Reviewed by Stephen Luff

In case you've not been paying attention, United Pursuit are the folk-tinged worship collective from Knoxville, Tennessee, who've built up an international following. This two disc collection is a live version of last year's studio album 'Garden'. Those familiar with the original will know what to expect - intimate, simple, meditative songs with repeated lyrics/phrases. The aim in releasing this collection is to gain insight into the moments that gave birth to the songs on the studio release. United Pursuit, in the album notes, describe the recording as raw, vulnerable and incomplete: all true. Unfortunately, I would also add poorly recorded. The impression I got was a small selection of microphones were set up in the room with no real focus on either congregation or musicians, the result sounds like a poor demo recording which is often difficult to follow. Where the collection does do much better is in atmosphere. Tracks like "Divinely Beautiful" which opens the second CD is loaded with intense worship which is both captivating and uplifting. Other cuts like "Rest Upon Us" and the title track leave you turning up the volume, trying to engage with the recording. This is truly one of those releases where "you had to be there" to really enjoy.

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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