Ken Medema has been writing and singing music for the church since the early 1970s, so Nothing Like the Rain, an album of new Medema songs, seems almost instantly recognizable. The characteristics of his style that have been present since he first started singing and playing in public are on full display here; his rich baritone voice and his exciting and emotive piano playing are, in many ways, just as they were decades ago.
But Nothing Like the Rain could not have been written and recorded all those years ago. These songs reflect the wisdom of an artist who has seen more than a few years, one who shares his joys, his pain, and his insights with the listeners as he to encourages, chastises, and blesses the church.
Medema’s career and ministry often includes improvised pieces based on things he has heard during a talk or an entire conference, so well-constructed that they almost have to be seen and heard to be believed. The album closes with a song based on one of those improvisations. “The Song is Alive” features just voice and piano and serves as a beautiful and fitting end to this fine album.
About the Author
Robert J. Keeley is a professor of education emeritus at Calvin University and leads music at 14th St. Christian Reformed Church in Holland, Mich.
