Reviewed by Richard Toller Three CDs, instrumental versions of 50 worship songs from recent years, beautifully played by a small ensemble in which piano, cello, flute and trumpet feature prominently. Precisely who these musicians are is not told us by Kingsway. Phrases like 'peaceful worship' and 'peaceful reflection' feature on the packaging, along with photos of quiet water and the whole effect is, yes, peaceful. The booklet gives you all the lyrics, but no musician credits: maybe most listeners won't be interested but I think the musicians should get the credit they deserve. Most of the songs penned by such folk as Lara Martin, Paul Oakley, Keith Getty, David Lyle Morris aren't particularly well known and may be unfamiliar to many listeners - this may be perceived to be a weakness, but I've already used it to find out what one song that's new to our church sounds like. Arrangements with strong melody lines help here. I'm enjoying this CD as I write, but soon lose interest if I'm just listening to it. It could just be seen as musical wallpaper (but very nice wallpaper), but it can also help with personal worship (just don't listen to too many tracks in one go, you might go to sleep).
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