Plead  by Jimmy Scott Orrick

 

Jimmy Scott Orrick’s latest project, Plead, represents a bold departure from his earlier Fine Linen. He combines an eclectic sampling of musical styles with a strict lyrical commitment to the text of the Psalms 35, 36 and 37. The title track opens with a driving rhythm recontextualizing the ancient text of Psalm 37: 1-3. He follows up by interpreting Psalm 35: 4-10 with a bluesy jazz set. The album never settles on a single musical style, sampling R & B, acoustic folk, blues, light progressive rock, and ending with more lyrical acoustic sets. Musically, listeners who appreciate a variety of styles will enjoy the album’s mélange.

 

The lyrics, however, lack the same smooth transitions. The New King James Version of the Bible makes great reading and the Psalms are some of the most powerful words ever translated into the English language. However, the ancient Hebrew poetical forms don’t lend themselves to near-literal translation into English-speaking musical rhythm. Orrick has done an admirable job remaining faithful to a verbatim treatment of the text, but it comes as the cost of musical integrity. While it may not make for acceptable textual translation, a “dynamic equivalent” translation would suit the music better. For those who prefer a strict verbatim rendering of the Psalms, into contemporary musical format, this is among the best available. Listeners can download samples of this and his other albums at http://waytogod.org/orrick/

 

The lilting soprano sax solo of “Let Those Be Put To Shame” and the opening mountain dulcimer riff in “The Steps of a Good Man” bring delightful treats in a world of contemporary Christian musical imitation. Orrick may not tread any new ground musically, but he dares to combine disparate musical motifs that send a clear signal to any listener. Our Lord is to be praised on every instrument and in every style. Sola Deo Gloria is the overwhelming message of this work.

 

by Rick Presley