Reviewed by Tom Lennie

Carlos has led worship in churches in both California and Atlanta and is currently helping launch Soul City Church in downtown Chicago. Having created a forum for worship leaders a while back, Carlos has become a favourite blogger for hundreds of believers across the globe, keen to share their thoughts and visions. There's a good chance Whittaker is going to become equally popular as a proficient worship musician. This, his debut full length album is a winner from start to finish, and it's been taken up by no less a name than Integrity Music. Carlos delivers a big sound - songs that start off pleasantly and innocently enough, but which carry pungent choruses that burst in on you with raw energy. For example, the opening "Rain Down" explodes with a yearning desire for God to move in power on the land. Whittaker has a fine voice and these edgy tunes are loaded with a passion that, it quickly becomes apparent, clearly drives this man, and with a lyrical content that evidences authenticity and experience. These are energetic tunes, with a full, catchy sound that at times are oddly reminiscent of dc Talk in praise mode (though not derivative). This is especially true of "God Of Second Chances", with its sheer drive and worshipful Hallelujah anthem. All but one of these 12 are Carlos' own compositions, co-written mainly with prominent songwriter and producer, Jason Ingram. This is high energy pop rock worship freshly packaged and delivered with panache. You're gonna like it.

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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Ragamuffin Soul is Carlos Whittaker’s debut full-length album. Carlos Whittaker is an artist, pastor, thinker, experience architect and Web 2.0 junkie.

Carlos lives for this… “To ignite a movement of authenticity among all generations of Christians that morphs the face of the evangelical church into a place of being real with yourself, others and God.”

The tattoo on Carlos's left arm shows an artist's impression of Saul's conversion. He explains: ‘I’ve had a big life change and momentum shift in my life and I want to remember that moment.’