Reviewed by Tom Lennie

Now here's a thoroughly novel and radical piece of work. The main player is Robert Stearns - who has a number of solo releases on this Kairos label - and is founder and director of Eagles Wings, a ministry involved in "strategic projects worldwide". Also prominent is the better known Jason Upton who has an even fuller stream of edgy solo discs to his name. I've seen him feature on Mike Bickle's cutting-edge 24/7 prayer events from Kansas City, relayed on God TV. Both he and Stearns are known for their spontaneous piano-based prophetic worship styles. Thus it is that this 57-min recording features a string of spontaneous songs from these men variously, along with one or two others led by Joanne McFatter and Julie Meyer. This is potent stuff with a stirring, uncompromising and heart searching emphasis. If I can sum up the overriding message it would be that of the burning heart of God consuming the dross, apathy and idolatry in believers' lives, so that he alone can jealously own our entire hearts. Latterly, the team move into a season of joyful, unshackled praise. Ultimately, this is a clear call to abandoned, heartfelt worship and deep intercession. There's no doubt the call is a timely one, when Christian values in the West are being eroded and even mocked, and where every nation in our global village has its own desperate needs. I have to say, though - this is not "nice" Christian music, and the downside to the spontaneity of the pieces is that rarely are they melodic and artful. In evidence of this, the finest song musically is the only pre-written track on offer - Upton's three-minute "Burning In The Sky". And though this claims to be "extremely intense prophetic worship", for me it didn't carry the unction and holy beauty of that incredible four-disc series 'The Heart Of David' from MorningStar back in 1996, which - especially the 'Warfare' disc - effused a bold prophetic and intercessory element. It makes you feel there's something missing with 'Freedom's Fire'. Yet, being experimental, I feel it could lead to more accessible and artful expressions. In any case, I applaud this innovative venture for its obvious desire to capture the very heartbeat of God.

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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