Search - Crystal Lewis :: Holy Holy Holy

Moving and Superb Singing that Ably Delivers the Message

M. J. Moore | Chicago, Illinois United States | 09/24/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Crystal Lewis, who has one of the most unique but touching vocals I have ever heard, returns to the basics of music with these traditional hymns. Entitled HOLY, HOLY, HOLY which is one of the most moving songs ever, the CD gets its message across pretty well. Though traditional in nature, the songs are not all delivered in a traditional manner as Crystal updates them somewhat and puts her own touch upon every song. HOLY, HOLY, HOLY- Crystal takes her time with this praise and worship song that just puts one in the mood to recognize God's continual mercies and His exceeding greatness. The words are so poignant and ably delivered by Crystal. Praise God- He's holy!HIS EYE IS ON THE SPARROW- This popular song is sung in a different way by Crystal. Similar to the former song, she starts off low key and in her own style. One can tell her Gospel background on this track and one can feel that God truly does watch over each and everyone of us. The adlibs are great here.WISDOM OF TENDERNESS- Here is a hymn that I am not too familiar with but I do believe that it is one. The song is a great one that tells of the closeness of Jesus. It is somewhat different than the other 2 but is great in its own right. O HAPPY DAY- Another popular Gospel/Christian track has a jazzy big band kind of vibe to it with a backing choir. With this, one can really say that a day is happy. Amen!!O HOW I LOVE JESUS- Crystal does her own thing once again with this one as she does a jazzy, faster version to this song. Her unique vocals coupled with the arrangements make this to be a great song.GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS- To know that God is continously looking over everyone of us no matter what the circumstance. His never-changing nature and omniscence is examined here in this beautiful song with a good arrangement and some powerful vocals from Crystal.THERE IS A FOUNTAIN- "Lose all their guilty stains" is a famous line from this song in the Christian world. This song which looks into the blood of Jesus and the salvation He has given to us all is a touching song done well by Crystal.WHEN THE ROLL IS CALLED UP YONDER- This is probably the weirdest track. The message of God going over the roll of all humanity but this rockish, kinda country song is unique and fun to say the least.JESUS PAID IT ALL- R&B midtempo that states the fact that Jesus has paid it all for us all. The song is done well by Crystal in an original way. This can definitely touch the hearts of many who know how much Jesus means to those who love Him.I WANT TO BE LIKE JESUS- (medley) that has a country like start. The other song just adds the adverb more- I WANT TO BE MORE LIKE JESUS. Both are beautiful songs about trying to better one's attitude and actions.WERE YOU THERE- Traditional hymn that looks into being there with Jesus when He went through the tragedy of being crucified. The musically stripped song puts forth the message even more and Crystal does a great job.This CD of hymns is a powerful one and can certainly cause one "to tremble" at the majesty and greatness of God. Crystal was definitely filled with the Holy Spirit as she genuinely sets forth the facts and truths of God. A great CD for anyone!"

From enthusiasm to dismay and back again

M. J. Moore | 10/15/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"After a deluge of remixes and live collections, I eagerly anticipated a new studio release from Crystal Lewis, one of my favorite artists. When I realized that the new offering was to be a collection of hymns, I couldn't help but remember Crystal's (albeit wonderful) Hymns: My Life and think, "been there, done that." I'm glad I didn't let that stop me, because this collection is much more than another obligatory grouping of standards from the old hymnbook. There is truly something for everyone here, as original arrangements share a showcase with an obvious respect and reverence for these classic songs. Crystal's amazing voice is as fantastic on the stirring ballads as the toe-tappers, and be prepared for an incredibly stirring rendition of "Were You There." The one original song, "The Wisdom of Tenderness," blends deceptively simple lyrics with a beautiful melody.
Do not confuse this with the nostalgic meanderings that so many artists have presented in recent years - this is more than a trip down memory lane.
The song list here is not the same as on the CD, which has 13 tracks (three of which are the title track and two different reprises)."

Perhaps the most reverent album by Crystal Lewis

DAVID | TX | 03/14/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"for her second hymns project, Crystal decides to take on new sounds and musical genres without deviating from the traditional, but rather enhancing it.



there is something in the songs that conveys humility and reverence on Lewis' part. she sets aside her "vocal acrobatics" and soaring style usually found on any of her albums and only seeks to serve the songs.



this is my favorite Crystal Lewis album so far.



favorites: his eye is on the sparrow, great is thy faithfulness, there is a fountain, when the roll is called up yonder, and were you there"