“The Hymn Project” Traditional Meets Contemporary

Up and coming artist, Aprilemade, released her new album, “The Hymn Project” on March 27 releasing it first on Noisetrade for free temporarily and finally releasing it on April 1st on iTunes.

Texas native, lead singer Annalise Bush leads vocals on the record and has recently announced that Elijah K. Anderson, who sings on one of the tracks, will officially join Aprilemade permanently. Bush describes this project saying, “The purpose of the project is to show people that Jesus is and always will be bigger. He’s bigger than your struggles, your fears, your heartbreaks, and I pray these songs give people a new confidence to open up their hearts to the everlasting love only The Lord can provide.”

Bush explained that releasing it first on the March 27th instead of waiting for the official release on April 1st was symbolic for her because the date has a special connection to her. “The thing that was holding me back from running to Jesus were the people; not Jesus. I thought I could never face people again, but I learned three things that day. I have no control over my life. No matter what the outcome, God has a bigger and better plan for me than I could have ever imagined for myself. I need to trust Him,” said Bush.

The album features 8 different hymns with different collaborations with other artists. The record aims to give a fresh new perspective on some of the most famous and traditional hymn songs while keeping their classic vibe.

In contemporary music, hearing a young artist tackle classic songs that are deeply rooted in church history is different and can show new generations the power worship has through the years. Sophomore Kezhia Rodriguez says, “To incorporate hymns with our contemporary music creates a nice blend while ministering to both the younger and older generations.”

“The Hymn Project” begins with “Nothing But The Blood” featuring Brad Passons, which has recently been remixed by many other artists, but Aprilemade keeps it true to the original while adding some quirky, melodies. “I Surrender All,” with new member Elijah K Anderson, and “Jesus Paid It All” featuring Hayley Orrantia have upbeat elements which differ from the other slow-paced hymns.

Within all the collaborations, Bush sings the powerful tune, “Be Thou My Vision,” by herself and shows the strong vocal range this newcomer has. The album also features the very well-known song, “How Great Thou Art” and partners with AJ Rafael, a Southern California native that has a soulful voice.

Other notable tracks in “The Hymn Project” are “Come Thou Fount” featuring Merry Ellen Kirk, “It Is Well” featuring Johnny Stimson and has smooth, melodic instrumentals, and “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” whom she shares vocals with Alexa Cruse.

Hearing a young artist singing hymns is different, and shows that there is still a deep connection to the music that was a staple years ago in the church and that hymns are still relevant now. Sophomore Stephanie Richardson claims she listens to traditional hymns for their lyrical content because there are deeper meanings.

“The Hymn Project” is a great start up to show listeners what Aprilemade is about and what they stand for. Fans can purchase this album on iTunes and can also check out other music Aprilemade has released before and get more acquainted with this up and coming group.