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While looking through his college recordings, Matt Brouwer was reminded anew of the sheer joy and innocence of music. Thus, the birth of "The B-Sides Recording Vol. 1."
These old friends and five additional new songs make up “The B-Sides Recording Vol.1,” a slice-of-life record of Matt Brouwer’s journey thus far. And it does contain a bittersweet flavor, a mix of stirring memories from solid long ago favorite choruses (the sensitively rendered “Nails” and “Father, I Adore You,” given new life by the richly textured organic arrangement of layered strings), and classic hymns (the gentle acoustic “Tis So Sweet”). But it also feels very fresh, with superb production values and sparkling arrangements. Take note of the mandolin tidbits popping over Brouwer’s soft vocals on opener “All I Want” and Jackie Key’s lovely background vocals on the pristine “Here I Am Again,” a song recognizing God’s enduring love. “Freedom Song” picks up the pace just in time, an uptempo rocker with sizzling strings. “Surrender” also amps up the energy level with its hooky chorus and rousing delivery. Brouwer pours his heart out on this one. The passion flows pretty freely on the Horatio Spafford classic, “Peace (It Is Well),” between the glorious cello work and Brouwer’s vocals, positively dripping with faith on these challenging lyrics. Another standout track is the melodic “Your Name,” moving nicely into free-flowing worship over lush instrumentation as the song winds down. “The B-Sides Recording” closes quietly with “The Source,” containing the only possible misstep on the album. This acoustic gem of a song, written from the Father’s perspective, is moving and encouraging, with luminous strings (oh that cello!). But the song’s delicacy is overshadowed by relentless synth work. I think I get where he was going with it, but I found the effect somewhat muddying. A single question on an otherwise glorious offering from Matt Brouwer, an important contributor. Click here to read Suite's review of "Unlearning," Matt's excellent previous album.
The copyright of the article Matt Brouwer: B-Sides Recordings in Christian Music is owned by Kevan Breitinger. Permission to republish Matt Brouwer: B-Sides Recordings in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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