Reviewed by Matthew Cordle Lorraine Latin is a musician, teacher and songwriter from London with a heart for mission and multi-cultural worship, as demonstrated in her work with WEC's Resonance ministry. She has written this collection of songs through a very difficult period of life to encourage others that there is always hope in Christ, no matter the situation. Some are co-written with Noel Robinson of the Kingdom Worship Movement, who also produced the album. Whilst Lorraine plays flute on some songs, the vocals are taken care of by others. The songs are very much in the praise and worship arena, largely characterised by Latin, gospel and jazz, along with a couple of ballads. Setting the tone, "I Stand In Awe Of You" kicks off in an up-beat Latin style, declaring wonder at God's creative power. The beautifully mellow piano-jazz "Make Me New Again" has a raw-sounding vocal from Tracey Campbell, aptly reflecting the vulnerability of this prayer inspired by the bleeding woman in Mark 5. Other highlights are the top-tapping "It's A New Day!", declaring "I declare today a new day, Lord, when I choose to believe what you say. ." and no longer believing the lies that bind us, and the smooth, soulful vocal from Noel on "Your Awesome Gift (Love)". Whilst the sound is perhaps not quite as polished as some larger budget releases, the arrangement and production is excellent. Meaningful lyrics, creative instrumentation, emotive lead vocals, rich backing vocal harmonies with excellent intonation, coupled with real musicians playing real instruments has given the CD an authentic earthiness. The only thing I feel could have done with more attention is the sampled strings, which sound decidedly artificial. All in all though, an excellent debut.
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