That I May Know Him By Rosemary- Album Review

Worship leader, songwriter and recording artist Rosemary started singing at a very young age, first in the children’s choir of her church, later the youth choir and now is a key member of Realms of Glory- the music department of Glory Christian Ministries, under general overseer, Dr. I.S James. Even from early on, her love and passion for music and ministry was evident.

From starting an acappella group with her siblings to ministering in churches and concerts both locally and internationally, that passion is quite far from waning. ‘That I may Know Him’ is Rosemary’s debut album, produced by Rotimi Akinfenwa (Rotimikeys), she desires that the songs on this album will do for the listener what she desires for herself- deepened intimacy with the Holy Spirit.

The 12-track album opens with an Overture- a short prayer of longing, spoken and accompanied with suitable instrumental ‘In You’ stands out for it’s simplicity in both music and lyrics with only the intermittent key change adding just the right amount of flavour. Also quite evident is Rosemary’s incredible ability to use ad libs as a form of song conversation with God, not just in ‘In You’ but all through album. It’s easy to imagine her lead spontaneous worship!

‘My Everything’ is also quite easy on the ear and easy to follow along as you get a real sense of how personal this song must be to her from her passionate delivery

‘Have Your Way’ and ‘Just a Glimpse’ sees Rosemary collaborate with well-known and respected fellow worship Leader Mairo Ese and with the backing an exhilaratingly competent choir keep the common thread of a deep longing for God and His Holy Spirit, strong

The inclusion of the hugely popular worship staple ‘He is Lord’ in the track ‘Be My Lord’ was a clever creative decision as it makes this particular track memorable and even more so as Rosemary and her production team offer a fresh spin to it with the inclusion of the choir and grand finish not at all far from what you would expect to hear from The Gaither Band

As most of the songs to this point are mostly slow tempo the mid tempo track that is ‘Dwelling Place’ offers a welcome change of musical direction whilst still staying true to the intention of the album. As quite a few of the songs have done within the album, this one commences with subtle narration of Psalm 91 at this point of the album.

Things changes up again with the inclusion of ‘Nara Ekele’, a song partly sung in the Ibo language, the predominant language spoken in Eastern part of Nigeria. And then as though intending to demonstrate unity in diversity, ‘Mo Wa Dupe’ sung in the Yoruba language, follows immediately after. Here she really picks up the pace whilst staying true to the style of music synonymous with that part of the country.

‘I Believe’ is an all women affair as Rosemary collaborates Donna Ogunnaike and Psalmira and we are then treated to some more scriptural reading as well as spoken word.

The album aptly concludes with ‘Holy Is Your Name’ which sounds like what could be easily be a congregational favourite whilst going back to the album’s ‘humble beginnings’- simplicity

As far as ‘vertical’ gospel albums go, it really doesn’t get better than ‘That I May Know Him’. Very reminiscent of Cece Winans’ Throne Room, if you are looking for some devotional or ‘quiet time’ songs, there’s plenty of material to choose from here. It is indeed a musical offering, quite evidently from a worshipper, for a worshipper

Reviewed by Tose for Heartsong Live