Now and Evermore

Now and Evermore (2007) incorporates 10 new passages of scripture put to music, notably The Lord's Prayer and The Word of God. The popular Dam Busters version of Psalm 46 has been written with a new contemporary tune as the title track Now and Evermore.

Cathy had the great privilege of working with Phil Gaudion of PC3 (Paul Colman Trio) fame as producer. Since this Grammy award-winning Christian trio disbanded in 2005, Melbourne-based Phil has felt God's calling to produce great music in support of God's kingdom and he now produces albums for Christian artists. He brings characteristic raw edge to the arrangements and along with Cathy's production ideas has sought to incorporate a range of styles from raw Australian rock to indigenous didgeridoo instrumentation with Celtic overtones. Add to this a string sextet, tenor saxophone, a children's choir and Irish whistle and you have an album with an extraordinary diversity of flavour which appeals to a vast range of styles and ages.

Stand Firm

Stand Firm (2004) is a congregational album with songs written specifically for people to sing in Christian gatherings, as they strengthen each other while they gather around God's Word. Many of the songs are scripture passages put to music. Whilst the songs were all written by Cathy in the first instance, some of them ultimately became a collaborative effort with Rob Smith as they worked on refining the songs prior to recording. The CD is enhanced so that the music book for all the songs can be printed from the CD itself. There are also additional features - Tips on Song Leading, How to Use Backing Tracks in Church and Teaching New Songs - some of the most regularly asked questions at music conferences!

Songs from the CD have been sung at a number of Katoomba Christian Conventions. Trust and Obey was the theme song for the 2004 Women's Katoomba Convention. Forgiveness was a key song at the 2005 Katoomba Easter Convention.

Review

Cathy Sampson's debut CD Stand Firm reflects her passion and commitment both to the Gospel and also to quality songs for God's people to sing together. The lyrics are drawn from scripture and provide a fresh opportunity to meditate and consider its truth. Strong, singable tunes (most of which congregations will warm to immediately) provide the right complement for the words. A fresh version of Trust and Obey has already established itself as a favourite by those who've heard the album. These are songs which you will want to listen to in the car as well as enjoy singing in church. Of course, it is an enhanced CD, but with a difference: Cathy has included some of her tried and tested tips for song leading, teaching new songs and how to use the backing tracks (which are provided in MP3 format. I'm already looking forward to Cathy's next album. - Steve Williams
Steve Williams has spent many years involved in music ministry, both singing and serving in coordinating all the technical support at Katoomba conventions. He loves encouraging people to strive for excellence in using their gifts to grow and extend the kingdom of God.