With the snow gently falling outside my office window, I decided it was time to listen to Still (2010, NCG Music), the new recording from my friend Nathan Clark George. I received the CD last week; but, with the challenges of life, and a number of self-imposed deadlines, I just didn’t have the time to give it a listen. Why is it that we often become slaves to the tyranny of the urgent and miss out on the sweet peace that is promised during this season?
Anyway, I found this CD to be incredibly therapeutic to my beleaguered soul. Each song blended with the view outside bringing a soothing tranquility. I almost chastised myself for not taking the time to enjoy this work earlier. It certainly lives up to the simple title: Still.
Nathan’s gifting as an accomplished guitarist is beautifully complemented by Mark Stoffel’s mandolin and Ross Sermon’s upright bass. And, of course, Nathan’s vocal abilities seem to be created for hymns of the Christmas season. Listening to this CD invokes images of Christmases past, of sitting in front of a warm, crackling fire, of the aroma of fresh baked pastries, and of the joy of family and friends. Each selection blends together in a feast of the familiar and the new. You will enjoy the traditional melodies of Sussex Carol, Of the Father’s Love Begotten, God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen, Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabelle, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, and the beautiful Austrian lullaby, Still, Still, Still. In addition to these selections are four less familiar pieces from times passed: Whence is that Goodly Fragrance Flowing, Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day, Weihnachts Medley, and All My Heart, This Night Rejoices. Lastly, Nathan again shows his skill as a song writer with a moving acoustical piece called In Quiet Hope and a new hymn of praise, For What Did Christ, the Babe Appear.
Outside of the synergy sewn throughout this CD with regard to the musical selection, I especially appreciated the deep theology Nathan included in For What Did Christ, the Babe Appear. The work of Jesus didn’t end at the manger – He came with a deliberate purpose, and that was our redemption. This piece helps remind us of this crucial and certain mission. The a capella introduction, followed by the soft string accompaniment, slowly rising to a powerful ending, in Of The Father’s Love Begotten brought a tear to my eye. Again, Jesus came with a purpose. Let Creation praise its Lord! Evermore and evermore!
The last song, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, highlighted the acoustic blend of these three talented musicians. And I thought the light jazz ending to the song was a delightful way to conclude the CD.
Overall, this is one you will not want to miss. Still will be a treasure in your home for years. It truly helps focus thoughts on the joy of the season, which is the work of Jesus and the beauty of community. Thanks Nathan, Mark and Ross in helping me slow down and find a moment to be still.
My grade for Still: A
To order a copy of this CD, go to http://www.nathanclarkgeorge.com/
Still
Nathan Clark George
NCG Music
And to make it legal, the opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the other elders or members of Providence Church.
