6 Unplugged Worship Albums Worth Checking Out
Finding creative ways to pull off your favorite worship song live without the fifteen member band has been a challenge for worship leaders for years. Fortunately there is plenty of inspiration out there to contextualize great songs for a smaller band.
With the release of Jesus Culture’s Let It Echo Unplugged this week I thought I’d share some of my favorite stripped down worship albums.
Jesus Culture’s latest released yielded more upbeat, celebratory tracks than their previous albums which I really enjoyed. Many of these songs sound great in this acoustic guitar / piano driven context.
Stand out track: In The River
With a track for track reinterpretation of their popular Zion album United shows their versatility. This album has an especially un-produced, raw, live feel. As a bonus they released videos of all these tracks so you can find out just what tambourine that is.
Stand out track: Stay And Wait
Phil’s last four releases have all relied on heavy production with synth on synth on synth but he’s still the master of the solo acoustic dynamic. I may be partial because I was there for this live recording in Costa Mesa CA but I think this is some of his best stuff.
Stand out track: Spirit Of The Living God
Know for their dramatic arena anthems this departure is really refreshing. If you’re a fan of Bethel's music I’m sure you’ll love leading some of these arrangements.
Stand Out Track: One Thing Remains
Before Hillsong became Hillsong Live which became Hillsong Worship. Before Hillsong Young & Free or Hillsong Kids there was Hillsong Chapel. However short-lived and transitionary they were they put out some great stuff. Fully realized, small scale arrangements of Hillsong favorites.
Stand Out Track: This Is Our God
Okay so this isn't technically an unplugged album but it's one of my all time favorite worship albums so I had to add it. If you've got an acoustic guitar, a piano and a shaker these songs are for you. Classic hymns at their best.
Stand out track: I Surrender All
What are some unplugged albums you've enjoyed?
Share in the comments below!