You Deliver Me by Selah

Reviewed by Dale Lewis

"This new collection has the distinct feel of friends gathering around Allan’s piano, worshipping the Almighty together."

Selah, best known for their contemporary hit “You Raise Me Up,” returns with a very personal and poignant album in You Deliver Me. From the opening strains of, “Into My Heart/Fairest Lord Jesus,” to the African rhythm of “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus,” to the passionate heart cry of, “The Lord’s Prayer,” Selah draws the listener into experiencing worship in a God-honoring manner. The sweet gospel arrangement with pulsating organ and honky-tonk piano of, “Glory To His Name,” was one of my favorite tracks, (although I would have enjoyed a little more bass guitar with this rendition). “Standing on The Promises (Medley)” is also at the top of my prime cuts list.

Although there seems to be an abundance of artists featuring rearranged hymns on their current projects, Selah delivers an amazing collection of these time-tested favorites. They also add some contemporary worship songs and originals that will stir you to whisper, “Thank you Lord!”

I simply could not get enough of the tight harmonies between Amy, Todd, and Allan, the members of Selah. This new collection has the distinct feel of friends gathering around Allan’s piano, worshipping the Almighty together. Two of their original songs (non-hymns) “You Deliver Me” and “Unredeemed” ooze with an assurance of hope and peace that are refreshing during these troubled times. From their Web site and in Todd’s own words, “’Unredeemed” sums up what so many of us are feeling and hoping for . . . that one day God will wipe every tear, that He will make sense of the pain and tragedy in our lives, and one day will redeem what has been unredeemed.” The penned words from these two originals are just “spot on” and match the lyrical richness of the hymns. I ventured to their Web site and then to YouTube as I watched the piano-only version of “Unredeemed” recorded in an interview setting with K-LOVE radio. What an awe-inspiring arrangement. All I can say is to check it out--and download the excellent lyrics!

Raised as a PK (pastor’s kid) in The Salvation Army hearing the sweet melodies of hymns with lyrics of significant depth, I cherished the opportunity to listen and review this project. Selah, with newest member Amy Perry, does not disappoint with Deliver Me, a CD that will be heard in my house, garage, shower (oops!) and office over again many times!

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Dale Lewis now mans the front desk at the EFCA (The Evangelical Free Church of America) National Office in Minneapolis, MN. He was the graphic designer/pre-press production artist for over twelve years before being asked to step into this new role. Prior to that, he was the publications manager at his alma mater, Northwestern College in St. Paul, MN in the public relations office as well as the adviser to the college’s yearbook. He's a director/actor/writer for the Hope Church (Oakdale, MN) adult drama worship team and was the senior editor of the church newsletter. He's also written two collections of poetry, “Whispers of Assurance” and “On Life: Constant Communion Without Ceasing” as well as a devotional entitled “Eternal Education.” He and his family live in Oakdale, Minnesota.