Rich Mullins

Item: Here in America
Author: Brian A. Smith

Here in America

(2003)

Reviewed by Brian A. Smith

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Label Reunion RecordsThe Phantom Tollbooth2003

acoustic rock ccm folk worship

It is hard for me to be objective in writing a Rich Mullins review. I knew Rich for the last twelve years of his life, interviewed him, and watched him perform in concert roughly twenty times, and considered him a friend. I awaited Here in America eagerly, believing the rumors that it would be a concert album, perhaps like the video from Lufkin, Texas, maybe a compilation of live tracks from one tour.

In actuality, Here in America is comprised of some live tracks, four demos, some tidbits of Rich speaking, and the first performance of Awesome God, where Rich teaches the audience the chorus. The highlights for the Rich-phile will likely be his comments and the new songs. "O Come All Ye Faithful" is a new take on an old idea, a Christmas song almost in the vein of Billy Joel that far surpasses his "You Gotta Get Up". "Never Heard The Music" is a piano driven number that sounds like it could be from his Zion days, with a late 70's Keith Green style. "None Are Stronger" is a live cut that never was released on an album, and "The Lord's Prayer" is another demo that has not seen the light of day until now. All are worthy additions, and hold up well, even if they sound dated at times.

The DVD is the reason to buy this set. It contains the complete performance with Rich and The Ragamuffins, and Mitch McVicker, at Studio B in South Bend, Indiana. This is the band at their best, featuring Rich looking tired as always, but transcending his weariness with his lyrics and his obvious devotion to the Subject of his words and music. Bandmates Mark Robertson, Rick Elias, Jimmy Abegg, and Aaron Smith make this band what it always was: a sum greater than its parts.

Also contained on the DVD is a series of Rich's stream of consciousness on various subjects, from sex to worship to traveling abroad. Another tip for listeners: make sure you listen to all of the CD - there may be something you'll miss otherwise. While Here in America has no real flow from one song to the next, I am glad to have something new that is Rich-related. Hopefully, there is a good recording of an entire concert next on the horizon. Until then, I will be watching the DVD repeatedly.

CD: Choice of songs 3.5 tocks. Music 4.5 tocks. DVD 4.5 tocks