Reviewed by Tom Lennie

Mention biblical Psalms set to contemporary music and I at once think of that classic series of recordings Ian White created between 1985 and '93 - surely among the finest Christian music ever to appear from these isles. Since the early '70s, Roger Jones has been making his own style of music. This is a collection of his Psalmic compositions spanning 27 years and many albums - though almost half of these pieces are in fact based on non-Psalms passages such as poetic sections of Isaiah, Luke and Philippians. There's a traditional feel to these songs which hints to late '70s Songs Of Fellowship output. It's really quite refreshing these days to come across praise material that doesn't include the almost mandatory drive from drum and guitar. Save a couple of cheesier tracks, there are some beautiful sounds here - diverse, melodic and containing fine instrumental tones from cello, oboe and the like. More captivating still are the intricate layered harmonies in two or three parts that attend almost all tracks. With 45 full tracks on two albums (2.5 hours worth!), this is a rich and inspiring compilation.

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.