Local congregation Embassy Christian Center in Oceanside has released a praise album recorded live entitled “Fresh Fire.” Its ten songs are definitely not pieces to fall asleep at night to.
From the first song to the last, the beat does not lose tempo, and the vocals drive hard. Most songs follow the traditional praise pattern, with catchy and repeated choruses. It only takes one listening through to gain a sense of familiarity with the songs.
Most songs have an edge-of-your-seat feel, certainly helped by the drum-machine feel of the percussion. Except, however, “Fresh Fire,” written by Barry Cook, pastor of Embassy. A slower song,, it shares the rhythmic sense of the rest of the songs with a strong feel of the praise song, “Sanctuary.” A short (just over one minute) worship instrumental divides the album as the fifth song.
Embassy has created an album that lives up to its name: “High Impact Praise & Worship Live!” Fast-paced enough, Fresh Fire delivers praise songs in a powerful way. For those considering adding it to their collection, listen to the intros of a few songs: that will give an accurate idea of what to expect.
Jeremy Fry is on the Good News, Etc. staff. He will periodically review music albums, selecting locally produced music first.
