Hilliard described the group’s style as “Folk/Americana” and said the modernization of the hymns goes beyond putting a modern tune to the lyrics.
The changes included updating the language into modern vernacular, reorganizing and reordering lyrics and adjusting the musical arrangements so that the melody of the music follow the emotion of the song.
The changes are substantial enough that Hilliard said the music almost constitutes new songs. The couple began touring after the release of their EP in 2021 and are just beginning their first tour of this year, which contains stops all over the Southeast.
The duo hopes they can play a part in bringing back the theology and messages contained within these traditional hymns, particularly themes of how to suffer well through difficult times.
“Christians in the past thought a lot about how to suffer well and they recognized how to be dependent on God for everything,” Hilliard said. “There is this picture of the Church as the gathered body of Christ that has been singing these things for hundreds of years. That picture rings in our minds when we think about bringing some of these old hymns back.”
Hilliard said he is ultimately thankful for the suffering the family went through, as it drew them back into their original passion for music. His encouragement to anyone who may be in a season of suffering is to remind themselves of the Gospel in every way, including through music.
“Music is inherently an emotional thing,” Hilliard said. “One of the reasons that music of any kind becomes popular is that it speaks to the emotions of the people hearing it and to their needs.
“As we’re struggling and in difficulty, we need regular reminders of the Gospel because in times of temptation we will be tempted to doubt. If that is true outside of music, then it should be also true of music. When difficultly comes, turn to songs that are going to remind you of the truth. The truth itself is going to reach your emotions in ways that you need.”
This article originally appeared here.
