Andrew Peterson
Behold the Lamb of God: The True Tall Tale of the Coming of Christ
(2004)
Reviewed by Brian A. Smith
A project five years in the making, Behold the Lamb of God is a re-telling of the birth of Christ written by Andrew Peterson. Peterson and a plethora of guests make this the best Christmas-themed album since Your King Has Come, on which many of them (Andrew Osenga, Derek Webb) also were featured.
Peterson continues to grow as an artist, as well as improving vocally. It is no secret that he greatly admired Rich Mullins, and "Matthew's Begats" is a Rich Mullins meets Schoolhouse Rock tune that will ease the minds of anyone wanting to memorize the lineage of Christ.
This disc could easily be used as a soundtrack to a stage production. It begins with Old Testament prophecy ("Passover Us," "So Long Moses"), then proceeds to foreshadowing the Messiah ("Deliver Us," with Webb's guest vocals), then to the events preceding Christ's birth ("It Came to Pass").
"Labor of Love," with Jill Phillips singing, portrays Mary in the final moments before the birth. "While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks By Night," a traditional hymn re-arranged by Peterson, continues the story.
Peterson is faithful to the Scriptures throughout this project. His story is consistent, accurate, and very well written. Contributing artists Andrew Osenga, Matthew Perryman Jones, Webb, Phillips, Phil Madeira, Randall Goodgame, Sandra McCracken, Steve Hindalong, Ron Block (Union Station), Fernando Ortega, Jeremy Casella, and Phil Keaggy make this an assemblage of talent that shines through on every track.
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Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2004Reviewed by Burton WrayAndrew Peterson Presents: Behold the Lamb of God: the TRUE Tall Tale of the Coming of Christ is one of the most unique Christmas CDs to come along in years. It is not just a CD of random Christmas songs, it is a retelling of the Christmas story. No, not a retelling of A Christmas Story the classic seasonal movie about a boy and his desire for a Red Ryder BB Gun. This CD is a retelling of the…The Phantom Tollbooth 2004Reviewed by Steve StockmanAndrew Peterson has produced an album that is brilliant in concept, in musical construction, in poetic adeptness, in theological eruditeness, and in personal and cultural challenge. There is a one line that swings the album in the hurtling heavenly meteorite way that Christ's birth turns history. "Labour of Love" sung by Jill Phillips begins "It was not a silent night..." and gives as realistic a…Similar sounding releases
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