Lyrically, each song feels like a rich poem set to music. Like McCracken and her fellow singer/songwriters, Hamshaw works quite a bit of theology into her songs, from Scripture references to pulling inspiration from saints through history ("Consider," "Rooted," "Christ Is Keeping Me"). But she also throws in personal approaches, like on "Where Are You?" or "Turn Upright." In addition to this, Hamshaw takes time to encourage the listener (like the title track or "Hither Come"). The depth in each tune gives the listener a devotional-esque feeling that can reward subsequent listens.

Musically, Hamshaw follows in McCracken's steps with mid-tempo melodies. Occasionally, the music or melody experiment with a different twist, like on "Where Are You?" or "Plead for Me (Ascension Song)." In general, though, many of the tracks start to blend together by the time you hit the end. One of the downsides to meaty lyrics is that the music has to work harder to keep the listener invested. As such, Hamshaw's songs tend to feel overly long. A couple tracks feel like they're about to wrap up and then the listener is treated to a bridge and 2 more minutes' worth of music. This makes the album feel long and sleepy, though some may prefer that as it gives one the chance to soak into the truth of each track. (For what it's worth, I take the same issue with Sandra McCracken's music as well.)

As a debut, Pilgrim, Press On is a robust, impressive showing. Yes, some tracks could be trimmed down to bring the record under an hour of runtime, but Hamshaw's strong lyricism helps overcome some of these issues. This album feels like a lost record of Sandra McCracken's as sung by J.J. Heller, which is hardly a knock against Chelsea Hamshaw. It goes to show that her debut is worthy to be compared to her veteran forebearers. Fans of slower, hymn-inspired folk music will find great encouragement in Pilgrim, Press On.

- Review date: 12/18/24, written by John Underdown of Jesusfreakhideout.com

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