Matthew Baute has always produced prayerful music that leads one to a sacred place. His other two albums, Love Wins All and Hold Me, Lord, contain such meditative music. His latest, River of Grace, rises to a new level of excellence, with 12 exquisite songs perfect for prayerful meditation.

Baute has a lovely, textured tenor that can remind you of Martin Doman or Michael John Poirier. His songs, though, have their own signature.

There are so many songs to mention. "Through All Generations" is a song of hope and comfort inspired by Psalm 90: "You have been a refuge through all generations." The beautiful acoustic guitar work which graces this song and many others on the album are all skillfully played by Baute.

Other wonderful songs on this album include "It Is Mercy," (a wonderful reflection for Lent); "Purest Virgin Mary" (where I felt that unique touch of peace from the Blessed Mother while listening); "Humility" (2 simple lines for powerful meditation: "Jesus, meek and humble of heart, make my heart like yours,"); and finally, "One" (a song describing an intimate relationship with God, but which could also be used to describe a marriage relationship (see video at http://www.songsforprayer.com/video.asp).

Being a lyric person, I normally judge music by the lyrics as they feed my faith and encourage me. River of Grace, however, transcends the lyrics with its music. It is one of the few Catholic albums I've listened to where the instruments speak to me as much as the voices.

The cover artwork is simple and exquisite; it so beautifully illustrates the prayerful and soothing music of River of Grace.

You can purchase River of Grace through WLP Music at www.wlpmusic.com.

Copyright 2009 Susan Bailey