By David F. Dawes

• Leora Cashe & the Ross Taggart Trio: Another Side Now

JONI Mitchell was in the news not long ago, inexplicably slagging Bob Dylan for being "not authentic." I somehow doubt she would say the same about Leora Cashe, in light of this album -- which is a delightful tribute to one of Canada's greatest songwriters, by one of the country's finest singers.

Cashe is a great stylist. She knows exactly what's appropriate for an individual song -- the proper tone, emotion and treatment of the melodic line. Highlights include the exuberant 'Carey'; and a slow take on 'Big Yellow Taxi.'

Not all of Cashe's choices are among my favourite Joni. There is a slight overemphasis on her soap opera side. And does anyone really take 'Woodstock' seriously anymore? It would have been great to hear what Cashe could do with 'The Jungle Line' or 'Songs to Aging Children.'

But my tastes aren't the issue. These are Cashe's choices, and they all work beautifully on their own terms -- ably assisted by Ross Taggart's solid band. World class vocals for world class songs.

• Brian Doerksen: It's Time

What can one say about Brian Doerksen? It's no exaggeration to call his work one of the treasures of the contemporary church. His latest release of new material is Prodigal God, an EP featuring five songs from his musical of the same name.

Longtime fans will especially appreciate this, his most recent full CD. 'It's About Time' might be a better title for this great release, which brings together many of his finest songs. Rather than just put out a 'greatest hits' compilation, however, Doerksen has graced the songs with imaginatively reworked arrangements.

The makeover extends to his performing style in some cases. Known for presenting his songs in a slow and intense fashion, Doerksen positively rawks on this outing -- especially on 'It's Time for the Reign of God' and 'Come Now is the Time to Worship.' The latter also features a stunning duet vocal from Irish singer Kathryn Scott. Another wonderful shared vocal is provided by Brenda Janz on 'Come and Fill Me Up.'

The one glaring omission from this CD is the highlight of the one below.

• She Says Electric: Worship Loud

This gifted Vancouver band were once the backing group for Kamloops worship phenomenon Heather Clark. They have clearly come into their own since then, as this CD proves.

The opener, 'Kingdom Song,' simply kicks; 'The Undiscovered' is an evocative vision of God enthroned; and 'Psalm 151' has a beautiful group chorus. 'Come to the Cross' encapsulates the Passion powerfully; and 'The Lamb' is a poignant tribute to the Lord, featuring some nice audio effects.

On the title song, the singer shouts out the lyrics, accompanied by a softer recitation of same. The album ends with an R&B 'Amazing Grace,' with guest vocalist Jon Tompke.

My favourite cut is the rocked up version of 'I Lift My Eyes Up,' one of Brian Doerksen's best songs. I still recall the time I saw them doing it live at Friends Langley Vineyard, and I'm delighted they committed it to digital immortality. Top notch work, especially from lead vocalist Connie Budzak and lead guitarist Derek Usher. You can find this band on MySpace; and while you're at it, check out their previous CD, The End of a Long Day.

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• Jon Buller: Light Up the Sky

Buller, the worship leader at Vernon Alliance Church, offers a CD produced by Roy Salmond (who plays a variety of instruments throughout). It showcases the singer's supple voice, flair for rock and roll, and the conviction of his beliefs.

'There's a Life' is a bracing opener; 'Power in a Song' is a strong exhortation to worship; the title song is graced by some nicely off-kilter rhythm guitar notes.

The highlight is 'Have Mercy.' There's a whole lot going on in this song -- interweaving rap by Fresh I.E., and a powerful chorus by vocalist Raquel Warchol. The overall effect is extraordinarily complex and imaginative. All told, this is a fine piece of work from a great talent.

• Mariam Matossian: In the Light

Vancouver musician Matossian offers fresh interpretations of traditional Armenian folk songs. Some of the more interesting compositions are by Sayat Nova, a noted 18th century songwriter. Several songs touch upon faith, including 'Narineh' and 'New Song.' Matossian's arrangements are as accomplished as her gorgeous singing.

Several pieces make good use of violinist Jesse Zubot. 'A Bride's Song' has an exquisite slow opening, and sparse instrumentation. On 'Blossoming Rose,' she provides soaring long notes in the background, while she sings rapid lines in the foreground. 'My Gift' feels like an invocation, the vocal accompanied only by a faint, sustained low note.

A beautiful, very upbeat album.

• Andrea Tisher: Awake the Sacred Song

This CD is a musical gem, and a crash course in the hymns of Anne Steel. This neglected 18th century composer, from a Baptist background, wrote superb, theologically rich lyrics. Indeed, she was once popular enough to rival the great Isaac Watts. This CD was Andrea Tisher's thesis project for her Master's degree at Regent College in Vancouver. I hope it got the high mark it deserved.

Tisher has an excellent voice, and fine piano skills. She is joined on some songs by her husband Gordon's vocals. The accompaniment is effectively spare, with an occasional use of cello.

Highlights include the harmony vocalizing on 'Praise to the Redeemer'; the lovely multi-voice chorus on 'Come Ye that Love the Saviour's Name'; 'A Dying Saviour,' which incorporates the splendid melody of 'When I Survey the Wondrous Cross'; and the Agnus Dei (Lamb of God) chorus on 'At the Table.'

Forgotten classics, beautifully sung

• Sweeney Singers: Calling My Children Home

This CD marks the 20th anniversary of this family based group. They demonstrate excellent harmonies and tight ensemble singing (with the occasional solo verses). They also show their skill in singing complex melodic lines.

There is plenty of sacred material, including spirituals, J.S. Bach and the classic 'Ubi Caritas.' The secular material also shines, with the highlights being 'Four Strong Winds' and 'Over the Rainbow.'

All told, very tastefully done. Here's to another 20 years.

August 2010