Reviewed by Steve Husband

Having set the modern worship scene alight with his 2007 debut album 'Full Attention' can Jeremy, the worship leader at Vineyard's famed Anaheim church, come up with the goods a second time? Well I have to say yes! This album gains musical strength from Riddle previously playing in a mainstream band plus spiritual strength after spending six years as a youth pastor and worship leader. 'The Now And Not Yet' has a different feel than its predecessor with deeper reflection on knowing Jesus and being one church. That said the musical arrangements are still crisp, his lyrics are crafted with unique poetic twists that are clear symbols of faith but feel free from the shackles of Christianese. The vocals are polished and range from guttural to delicate as the need arises. Whilst his style is undeniably his own, followers of U2, INXS, Jeremy Camp and Matt Redman will immediately find comfortable similarities blended into the mix. The album covers different emotions so your favourite tracks on a happy day will differ to those on a more reflective day. That said my favourite on any day is the last track "I Am Redeemer" which is immediately special. Listen to it three times then read the words as you listen to it again. It will just break your heart. "Prayer For The Church" sits on a gentle music bed as it inspires unity and getting on with the work left for us: we all know what it means. "Christ Is Risen" begins with U2 musical phrases telling us to "Quickly now, go tell the world that Christ the Lord, he has risen". The high vocals, building chords, stinging guitar solos and marching drums create a dynamic call to modern day Christians. Every song has a relevant theme and musically there is not a weak track in earshot.

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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