Out Of Eden (Hymns) - Reviews

Out Of Eden
Hymns

They have had successful urban/pop albums. They have traveled the globe. They mentor teenage girls. Now Out Of Eden comes out with Hymns, an album full of mostly old standards, but with a few new ones included for good measure.

Of course, true to form, the material is arranged in a way to fit today’s generation with Gospel, neosoul, pop, rock and rhythmic arrangements.

"Immortal, Invisible God Only Wise" is given a pop sound that then turns into a Gospel choir jam with each section (soprano, alto and tenor) breaking into different parts. Virgil Stafford rips the organ to ensure the Gospel feel to it.

The stories of how each song was written are provided in the album’s liner notes, and prove to be an interesting read, together with information about the song’s writers. For example, "I Know Whom I Have Believed" was written by Daniel S. Whittle, a Major in the American Civil War. Out Of Eden gives the song a midtempo urban praise edge along the lines of Fred Hammond and RFC. The sisters deliver solid lead and background vocals while Michael Ripoll offers solid guitar riffs.

The organ solo by Stafford on "God Will Take Care of You" turns into a smooth neosoul ditty performed flawlessly by the group, without taking away from the power of the lyrics.

"Praise To The Lord, The Almighty" featuring Christian praise band Tree 63, is a gorgeous Celtic hymn with lovely strings and rock guitars. Lisa Kimmey and John Ellis compliment each other as they harmonize and trade lead vocals.

Two of the songs on the album were written by Lisa Kimmey. "Vision of Love" is a danceable praise song with Earth, Wind and Fire-esque horns and the wah wah guitar. "Have Mercy" is a powerful worship song that features an interpolation of Donnie McClurkin’s "Speak to My Heart". The song starts very smoothly and then builds into a driving plea for God’s mercy and for Him to have His way.

Matt Redman’s often recorded worship song; "Better Is One Day" gets a reworking. Don’t be alarmed; Out Of Eden do the song justice. It’s just a little faster with a nice piano added alongside their signature vocals.

Other songs to check out are "Fairest Lord Jesus" and the heavily acoustic "My Faith Has Found a Resting Place".

Hymns is a fine offering by Out Of Eden, as they inject their musical tastes while respecting and honoring the intent of the original writers. So go ahead and put this one on your must-buy list. It is an amazing album.

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Producers: Various album release date: February, 2005
Gotee Records

— reviewed by Dwayne Lacy —