Sarah and Josh Holthusen recently sent me a copy of their debut CD, "Lead the Way". I must say, I am impressed with the quality of this album. I spoke with Sarah and Josh, and they told me how they had to record the album in bits and pieces while their four young sons were napping or after they had gone to bed.

They decided to make this album very simple--just a guitar and the vocals, so that when they perform the music live, it sounds like the CD. As you might imagine, Saran and Josh are in high demand for weddings, funerals, and other liturgical events at their parish in Kansas.

The music on the album has a very intimate atmosphere, and is conducive to prayer and meditation. There are two original songs on this project; "Lead the Way" (the title track), and "Joseph's Lullaby". The kids even lend their voices to "The Sign of the Cross" and "B-I-B-L-E". The rest are covers of some favorite Catholic songs.

The guitar work is excellent, and I enjoy hearing Sarah sing these songs...she has a unique quality to her voice, and these songs take on a new life.

This CD would be perfect for a retreat, for a Liturgy where there are no musicians, and for personal listening.

Track Listing:

01 - Sign of the Cross
02 - Holy Is His Name
03 - You Are Mine
04 - Lead the Way
05 - Come to the Water
06 - Blest Are They
07 - I Am the Bread of Life
08 - Above All
09 - Ave Maria
10 - Joseph's Lullaby
11 - Prayer of St. Francis
12 - B-I-B-L-E
13 - Irish Blessing

LINKS for this review:
Sarah and Josh Holthusen website

Copyright 2011 Jim Logue