Search - Bart Millard :: Hymned No. 1

Great Hymns Disc from MercyMe's Bart Millard!!

Louie Bourland | Garden Grove CA | 08/17/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"MercyMe lead singer Bart Millard has taken a bit of time away from his bandmates with "Hymned", a wonderful side project which features Millard offering a new take on the Church's most cherished hymns.

The first thing that struck this reviewer was the ecelcticism that is heard throughout the entire disc. While a number of diverse musical styles are covered from blues, country, rock to gospel, this does not detract from the spirit and integrity of the original hymns. Millard's renditions of "Just A Closer Walk", "Have A Little Talk with Jesus", "Take My Hand, Precious Lord" (which features a wrenching guest vocal from Russ Taff) and the funkified "Sweetest Name I know" are irresistiably catchy while "Old Rugged cross", "Pass me Not O gentle Savior" and the medley of "My Jesus I Love Thee" and "Tis So Sweet" have a mellow country feel with a hint of modern worship.

In addition to these hymns, there is also one original song "Mawmaw's Song" which was written for Millard's late grandmother. The song also incorporates "In the Sweet By and By" into its original tune.

While "Hymned" is Bart Millard's side-project, it is a very very good one. His renditions of these chosen hymns are stellar and his voice is undoubtedly flawless throughout. Also, on a personal note, I think it's cool that he did this album in memory of his grandmother. Grandmas are special people.

A Great CD!!! Recommended for fans of Mercyme, Southern Gospel and Hymns!!!"

New twist on these timeless hymns

tomcat_nash | 08/17/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Bart Millard does a phenomenonal job here. He shows his love and respect for these songs while breathing new life into them. Each of the songs is unique and fun to listen to; yet at the same time the album flows nicely from one song to another. Its hard not smile while listening to this album. It is evident that the musicians had a good time recording this album. The songs are never over burdened with to much production instead it is left very organic sounding. Its alomost like your in the middle of the band listening to them play. It sounds like a group of friends are just sitting around playing these songs for fun of it. What I like best is that Bart is secure enough in his own talents to let the other musicians just play, often giving way to solos from the other musicians playing, and Bart himself gives a good showing at the vocals, showing what he he is capable of and the versatility he has in his vioce. In my opinion it is a must have to anyone who enjoys good music, especially if you grew up listening to these songs. It will be a walk down memory lane that you will enjoy. I promise."

Very Strong Album

Tim Challies | Oakville, Ontario | 09/16/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Bart Millard is best known as the lead singer for MercyMe and the man who penned "I Can Only Imagine." He recently released his first solo album, Hymned. It is a Southern-inspired collection of hymns, many of which are from the early twentieth century. There is some range in the styles of music, with gospel, blues and country all getting fair representation. Millard adds to the album one original song he wrote in tribute to his grandmother who taught him to love hymns. Some of the best tracks include "The Old Rugged Cross," Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior" and "Just A Closer Walk With Thee." The song choice is strong and the artistry is evident throughout."