I wrote this review on iTunes about my friend Nathan’s new album.

It’s hard to to understand why the songs that fill churches don’t closer resemble those of Nathan Chud. Nathan writes worship anthems – the kind with the beautiful melodic hook that is catchy yet still soars – and yes, it sounds like I am describing just another oversized stadium-rock praise album, but Moratorium is not that. While still reminiscent of what’s going on in the pop-worship scene, Nathan’s songs are colored with a deep authenticity and honesty (as the title “Moratorium” suggests). What I find is that the music serves the message. It’s not flawless music – at points I’d like to hear more dynamic textures from the electric guitar and violin parts or a greater piano presence – it’s simple music that most any church worship band could play. But I’m not bothered by these details, because there is something far greater going on here beyond music. Themes of new life, time and the kingdom are sown into this record with lyrics that distinguish Nathan as a different kind of song writer and worship leader. There is a a felt richness as the record begins, “My tragedy / Is that I minimize your perfect love for me / Read about but not realize eternity / Is knowing you today.” In “The Dawn” Nathan calls the church to a new identity, “We are a seed in the underground / We will build while the world is tearing down / We declare your kingdom.” Even the lighter song, “Tomorrow,” which its easy to imagine as a radio hit, has deep impact: “Cares and cash are fading fast / Carrying this world on its way / I’ve lost everything I have / I’m at home and hope beyond the grave.”

Several of the tracks stand out as songs that the Church should be singing. I’d really love to teach these songs at my church: “The Dawn,” “Our Salvation,” “Lord,” “The Greatest Commandment,” and “Distinguish Us.” And if not ideal for a church to sing, all or Moratorium is perfect for the prayer room or a quiet time, most notably, “Gold,” “My Tragedy,” and “Resurrection.”

I list these songs because this is itunes and maybe you just want a sampling, but I’d strongly recommend that you get the whole album. This isn’t a collection of Nathan’s three best tunes with some others tossed in to make a full album. These songs do what Nathan set out to do, bring new life and work to establish the kingdom.

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