Reviewed by Philip Crawley

Here we have 13 songs recorded live last year al two Vineyard congregations in California. It's split into two 'sets' but you would be hard pushed to spot the change. It opens with a truly Prosch-esque Hammond/guitar number tailed "Great Is The Lord On High" and I have to say I don't think they saved the best for last! Il would be a hit unkind to say that it goes down hill from track one, but it seems like a long plateau. There are a few highlights though - "Let It Rain", an Andy Park composition, is splendid. I was worshipping in my front room to that one. and I suppose that is what these albums are all about. If, like me, you find the songs of Messrs Prosch, Redman and Smith allow you to draw closer to God then this may leave you a bit cold. It seems like a really hard balance to strike, studio or live, big or small budget - I can think of examples of all four combinations that have blessed me in the last couple of years, but this obviously expensive production only cuts it in places. From a musical point of view it is hard to fault - excellent arrangements and playing and truly sweet vocals. The Americans also seem to have it over us Brits in congregational singing as well...

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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