STYLE: Pop RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 145127-21743 LABEL: Forerunner FM094 FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1 RELEASE DATE: 2013-11-12 RRP: £12.99
Reviewed by Mike Rimmer
Best known for the song "Holy", Matt Gilman has emerged from the International House Of Prayer, in his case the one in Florida, with a debut solo album. 'Awaken Love' features 11 modern worship songs from Gilman with production from the respected Nashville hitmaker Ed Cash. Gilman says of the album, "I want the music and the lyrics to fascinate the listener with the beauty of God, his majesty and his humility." And certainly his songwriting manages to transcend the usual superficial clichés and stock phrases that are so often bandied about which is a welcome relief. With heart and melody, the songs draw you in and there were a few standouts for me. I particularly liked "Eyes Of Mercy" which reminds us of how God sees us and "Every Captive Free" which builds to some powerful intense moments. It's intimate worship ballads and anthems all the way here and I think I like it best when Matt chooses to go in an intense direction.
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Product Description
Awaken Love is an album featuring worship songs written or co-written by Matt Gilman, and produced by Dove award-winner Ed Cash.
Of the album Matt says, “My desire for this album is that the music and the lyrics would fascinate the listener with the beauty of God, His majesty and His humility. As we engage with the heart of God in worship, we, as believers in Jesus, should feel confidence and boldness to approach His throne because of His unending mercy. At the same time, we should have a trembling heart before this holy One who dwells in unapproachable light. Ultimately, I long to see the Word of God written on hearts and people growing in love for Jesus.”
Awaken Love showcases Matt’s strong vocal and acclaimed songwriting talents (his song Holy has been recorded by Kari Jobe and Kim Walker of Jesus Culture).
The album includes worship ballads and anthems that have been sung by tens of thousands through the International House of Prayer’s ministry over the past several years.
The album launches with As the Deer, a powerful, mid-tempo song that spotlights the walk of the faithful as they reach and yearn for God; Eyes of Mercy showcases the wonderful grace of God and how He sees the good in His followers; the title track is a powerful ballad, a love song to God in gratitude for His eternal love; Fairer was co-written by Gilman and Cash and displays the majesty of our Lord.