"Voice of One Crying in the Wilderness: The Story of John the Baptist" is a new rock opera conceived by composer and lyricist Brian Stemetzki. Produced by the illustrious Marty Willson-Piper, it weaves a tale of spiritual awakening, societal upheaval, and the quest for truth in a world shrouded in chaos.
Much like "Jesus Christ Superstar" challenged the boundaries of traditional storytelling, this album takes listeners on a transformative journey through intricate melodies, soaring vocals, and thought-provoking lyrics. While "Jesus Christ Superstar" delved into the iconic figure of Jesus Christ, "Voice of One Crying in the Wilderness" explores the story of the prophet John the Baptist, grappling with existential questions and seeking redemption amidst a cacophony of doubt and disillusionment.
Under Marty Willson-Piper's production, and recorded in Texas with members of the Polyphonic Spree, the Fort Smith Arkansas Symphony, members of the local Dallas gospel singing community, and a myriad of local talented musicians, the album's dynamic instrumentation and emotive performances shine. The album showcases Stemetzki's talents as a guitar player, using various vintage guitars on the album, including 6 and 12-string Rickenbacker guitars from 1966 and a Fender Stratocaster from 1972, adding a powerful and authentic layer to the musical tapestry.
The album invites audiences to follow the protagonist's quest for self-discovery and enlightenment, resonating with timeless themes of hope, faith, and the enduring power of the human spirit. Get ready to experience a musical odyssey like no other, where every note is a revelation and every chord a testament to the enduring legacy of progressive rock.
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The Love of God Is All Around Us
This instrumental was inspired by God's creation of the world and man.
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Don’t Be Afraid
This song was inspired by the birth of John the Baptist. John's parents, Zechariah and Elizabeth, were both very old and Elizabeth was unable to conceive. Zechariah, a Jewish priest loyal to God, received a visit from an angel of the Lord while serving in the temple. The angel told Zechariah not to be afraid and that his wife would give him a son, who should be named John. The angel revealed that John's purpose was to help prepare people for the coming of Jesus.
Wilderness Interlude
This is another instrumental inspired by John the Baptist. John preached in the Wilderness of Judea and baptized many people in the Jordan River. Some thought that John might be the messiah. John would correct them and say the messiah was yet to come.
What Did You See
People heard about John the Baptist and came from Jerusalem and Judea to see him. Many were expecting a priestly man with fine clothes but instead they saw a man who was wild looking, dressed in clothes made from camel hair. When Jesus was later asked about John the Baptist, he proclaimed that no one was greater.
I Wait For You
John the Baptist was about six months older than Jesus and they were cousins. John dedicated his life to preparing people for the coming of Jesus through his ministry of repentance and baptism, encouraging people to confess their sins and seek a new beginning. One day, as Jesus approached him at the Jordan River to be baptized, John announced, "Look, the one who will take away the sins of the world is here!"
He Walks
While John is baptizing people in the Jordan River, Jesus approaches him and asks to be baptized. John hesitates, but Jesus insists, explaining that it is the right thing to do to fulfill the prophecy. John agrees, and as he baptizes Jesus, a significant moment occurs with the heavens opening and a spirit descending upon Jesus.
His Glory
The world needed a guiding light then and still does today. Jesus' message invites others to embrace the blessings and understand deeper truths. This piece captures the essence of seeking and finding hope, purpose, and clarity amidst the chaos of life.
Machaerus
John the Baptist was later imprisoned by King Herod by condemning the king’s marriage to his wife, Herodia, as illegal. Herodia had been previously been married to his own brother, Phillip. While imprisoned, John had doubts if Jesus was the messiah. He asked his followers to find and ask Jesus if he was really the messiah. John worried that his imprisonment could be God’s judgement for him. John’s followers went and saw Jesus and the many miracles he did in their presence.
Herod himself liked to listen to John and talked to him often. Herod often disliked the things John said to him but feared him because he knew John was a righteous and holy man.
During a birthday celebration for Herod, Herod promised to give his daughter anything she wants. Herod’s daughter asked her mother what she should ask for. Herodia, in her hate toward John, told her to ask for John’s head. Then the king regretted what he said but did not refuse her wish. Herod later regretted his decision.
Holy Holy Is The Lord
An uplifting and powerful piece inspired by the words of the Book of Revelation. This composition is a musical celebration, designed to evoke a sense of reverence and gratitude. The music builds in intensity and grandeur, with harmonies and melodies that reflect the awe and majesty of the divine. It invites listeners to join in a moment of reflection and thanksgiving, celebrating the profound and eternal glory.
I Receive You
“Seek and you will find it, love and you will feel it and I will be with you. You redeem me, I receive you, I will be with you”.
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