genres: indie rock + worship + folk
I find most modern worship music to be both theologically and musically lacking. It’s no surprise that this releases by veteran artist John Van Deusen (best known as the frontman of the mainstream band The Lonely Forest) succeeds musically, but the depth and attention to historic theology, drawing heavily upon the great theologians of the medieval era is even more unmatched. Starting with “All Shall Be Well”, directly quoting from Julian of Norwich, is a bold statement towards the direction of the album. It’s a worship album, but focused on personal devotion and connection with the universal church throughout history rather than stirring corporate emotions like most contemporary worship music. Blending anthemic folk with playful indie rock and a commitment to patiently developing themes in both the music and lyrics, Every Power Wide Awake is one of the most deeply involving releases in recent history.
There’s a diversity to the themes covered, again illustrating the personal nature of the devotion displayed towards exploring worship in every season of life. Songs like “None Other” and “Calling All Cowards” carry a powerful conviction and divine adoration, while the epic “With Every Power Wide Awake” (a beautiful Easter song, it should be noted given the weekend) and “Illuminate My Unknowing” (among others) take on a penitent and wondering tone of marvel at God’s mercy. Even the moments of departure from introspection, like the delightfully retro “How Long Will You Wander, My Wayward Daughter”, retain a directed tone, close to that of Old Testament prophets longing for corporate repentance.
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