Reviewed by Catherine E Francis

'Make A Way' comes from the Christian Outreach Centre in Perth, Australia - a country pouring out an increasing number of high quality worship songs and lively albums. Michael Battersdy and the COC worship team have turned out a decent offering of original songs with a smooth jazz influence, but with a rather dated '80s soul sound, they're unlikely to give Darlene Zschech and the Hillsongs crew a run for their money just yet. Despite being suspicious of the current Americanisation of worship - less triumphalism and more humility wouldn't go amiss -I can appreciate the energy and musicianship on this album, which could prove to be a source of vibrant songs (11 in all) for worship leaders. But I do so yearn for some lyrical imagination in worship, instead of the worn out mix-and-match of churchy clichés. And I'm not sure how comfortable I'd feel singing: "I'm gonna be just like you, my God" either, although I'm sure the intention was honourable. Videos, cassettes and music books are available for congregational use, along with overhead transparencies of lyrics, so if you're keen to adapt songs for leading worship at your own church, most of the work has already been done for you - no small issue for an overworked worship leader.

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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