Hymns: A Review by Tammy Thomas

Have you ever listened to a CD and thought, "Why didn't someone come up with this idea sooner?" For me, when I first heard Out of Eden's newest creation, Hymns, I had a moment like the one just described. The project includes "remixes" of classic hymns such as "Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise," "My Faith Has Found a Resting Place", and "Be Still My Soul." Not only did they bring a new twist to the songs (some of which are over 300 years old), but Hymns also includes two original songs, "Vision of Love" and "Have Mercy."

Out of Eden members Lisa Kimmey, Andrea Baca, and Danielle Kimmey have demonstrated that their creativity cannot go unnoticed. According to Lisa, "There may be a song on the track list that everyone knows, but we gave it our own creative twist - and that may completely catch listeners by surprise." "There are some differences musically and artistically that are immediately noticeable. But a lot of the classic elements remain, just carried out content-wise in a way that's new for everyone."

"I Know Whom I Have Believed" is based on 2 Timothy 1:12 which says, "yet I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed and am confident that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day." The song was originally written by Daniel S. Whittle during the American civil war, but you'd never know this by listening to its catchy bass line and soulful rhythm. The group calls it a powerful song that calls you to stand and know for sure that God is real. It quickly became one of my favorite tracks.

"God Will Take Care Of You" was written at the beginning of the 20th century and was based on the verse John 14:13 which says, "and I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the son may bring glory to the Father." The song begins with an organ solo reminiscent of "old school" church hymns. It then goes into a slow groove that will have you nodding your head to the rhythm and singing along… "God will take care of you, through every day, all of the way…" By the end of this amazing song I was convinced that God WILL take care of me!

"Vision of Love" is one of the original songs written by group member, Lisa Kimmey. It's faster than many of the other tracks and the music made me think of the p-funk sound of the 70's. The song's lyrics remind you that God's love goes beyond every other love. It's based on Romans 5:8, "but God demonstrates his love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

If you're looking for a GOOD new CD to add to your collection, I suggest Hymns from Out of Eden. Though all but two of the songs are traditional hymns, there's plenty of variety and I guarantee that you will not be disappointed.