Bird-watching: A Closer Look at A Dove On Distant Oaks
December 2010 brought the release of my second independent release, A Dove On Distant Oaks. Musically, the album (produced again by the multi-talented Donn Halliburton) carried on in similar style to Beyond the Veil, although it showcases more of my band members and their contributions to the sound of my music. I was especially pleased to have lead guitar player Andy Othling co-produce two tracks (“As I Lay Me Down” and the title track), and singer and guitar player Stephen Dumas add his smoky vocals to several songs and a wonderful acoustic solo to “Crown.” Lyrically, the themes of the album are of God’s faithfulness and of our identity in Christ as not only those He has rescued but as those He sends out as messengers of what He’s accomplished
Most of the songs on the album were written since the release of Beyond the Veil, but several songs appeared on early demo recordings (done with the assistance of dear friends Rocky Green and Zach & Joni Nichols) and made a comeback due to the insistence of my wife Becky, my mother, and friends and supporters of my music from way back. I’m glad I listened to them and I’m very pleased with how those songs turned out.
Many folks are curious about the album title, which is the name of the tune Psalm 56 is set to (check your Bibles). It also resonates in Psalm 55:6-8 and speaks of finding shelter in the Lord during times of tempest and storm. The Lord’s shelter was strong for me and many others within the last two years as we grieved the loss of Rocky Green. Rocky’s importance in my life as a friend, brother, co-laborer of the Gospel, fellow musician, supporter, encourager, and source of inspiration cannot be overstated.
I pray that the lyrics on “Walk Again With God,” “Calling All Saints,” and “Made Right” remind you of who you are in Jesus. I want “Let Me Hide,” “A Dove On Distant Oaks,” “As I Lay Me Down,” and “Tears In A Bottle” to give you assurance of God’s faithfulness. I want “I Sing of Home,” “Peace Be Still,” and “Crown” to inspire you to move ahead in the mission Jesus has called you to, to preach the Gospel and advance the Kingdom of God. My desire with “Arms of Jesus (Rocky’s Song)” is simply to pay tribute to my friend and honor a life lived to the glory of the Lord.
Thank you for listening to my music and supporting this ministry. I’d love to hear how it blesses you. You can comment on this article or send an email to chuck@chuckelmore.com. Blessings of grace and peace to you through Jesus.
