Veteran studio musician Steven Sharp Nelson stepped out of a backing role and into the forefront with Sacred Cello, his debut effort. Having performed on over 100 albums previous to this inaugural solo project, he displays a penchant for improvisation even underneath a surface of meticulous precision. Nelson shows a mastery of tempo and dynamic contrast that evokes a surprisingly strong amount of emotion, even with what could be considered a familiar track list to classicists. There are no real surprises in the core lineup of hymns, but a stylish variety of classical and traditional work adds a sparkling flourish to the set. Among others, his unaccompanied rendition of the Prelude from Bach's "Cello Suite No. 1 in G major" employs a stirring rubato, while he commands a rhythmic bassline in "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring." These departures from strict Sunday fare give the album a tremendous lift. , Sacred Cello is bright, solid, unique, and enchanting.

Track List:

    Unaccompanied Cell Suite No. 1 in G Major: Prelude
    Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring
    Clair de lune, for orchestra or other arrangement (from "Suite Bergamas
    The Water Is Wide (after O Waly, Waly)
    Be Still, My Soul, hymn (based on Finlandia)
    Beautiful Savior
    O Savior, Thou Who Wearest a Crown
    [Excerpt]
    How Can I Keep From Singing? (My Life Flows On), song
    Oh, My Father
    All Creatures of Our God and King
    God Be with You Till We Meet Again