Reviewed by Nigel Harris

Youth Alive NSW (New South Wales) is Australia's answer to British bands like TVB. 'The Plan' is the anthem of this generation of young Christians from down under, in all its diversity. The musical styles range from heavy-edged rap to lushly orchestrated ballads, passing through most other styles in between en route. The variety is one of the joys of this album, if a particular track is not to your liking the next one probably will be! Coming from the Hillsong stable the production is first class, and unfortunately outclasses the vocals on several tracks, which is a pity as simpler arrangements with a more live feel might have suited the performers better. My favourite tracks are "U.R.Y", (you are why - get it?), a beautiful slow worship song, and "God Made The World" in which vocalist Paul Andrew literally yells out an Aussie rap with lines such as "He made the air, not Nike". This latter track contrasts with a couple of others where the fake black American accent rather spoils the effect. You could definitely use several tracks on this album in a worship setting.

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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