Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

The sleevenotes describe St Aldates as a "vibrant Anglican church for all nations at the heart of Oxford" and this live worship release was recorded there over two gatherings in May 2006. With a top notch band and a team of vocalists headed up by Soul Survivor worship leader Martyn Layzell, 'Stand In Awe' is a high quality offering from start to finish. The set opens with three rousing guitar-driven numbers (Brenton Brown's "Hosanna" and Matt Redman's "Praise Awaits You" and "Dancing Generation") and this high energy thread is continued with the inclusion of the likes of Tim Hughes' song of praise "Name Above All Names" later on. Not only is there a healthy mix of well known and less familiar songs by a variety of writers, Layzell wisely blends high tempo acclamation songs with more contemplative numbers - his own "Turn My Face Again" and the poignant "I Stand In Awe" are cases in point. This, together with the skilful production of Andrew Philip, the musical excellence of the band and the alternate vocal duties of Layzell, Chloe Mundy, Michelle Tepper, Rich White and Pete Wigley, make for a dynamic and enjoyable recording of what sounded like two very special evenings in God's presence.

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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