Anchor Hymns, a gathering of musicians and worship leaders representing multiple generations and Christian traditions, resurrect a collection of 20-year-old worship songs by giving them new arrangements. Over the past year, they’ve released two EPs (short albums) with songs that speak to the human condition and God’s faithfulness. The arrangements are simple but compelling, inviting churches to use these songs with the skills that their players bring. The title songs in “Be Unto Your Name" and "Give Thanks" are great examples of older songs that get a new, less-slick arrangement (compared to their originals) that bring out the beauty of the melodies and the strength of the lyrics.
They’ve followed those releases with another EP of original songs, Sing Sing Sing, that continues in the same spirit. The group’s founder, Andrew Osenga, says their mission is to focus on songs that give “an honest presentation of our collective experience of suffering and doubt, an awareness of how fleeting time is, and God’s faithfulness through both of those things.”
All of these EPs are great for inspiring your church’s music team or just for listening. (Integrity)
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.