Reviewed by Andrew Wallace

After a seven year break during which he pursued prison ministr,; Midlands-based singer/songwriter and worship leader Darren Richards returns with his second EP 'Firelight'. Producer Bob Retallick-Cheel is joined by Adam Moore who plays bass, electrics and keys. The four cuts here have a folksy, stripped-back, raw, earthy feel. "God Of Hope" is a simple, melodic, guitar-based, acoustic worship song; a real throwback to the '90s. "It Is Time" is an urgent call for Christians to take action in a broken world. Highlight is "For The Years" an emotional, piano-based love song in which Richards is joined by the haunting, poignant vocals of his wife Catherine. Clearly recorded on a shoestring budget, all the proceeds are going to Hope In Action, a charity close to Richards' heart which partners with local churches to re-house ex-offenders and victims of trafficking. Well worth the purchase to support an artist with a heart for ministry.

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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