Lo-fi music is a genre that has gained some mainstream prominence in recent years. LoFi Hymnal's debut project gives classic church standards the lo-fi treatment with LoFi Hymnal, Vol. 1. Containing a sprawling 13-track setlist clocking in at over an hour, the trio grabs a good collection of favorites to craft an instrumental album full of familiarity and calm vibes.

There's a variety among which hymns they chose and, more importantly, a good variety among the styles and ways he presents them. For the most part, the mood is chill, such as on "How Great Thou Art" or "My Jesus, I Love Thee." Occasionally, you get more folksy elements (like on "Nothing but the Blood of Jesus") or even a smoky, jazzy feel ("Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" or "By Our Love"). But he's also not afraid to make things more upbeat and have an almost hip hop flair to it (such as with "Take My Life"). This variety keeps the album from sounding too similar and simply blending together in the listener's ears.

For the most part, these hymns maintain their familiarity with obvious melodic references to the originals. Sometimes that melody is a little harder to pinpoint (like on "Amazing Grace" or "Come Thou Long Expected Jesus"). One hymn (at least to this reviewer) is mostly unrecognizable in "All Creatures of Our God and King." There are occasional notes and moments that tip the listener off, but of all the hymns, the melody for this one is the most buried. For those wanting to listen to instrumental hymns, this may be a drawback. For those wanting soothing background music that won't distract them while they study, work, or pray, that may be a plus.

Still, if one listens closely enough, the melodies becomes more distinct and are often shared between multiple instruments at once. The weaving interplay between all the instruments is LoFi Hymnal, Vol. 1's most impressive feature. Hearing the guitar start a line and then having the keys smoothly complete it is a satisfying experience. The band's guitar work, in general, is very well done and helps to keep the album lively. Fans of lo-fi music who are looking for a professionally done hymns record should find a winner in LoFi Hymnal, Vol. 1.

- Review date: 11/22/23, written by John Underdown of Jesusfreakhideout.com