I’m going to have a look at John Burland‘s latest collection, Into the World.
In Australia, the most vibrant section of the Catholic music “industry”, remains the school market and the songwriters who started there and then became more relevant generally. For years there was the Holy Trinity of Michael Mangan, Andrew Chinn and John Burland and now there are Patricia Smith and Gen Bryant as well. It is the only sector of Catholic music in Australia, apart from perhaps Cathedral music in the major cities, that isn’t completely amateur. While they started by concentrating on young people and the school market, much of their repertoire is now for everyone.
This album is in a melodic praise and worship style, but with songs for particular liturgical needs, that are definitely designed for parish use as well as schools. When you listen to his versions on Spotify and Youtube, you will note that his production values are most professional.
The opening track was written by John Burland, Philippe-Marc Anquetil, and Stephen Leiweke. This is obviously a song for Pentecost and about the Spirit. The sheet music can be purchased at his site. When he sings, “send me higher” he really means it, so I would be lazy and bring it down from G to F then play capo 3. I left it in the original key for my backing though.
Chorus
Holy Spirit set my heart on fire, give me strength and take me higher.
Holy Spirit set my heart on fire and let it burn.
1 Holy Spirit, come. I want to know God’s love.
I’m standing here. (Holy Spirit breath on me.)
Let your will be done.
Chorus
2 Holy Spirit, come. Unite your church.
Lord lead us out (All together we go.)
To every nation of the world.
Chorus
Bridge x2
In a world needing rebirth, Holy Spirit burn in me.
Come renew the face of the earth, Holy Spirit burn.
Chorus x2
… and let it burn, let it burn.
© 2022 John Burland, Philippe-Marc Anquetil, Stephen Leiweke.