Hymnastics, as the name implies, is a reconstructed hymns project by singer/songwriter and worship leader Brad Hooks. Think gymnastics with classics. This project combines both acoustic and digital sounds as it integrates elements from many genres including alternative rock, folk, pop and even hip-hop. One will find traditional lyrics set to unexpected melodies, classic songs with new rhythms and textures, and many other completely new surprises – from the orchestral to the simplistic. However, it must be stressed that this is not your typical hymns remake record. This is something drastically fresh and yet totally worshipful.
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Californian Brad Hooks, self-described leader of a “worship-focused ministry team,” tries his hand at recasting traditional hymns into a contemporary frame with the release of his second album Hymnastics. Hooks states. “(T)hat this is not your typical hymns remake record. This is something drastically fresh and yet totally worshipful.” Though he didn’t write the (original) songs, he rewrites their music. And for the most part he succeeds.
Hymnastics features 10 “remakes” as well as 2 original songs. These “fresh” re-imagings work best when Hooks sticks to alternative and adult contemporary- influenced pop expression. Hooks’ vocals are reminiscent of Barry Manilow at the height of his popularity (don’t laugh- Mr. “Chairman of the Board” Sinatra gave his personal endorsement to the exceptionally talented Mr. Manilow). His renditions of “Oh How I Love Jesus,” Blessed Assurance,” and “Be Thou My Vision” evoke musical comparisons to Coldplay, Maroon 5 and Josh Groban. “All Blessing,” one of the two original compositions, is a standout track that demonstrates Hooks’ legitimacy as a songwriter.
Fans of creative troubadours the like of Phil Wickham, Aaron Shust, Andrew Peterson and Bebo Norman would be doing themselves a favor by checking out Hymnastics.
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