August Playlist
"The first time I listened to "Angel Down”, it really struck me. I found the melody and the instrumentation haunting and couldn't resist singing along.
Textually, the song asks two important questions. The chorus asks, 'Why do people just stand around?” This question is asked in the context of violence, but it can apply to many occasions. Why do we, as people, just "stand around" and not do the good we have the opportunity to do for others? Why do we allow violence and evil to happen right in front of our eyes?
The second question is "Doesn't everyone belong in the arms of the sacred?” This question is at the beginning of the second verse, and I think this question speaks for many seekers and my generation in particular. People have an innate longing, which draws them to the "sacred," but they don't know exactly how to fulfill that deep void. Lady Gaga speaks to that need, connecting this yearning back to the situations of violence in our society.
There are two versions of this song. I recommend both. The official version is longer with a fascinating accompaniment (which includes a harp). The other is called a "work tape.” It is a shorter, stripped down version, which is even more powerful, in my opinion." – David Wagner, Organist and Math Teacher
This playlist was curated for you by Rob Woodson, David Wagner, Kirsten Farney, Liz Collins, and Haley Deming.
Tags: Music / Worship / Student Ministry Activities / Meditative Services / Connect / St. John's Choir