So, it's about seven thirty on a Saturday night, and I'm pulling up to a small church on 3rd Avenue downtown with absolutely zero expectations for what the night will bring. It's Sandra McCracken's "In Feast Or Fallow" CD Release Show and Flood Benefit at The Anchor, and I have never heard her music, nor seen her perform. At that time, I had no idea what I was in for; I was soon to be amazed.

Thad Cockrell opened the floor just after eight with some familiar songs from his album "To Be Loved," which was released in the fall. Thad's heart-felt lyrics, soothing voice, and seemingly effortless melodies provided a perfect pairing for Sandra's event, and set the musical stage for the remainder of the evening.

When Sandra McCracken took stage at nine and began performing with her company of friends and musicians, I was blown away. By employing classic, simplistic hymn texts with unforgettable melodic movement and ever-changing musical textures, Sandra transformed a simple concert into an extramusical experience. Yes, in the end, it will go down in the books as "a concert." But it was also a worship service, a community gathering, a time for reflection... the list could go on. While reading lyrics from the water-stained liner notes (which, in-fact, were only water stained due to flooding in Sandra's basement), I realized that the event was not merely benefiting flood victims, but benefiting every audience member present. With my copy of "In Feast Or Fallow" in hand, I left the event with feelings I never would have imagined leaving a concert with. I was relaxed. I was enriched. I was fulfilled. Thank you, Sandra, for pushing the societal implications of what a concert should be, and communicating your vision with those lucky enough have spent their Saturday night at this unique, one-time event. Soli Deo Gloria. Glory to God alone.

Cheers,
Amanda Q

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