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Bart Millard’s “Hymned” tied up with Amy Grant’s “Rock of Ages” album for GMA 2006 Inspirational Album of the Year. Both were great, but Bart’s is edgier.
2005 was the year of the hymn album, right? Unfortunately for the others, one listen to Bart Millard's new "Hymned" and they all fade into the woodwork. Written to honor his precious grandmother, a woman whose ardent love for hymns made a deep impression on her young grandson, "Hymned" is one of the year's richest, most creative and dazzling projects. Made in twenty days carved from Millard's Mercy Me schedule, the CD is astounding in terms of vision, talent, and originality. Yes, nine of these ten songs are covers, but each one is infused with a fresh, remarkable twist that makes it leap off the player and head straight to your soul, not to mention your toes. Tapping ensues and irresistible singing along. Who knew hymns could swing like this? From the opening strains of the gospel-meets-country "Just a Closer Walk With Thee," it is glorious swing-time all the way through. Drawing from a fascinating spread of genres, Millard taps into gospel, country, swing, Dixie jazz, rock and soul to breathe new life into these classic hymns; amazingly, there is not a single misstep. Each song is a triumph of versatility and creativity, perfectly arranged and executed, and supported by an outstanding roster of talented musicians. Russ Taff joins Millard for an Elvis-like take on "Precious Lord, Take my Hand" that does a slow sizzle all the way through. Vince Gill joins him for the slowly building "Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior" and hangs on all the way to its funkified finish. But it's Millard's exquisite vocals that grab the attention. The soulful crooning of "Softly and Tenderly" is definitively smooth and "The Old Rugged Cross" is as sweet and tangy as great barbecue. The tightly groovin' "Hymned" is this year's best surprise.
The copyright of the article GMA Winner Bart Millard in Christian Music is owned by Kevan Breitinger. Permission to republish GMA Winner Bart Millard in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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