This setting of Ps 98 by Bob Hurd is not used at our church and I think it is because we use Bob Dufford’s instead. These older songs (1988) leave all sorts of interesting tracks across the net. You can hear a MIDI version here along with lots of other older songs. (I’d forgotten about this site and assumed it had been shut down.) This site has streaming MP3’s of lots of church music including this song. Usually you will find several church choirs doing a song on You Tube but I had no luck with this song, which is a pity because the arangement on the original recording has the odd singing style again that I find very grating and I’m sure it would sound better sung with a normal choir.
It can be purchased for download at OCP.
As to the song itself, it has merit and interest. The last line of the verse is somewhat startling in melody when first played and at least isn’t the same old same old. Weirdly it didn’t get the the tick from the NLMB – it can’t be the text as I think the Psalms are still allowed – perhaps it lacks true art. It all seems pretty arbitrary to me.
Technical notes for Band in a Box: This backing is all MIDI based except for the strummed acoustic guitar real track. I find the sound of a real (OK sampled) guitar can fool you to think the rest of the tracks are less MIDI than they really are. If in doubt, compare with the MIDI version above, which sounds very very MIDI indeed.
Refrain
All the ends of the earth have seen salvation
All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God,
The saving power of God.
Verse 1
Let us sing a new song for the wondrous deeds of our God,
Whose holy arm has prevailed,
Bringing salvation and vic’try.
Refrain
Verse 2
All the ends of the earth have seen the power of God.
Ring out your joy, break into song;
All you lands sing praise.
Refrain
Verse 3
Sing the praises of God; with harp and song give praise.
O trumpets sound! Joyfully sing;
Sing to the ruler of all.
Refrain
© Bob Hurd 1988.