Reviewed by Tony Cummings

A great idea repackaging three of lan's pioneering Psalms albums in a value-for-money package. 1989's 'Psalms 4: He Is My Rock' is possibly the highlight of the series with producers Ian and Chris Eaton bringing smooth layers of synth pop rhythms and Ian intoning the Scriptures in his pleasant Cliff Richard-ish voice. Standouts are the opener "Psalm 5" with its simple hook "To you I pray" and some delightful harmonies, "Psalm 48" with an engaging reggae lilt, and the moody "Psalm 49" with soulful soprano sax from Martin Green. The standard dropped just a tad on 'Psalms 5: From Everlasting To Everlasting'. The studio used (B.E.L. in Edinburgh rather than the usual ICC of Eastbourne) isn't of the same standard and Ian seems to miss Chris Eaton's tasty production touches. But there are a couple of gems, "Psalm 94" with its ricocheting rhythm is a particular delight. On the whole production standard is lifted on 'Psalm 6: On The Path' with the return to ICC and Chris Eaton as co-producer though disappointingly now a bland MOR praise and worship choir is used on some tracks which tends to take the edge off the arrangements. But again there are some great songs, "Psalm 24" with a pumping guitar figure and "Psalm 105" with a lilting melodic hook, lan's unswerving ability to find good melodies out of big chunks of Scripture is unfailing and though lyric writing purists will cry out for rhymes, lan's ability to bring engaging contemporary music to these ancient Hebrew songs of praise is marvellous.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.