Reviewed by Ariel Body

The unique thing about this album is that each of the 31 songs included were recorded live at one of nine different events, yet they all flow together to make this a compilation that still emanates passion and sincerity. With works from some of the greatest worship leaders in the UK, including Tim Hughes, Stuart Townend, Moya Brennan, Lou Fellingham, Mark Beswick, Ben Cantelon, and others. Many of the songs, such as "See What A Morning" (Stuart Townend) and "I Will Say" (Geraldine Latty), are a bit traditional sounding for my tastes. But there are also several modern and more upbeat anthems such as the opening "Happy Day" (Martyn Layzell) and Noel Robinson's unique rendition of "Lord I Lift Your Name", which benefits greatly from being a live recording. Despite being the shortest track on the album, "The Stand" sung by Martyn Layzell is one of the strongest, pulling the listener in with such sincerity. Additionally, the simple but powerful "Praise Is Rising" by Mark Tedder was also a highlight, while some tracks, such as Sue Rinaldi's rendition of "Mighty To Save", don't quite do the songs justice. All things considered, it's a moving collection of newish songs, from some of the biggest UK festivals.

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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