The majority of our congregational music comes from Emu and Sovereign Grace, and I suspect many of your churches are the same. However, there are an increasing number of options for those looking for songs that combine theological depth with good music. Here are a few sources that you might not be aware of, all of them Australian -
Morrow Music (www.morrowmusic.com) - Mike Morrow is well known as the writer behind some of Emu’s most popular songs. His site includes this material, alongside plenty of new music as well. Mike’s songs show a consistently high level of craftsmanship, so you will find plenty of usable material here. Check out his latest song, “This Life I Live”.
Garage Hymnal (garagehymnal.com) - Some people have been a bit intimidated by the high production values on their recent recordings, but I believe their songs are easier to play than it might seem. I really like “Beneath the Cross” from their latest album, and I plan to do it at church this year.
Trevor Hodge (www.trevorhodgemusic.com) - Trevor Hodge, from Kirkplace, has put together a terrific collection of fresh and singable songs. Have a listen to “All The Nations” especially, but check out the other songs as well.
Reason Music (www.reason.mu) - Sydney-based Reason Music produce thoughtful songs aimed at smaller churches. We’ve really enjoyed playing their version of “Be Thou My Vision” at church this year.
City Alight (www.cityalight.com) - St Paul’s Castle Hill have released an album of high quality anthems and ballads. It’s just like Hillsong but with better lyrics. The pick of the bunch is “(Holy) For You Alone Are”. Looking forward to more music from these guys.
NiteEV Live (www.myspace.com/niteev) - This is the first album from the music ministry of NiteEV church on the Central Coast. Production values are raw, but there are some good tunes here. Check out “He is Lord”.
Lots of great songs there, but we need many, many more. It has never been easier to promote and distribute original music. I would love to see the day when dozens of our churches are writing, publishing and distributing their own material via the internet. I pray that the next few years will see a blossoming of talent in this area.
