Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

To fully take advantage of his launch on America, Matt Redman needs an ear-catching remarkable record that fully demonstrates what a precious songwriting gift is contained within the heart of one of Christendom's truly humble guys. Thankfully 'Intimacy' is exactly that and so much more! 12 songs that pack a passionate punch whether it's the insistent groove and sober challenge of '"Now To Live The Life" or the vibe of "For The Cross" and "One Thing Remains" or the simple pop sounds of "When I Needed A Saviour", this album hits home every time. The latter song and the rocky '"I Am Yours" both hit on the subject of finding God in the middle of being broken and ooze a sense of hope! This is an album designed to reflect the closeness of relationship with God but it's also a sober album, recognising there is a cost to intimacy - a life laid down. This yearning is reflected in "What 1 Have Vowed" and the rootsy title song, the former sounding reminiscent of an Oasis ballad. Stylistically, friends who've heard this in my car have remarked that musically there is a touch of the D:boys here and there but hey! Let's hear it for the groovy sound of worshipping Cool Britania! There's yet another version of "Heart Of Worship" which some might find excessive but not me! Matt is joined by Smiffy from Delirious? adding his dulcets to a delicate melotron-tinged definitive version of the song. (Currently on repeat play in my car!) Terl Bryant's Psalm drummers add their rhythmic creativity to "Let Everything That Has Breath" (featured on last ish's Cross Rhythms tape) and the amazing atmospheric soaring "Hallelujah Song" which builds from its intimate quiet opening into a chorus of worship over a rhythmic loop. The album closes with the incredible "The Prayers Of The Saints" again featuring the interaction between the improvising Psalm drummers and Matt's spontaneous singing. An incredible way to close any recording! Britain is producing some of the most exciting vibey innovative worship on the planet and here's the proof.

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