Church Music

iTunes Review

Already known for its boldness, the David Crowder Band takes a quantum leap forward with Church Music. In both concept and realization this album stands out from typical worship music releases. Carefully sequencing its tracks to achieve a seamless flow, Crowder and his bandmates touch upon a variety of modern techno-dance styles with nods towards Beatlesque pop and hard rock along the way. Tingling synthesizers and multi-layered beats drive home the reverent content of tracks like “The Nearness,” “The Veil” and “Church Music – Dance (!)” with palpable urgency. Muscular, metal-tinged tunes like “God Almighty” contrast with the jubilant Britpop of “Birmingham (We Are Safe)” and the gossamer-draped electronica of “Eastern Hymn.” Amidst the abundance of sweat-raising grooves found here, some of Church Music’s most affecting moments come during contemplative ballads like “We Are Loved” and “All Around Me.” Church Music is a genuine tour de force, taking praise music to a heightened level even as it smolders with dance-floor fervor.