With the release of his 2002 album
Storm
,
singer/songwriter
Fernando Ortego
dons the many hats of storyteller, worship leader, and poet. He carefully weaves artistic strokes of musical excellence with tender, and at times sorrowful, lyrical expressions. This is very much a project containing an "old world" feel;
Ortego
's
folk
style depends on the balanced combination of acoustic guitar and piano, flavored with the sound of
traditional
hymns
and Spanish influences. While his style differs from that of
Twila Paris
, both artists can be pointed to as sustainers and creators of modern-day
. On
includes his own arrangements of
pieces such as
"Come Ye Sinners, Poor and Needy,"
a duet with labelmate
Amy Grant
, and a new song,
"Sing to Jesus."
Also included is the track
"Traveler,"
a song in which
sings, "Heavenly Father/Remember the traveler/Bring us safely home." The track seems appropriate in the early stages of 2002, a year in which traveling carries heightened risks and anxiety. Overall,
is a retelling of a classic yet timeless tale. It is a reminder of the hope and redemption that many find in
Jesus Christ
. ~ Ashleigh Kittle