Hymns are the foundation of contemporary Christian music, and the best of them will stand for centuries -- just as moving and inspirational as they were when they were written in the 1700s and 1800s. A project for Provident (helmed by Blaine Barcus and Brad O'Donnell) sought to energize some classic hymns for the contemporary praise & worship audience, leading to the release of
Jesus, Firm Foundation: Hymns of Worship. Some of Provident's biggest acts are here, rearranging and reimagining and even writing additional lyrics to make old hymns such as "Holy, Holy, Holy" and "Blessed Assurance" sound like they were written yesterday. Included are contributions from
Building 429,
Michael W. Smith,
Newsboys,
Hillsong,
Matt Maher, and for the title track, an all-star collective including Mike Donehey of
Tenth Avenue North with
Steven Curtis Chapman, Mark Hall of
Casting Crowns, and
Mandisa. ~ John Bush