|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
[ lifestyle: a worship experience ] |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
LIFESTYLE: A WORSHIP EXPERIENCE (2002) Far too often in our lives we fail to realize that worshipping God is meant to be our lifestyle. It's so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the daily grind, failing to reserve time and energy just for God. At these times, the excuses are plentiful. Whether it's being "too tired" or "too busy" or just being lazy, the reality is that when we approach life this way, it's as if we are saying God is too much trouble for us to put forth the effort. The sad part in that, as pointed out on The Katinas' release Lifestyle: A Worship Experience, is that worship can (and should) be as much a celebration as anything else. Though they grew up in American Samoa, this band of brothers (literally five brothers, including a set of twins) is probably best known among fans of Latin-Pop music. Their first two releases, Destiny and The Katinas, were each released in both English and Spanish versions, and between them earned the group seven Dove Award nominations. With a large, rich sound, male composition, and Spanish-flavored rhythms, the comparisons to Salvador are a natural. However, on this release the group creates some separation, instead focusing on "Island-influenced Pop," as they call it. Recorded in a Brentwood, TN club, Lifestyle brings together the group's unique renditions of such standards as "Lord, I Lift Your Name On High" and "Trading My Sorrows" with songs from their earlier productions, including "Thank You" and "Draw Me Close." Also appearing are three original tracks: "Live Your Love," "Beauty of Your Grace," and "Rejoice." There are a number of things that make this production special. It seems clear that attendance at this concert was a tremendously enriching event. However, the "experience" of having attended is conveyed to the listener such that we are just as blessed, in the here and now. The passion these gentlemen have for ministry is obvious in the opening prayer, the way they call on God for his presence there, and the offer of personal prayer following the concert. What sets this worship project apart, though, is the feeling that the entire concert is a party, a celebration of God and His mercy. Their high-energy arrangements and their exhortations for the crowd to exalt His Majesty and His Grace create a wonderful feeling of community. From humble beginnings singing in their father's church, The Katinas have found a way to bridge the gaps between different age and ethnic groups, between groups of people with differing tastes in music. Their blend of pop, R&B, funk, soul, Calypso, and Gospel has something for everyone. In this way, they truly find a way to spread God's message, bringing His love and hope to all generations.
- Scott Bush
February 2004 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Articles written by the staff. Maintained by WebMaster Dan Ficker. Site Design by da Man All Material © 1999-2005 Different Media LLC Support cMusicWeb.com |