Main Review
If you've been following Christian music for any length of time, sooner or later you'll hear of Rebecca St. James. Whether
she's singing her heart out, writing soul-stirring devotionals, or leading the push for purity, there's no question about it;
she is the real deal. With an upcoming wedding, a new book, and a movie coming out later this year, you might wonder,
how does she find the time for it all? Good question. The title of her latest album, I Will Praise You, seems to be an
answer in itself. Spending time with God helps you put it in perspective.
The title song is also the first track, a declaration that whatever happens, Rebecca will still praise God anyway. Her lovely
accent adds character to a statement which is easier made out of the fire than in it. I love her cover of "You Never Let Go".
It's like warm honey at first, but quickly becomes triumphant. She exudes confidence that God will never leave us alone.
"Shine Your Glory Down", the first single, is a fervent prayer asking God to make Himself known on this day. It's got the
swift musical cascade that is so popular in fast-paced worship songs.
"You Still Amaze Me" makes use of some lyrics from "Amazing Grace", but there's a lot more original material too. It's a
good song for someone who's been a Christian for a long time, yet has never lost the awe they had the moment they first
met God. "In A Moment" looks forward to Jesus' return for His bride. Sure to become a favorite in churches because of its
crowd vocals. "The Kindness Of Our God" has a Celtic flair to it, and is sort of a progression from what God has done to
what He will do, all the while displaying His affection for us.
"When The Stars Burn Down" describes the end of the world as we know it, when we will forever worship God. Any song
that does that has the added bonus of praising Him now. "Almighty God" emphasizes the strength and power of God, as
well as His faithfulness. A reminder we can all use; that He is always with us no matter what we're facing. "You Hold Me
Now", a cover, though I can't remember from where, is another look forward to when there will be no more pain, sorrrow or
fear, because Jesus will have us at last. "You Make Everything Beautiful" uses the Serenity Prayer and is a song that
reassures us that God will redeem everything in our lives, both bad and good.
Closing Thoughts
A veteran of the Christian media scene, Rebecca St. James delivers with I Will Praise You. The album is laced with hope
for the future all the way through. There is no question where Rebecca stands or where she is pointing to; the arms of an
unfailing God.
Review Written By: Laura Chambers [laura.chambers@christianmusicreview.org] on 4/5/2011
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