Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Pop isn't quite the right word to describe the contents of this album which is a combination of world music influences and straight forward adult pop. Got to say when I first heard it, I wasn't sure but now we've had the opportunity to become fully familiar with one another, I can report that this album is a real beauty! An eclectic feast of moods and rhythms, this is a broad worship album with a strong production sound topped off by Lianna's excellent song writing and fine voice. So what do you get for your dollars? The opening title cut is an immediate indicator that we're in the presence of a woman who can write a compellingly catchy tune and bring us into the presence of God simultaneously! My dictionary of reviewers' buzz words suggests that the correct term for this is "anthemic" and that sounds fine by me! "Lord You Have Searched Me" is built around an understated ambient little groove over which Lianna worships to a theme from Ps 139; "Trust In His Hand" goes new country and "Salvation" begins with a percussive build up, ethnic sounds and an acoustic guitar over which a strong Celtic tune is sung. Just a great combination of sounds! "Shekinah" is a bold retelling of the story of the glory of the Lord falling in the temple featuring some huge Terl Bryant-style drum riffs and an epic chorus! "Romans 8" is a sassy piece of CCM demonstrating that even the straight forward pieces of music on this album are delivered with aplomb by Ms Klassen and her wonderfully catchy tunes! (Watch out for the way it breaks down two minutes in!) "Midst Of It All" is a moving ballad of reassurance and hope. The album closes with a couple of moments of gentle worship - "Beautiful" and "Psalm 5". Occasionally reminiscent of Carolyn Arends, possibly because of the inclusion of her sideman Spencer Capier, this is a top quality release you should chase down.

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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