Adam-ondi Ahman

I was so impressed with this episode from the Mormon Channel's "History of Hymns" that I decided to scuttle my plan to rate previous music entries for now. The Hymn chosen for this broadcast is an example of pure Mormon thought entitled Adam-ondi Ahman. You can listen to the episode and get the song's history by clicking on the title of this post. This episode is a brilliantly executed thumb-nail sketch of early Mormon history from the Missouri period. It clearly demonstrates the vision and mission of the prophet Joseph Smith and how Mormons view the beginnings of the world and it's glorious destiny. It also shows clearly our understanding of Adam as our honored progenitor, his place in the coming millennial reign of Jesus Christ upon the earth and how we view with great anticipation the events to come as the earth is restored to its paradisaical condition. Although it's never mentioned, Tamilisa Miner is the narrator of History of Hymns. She is a gifted producer, actress and musician and is wonderful in this role. I also recognized Clive Romney adding to the narration. The musicians involved in this episode represent a potpourri of LDS musicians and stlyes. I'll attempt to list them all, hoping not to leave anyone out. They are in order of perormance:

Clayton Pixton
Geslison and Groberg
Small and Torres
Peter Breinholt
Merrill Jenson
Michael Dowdle
Fiddlesticks
Sarah Morgan
Roger and Melanie Hoffman
Lisa Arrington

Considering the variety of musical styles of these folks, it's amazing to me how tastefully it all comes together. The people responsible for this production are to be commended. The music is uplifting and reverent. None of the arrangements overpower the message of the hymn. I loved listening to every part of it. Of special note, if you know my tastes, is Peter Breinholt's stripped down acoustic rendering. He's never sounded better! Please set aside a half hour and give this a listen. You won't regret it!