Hymns: My Life

Description

Hymns: My Life is the sixth studio album by the American singer and songwriter Crystal Lewis, released on Metro One Recordings in 1995, distributed by Diamante Music Group. (Also released in Spanish entitled Himnos De Mi Vida.) The album was produced by John Andrew Schreiner. Mixed by Schreiner.

Crystal Lewis is backed by producer John Andrew Schreiner on kyeboards, Shawn Tubbs on guitar, and a rhythms section consisting of jazz bassist John Patitucci and drummer Bob Wilson, the latter of Seawind fame. Backing vocals provided by Debbie McClendon Smith, Linda McCrary, and Maxi Anderson. Also featuring the Voices of Faith Choir directed by Barbara Allen.

Crystal Lewis, known for her strong pop based hits, offers up a solid performance in her latest collection ‘Hymns: My Life’. Utilizing her strong prowess as a vocalist, Crystal belts out some of the most popular hymns of all time.

Coupled with her unique ability to capture each song’s uniqueness is the production quality that allows the listener to concentrate on the lyrics. The album begins with a great rendition of the classic «It is Well» where Crystal’s vocals shine amidst well produced piano and a chorus of singers. Beautiful string arrangements accent the classic «How Great Thou Art», and she shows off her pop influence on the funky rendition of «When We All Get to Heaven». This track garnishes a traditional gospel choir breakdown that makes you want to scream and shout. Perhaps the album’s strongest highlight is the acoustic rendering of «Why Should He Love Me So» featuring incredible work on acoustic guitar.

Although this is a great effort, it is not her best performance. Though it does follow in the latest trend of covering old classics, I found myself longing for one of Lewis’ straight ahead pop tunes. The overall production allows you to enjoy the meaning of each song, however it lacks the quality found in other projects in her library. [Mark Adkison, CCM, June 1995]

> iTunes (https://music.apple.com/us/album/hymns-my-life/1608214180)

CD tracklist:

01. It Is Well – 5:17
02. Just As I Am / I Surrender All – 3:58
03. My Tribute – 5:18
04. The Solid Rock – 4:40
05. Blessed Assurance – 3:56
06. How Great Thou Art – 5:24
07. Bloodwashed Pilgrim – 4:36
08. When We All Get To Heaven – 3:53
09. Why Should He Love Me So – 3:41
10. Have Thine Own Way – 4:12
11. I’d Rather Have Jesus – 5:09

Note: Simultaneously released on cassette and CD by Metro One Recordings.

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