Worship Live

Album Review

Recorded live in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Salvador's project Worship Live was released in September 2003. The band — composed of members Nic Gonzales, Jose Gonzales, Elliot Torres, Chris Bevins, Dave Martin, Robert Acuña, Pablo Gabaldon, and Billy Griego — started out their musical careers leading worship in a church pastored by the father of several of the bandmates. With this album, they continue in their tradition of leading worship.

The album includes a good balance of Salvador originals, and currently popular worship standards ("Open the Eyes of My Heart," "I Love You Lord," "Those Who Trust," "We Fall Down," "I Could Sing of Your Love Forever," "As The Deer," "Here I Am to Worship"). Previously recorded Salvador tracks feature fresh arrangements, including a salsa-funk version of "David Danced." The songs are ordered well, with the album starting off energetically, and then moving into deeper, more contemplative worship, only to finish with the exuberant "Montana."

Each musician is at the top of their class, from the organ/keyboard player to the bass, brass, guitars, drums, percussion, and vocals. Lead vocalist Nic Gonzales seems comfortable in his interactions with the audience, displaying his sense of humor and an engaging personality.

Overall, the album contains a nice mix and good production. The only low mark it receives is due to a few "autotune" glitches, something that doesn't always go right when using autotune in a live performance.