Robin Mark continues his masterful ministry of music with his new CD, East of the River. Teaming up with noted songwriter Paul Baloche on a few songs, Mark shows that he still has the ability to write poignant worship songs; songs that have the potential to be sung for generations.
As the Worship leader at his church in Ireland for nearly 18 years, he has honed his writing to effectively bring his audience into the presence of God. East of the River is no different in that perspective.
Celtic-Style of Praise and Worship
Mark always brings the local flavor of Ireland to his sound. The Celtic-style blended with modern worship gives a twist to a saturated Praise and Worship market. Not to mention that it sounds incredible.
Mark has surrounded himself with exceptional musicians. East of the River boasts Jerry McPhereson playing guitars, Ken Lewis on percussion, Blair Masters playing piano, John Catching on Cello, plus many other talented artists bringing the Celtic-style to life.
Praising God with Instruments
Words are not always necessary to worship God. The beauty of instruments alone can be enough at times. Many classical pieces were written to the glory of God without a lyric being sung. Mark takes full advantage of the talented artists he plays with and praises God with some wonderful Instrumentals.
The opening song, “Some Place East of the River”, transports the listener to the Emerald Island with the haunting beauty of the flute, harp and other instruments used to create the Celtic sound. It sets the mood and readies the heart for worship.
Just about midway through, the listener is blessed with a traditional Irish jig. “Tripping Up the Stairs” is a fun instrumental piece showing that God’s people know a bit about enjoying life. “Mary Lee” is another jig that’s placed in about three quarters through.
The instrumental pieces help to break up the 16 song CD. It’s as if they announce the next chapter. With thirteen, the instrumental songs let everything flow without getting old.
Classic Praise and Worship Concepts
God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Everything under the sun that can be said about Him has been. That doesn’t mean it’s not possible to write new songs to honor God. Mark has written songs that have a classic concept without feeling rehashed.
Mark uses the concept of the amazing qualities of God used in other songs. “O Amazing” branches off of other songs such as “Amazing Grace” and “Amazing Love”. The concepts aren’t new; in fact they are centuries old. Mark is able to lend his creativity to this and bring a different perspective.
“Lost and Found” tackles a classic concept but also has a unique view. Part of the perspective is from an experience of a friend of Mark’s. The man was walking outside after a storm. He noticed the beauty that could be seen only in the aftermath. That is coupled with how all are lost and are blessed when God finds us.
Excellent Praise and Worship Writing
Robin Mark has an excellent reputation as a Praise and Worship song writer. He has sold over a million copies of his live Praise and Worship CDs. His songs are sung in churches worldwide.
Mark started releasing tapes of Celtic Praise and Worship in the early 90s in his home country of Ireland. His heartfelt writing caught the attention of some in the US and now he is in high demand around the world.
 |
 |
 |
