Reviewed by Philip Crawley

This first thing I spotted on this CD was that a certain Mr Martin Smith is credited as executive producer - but Delirious this ain't That's not meant unkindly - if you were looking for musical comparisons here are some - a bit of an Eden Burning rootsy vibe, SOME Phil & John acoustic bits and maybe some of Mr Kendrick. There are a dozen worship songs that on the sleevenotes claim Manchester Vineyard use in their meetings and they are lyrically quite beautiful. But I don't think you'd be able to translate these songs to your fellowship for two reasons - the arrangements, although sounding simple are very full and not at all 'three chord' like or 'bass, drums & guitar'ish; the lyrics are also quite personal, and I can't imagine using them in a worship setting. So, quickly side-stepping the 'church resource, tag what have we got? Well, as mentioned all 12 numbers are quite lovely - it took me a couple of listens to appreciate some of the instrumentation and depth of the words. Track five is the traditional 'Be Thou My Vision with a new tune and it sounds very Iona-like. The rest are original compositions that speak mostly about our relationship with the Saviour. You've even got a bit of delta blues in 'Thirsty Land' and the fretless base on 'My Heart Is Full' has to be heard. Put this disc on when you're by yourself and find that place of perfect peace.

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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