Reviewed by Allan Clare

A little internet investigation reveals that Jonny has been leading worship for around 10 years - he's a worship pastor at Rugby Christian Life Centre and has led worship at New Wine and Youth For Christ events. This shows Jonny's obvious spiritual maturity - which is also clearly heard in the heart of worship throughout this album. These are songs of praise, declaration and, above all, faith! There's a dramatic start with "Take My Life" - a rewrite of the old Frances R Havergal hymn, where a repetitive melancholy piano and Jonny's vocals alone are joined three minutes in with the band (George Berridge on bass, Chris Burgess on drums and Joe Cox on electric guitar). This is followed by "My Reason" which is an excellent congregational song which I wouldn't mind singing on any Sunday morning. Elsewhere, "Angels Bow" showcases some heavier guitar work, "Please Forgive Me" has a rootsy acoustic feel while two ballads "Everyday" and "Mystery Surrounds" reminded me a little of David Crowder in his more reflective moments. There's a lot of variety in the production and many of the songs are pleading and praying for revival. "We Have Heard" has some excellent vocals from Cheryl Shepherd: it would have been good to have heard more of her. In days where contemporary worship albums seem to have been churned out from the same factory, this really is a breath of fresh air.

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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