Fortunate Fall

A work of unusual subtlety and spiritual power, Audrey Assad’s third album is a departure from the pop/rock approach of her previous releases. The Christian singer/songwriter funded her latest project through Kickstarter with the goal of creating a worship song-cycle for the modern Church. She succeeds brilliantly with contemplative lyrics that seem both deeply personal and timeless in their stately, yearning language. Musically, much of Fortunate Fall has a liturgical feel, framing meditative melodies in simple, finely detailed arrangements. Assad’s silvery vocal tones combine vulnerability with inner strength as she examines the theme of man’s struggle for redemption in a sinful world. She draws joy from melancholy in such poignant tracks as “Help My Unbelief,” “I Shall Not Want," and “Humble.” The quiet, almost medieval grandeur of “O Happy Fault” contrasts with the coffeehouse-folk feel of “Lead Me On” and the bright waltz-time rhythm of “Good for Me.” “You Speak” closes the album with an intimate declaration of belief. Throughout, Assad sings out with gratitude even as she acknowledges the mysteries of faith.