We recently had the absolute pleasure to stumble across Josh Garrels’ masterful 2019 album, Chrysaline. The 16-song record contains some of the most touching works that merge overtly Christian lyrics with secular musical stylings.
Garrels excels at creating a melodic line that perfectly suits the lyrics. The first instance of this talent that struck us was during the chorus of “Anchor for My Soul,” track #2. The melody of the chorus rises sharply as he sings “Alleluia,” as if he is lifting the prayer right up to the Lord. The result is a compelling moment that makes the listener stop and pay attention.
One of the most moving tracks on Chrysaline is “Take, Eat,” which draws its lyrics straight from the Gospels. In tender tones, Garrels sings through the Words of Institution that Jesus gave us at the Last Supper. The song is bolstered with ethereal orchestration that adds an awestruck quality of the music.
Throughout the song Garrels employs melismatic licks that bring a quality of soul music to the piece. This is one of the most incredible songs on the album. Here, we have music that is traditionally used for the liturgy, but presented as a peaceful song of comfort.
The album changes its pace several times, moving through genres like they're going out of style. At times he leans towards bluegrass and in others he dives into electronic sounds. Of all these, however, our absolute favorite track was “Butterfly,” featured above.
The lyrics are a prayer for renewal, with clever rhymes and vivid imagery. This song is tremendous and belongs on the radio. With a funk beat that almost demands to be danced to, Garrels makes an infectious chorus that we have not been able to get out of our heads.
Chrysaline is available on Spotify, iTunes, YouTube, and just about anywhere that streams music. Take an hour and listen to this incredible album here.
