BYU’s Vocal Point has finally followed fans’ requests and released an album of solely LDS church music.
“Lead Thou Me On: Hymns and Inspiration” is the group’s debut collection of hymns and inspirational songs that they hope will touch their listeners. Arranged by several past and current Vocal Point members, the album includes favorite hymns such as “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing,” “All Creatures of Our God and King,” “Savior, Redeemer of My Soul,” and “I Need Thee Every Hour.”
The album was inspired by Vocal Point’s experience on hit show “The Sing-Off.” It was on this show that the nine-man a capella sensation touched millions. Vocal Point impressed audiences with its clean-cut image and message.
In a press release, director McKay Crockett said he is amazed at the breadth the group has reached, both with members and non-members alike.
“It’s been really cool for us to read things online and hear things from people who aren’t members of our church,” Crockett said. “They have felt something special with Vocal Point — something that they can’t quite put their finger on.”
Front man Keith Evans said he hopes the album will share the messages that offer the group hope and comfort to all who listen.
“Sometimes it’s easy to forget that we’re just nine ordinary guys, prone to the same struggles and trials as everyone else,” Evans said. “But in the midst of those difficulties, the messages of these songs have provided immeasurable peace and comfort to us. We hope to share with everyone the knowledge we treasure: that our strength comes from a loving, caring Father in Heaven.”
Vocal Point performed this past weekend at the Covey Center for the Arts. Audiences heard pieces from the group’s latest album, songs from its past Christmas album and others.
The group’s rendition of the Christmas carol “Infant Holy, Infant Lowly,” recognizable to many LDS children as the Primary song “Stars Were Gleaming,” arranged by Crockett and originally released on “The Sing-Off’” 2011 Christmas album, has been among the top 100 holiday downloads on iTunes.
Ben Fales, of BYU Records, said the response to the album has been incredible.
“Fans have been asking for an all-hymns and inspirational album for years, and Vocal Point has now made good on their request,” Fales said. “We also have a new music video of one of the songs, ‘Danny Boy,’ that you can see on YouTube.”
Fales said working with the boys to produce the album was a pleasing experience.
“Every member of BYU Vocal Point is first class, all the way,” Fales said. “They freely give of their time and talents to deliver a positive music message to people around the world. James Stevens, the former Vocal Point director, and McKay Crockett, the current director, worked tirelessly to make this album happen. Props to them and all the boys.”
