Singer-songwriter Ellie Holcomb’s latest offering, All of My Days, is an EP (a short album) of songs based on the Psalms. We get the idea in the first song, also the title track and a reflection on Psalm 23, that Holcomb intends to track quite closely with the Psalm as she sings, “lead me by the quiet waters.” The gentle melody supports the theme, “your goodness and mercy follow me all of my days.” While each song does not cover each Psalm in its entirety, one of the main messages of the Psalm is presented using language that is familiar to those of us who know the Psalm.
That opening track sets the tone for the whole album; Holcomb has created an album of Psalms of comfort. For example, in “Where Can I Go (Psalm 139),” the chorus begins with “Where can I go from your spirit” and ends with the repeated line, “Your right hand will hold me fast.”
These Psalms continue the themes of what Holcomb has been singing about for years. Her music reminds us of God’s faithfulness and his care for us. She reminds us of her personal history with Psalm-related songs too. She ends the album with the well-known “Thy Word,” written 40 years ago by Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith. The original recording was produced by Holcomb’s father, Brown Bannister, when Holcomb was a toddler. All of My Days is a delightful reminder of God’s faithfulness and care.
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.