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by Rachel Rosen
The 3 guys of River may hold the record for longest-producing-and-still-flourishing-without-a-label-indie band. "Caught Up In You: Songs of Worship" is their 11th album.
They’ve also performed over 1300 concerts, had three Top Ten hits, seven Top 5 Inspirational Radio singles, and scored a movie theme song; all without a label. None of it because they weren’t pursued by labels, but because they had a different plan for their music and their ministry. Now songwriter/producer Paul Marino and guitarists Phil Reesnes and Kurt Linn knew it was time for “Caught Up In You,” a collection of ten worship songs that feature tight harmonies and heartfelt lyrics of devotion. They are songs written for the church, the place where River has always felt called to serve. Paul Marino shares, “We always wanted to be an extension of the local churches, and come alongside them to serve.” “Caught Up In You” will serve the church well, with its church-friendly pop rock sound and expressive message. “Caught Up” starts off strong, with the guitar-driven “I Am Alive,” a song dripping with jubilance. The title track follows, its melodic chord changes lending themselves mightily to a worship posture. The soft gritty vocals and the slight country flair don’t hurt either. The album moves through a series of encouraging tracks, and you will enjoy the tight harmonies of “Manna From Heaven,” as well as the bouncy pop-rocker “In The Ordinary.” But the real standout tracks are the two ballads. The first is the quiet “Tremble,” a moving and reverent look at the holiness of God that will stun you with its truth. The other is Marino’s adaptation of Fanny Crosby’s “Near The Cross.” This textured rendition features solid programming touches that add to the song’s tenderness and sense of awe. Very nicely done. “Caught Up In You” closes with the lovely, lilting “Whatever It Takes,” a soul-piercing and insightful song of true desperation. This brokenness is the place of blessing, and after listening to “Caught Up In You: Songs of Worship,” I believe it is this place that River aims for with all of their heart. Find out more about these true ministers and their worship music at www.riverministries.net.
The copyright of the article River: Caught Up In You in Christian Music is owned by Kevan Breitinger. Permission to republish River: Caught Up In You in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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