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RATING: 4 STARS

From the Arrangements of Mike Speck, Lari Goss, and Danny Zaloudik
Arranged and Orchestrated by Lari Goss
Publisher: Word Music
Song Titles: “He Has A Great Name,” “That's Him,” “He'd Still Been God” with “God Is Good,” “Hallelujah,” “He's The Only King,” “He Did Not Come Down,” with “Ten Thousand Angels,” “One Holy Lamb” with “Love Grew Where The Blood Fell,” “Jesus Is,” “There Is Coming A Great Day” with “Great, Great Day” and “We Shall Wear A Robe And Crown,” and “One Holy Lamb Finale”

One Holy Lamb is an easy musical for an early 2005 Easter. It's approximately 40 minutes in length and includes an exciting blend of Southern Gospel favorites.

In addition to the regular songbooks, a number of other One Holy Lamb products are available. My choir will be using the CD accompaniment when we perform this musical, because the production quality is outstanding (and we don't have an orchestra). I think it makes the overall effect of the presentation seem bigger and ultimately more satisfying for the listener. I found out the “PracticeTrax” (Word Music's brand name for part specific rehearsal CDs) are in the wrong sequence (Duh!), but I was able to resequence them for my choir. Listening CDs and orchestrations are also available.

Of the ten selections, three are upbeat, two are in a medium 6/8 rhythm, and five are slower anthems. Tenors are asked to sing a few high notes, but sopranos are kept very comfortable. I believe the highest soprano note is an F. The trio/solo part on “He'd Still Been God” has been simplified by removing some of the words. This is actually more confusing than helpful to singers already familiar with the song. “We Shall Wear A Robe And Crown” also has a few words altered for no evident reason. These are relatively minor issues, but it's enough to knock One Holy Lamb out of a five star rating. Now song “Hallelujah” has been changed to “Hosanna,” but that makes sense given the context.

Anytime songs are simplified to streamline the learning process, some corners must be cut. In addition to altered lyrics, One Holy Lamb has its share of unison sections and a few awkward leaps for some parts. This is offset by the great accompaniment quality, and the nice flow of the musical. Overall, Lari Goss has achieved a good balance between ease of use and the general effect of the work. Despite the minor drawbacks, One Holy Lamb is the best Easter musical for small to medium size choirs released this year.

posted by David Bruce Murray @ 10:43:00 AM