Reviewed by David Faulkner

It's a truism that live worship CDs are two-a-penny these days. At first glance, this is no different. Well known and up-and-coming worship leaders present songs in a competent, professional manner. You know what you're getting when the lead-off track is Tim Hughes performing "Give Us Your Courage". But I was more persuaded by the virtues of this release than I expected to be. One refreshing sign was that in these days of a neo-Calvinist resurgence, several Wesley hymns featured: Stuart Townend leads "And Can It Be", Chris McClarney offers "I Know That My Redeemer Lives", Godfrey Birtill brings a prophetically chaotic version of "O For A Thousand Tongues" and Geraldine Latty interprets "Jesus, The Name High Over All". (Disclosure: this reviewer is a Methodist minister.) I used some of these with a small group of largely elderly Methodists, and they were surprisingly positive about the modern arrangements of traditional melodies. Of the newer contributors, Aaron Keyes especially stands out, particularly his song "Not Guilty Anymore", which is written from the perspective of God assuring us that we are forgiven and clean in his sight. It would work particularly well after an act of confession in worship. Overall, a recommended release.

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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