Reviewed by Aaron Ferris

Not to be confused with his acoustic-twinkling namesake Jack nor the Christian instrumentalist Jeff Johnson, this is from a Dallas/Forth Worth worship leader who now goes under the name the Jeff Johnson Band. On first intake of Jeff's most recent worship offering, immediately the mind's focus turns Heavenward. With such potency, sincerity and often splendid simplicity of the lyricism, not to mention the album having been mixed by Tom Luane (Jeremy Camp, Nichole Nordeman) and produced by Will Hunt (Bethany Dillon, Shane & Shane), Jeff and his band manage to capture an authentic worship feel which from studio to disc is no mean feat. They regularly nudge up the volume adding rock attack when needed. The album is fittingly named after the excellent "Glorious Day", a revamped version of John Wilbur Chapman's old hymn reflecting on the glory of the Cross and the coming of Christ. The Resurrection inspired "He Rose", when Jeff is accompanied by a female vocalist, is a song of redemption and victory built up with and backed by plenty of overdrive which I'm sure works a treat when used in a live worship setting. Ending the album with "I'm Moving On" and "Home" displays more of a contemporary pop feel with a sound at times not dissimilar to that of Shaun Groves. Getting through a few rounds on American Idol is one thing, challenging hearts and bringing people to Christ through talented and genuine worship is another level. Recommended.

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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