Reviewed by Pauline Cooke

If you want an album of cutting edge worship, introducing loads of new tunes, don’t buy this. The youngest song hails from 1996, but it is Stuart Townend’s brilliant version of “The Lord’s My Shepherd”. Having said that, the compilation contains a well-chosen mix of new and old favourites, and there is plenty of variation in the treatment of each song. Things start well with a restrained but upbeat rendition of “My Lips Shall Praise You” – if you shut your eyes, you’re there in the tent, one with the crowd, singing your heart out. The triumphant note continues with “Salvation Belongs To Our God” and “Lord Of Lords”, but the tone subtly changes and the focus moves to the Cross with “How Deep The Father’s Love”. The reflective mood continues for the remainder of the album, apart from the more upbeat “There’s A Place Where The Streets Shine”. For me, the highpoint is the penultimate track, a heart-rending solo (Jayne Lewis) rendition of “When I Survey The Wondrous Cross” sung with an almost Celtic lilt which moved me to tears. For this experience alone I would say buy the album!

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.