Review: Victory by Bethel Music

Victory: [noun] “an act of defeating an enemy or opponent in a battle, game, or other competition”

From the offset the American worship group are sharing a powerful message of victory. Just take a look at the track list and a theme of triumph really stands out: ‘Aint No Grave’, ‘Victory is Yours’, ‘Living Hope’.

The album opens with a rousing declaration, ‘Raise a Hallelujah’ in which the church sing the uplifting message:

“Up from the ashes, hope will arise

Death is defeated, the King is alive!”

Wow. Is there any greater enemy or opponent to proclaim victory over than death?

It is unrelentingly hopeful, in the face of enemies, in the midst of a storm, you’re urged to sing a little louder. In true Bethel style, they use the opportunity not just to sing praises but to share the message of the Gospel, and encourage moments of personal praise.

And yet, amongst the hallmarks of Bethel, there is a new sound. ‘Goodness of God’ and ‘Aint No Grave’ will be a particular favourite if you’re a fan of Nashville or country music. Whereas, both ‘Stand in Your Love’, ‘Drenched in Love’, ‘There is a Name’ have a very familiar sound to that Northern Irish, banjo-loving collective (yes, we mean Rend).

So with a mix of musical genres, who should listen to Victory? This album is for you if you’re in that storm, if you’re feeling fearful. It’s hope-filled and faith-empowering but it’s authentic praise. Keep in mind some of the lyrics were written the very night that Joel and Janie Taylor a family who helped found and launch Bethel Music faced the possible loss of their son Jaxon. This is praise from the dark valleys with the recognition that some seasons are really, really hard. But that there’s a God who is constant, and he has already defeated our enemies.

Victory by Bethel Music is available now.