A setting of Ps 34 by Tony Barr. This is novel, in that three groups of singers start the mantra sequentially, each with their own line and then the cantor sings as a voice over the mantra refrain. You’ll get the idea from the snippet at AOV, or if you are planning on using it, buy the MP3 using the same link.
My backings are at 92 bpm. I’ve done two because once I put all the mantra lines together the cantor part is unclear so the first one has only one line of the mantra going.
Mantra Refrain
1 Taste and see, taste and see, taste and see that the Lord is good.
2 Taste and see, taste and see, taste and see that the Lord is good.
3 Taste and see that the Lord is good, Taste and see, O taste and see.
Verses
1.
I will bless the Lord at all times,
Songs of praise ever on my lips.
I rejoice in the God who saves me,
In the One who rewards the poor.
2
Let us praise the greatness of God,
Let us sing of the Lord’s own name.
When I called on that name, God heard me,
Set me free from all doubt and fear.
3
All who turn to God shall see light,
Every shame will then disappear.
Let the poor cry and God shall help them,
God shall save them from all distress.
4
God the Lord is here among us,
Keeping safe all who live in hope.
Taste and see of the Lord’s own goodness;
They are happy who rest in God.
5
Holy chosen ones, fear the Lord;
Look to God, who will bless your days.
On that day when the rich go hungry
All who seek God shall be fulfilled.
6
Come, children, listen to my words;
Come learn how to know the Lord.
Who among you seeks life and bounty
Who among you seeks wealth and joy?
7
Let your tongue be clean of all guile,
All deceit banish from you lips.
Do good things, repel all evil.
Seek but peace with your heart and soul.
8
To the just the eyes of God turn,
Who will hear them in their distress.
But the Lord frowns upon the wicked,
Lest their memory remain on earth.
9
God shall help the just when they cry out,
Give them hope in distress and woe.
God is close to the broken hearted,
The oppressed know God’s saving hand.
10
When the just know hardship and pain,
God shall be there to comfort them,
Taking care that no bone be broken,
Taking care that not one is crushed!
© Tony Barr 1988.