![]() ![]() Each of the worship leaders that spoke all through the night did a good job of moving the show along, giving our relationship with God and this event context and relating as fellow travelers on the journey of faith. He smiled as he promised that we’d certainly get a show, but the show wasn’t what the night was about. ![]() He talked down the show – with all its lights, video screens, fog and all the bells and whistles of a live music traveling show. One of the many worship leaders of Hillsong spent time introducing the show and welcoming the crowd, explaining that our lives might change due to being in the presence of God. The parking lot was full and, even though the venue probably sold much less liquor than the typical event they host, they were probably very happy that the place was packed with friendly and excited people. Hillsong United came to the same venue a few weeks later and actually sold the thing out. There was some family time and a moment where we all held hands and prayed, which was an affirming and communal experience. One of the highlights for me was hearing a familiar tune, like “10,000 Reasons,” which I can sing along to with abandon and not have to worry about reading the words. I’d call that young man a bright spot in the Christian music scene. I’m a big Leeland fan, though, so even though he didn’t play any of his tunes, it’s great hearing his voice and seeing his joyful face. I was at a bit of a disadvantage, because I do not really listen to the Bethel Music CDs that I have, so I’m not very familiar with their originals. Some might cringe at the simplification of that statement, but there is something special about how music connects our emotions, body and souls in worship directed towards a knowable Creator. Those that were certainly jumped in and it was a massive sing-along experience that swelled with the emotion of knowing the One to Whom the songs were being sung. The lyrics are splashed on the giant video screens to the left and right of the stage, which made it easy to follow along if you were not familiar with the songs. I imagine an outsider might have felt a little strange, but it’s about as welcoming and low-key as could be had. It was casual, hip (with cool, well-edited videos) and energetic. It was passionate, exuberant and lively worship. William Matthews, Steffany Gretzinger and Matt Stinton played the closing set. Bethel Music’s Worship Nights experience included two ensembles that shared vocal duties – with Leeland, Kalley Heiligenthal and Cory Asbury taking the first set (about an hour), followed by a few announcements and a video about what Bethel Music does. ![]() Both were packed-house affairs that were alive with energy. These two evens were so similar in nature that it made sense to review both in one. Bethel Music / Hillsong United DOUBLE CONCERT REVIEW ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |