Reviewed by Simon Redfern

'By Faith We Stand' is a collection of songs originally released in 2002 by the choir at the somewhat controversial Peniel Pentecostal Church near Brentwood, Essex. The choir has about 70 singers from all nations and itself is not a commercial venture as such which becomes apparent from the presentation of the CD which although quite pleasing to the eye has a home made feel to it. This really though is the only slightly amateurish aspect to it as the music itself is well produced and arranged throughout, with quality musicians, a good balance of choral arrangements and solo parts. "By Faith We Stand" starts the album off at a relatively lively pace, having a jazz/gospel flavour to it with the solo vocalist having a great tone to his voice with some quality backing that really blended well in this musical style. "The Sound Of The Round" which follows however seemed to take an age to get going, with a minute of moody Celtic style intro which is followed somewhat confusingly by an uninspiring late '90s Songs Of Praise type composition which seemed to be trying too hard with some overly complex harmonies which watered down the song's flavour. The remaining eight tracks seem to switch between ballads and cabaret numbers, the choral element remaining highly refined but some of the soloists, like the vocalist on "There Is Healing", are decidedly bland. There are certainly more performance elements than active worship elements and this album is unlikely to extend much beyond Peniel's existing sphere of influence.