Search - Ashley Cleveland :: Men & Angels Say

These Hymns Rock

Michael Dalton | Eureka, CA United States | 03/17/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you think of hymns as being dull-the music uninteresting-Ashley Cleveland's Men And Angels Say may change your opinion. These are not hymns as your father and mother heard them.



That's not to say that these classics are unrecognizable-far from it! The arrangements retain the original melodies but are often punctuated by the stellar guitar work of husband Kenny Greenberg. It may be a little heavy in places but overall it works well.



This recording has a rock feel to it. It's Amy Grant's first hymns recording with more of an edge. You also get a little blues, gospel and even a little bit of country thrown in. All of which plays to Ashley's strengths as a vocalist.



One of several highlights is Steve Winwood singing a duet and playing the Hammond B3 on "I Need Thee Every Hour." We are treated to a blues-inspired, lone guitar accompaniment on "Precious Lord, Take My Hand." A bagpipe intro to "Christ The Lord Is Risen Today" segues into a gentle rocker that fits the song well. St. Francis might appreciate the beautiful version of his treasured hymn, "All Creatures Of Our God And King." Ashley's mostly subdued vocals are wedded to just a simple piano arrangement.



This recording is dedicated to Ashley's mother, who taught her "the hymns and passed on her great love for them..." In Men And Angels Say Ashley does the same for us.

"

What a Friend We Have in Jesus

Paul | Warrensburg, MO United States | 08/11/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Not quite as gritty as Ashley Cleveland's other work, but if you like singing along to CDs, this will give your throat a real work-out. I hurt after a couple days of owning my copy, and even missed a turn while driving my library delivery route while belting out "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" --a duet with Ashley Cleveland, so to speak. She probably would have quit, had she heard me. If you like your rock with a good bluesy/countryish flavor, this hymn collection is for you."

Yes, I Believe God can be glorified in a blues hymn project

Indiana Jeff Reynolds | Indianapolis, IN USA | 01/06/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album is best put in the genre of acoustic blues, though you could also call it folk. Regardless, this is a collection of hymns, done in a style of music that is not traditional. So? The words are the same, and if God is glorified by these songs with piano and organ or an orchestra, why wouldn't He be just as glorified by a soulful vocal with guitar accompaniment and a slightly different musical style?



This is a great album, and I recommend it. The melody of "Surely Goodness And Mercy" differs from what I'm used to, but the words are great, and the music is both modern and worshipful at the same time."