2007 National Youth GatheringMusic Reviews:Blues Deliveredby The Gathering Praise Band

Part of a series of reviews of concerts at the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod National Youth Gathering, July 28-August 1, 2007

When the Gathering Praise Band played “Callin’ Jesus” with a true blues approach, I danced with a pure joy. I danced for God; I danced for freedom; I danced for the love of a musical style that expresses so much of what is faith.

This may not make sense to people outside of my little circle in the world (the 2.5 million people in the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod). Either you’re in a church that has a tradition of using much more variety of musical styles or you are not a part of the church wondering what’s the big deal about the blues. The LCMS has a beautiful tradition of hymns—songs written to teach and confess our faith in Christ, but stylistically we’ve had a narrow approach.

Which meant I have grown up in a church that hasn’t often embraced the blues, but I know the blues. I know the music; I know the feeling; I know the power. To finally hear the Gathering band unleash a bluesy song in front of 26,000 youth and leaders, well, I couldn’t contain myself. I called to Jesus with my dance; I called to Jesus with my heart; I called to Jesus with the blues.

And I know that Jesus calls us with His answer to the blues—the Gospel, the Good News, the soul-soaking salvation of the cross and resurrection.

The Gathering Praise Band, as a whole, was an excellent collection of players from around the country. They led us with great energy, passion, and drive, which helped our youth to be involved in worship each day. Special shout outs to Jaclyn Gibson who delivered that bluesy “Callin’ Jesus” with such deep soul. Kip Fox is an outstanding vocalist who doesn’t over-extend his emotion on the crowd; rather, his more restrained, inward focus helps to invite all people into worshipping the Lord. Dru Huston and Eric Samson teamed up for some truly inspired percussion and drum work. Finally, the Gathering band’s fluid moves from style to style wouldn’t have been possible without the contribution of Charlie Lair on electric guitar. He plays the blues with panache; he rocks out without making it a rock concert. Thanks to the whole band for making the music a true highlight of the Gathering.