Reviewed by Chris Rolinson

The Praise Band seem to be a collection of American West Coast session players with group vocalists attached... or is it the other way around? Some familiar names appear as soloists, notably those of Jamie Owens-Collins, Kelly Willard and Terry Clark, all of whom will be known to CCM buffs of the 70s. Tom Coomes and Dan Collins are responsible for the solid production, with Leon Gaer contributing some tasty bass guitar lines. The album itself is a compilation of some brand new songs coupled with a spattering of familiar ones. Even Heartbeat are represented on side two with "I Want To Thank You, Lord". Good to see British material making it across the Atlanticl I particularly liked the opening track "Sing A Joyful Song" by Rick Founds, with its joyful driving rhythms and colourful harmonic progressions.  The Vineyard Fellowship's "I Will Trust In You" is given a slightly more uptempo feel than John Wimber addicts might be used to, but is effective for all that!  It is sad that the album doesn't always live up to the promise shown early on.  Even the title track is weak and hidden away on side two. Generally, this album falls down if you're looking for new songs for your average church musicians to use on Sundays. However, if you're looking for a worship album with a contemporary edge, can cope with some of the slightly dated vocal harmonies, and like something of good quality to tickle your ears, then you can't go too far wrong here.

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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