Clement Sim: “Draw Near” – the power of prayer and story
Clement Sim should have a massive amount of success in Contemporary Christian Music scene. His latest album “Draw Near” provides the listener with good quality music that keeps a traditional lyrical feel but adds an updated edgy pop and rock sound that will engage a range of people. Over all, the entire album really hits hard rhythmically. The lyrics are strong, passionate and do not feel like regurgitated worship music. Clement oversees the worship and music ministry in Toa Payoh Methodist Church in Singapore. He is passionate about bringing people into an encounter with God through music. And he certainly achieves that on this 10 track album. Judging by the heart behind his music he has managed to keep his focus on God and the message of Jesus Christ throughout the entire album.
Clement Sim’s songwriting is mature and will be widely accepted within the CCM industry, while the music on the album is a blend of rock, worship and pop, to present to us one of my favorite Christian albums of the year. From the powerful rock driven opener “You Are Good”, to the percussive anthem “Mighty Warrior” and the soaring melodic title track “Draw Near”, this album will definitely please a wide array of listeners whose preference is of a variety of musical styles.
It is when we realize that God knows our deepest fears and insecurities that we can rest assured that He will carry us through, is a theme that threads subtly throughout the album as a whole.
The piano driven ballad, “I Want More”, is another radio friendly song that encourages us to delve into Christ’s words, His promises, and everything else He has for us. It delivers exactly what you would expect from Clement’s pen and amazing vocal gifts.
The soulful pop rock center of the record is wrapped in energetic guitar and piano-drenched tracks, stunning background vocals, thunderous drums, and brilliant production. Sim’s lead vocals on each song are filled with conviction and are second-to-none.
Musically, this project does not leave one feeling empty-handed. Although every song is solid, I was particularly taken by “Spirit Rain Down”, “You Never Fail”, “Light to the Nations” and “The Throne Song”. Truthfully, it is difficult to single out any one track, as the entire list of tunes is extraordinarily strong.
Perhaps the most notable thing about this recording is that the lyrical content is theologically rich and solid. The scriptural focus and deep dive are refreshing and compelling. The entire work is uplifting and transformational. Not one song stops short on truth.
There is great emphasis throughout the album on the power of Christ and His resurrection. Credit must be given to Clement Sim’s for preserving clarity and consistency in his messages from the very beginning, as it’s easy to get lost in the varying soundscapes. It seems he is very passionate about providing hope and healing through the power of prayer and story.
Clement Sim obviously put this new album together with the goal of encouraging others to find hope and solace in their faith. The best thing about Clement is his ability to see God in the everyday challenges that ordinary people face. He then takes those challenges and turns them into beautiful songs.
