"Joyful Noise" contains 13 pieces written and used in jazz worship over the past 9 years. All the arrangements and compositions are by Richard Birk except "Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence" which was arranged by Howard Hanger and adapted by Richard Birk. These songs emphasize well-crafted ensemble sections, intricate horn solis and plenty of improvisation, they reflect diverse musical styles ranging from straight-ahead jazz to latin, fusion to dixieland and even a polka included.

CD tracks are:
1. Joshua Fought The Battle of Jericho (5:26)
A hard bop version of this traditional spiritual.

2. I Love To Tell The Story (5:03)
A funky New Orleans-type arrangement of this classic hymn.

3. Stand Up, Stand Up For Jesus (4:02)
A calypso-tinged send up of this traditional hymn.

4. Blessed With Joy (dedicated to Joy Birk) (4:42)
A gorgeous original ballad featuring a variety of colors.

5. Dixieland Gospel Medley (2:42)
A dixieland medley of gospel favorites including "Nobody Knows the Trouble I've Seen,"
"Swing Low Sweet Chariot," "This Little Light of Mine," and "Will the Circle Be Unbroken."

6. Our God Is A Tower of Power (A Mighty Fortress Is Our God) (4:46)
Tower of Power meets Martin Luther in this very updated version of the "Lutheran National Anthem".

7. Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence (4:12)
Howard Hanger's arrangement set as a swinging minor blues.

8. Let Us Break Bread Together On Our Knees (1:43)
A cha-cha for communion.

9. What A Friend We Have In Jesus / Jesus Loves Me ( 1:25)
Two children's favorites combined in a rousing German polka.

10. Reverend Ron (dedicated to Rev. Ron Birk) (6:52)
An original gospel piece featuring some serious "preaching" by Warren Sneed on the tenor sax.

11. Go Down Moses (4:09)
A Benny Goodman/Gene Krupa inspired swing arrangement of another traditional spiritual.

12. On Our Way Rejoicing (3:25)
An alternating latin/swing version of this hymn.

13. Lord, Dismiss Us With Your Blessing (4:54)
Burning bebop with a short quote of "Amazing Grace" included.

Produced by Richard Birk
Recording Engineer & Mastering: Rob Kelley
Recorded Live to 2-track: February 20 & 21, 1999 at Brazosport College, Lake Jackson, TX
Graphics & Layout: GreatHouse Creative Services

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