In Feast or Fallow

Sandra McCracken’s most recent album, "In Feast or Fallow," is another collection of self-written hymns.

The farming allusion is not just coincidental. McCracken takes familiar themes, gives them a rest period and then reaps the fruits of an inspired voice and lyric.

Although she didn’t wait long between albums (her last CD, Red Balloon released in 2008), this album is certainly filled with new, inspiring tracks. Most of the album is pretty mellow; the instruments are very lightly used, so the vocals seem to really carry the songs, which is fitting given the topics she covers in her songs. Most of the songs feature very pretty lyrics and harmonies, especially in “Justice Will Roll Down.”

The basis of traditional hymnals--the chorus, the structure--is evident in her work, and McCraken's attempt to put a new, slightly more modern twist to these staples is inspiring and successful.

This is not your grand-daddy's church music. It something more grand, entertaining and enchanting.

This new album is sure to impress existing fans and those who listen to Christian and faith-based musicians. She has quite a way with reinventing the traditional hymn.