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MUSIC REVIEWS

BY HEATHER VAN ALLEN | LH —MUSIC CONTRIBUTOR

BEHOLD HIM PAUL BALOCHE

Releasing his 22nd album, Behold Him, Paul Baloche, acclaimed artist known for “Open the Eyes of My Heart,” “Above All” and other songs that have helped shaped the world of contemporary worship music, continues to lift up the name of Jesus in song, drawing people into the presence of God.

As a reflection of the friendships God has brought into his life over the years as a worship leader, Behold Him features various other artists, including Kim Walker-Smith (Jesus Culture), Kari Jobe, Matt Redman, Chris Brown and Steven Furtick (Elevation Worship), Leslie Jordan (All Sons and Daughters), and more.

Speaking of a certain consistency between then—20 years ago—and now, Paul says, “It feels like the same heart cry—a desire to really see the Lord—to behold Him. I don’t want to lose sight of what God is doing in my life and in this generation. I want to see Him, hear Him, and follow Him.”

SIMPLE HYMNS SONGS OF COMMUNION VARIOUS ARTISTS

Songs of Communion, the fourth album in the Simple Hymns series (January 10, 2020), through Venture3Media, is 10 tracks featuring well-known worship leaders Pat Barrett (Housefires), Kelly Minter, Joanna Beasley (“American Idol”), Gabe Wilson, Dave Fitzgerald and more.

Focusing on the theme of Communion, the record offers fresh approaches to classic hymns, along with a selection of intentionally hymn-like new songs.

“Simple Hymns is a response to those that long for a return to a richer and more lyric focused worship expression, combined with a simplicity of musical instrumentation,” says Venture3Media president and founder Steve Nicolle. “Worship music shifts in style from decade to decade, along with shifts in lyrical themes and focus. What makes the hymns so unique and special is their ability to stand the test of time…. Hymns give us that anchor and remind us that God’s love and His nature are unchanging.”

JUSTIN RIZZO

PAID IT ALL

Justin Rizzo, known for leading worship at the International House of Prayer, in Kansas City, Missouri (IHOPKC), has released his first EP, Paid It All, through Spotlight Music Group (January 17, 2020).

Justin’s vocals are clear and easy on the ears, blending well with the touch of electronic flair and slightly ethereal melodies that characterize the first three songs, “Love Won’t Stop,” “You Are My Treasure” and the title track. The four-track EP finishes on a mellow, understated note, with a reprise of the title track as an acoustic version.

One of Justin’s favorites to play at IHOPKC, “Paid It All” is a blending of two songs written by a friend. “I heard them both one day and said, ‘We need to combine parts of each song together,’” Justin says. “It quickly became one of my favorite songs to lead, not only because of the theology and message, but also how it engaged congregations to sing along, declaring the worth of the blood of Jesus.”

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