For the most part this album is well balanced with some familiar covers and re-worked hymns, as well as some Digital Age originals. One thing The Digital Age does well in their music, is making songs sound epic, and they keep that same sound on this album. I’ll try an break down each song from a stylistic perspective as well as usability in a corporate worship setting.
Fall Afresh // This song is a great song to kick off the album. It’s a simple song, written as a cry for the Spirit to fill the worshiper, so much so there is an overflow. It has great musical dynamics, each time the song drops musical intensity for the verse it comes back just bit bigger each time on the chorus making it conclude on a great epic note. This is a good call to worship type song.
Blessed Assurance // From the first drum hit you know this is without a doubt going to be energetic. The electrical synth and upbeat drums coupled with the banjo picking makes for the perfect blend of traditional country hymn and contemporary style. Very doable in a corporate worship setting.
All Rise (Jesus Majesty) // This is a great song declaring the Gospel, and calling us to worship the majestic King. The music goes perfectly with the lyrics, when you think majesty you think big and mighty and they deliver on that with this song. The harmonies are also tight and add to that “majestic” sound.
It Is Well // Very simple stylistically for most of the song, they keep pretty true to the original melody and feel of the hymn with an addition of a musically explosive bridge where they vamp on the simple yet powerful lyrics “it is well, with my soul.” This arrangement works great for the band that wants to do this hymn differently, but doesn’t want to throw off the entire congregation.
Oceans (Where Feet May Fall) // With a band name like Digital Age you would have to expect some auto-tune, which is how they start and finish the song. For the most part the song sticks to dynamics set by Hillsong United. Nice cover, definitely a usable arrangement in a church setting.
Take Me Home // This song steps away from the other very “big synth” sounding songs of the rest of the album, and shows off the bands folk side. The song tells the tale of someone who has lived long on this earth and longs to be home with their Savior. I get a vibe of southern spiritual meets Mumford and Sons (which is a fitting combo if you think about it). Great song to listen to, not sure I would use it corporately.