If you purchased the Word of Promise New Testament, you have probably asked yourself the question listed above. After all, the Truth and Life Audio Bible is made by the same people (Carl Amari and company), the samples sound quite similar, and even some of the cast from the WOP has returned for this project. So how is it different? Here are some reasons to purchase this Audio NT.
A different feel: Yes, there is a different feel to this project. First, the cast is different (some actors are the same, but they play different roles), the director is not Jobe Cerny (though he was an assistant director) and the music is fresh.
A different actor for the role of Jesus: For those of you who were disappointed with Jim Caveizel's performance in the WOP, this audio NT is for you. Neal McDonough is outstanding in this role. Jesus was the greatest storyteller of all time, so the actor has to be good enough to convince you of this. Neal sounds incredible doing the sermon on the mount.
It's a Catholic product: Catholic's that took a chance on the WOP will want this product because it was recorded for them. Yes, Carl Amari is Catholic as is most of cast. However, I do believe that non-Catholic's will purchase this product as well (I am not Catholic).
Revamped sound effects: The sound effects occur more often and they are always appropriate. For instance, when Jesus is healing the sick, you can hear people coughing in the background, when Herod is killing the children, you can hear many children crying out accompanied by the sound of swords cutting into flesh.
Different Translation: I probably own over 20 different translations, not counting the one's on my computer. Some people will buy this product because of their love for the RSV. The RSV keeps some of the old English dialogue (Thee, Thou) when speaking to God.
John Rhys Davies as the narrator: When I heard that JRD would be the narrator, I knew I would buy this product. IMO, he has one of the greatest voices of all time. I can't wait to hear him read the book of Genesis.
Star-power: Some people will want to purchase this product simply because their favorite actor is involved. Blair Underwood's fan base operates like a cult, so his name alone will convince non-Catholics to pick this up. Also, Kristen Bell and Julia Ormond are involved this time, so if your a fan, you might want to pick this up. Personally, I don't care who's involved, as long as the word of God is proclaimed. Paul said of those that preached only to add affliction to his bonds, "Whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is preached." Not saying that these actors are performing for the money, but not all of them are believers (Malcolm
McDowell, Sean Astin).
There are plenty of reasons to buy this Audio Bible even if you already own several others. I enjoy it, and I believe you will enjoy it as well. Here is a brief report card for the actors, music and production:
Acting- A
Neal McDonough- A
I had never heard of this actor before I purchased this product and I was impressed. Neal has a wonderful deep baritone voice that fits the role perfectly. His acting was fabulous, especially in the hours before the crucifixion. While praying in the garden, his weeping becomes uncontrollable, so much so that I found myself shedding tears. Very moving performance.
Kristin Bell- B
Not much to say here as she only has a couple of lines in the entire project. Her reading was adequate. I'm not sure why Carl Amari wanted to hire such a big name actor for such a small part.
Michael York- B+
I loved Michael's reading of the Old Testament in the Word of Promise, but something must have happened to his voice in the process. His voice cracks several times throughout his readings in the Gospel of Luke and Acts. I'm not saying that I didn't enjoy his performance, as his voice is still quite pleasant to listen to. He still reads with excitement and most people won't even notice the vocal change. I only noticed because I had grown so used to his voice in the WOP.
Blair Underwood- A+
This man has an amazing voice and he reads the Gospel of Mark with conviction. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to him. I hope they bring him back for the Old Testament.
Sean Astin- A+
Pleasant voice, great actor, great performance. Loved his reading of Matthew. Splendid!
Stacy Keach- A+
I can associate Keach's voice with the Apostle Paul. However, he was wonderful in this project, and I would even say that his acting was flawless. His readings of Paul were loud and authoritative, but his readings of John were soft and tender. Exactly the way I picture John the beloved.
Julia Ormond- B
Her performance was perfect, so I have no gripe with her at all. I do wonder, though, why she was chosen to play Mary. Her voice sounds a bit too old for this role, as most scholars think Mary was somewhere between 13-16 years of age. Maybe Kristin Bell would sound more convincing in this role? Feel free to leave a comment about this. I want to hear your thoughts. I would have saved such a fine actress for the Old Testament and given her the part of Deborah.
Brian Cox- B
I prefer the voice of Martin Jarvis, but Brian has a nice voice and he does a fine job. Maybe I was hoping for a deeper voice to play the role of God. I will say that no one knows what God's voice sounds like, so who am I to pass judgment here?
John Rhys Davies- A
I've already given my thoughts on JRD. His voice is incredible and his acting ability unquestioned.
Tony Mockus Sr. (As Paul)- A+
His name isn't recognizable to most people, but his performance is unmatched. As good as Stacy Keach was in the WOP, I would venture to say that Tony was even better. His voice isn't as pleasant to the ears as Stacy's, but his portrayal of Paul is truly astounding. You'll just have to hear it for yourself.
Music- B
The music in the Word of Promise was so good that it was almost distracting at times. I found myself concentrating on the various compositions, rather than drinking in the words of God. The music in the T&LAB is decent, but not overly impressive, but in my opinion, this is a good thing. I was able to hear the sound effects and concentrate on the scripture.
Production- A
Another great job by Amari and Co. A lot of time and effort was required for this project and the payoff is enormous. The mix is perfect, the sound effects are fabulous, and the actors are brilliant. I love this Audio Bible and I know you will too. Purchase it today...you won't be sorry.