An introduction to Vespers by Jeff Johnson –

It will become quite clear from the opening piece that this recording does not intend to follow the traditional Vespers liturgy. Yet, the practice of marking the end of each day with the recitation of Psalms, music and prayer is one that all Christians can appreciate.

Vespers has always been associated with light. The name comes from a word for “evening star” and for many years it was celebrated at the hour of sunset. Eventually, it was established at the twelfth hour (6:00 pm) of the offices of the day and the practice of lighting torches and candles became a powerful metaphor for what David once described:

    If I say, “Surely the darkness will overwhelm me,
    And the light around me will be night,”
    Even the darkness is not dark to You,
    And the night is as bright as the day.
    Darkness and light are alike to You.
                    – Psalm 139:11-12(NAS)

So, while this is not a traditional Vespers liturgy, the collection of compositions here celebrates this “light into Light.” As you listen, my hope is that the music will inspire you to a greater belief in God’s faithfulness to all who have placed their hope and trust in His great mercy.

Jeff Johnson fuses the old and new about as well as anyone I know.  He has done it again with Vespers - light into Light, which takes its inspiration from the traditional evensong service. 

Vespers refers to the ancient practice of marking the end of each day with Psalms, music and prayers.  Though not following the traditional Vespers liturgy, Johnson weaves a wonderful tapestry of Taize choruses, Latin chants, ancient texts, and scripture based songs set to Celtic music that is both old and modern.  On this release Johnson shares vocals with classical singer Janet Chvatal. 

The title song is a seven-minute instrumental that starts quietly with sounds that convey mystery and reverence.  It’s like the beginning of a journey.  The song builds slowly with a violin, keyboards and other sounds, then chants until the song reaches a peak.  It then takes a turn toward a more modern sound that is marked by Johnson’s keyboard wizardry and Brian Dunning’s flute.

“Christ Before Me” is a dynamic Celtic tune that takes its words from St. Patrick and Psalm 139.  The rhythm is such that it feels like something momentous is about to happen.  It’s like being transported to a place of ancient castles and battles.  It’s a definite highlight.

Janet Chvatal sweetly sings “Prayer of St. Francis,” the familiar prayer attributed to him.  It’s punctuated by beautiful musical interludes.  It’s the best version of the song that I have heard. 

“Wait For The Lord” is a simple Taize chorus that starts with soaring synthesizer, percussion and Chvatal’s vocal.  After a fascinating fusion of sounds, Johnson then sings the chorus with Chvatal joining in.

“Deep Within” opens with a Latin chant taken from Psalm 19.  The song builds around a simple keyboard progression with synths and chants adding texture.  Picture yourself being transported to an ancient monastery or cathedral.  That’s the feeling that I get.

Brian Dunning’s flute is featured prominently at the beginning and end of “Agnus Dei.”  Solid percussion and violin accompany Chvatal’s chant, which takes a verse from John 1.

It seems only fitting that “Magnificat,” a chant that comes from Mary’s expression of praise, sounds a particularly joyful note. 

“Teach Me Thy Way, O Lord” is an original song by Johnson taken from Psalm 86.  The contemporary Celtic sound, and Johnson and Chvatal’s harmonizing, make this one of the standout songs. 

“Blessed Is The Man (Alleluia)” is an old song that is given a synth-driven beat that is layered midway through with Chvatal singing “Alleluia.”

A fitting end is “Grant Us Your Peace, O Lord” that alternately has Johnson singing in English and Chvatal in Latin.  “Grant us Your peace, O Lord/Grant us Your peace, O Lord/May it fill all our days.”

Johnson, Chvatal and their supporting cast succeed in working the vocals and music to perfection.  We are treated here to an extraordinary musical meditation.  Vespers succeeds in conveying reverence while imparting a sense of peace. 

– Michael Dalton/The Phantom Tollboth (April 2005)

This time Johnson manages a coup with the vocal accompaniment of the great Janet Chvatal. And this album isn’t all languid and quiet, either - the title track employs percussion and understated electronica along with familiar flutes, whistles, fiddles, and Johnson’s trusty keyboard. Thoughtful - not unlike contemplative worship.

–Dave Urbanski/YouthWorker Journal (July/August 2005)