Reviewed by Tony Cummings

I would name this as one of the best ever modern worship albums. Recorded live at Elevation Church, Charlotte, North Carolina, it lifts even the casual listener into the epicentre of an adoring throng of worshippers. And of course it contains "The Blessing" by Kari Jobe and Cody Carnes, the song which carried much of the Church through the trials of the pandemic. Other songs here have the same effect like the powerful "Never Lost" featuring guest Tauren Wells and the emotionally enveloping "What Would You Do" with another guest singer Isaiah Templeton. The atmosphere of controlled abandon never relents. Not all those who criticise mega-church worship for being exercises in congregational manipulation will be convinced by listening to this album. But some may be, if only they will allow the Holy Spirit to push away the Pharasaic religious spirit still tragically alive in some church fellowships. Whether your cultural tastes veer towards traditional organ and choir or loud guitars and pounding drums there is no denying the Jesus-affirming sincerity that exudes from this classic album.

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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