Various "Xalt"

Title: Xalt
Category: Dance/Pop
Artist/Group: Various
Rating: 4 / 5
Christian Disco? Not really; but close.

This CD is a collection of praise songs remixed to a euro-disco beat. Some of the songs are re-done by the original artist; others, by artists unknown to me. Suprising, the result is fresh and enjoyable. Here is a sampling and a brief description of some of the songs.

The CD begins with Paul Oakely's clean and peppy rendition of "I'm Learning to Love You". The song has a suprising zing that makes you want to tap your feet.

Matt Redman sings his "O Sacred King", a worshipful song with drum machines, sampling and scratches, that is able to bring a about a sense of an intimate conversation with God.

Sarah Eramus' "I Fall Down", gives a modern musical interpretation (re:techno) of our understanding of God's Holiness. Throughout the song, there is a dangerous undercurrent - for one must approach the Throne of God with much fear and trembling - that eventually leads to the wonder of the Grace that allows us to approach God's Glory. Indeed, one MUST fall down in awe of our awe-some God.

Martin Smith sings "Lord You Have My Heart" from Delirious' "Cutting Edge" CD. The original version is a slow song full of gratitude and wonder. This new electronic version is joyful and full of energy.

I especially got a kick out of Natasha Andrews' version of "Light The Fire Again", a euro disco remix that will cause your body to sway and bring a smile to your face.

This CD is one of the better collections of christian songs re-mixed to produce seemingly entirely different songs. If you like interesting versions of some very familiar praise songs, and if you like euro-pop sounds (Bronski Beat, Yaz, et al), this collection is a "must have" for you. If you are on a limited budget and/or your musical tastes are more on the acoustic side, you may want to pass on this CD. I give it a 4/5 rating.

Mark
Kim
1/20/01

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