While Jimmy may not have been a huge fan of Capt. Mathie and his big tuba, there’s some great music coming out of the Salvation Army, including The Singing Company.

The group was formed with the hope that many old Salvation Army songs could be updated, preserved, translated and used for praise and worship use today.

In June 2006 they recorded and released their debut album, The Red Book Sessions, which contained new arrangements of old songs, new melodies to old lyrics and completely original material.

Many great stories have been shared as a result of this effort: people have sung these songs in worship services, in solo competitions and at weddings. People have claimed these songs at dedications and funerals. These songs have traveled around the world, have been translated into other languages and have taken on a life of their own. Many have been turned on to the truths found in old hymns and the messages of these songs have helped lead worshippers to action!

The group has three albums out, including a great Christmas album. Find out more about the group at: http://www.thesingingcompany.com

Are there groups/artists in your faith tradition who are doing likewise? Bringing new life to old songs?

This week they’ve shared a cover of Radiohead’s “Creep” as a Christmas song.

every christmastime, it seems i end up meeting out-of-place outcasts who feel even more out-of-place and outcast around the holidays. those people need songs too.

Download it. Share it. Listen and find the truth.

How have you heard this song in the past? How do you hear it now in this new context — hopefully looking at it through a God lens?