Reviewed by Tom Gould

There was a time when the only direction fresh CCM worship albums originated was the Hosannal/lntegrity stable and the occasional inspired release from the other major labels. However, there seems to be a wealth of albums being released from around the world with strong self-penned and self-played (not a session player in sight!), worship songs. These two albums fit well into this category, as they are from the same church movement, albeit from different continents. It is unfair to classify them together but there is enough diversity in the styles to distinguish them from each other. 'New York', is from the CCC based in the Big Apple (a church plant from the main church in Sydney). This has an impressive line up of players and singers (including guest appearance from Chris Falson), which maintains a fresh spontaneity despite being a studio based album. It is difficult to single out any track in particular as there is a consistency that is unusual in worship albums, there is usually one or two weak songs that you would be embarrassed to introduce to your own congregation, but fortunately, not in this case. If your local CCM supplier is unable to order this album, I suggest you get the next plane to NY... On second thoughts, send me the plane fare and I'll bring you back a copy!

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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