Bethel Church haven’t quite done a Mike Oldfield – completely blowing conventional music out of the water like Tubular Bells did back in 1973 – but they’ve certainly made more than ripples with their bold instrumental album – ‘Without Words’.
I compare the two works because in many ways they are very different, but in one distinctive way they are similar and worth your listening ear. Here’s how they differ:
• Tubular Bells was a two track album of pure experimentation and musical freedom – Without Words is 10 Bethel Church worship songs creatively reimagined and rearranged.
• Tubular Bells criss-crossed several genres, Without Words is very much progressive acoustic/rock/folk.
• Tubular Bells became world famous through being used in a horror movie (The Exorcist) – Without Words will most likely be used in church cafes, charismatic gatherings and times of reflection and prayer.
Differences aside, here’s why they are similar:
• Tubular Bells takes you on a musical journey through accoustic emotions – Without Words takes you on a musical (and spiritual) journey through the soundscape of emotions we feel when we worship God
Do yourself a favour, buy Without Words. Climb a mountain/close the curtains and curl up on the sofa/walk through a clichéd field of wheat, whatever will help you draw closer to God. Listen to this music and worship. Go on, I dare you.
April 9th, 2013 - Posted & Written by James Warwood
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