Reviewed by Brendan O'Regan

After being founded by Keith Getty, the New Irish Choir have gained considerable success even after their founder relocated to the USA. This latest project is the Choir's first to get UK Christian retail distribution and is a compilation of previously released recordings. The opening track, "How Great Is Our God" with its introductory attention-grabbing percussion, sets the tone for this collection - confident, unabashed praise of God. The technical quality and musical performances are of a high quality, with choir and orchestra complementing each other really well under the direction of Jonathan Rea. The project has a modern feel, with songs by composers like Keith and Kristyn Getty, Stuart Townend, Robin Mark and Bernadette Farrell. Director and Conductor Rea also contributes both original songs and arrangements. There are plenty of lesser-known songs and the rich dynamics of orchestra and choir is satisfying on a full sound system. Despite the large-scale production some of the tracks are ideal for personal reflection - "Still My Soul Be Still" being a particularly good example. Another standout is the beautiful "There Is A Hope" with its vital message for troubled times.

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.