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by Jesse Cole
Brenton Brown is one who has been placed in his ministry for "such a time as this," obvious as you consider the particulars of his journey. And listen to his music.
“Everlasting God” rings with a sense of history and purpose. Brenton Brown grew up in South Africa and came of age at the time of apartheid’s fall, moved to the UK where he became ill and also developed his writing and worship leading skills under the guidance of Brian Doerksen. This influence is apparent on the songs of “Everlasting God” in a few ways. For one, the songs are written with the church in mind, but are also radio-appropriate with their pop-rock flair. Think a polished Tree63 or a grittier Paul Baloche. Actually Baloche co-wrote the opener “Hosanna (Praise is Rising)” with Brown, an energetic rocker with a strong Vineyard feel with an appealing choral background. Brown’s years as a Vineyard leader permeate this album; this will charm some listeners and perhaps deter others. I’m not a big Vineyard fan; I tend to like music a bit harder, but “Everlasting God” won me over, if that helps. There are several well-written infectious praise tracks on this album that I might not listen to on radio, but would appreciate greatly in the worship realm (“I Will Remember,” a quieter “Lord, Reign in Me” and a rockin’ “Hallelujah (Your Love is Amazing)”. Apart from those tracks are several that are powerful and deeply moving. The title track represents well the album’s theme: God’s faithfulness in times of trouble, His constantly accessible strength for our deliverance. Upbeat and encouraging, this song stirs the heart to believe, as does the simple, folky ballad “Jesus, You Are Worthy” and the intimate warmth of “You Are My God.” Throughout, the album’s crisp production showcases Brown’s bright melodies, catchy hooks, and sincere worship. Brown’s South African heritage shows up nicely on a few tracks, including Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s appearance on “We Will Worship Him.” And the snippet that is “Not Going Back.” Please oh please go with that thought, Brenton. I love the imagery of the passionate “Like the Angels” and his fresh arrangement of “Well With My Soul,” nicely positioned before the youthful techno-pop closer “We Will Go.” The range of tempos and styles on “Everlasting God” adds to its appeal, and Brown is equally comfortable in each. Make sure to wait on the hidden prayer after the silent 6 minutes at album’s end, revealing even more of Brenton Brown’s heart for the Lord. The appeal of “Everlasting God” is pretty broad; if you’re looking for the best of the worship you hear of Sunday mornings, check it out. If you like "Everlasting God," you will probably also enjoy Paul Baolche's "The Greater Song" and Tree63's "Worship: Volume 1."
The copyright of the article Brenton Brown: Everlasting God in Christian Music is owned by Kevan Breitinger. Permission to republish Brenton Brown: Everlasting God in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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