Audrey Assad first gained national attention with an above-average debut album of Christian music in 2010. After a second, similar album, she decided that she would rather write and perform worship and liturgical music. She also resolved that she would be better off as an independent artist instead of being tied to a major Christian label. While her first two albums were very good, her indie albums have been significantly better.
On Inheritance, her second album as an indie artist, Assad explores hymns that have been passed down to us from previous generations of Christians. The record opens with “Ubi Caritas,” a new melody for a very old Latin text that is often used along with the washing of feet on Maundy Thursday. The beautiful melody sets the stage for an album mostly made up of renditions of old hymns like “Holy, Holy, Holy,” and “How Can I Keep from Singing.”
The thread that holds it all together is Assad’s rich voice and piano. The arrangements are airy, evoking the sense that we’re listening in a worship space. Another Assad original, “Even Unto Death,” leads into the traditional “Abide with Me” to close this beautiful album. (+180 Records)
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.