Reviewed by Doug Holland

Andy Green (keyboards and recording) and Dan Wheeler (guitars and recording) head up this offering in the Kingsway Focus On.series, and from the opening bars to (almost) the last this 15-track, 64-minute CD does exactly what it says in the blurb - create a tremendous sense of intimacy and one-to-oneness with God that will be helpful in assisting listeners to enter and then to bide awhile in his presence. Piano and guitar sounds are sensitive, clean and un-cluttered, the vocal lines are simple (and excellently sung, apart from the tendency a couple of the vocalists have to drawl occasionally), and percussion and other instruments are used sparingly and to great effect. Somewhat strangely, although 11 of the tracks are sung by females, only on three do they get the writing credits, plus two collaborations. Writers represented include Brian Doerksen, Craig Musseau, John de Long, Martin Smith, Matt Redman and Marie Bennett and all should be pleased with the interpretation of their songs. Also oddly, the most up tempo track is the final one, and this sits slightly uncomfortably with the rest of the recordings. Overall, this is an excellent and helpful recording for personal meditation or quiet, small group worship.

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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