Hope for Tomorrow

Gretchen Harris | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Audio CD (December 23, 2001)
• Original Release Date: December 23, 2001
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Overhead
• ASIN: B00005V571
• In-Print Editions: MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #480,808 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)

Editorial Reviews

Gretchen Harris' third album, HOPE FOR TOMORROW, is the winner of the United Catholic Music and Video Association's award for POP/CONTEMPORARY ALBUM OF THE YEAR!! This very special honor was awarded on October 26, 2002, at the Hartke Theatre in Washington D.C.

For this album, Gretchen has joined forces again with producer David Harris.  They offer eleven beautiful selections, including one they co-wrote, to convey the message of peace in confusing, troubled times. The theme of the album became even more fitting as the events unfolded following the September 11th attack on the United States.

The album starts with "I Am," as Bob Cowsill, of  The Cowsills fame, joins Gretchen on a duet verse.  "Hungry " is a song of total offering of one's self in prayer, even when hungry and broken.

The classic "Take, Lord, Receive" is affectionately revived with harmony vocals artfully sung by vocal group Spirit Alive.  "Child of God" shows how, in the hardest times, Jesus simply holds us through it all. Phil Keaggy was the writer and inspiration behind the recording of "Reaching Out," a simple song of wonderment at the phases in life, and how we need to reach out God's hand to those in need.

John Michael Talbot's well-loved "Only In God" is a statement that God alone is our stronghold and our safety. The song is presented against the backdrop of a drum groove; with scripture verses and electric guitar woven through the interlude, this is a very moving piece.

The meditational "You Bless Me, Lord" perfectly fits the lyrical theme to the album, with the simple statement that God blesses us and we are His, even through the gravest circumstances.  The percussion of Steve Reid, founding member of The Rippingtons, is showcased here. Liam Lawton's "The Cloud's Veil" has a message that "Even when the rain hides the stars... You are by my side."  Piano and harp are featured, with Gretchen on harmony vocals.

Amy Grant wrote the comforting "Carry You" that calls us to lay down our burdens and allow ourselves to be carried by Jesus through the hard times.  "Life After Death" was written by Gretchen and producer David Harris, as a sweet story of her mother's recovery and healing following the death of Gretchen's father.  And the album finishes with an affirmation of  God's healing power from Chris Eaton's "Wonderful World."

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Healing balm for those who have lost loved ones, March 25, 2003

By 

Bevy McM "beverlymcm" (San Francisco, CA United States) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Hope for Tomorrow (Audio CD)

I happened upon this magnificent CD while searching for help in dealing with grief after my 44-year-old husband passed away. Gretchen Harris brings a soothing message of hope and love. The music helps immensely as I negotiate the rocky shoals of bereavement. The melodies linger, providing uplifting support and strength throughout the day. I love "What a Wonderful World" -- it truly inspires me to see the beauty and peace again. Grethchen Harris's voice is pure, and she has given each of us a gift by sharing her talents with the world.

4.0 out of 5 stars Uplifting, prayerful lyrics well-suited to Ms. Harris's sweet voice, November 17, 2007

By 

P. J. Plunkett "edogawaranpo" (Lacey, WA United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Hope for Tomorrow (Audio CD)

"The Cloud's Veil" alone is worth the price of this CD. Flowing, understated accompaniment by acoustic piano and harp allow Ms. Harris's vocals (including her own harmony) to showcase the exquisite, soothing words of this spiritual masterpiece. The only reason I did not give a five-star rating is that a few of the tracks feature percussion and guitars that almost overwhelm the singer's soft, pure soprano and slightly obscure the lyrics. Many listeners may not share my persnickety opinion in this regard, and as other reviewers have noted, this CD offers real comfort in times of grief and loss.

5.0 out of 5 stars Simply beautiful vocals, May 30, 2002

By A Customer

This review is from: Hope for Tomorrow (Audio CD)

I've heard a few tracks and just had to write a note. It is a perfect soft set of melodies-some upbeat and some mellow and romantic. Whether you like Christian music or main stream this will appeal to you. Excellent original lyrics and songs.