the record my favorites are “Who are You” and “Children of a Thousand Prayers”. The typically human question of who I am can only be answered as we explore the identity of our living God. Singing a song about Christ our high priest and intercessor inspires me. It reminds me of my humanity, and gives hope at the same time. “We stand tall ‘cause He kneels for us” is one of those wonderful lines that goes deep and gives a picture of security and identity. It’s a song that can be sung together as a congregation, or listened to as we pray. Malcolm’s wife of only a few months, Vanessa, co-wrote both of these songs so I would keep her on.
The album certainly has a Kiwi sound to it, and I am often reminded of the Finn brothers when listening to it. Malcolm has gathered some excellent musicians to record these songs, and Geoff Duncan has done a fantastic job behind the scenes of mixing and mastering (not to mention some superb colours added from his electric guitar – very professional). So too is the photography and design – both add to the Kiwi feel and freshness of an album that you won’t be disappointed with.
Darryl is assistant pastor at Hornby Presbyterian Community Church in Christchurch.