Forward

The inspired restraint of Jonas Park & David Bollmann’s Forward EP is a definite breath of fresh air. The contemplative spirit of its six songs is realized in pastel instrumental tones and quietly insistent tempos that frame lyrics of intimate spiritual power. Park (a veteran worship leader at Kansas City’s International House of Prayer) and Bollmann (a songwriter known for his credits with the likes of Timbaland, Keri Hilson, and J-Cole) display an admirable humility, keeping the spotlight on the meaning behind their tunes. “I Remember” (featuring Laura Hackett on vocals) establishes the EP's reverent mood with its simple piano hook and ambient sonic textures. “Lifter of My Head” (suggestive of Coldplay performing at a sunrise service) and “Nearness” (moving to a stately, hymn-like tempo) recast timeless praise themes in modern terms. A mystically tinged lyric combines with swirling atmospherics to give “O Jesus” an otherworldly glow. The loping, subtly catchy “All My Hope” and the pristine, acoustic-centered “There’s Only One Worthy” end the EP with hosannas of praise.