Father Maximilian Mary Dean, the immensely talented multi-instrumentalist hermit priest, has been releasing some fine additions to the Catholic songbook in the last month. This talented Franciscan is showing off his skills in a plethora of styles, each put to work in the service of glorifying God.
“Come, Holy Ghost”
Just this week, Fr. Dean released a new arrangement of “Come, Holy Ghost,” featured above, with an added chorus and bridge that fit so well with the original material. He sings through the lovely old hymn with a clear, crisp tenor and is supported by a sweetly played saxophone line performed by Carter Stephen. This is the only instrument not played by Dean, as can be seen later in the video when a group shot catches Dean on drums, lead guitar, rhythm guitar, keyboard, bass, and vocals.
This new arrangement features original chorus and bridge sections written by Dean himself. The new music feels so natural to the tune that it’s hard to imagine the hymn without Fr. Dean’s additions and the lyrics expand upon the original prayer. In the first new section, Fr. Dean calls for intercession from the Immaculate Heart of Mary, but in the second section he hints toward the Eucharistic Revival that’s soon to be spreading through the US.
Send forth thy spirit, Lord, and renew all the earth
Kindle in us the fire of thy love
Come, Holy Spirit
“Together We Stand”
Released in October, “Together We Stand” is a beautiful work that calls all Catholics to stand together in unity in Christ. This easily singable anthem encourages the faithful to join hands in unity. It is a song that would be just as home in a church service as it would as a prelude to a large Catholic gathering.
It’s a short, touching song driven by an excellent melody and supported once again by Carter Stephen on the saxophone. The horn was the perfect choice for this song, as its gentle melody brings a sense of comfort that pervades the piece.
“Spread the Blaze”
As we mentioned, it seems Fr. Dean’s music is leaning toward the Eucharistic Revival, and this change of gears is never more noticeable than in “Spread the Blaze.” He begins with an invitation to the audience to “Shed your shame for the sins of the past.” He then calls on the faithful to “cleanse” ourselves through the sacrament of Reconciliation and to “spread the blaze” or the fire of the Word of God. Organizers for Eucharistic Revival events should consider this tremendous tune when seeking a theme song.
“Spread the Blaze” is simply a fun listen. Fr. Dean puts on a musical clinic in the style of southern roadhouse blues that all but demands you leave your seats and start dancing. He even brings the whole thing home with an impassioned guitar solo in the outro.
There’s more excellent Catholic music waiting on Fr. Maximilian Mary Dean’s YouTube and Spotify pages. Be sure to follow Fr. Dean on his official website to keep up to date with all his releases.
