Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

The long awaited second album from the New Scottish Hymns collective sees songwriter, vocalist and the project's mastermind Greg De Blieck continue in his mission to provide new folk songs to the church by taking his inspiration from the great Scottish hymn writers of old. The accompanying press release states that the album's lyrics are "poetic, hopeful and unapologetically Christian, invoking former ages in church music" and, whilst that is all true, De Blieck and his team of talented musicians ensure that they still offer up something fresh to their target audience. On stellar form is Scots singer Ellyn Oliver who, with her lilting Celtic tones, shares the vocal spotlight with Greg to maintain a variety that serves this collection well. De Blieck's fastidiousness - including a determination to ensure that his songs are deeply rooted in Scripture as well as creating melodies that get stuck in the head like all good hymns should - helps make this release a success with the likes of the memorable opener "Wake Up My Soul" and the title track promoting the eternal hope found through Christ with urgent enthusiasm. Elsewhere, the stripped down acoustic piano-led "Faithful To Forgive" is perhaps the most hymn-like song of this collection whilst inspired moments such as a punchy brass section in "Union With Christ" and some gorgeous Celtic whistle on a handful of songs adds the icing on the cake of this assured piece of work.

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