Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

Chorleywood worship leader Matthew Macaulay has gone to town by employing the services of renowned producer Kipper (Mary J Blige, Sting) to oversee his debut album. Whilst this is a polished affair due to the Grammy Award winner's production values and Macaulay's writing skills, proceedings don't really take off until halfway through when the powerful title track showcases Macaulay's ability to let rip vocally in a song that passionately depicts his surrender to God. Elsewhere, "One Purpose" is punchy pop personified and showcases the great backing band that has been assembled for this release whilst "Abide In Me" - reminiscent of the Eagle Eye Cherry classic "Save Tonight" - is one of the most memorable worship songs of the year. Although the bagpipe-laden "Praise Him" is a minor blip, sounding for all the world like the Scottish national anthem "Flower Of Scotland", the inspired vocal pairing of Macaulay and fellow Hillsong graduate Sarah Mercer on the tender "You Are Here" smoothes over any small shortcomings. An enjoyable debut from a talented worship leader with plenty of potential.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.