The Glorious Unseen The Hope That Lies In You

In 2007 The Glorious Unseen released their BEC debut Tonight The Stars Speak. They were, for some, a breath of fresh air, spouting an unconventional brand of worship music in a scene dominated by Tomlin and Hillsong sound-alike’s. Two years following the release, the Nashville quintet are back with The Hope That Lies In You.

Those unfamiliar with The Glorious Unseen may be taken aback upon first listen. Vocalist Ben Crist does not sing like the average vocalist. His range is seemingly limited to a lower octave, and sounds rather sorrow drenched at times. His lyrics on the other hand easily remind of worship giants, typical post-modern-esque college ministry worship, penning the likes of God’s redemption and prayers for renewal.

Despite worship music being a relatively one themed genre, different ways of expressing said praise can be offered, and while creativity was few and far between on their debut, The Hope That Lies In You looks to up the ante. “Take What’s Left Of Me” is sacrificial while “How He Loves” contemplates on the love of a creator. Despite what one would expect of worship music, there is not much joy found amongst harmonies, the intrinsic tone is sad. This may be due to the fact that Crist said himself he did not understand the notion of “praise and worship.”

The Hope That Lies In You comes across as specifically written for young adults. The supposed yearning for God feels like a college worship gathering. Its certain that The Glorious Unseen caught on amongst the indie crowd, and its certain that those who enjoyed their debut will find much to like about The Hope That Lies In You.

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Rating: 3 out of 5
Street Date: August 25th, 2009
Label: BEC

Track Listing:

1.) All Around
2.) Take What’s Left Of Me
3.) How He Loves
4.) We Can Be Renewed
5.) Heavyhearted
6.) Falling Into You
7.) Come, Heaven
8.) Sustain
9.) Breathe Life Into Me
10.) Awakening
11.) The Hope That Lies In You
12.) Sweet, Sweet Sound