Album Review: Laat Het Stil Zijn by Interkerkelijk Jeugdkoor Middelstum
Released in 1978 under the Dutch label Glory Sound, Laat Het Stil Zijn is a heartfelt journey into gospel music that resonates deeply with its simplicity and sincerity. Performed by the Interkerkelijk Jeugdkoor Middelstum—a youth choir from the Netherlands—this folk, world, and country-inspired album captures a spiritual essence that feels both intimate and universal. With Kees Steketee at the helm as composer and arranger, the record blends traditional gospel themes with subtle instrumentation to create an atmosphere of reflection and devotion.
One standout track is "Gebed Om Vrede" (Prayer for Peace), which lingers long after the final note fades. The combination of Lieke Werkman’s delicate organ work and Kees Steketee’s gentle piano creates a soundscape that feels almost sacred. It's not overly polished; instead, it carries a raw authenticity that makes you feel like you're sitting right there in the church where it was recorded. Henk Smit’s engineering deserves mention here too—he manages to capture every breath and whisper without losing clarity. This track sticks because it doesn’t try too hard; it just lets the emotion speak for itself.
Another memorable piece is "Lied Voor Bijna Iedereen" (Song for Almost Everyone). What sets this apart is how accessible it feels—it’s anthem-like but never overwhelming. Jannie Rijzinga and Martha Krijgsheld’s cornet contributions add a warm, rustic touch, while Gijsbert Van Raalte’s understated drumming keeps things grounded. You can tell these young voices aren’t professionals, yet their earnestness shines through. There’s something charmingly imperfect about it all, like listening to your neighbors sing their hearts out during a small-town festival.
The cover art, designed by Karel Buskes and Koos Overbeek, perfectly complements the album’s humble vibe. It’s simple, unassuming, and somehow inviting—all qualities mirrored in the music itself. And let’s not forget Kees Geut on tambourine, whose subtle rhythms tie everything together without stealing the spotlight.
Reflecting on Laat Het Stil Zijn, what strikes me most isn’t just its musical merit but its timelessness. In today’s world of auto-tuned perfection and overproduced tracks, this album reminds us that sometimes less really is more. Gospel music often gets pigeonholed as preachy or outdated, but this record proves otherwise. It’s got soul, depth, and a quiet kind of power that sneaks up on you when you least expect it.
And hey, who would’ve thought a tambourine could make such a difference? Goes to show, even the smallest details matter.
