Reviewed by Tony May

Filmed at the Jerusalem Convention Centre, this is an exhilarating, colourful insight into the joy, dignity and liberation of Messianic worship and rejoicing. The opening music of "Jerusalem Of Gold" from violinist Maurice Sklar is intercut with shots of traditional Jewish life. Inserts into the music normally provoke my loud complaint, but here it serves to quicken the heartbeat of the proceedings and to further heighten expectation. The early section of the programme offers Messianic-flavoured contemporary pop praise of the familiar MOR variety. Fears of the event suffering from American blandness and polish disappear when the traditional instruments start to dominate, the folk dances take to the floor and the vitality inherent in the genre bubbles over. Paul Wilbur's leadership is restrained, pleasing and skilful as he takes the large crowd through a selection of high quality worship songs, familiar and some welcome new arrivals. Well-filmed, tastefully balanced, perhaps an introduction for you to an important area you should know more about.

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.