Simon Goodall - Closer

Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Simon's voice has long been one of the most affecting on the UK Christian music scene. Now the addition of high octane rock guitars and a worship focus bring Simon to the fore as a premier artist. The man we have to thank for transforming Simon from a good though occasionally anonymous singer a little too rooted in Cliff Richard stylings into a powerful purveyor of rock orientated praise music is producer Paul Burton. Also a huge help are the self-written songs which range from tender explorations of the Father heart of God to roaring anthems with enough guts and passion to take a football stadium of praisers into orbit. Far from being a disengaged selection of songs by a studio seasoned veteran this turns out to be one of the freshest and brightest albums of the year. Thoroughly recommended.