Never for Nothing - CCM Record Reviews archive I

I COULD SING OF YOUR LOVE FOR EVER. Published by Regalbooks/Fierce!

Subtitled, Stories, Reflections and Devotions, that gives you a pretty good idea of what to expect from this 123 page book. If you were expecting a biographical look the UK's most influential CCM band over the last 10 years, you'll be sadly disappointed. This book is an intimate snapshot of the band from their Cutting Edge days, right up to date. Martin Smith and Stu G tell, first hand, how some of the band's most loved songs were written. With total honesty and simplicity, they share their highs and lows, and the inspirations behind some of their most moving worship numbers. I laughed at some of their writings, and then had a tear in my eye as both Martin and Stu shared their grief at the loss of those so dear to them. For fans of Delirious?, especially those who have grown up with them, this is an essential read. By doing so, you may well be inspired and encouraged in your spiritual walk. 8/10. (June 2007)

I WORSHIP : A Total Christmas Worship Experience. (Integrity : 26532)

Talk about a bargain - over two hours of Christmas music on 2 CDs (plus bonus DVD) and no sign of Slade anywhere! This collection is an interesting and eclectic mix of traditional Christmas carols, hymns, modern worship songs and instrumentals - everything from 'The Coventry Carol' to 'Light of the World' finds a place somewhere, and this is both a strength and a weakness of the package. A strength because it does not seek to limit its scope to any particular era of Christmas music, and a weakness because not enough is made of the inherent differences between them. Most tracks are recorded in a beautiful, at times haunting, gentle acoustic or traditional choral style which tends to just wash over you without making any real impact. Ideal for background music, not so good for a "worship experience". With a total of 35 tracks to play with, I would have liked to see greater variety in style and tempo giving the whole thing the lift it deserves. The DVD is nice, but inconsequential, featuring three songs accompanied by images of (respectively) a log fire, candles and cloud formations - you could almost be forgiven for thinking you were watching a screensaver. All in all, as a collection of Christmas music for family get-togethers or other festive gatherings, you can't go far wrong - just don't expect anything more interesting than that. 7/10 David Cooper (December 2003)

I WORSHIP - A Total Worship Experience. (Integrity)

Here's 2 CD's in one package, featuring a host of "powerful songs of the church today". Certainly, there's a lot of the songs that I've been hearing for the first time, and some of them are really very good. Take, for instance, the songs of Paul Baloche. He really knows how to engage the listener and bring out the full meaning of his songs. "Rise Up And Praise Him" and "In That Day" are just two of his special numbers. Caitlin Evanson provides a peaceful version of "I Love You Lord" while Ross Parsley provides a powerful rendition of "Lord Most High". On the second Cd, Delirious? Kick things off, complete with bagpipes and children's choir, and the anthemic "Shout to the North". Eoghan Heaslip, Mercy Me, and Israel Houghton all provide high moments on a creditable release. 7/10 (January 2004)

IAIN ARCHER : Crazy Bird. (Sticky Music : GUMCD33).

When I saw Iain Archer about three years ago I remember marvelling at his guitar playing and wondering about the lyrics. Not that the latter were questionable but that they seemed to be very dis-jointed. This album reveals the same qualities as Iain takes you through love stories and his views of the universe. What you see is what you get with Iain, one man and his guitar. Occasionally, there's a little accompaniment and it's these songs which are the strongest. 'Ancient Drums' is quite catchy and tells us that we must get rid of our own prejudices, while 'All That You Are' describes spiritual blindness. On the down side, there is the monotonous 'Flat Earth' and the bland 'Aching Hearted', where - I think - Iain is ministering to himself. My guess would be that he is a poet at heart, and some of the songs just do not carry over onto disc. 4/10. (March 1997)

IAN ESKELIN : Save the Humans. (inpop/Fierce : POD 1286)

As the vocal master of All Star United, Ian Eskelin shot to the forefront of CCM with sharp, infectious lyrics and tunes. Now, on his own, he's back, and it's easy to see just how he's built on that reputation. This time the lyrics are more "in your face" truths like on the title track where he recognizes all of man's failings and that only one can save us. "Shout" is the albums first track, and what a shout it is! It bursts into your ears and leaves you wanting more - a sign of a great song, I think. "Into Your Arms Again" talks of surrendering all to God in a pop style with a catchy hook thrown in, while the single "Taboo" literally screams or your attention. "I Love to Tell the Story" is an acoustic based worship number and has a smattering of Crowded House influences within, but it's another sure fire winner. The down side to this album is that it only lasts for 35 minutes, and I felt a little short changed at the end. But, perhaps, that's a good thing. After all, as any performer may tell you….leave the audience wanting more. 9/10 (December 2004, Album of the Month)

IAN WHITE : Psalms - Simply the Best. (Kingsway : KMCD969)

If I hadn't seen the name on the album, I might well have thought that this was the long awaited Cliff Richard gospel album. Ian sounds, uncannily, like Sir Cliff on numerous tracks with the sort of arrangement that was being used 10 years ago. Ian's recordings under the title of the "Psalms" have been condensed into this 'Best of...' release and, for those without the others, it is well worth having. Some people might be disappointed that most of the words have been lifted straight from the Bible, but this is the man's way of making them so accessible. However, Psalm 104 is an example were this idea doesn't work. It's like trying to make the words of an Agatha Christie novel fit the tune of the latest Skunk Anansie single. 17 tracks featured, and I enjoyed most. 8/10. (July 1997)

IAN WHITE : Forgiveness. (Little Misty Music : LMSTAD5D)

A change of style for Ian, as he introduces us to his latest release. Of course, you still know that it's him, but he has to be applauded for, musically, moving on. Saying that, the title track is typical Mr White, one guitar and a folky vocal. Co-produced by Chris Eaton, you can pick out the Eaton-pop influences, particularly on "You Lift Me Up" and "Comet". The former moves along at a singalong pace, while the latter is a reflective song of praise. One of my favourites is "The Prison", written for one of the prisoners Ian regularly visits in Perth and, obviously, from the heart. Oh how I wish he hadn't included the opening track. It contains the most infuriating backing lines I've ever had the mis-fortune to hear. Entitled "Deliverance", why on earth is everyone singing "Deliver- er-ance"? Ian, this is dreadful! However, the album does contain the best Christmas song I've heard this year. A simple ditty that has a ring of freshness to it. A Good album. 8/10. (December 1997)

IAN WHITE : Psalms Revisited. Kingsway : KMCD : 2860)

It was in the early 90's that I briefly met up with Ian White on a recording trip to my home city. Back then, he was including one or two numbers based on the Psalms and, over the years, he's recorded numerous albums dedicated to the book of the Bible, independently. Now, he's got the backing of Kingsway Music behind him, and here's a chance for this quiet mannered Scot to have his songs aired to a larger audience. Occasionally, by keeping the original text of the Psalms, some of the interpretations don't quite run smoothly in their sung form. However, for most of them, Ian negotiates each song quite well. '118' proclaims God's name, and the beat is strong. '126' has some great fiddle playing, that inspired me to plenty of foot tapping. '13' is a song of praise and worship, and Ian's vocals are very strong on this cut. I enjoyed the album most whilst relaxing and able to meditate on each song. Lover's of the Psalms will find this collection very useful, and for those who have struggled with their understanding, the songs provide a different way of teaching. The songs were all re-recorded in Nashville last year, and show Ian White to be one of Scotland's best kept secrets. 8/10. (May 2008)

ICTHUS PIMLICO : Further. (Kingsway : KMCD2465)

Here's a modern day worship album that takes you on a journey, "to seek His face" and to find "unexplored depths of knowing our glorious Lord". With songs primarily written by Jo Puleston, it's a collection of very gentle and, sometimes, mediocre songs that honestly had me falling asleep. Perhaps I was too tired, perhaps I wasn't in a worshipping frame of mind. There again, perhaps, the songs weren't that good. Of those I did find something in, "O King of love" stands out as the best. There's some excellent guitar work within it, making the vocal of Jo really stand out. However, all too often I found tracks like "At the Foot of the Cross" and "Dreams" being quite pleasant but failing to touch me in any way. The last time I felt like this about an album, the writers invited me to see their youth work first hand. While I don't deny that Icthus Pimilico may be doing a similar fine job, their music rates as bland. 3/10. (May 2003)

IKOS : Christmas Carols & Songs. (Little Room Recordings : LRMCD05)

This CD features the talents of many musicians but, in particular, the work of David Clifton, Mark Russell, Dudley Phillips, Steve Creese, Terl Bryant, and the Choirs of Peterborough Cathedral. The recording draws from the original roots of many of our Christmas carols, and unites contemporary and traditional instrumentalists. So, as you may gather, it's not just another run of the mill Christmas collection. There's been great thought put into the interpretation of each song and, on the whole, the result is very good. "O Little Town of Bethlehem" kicks things off, and there's some lovely choral backing to David's smooth, engaging vocals. "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" and "Silent Night" are both given the Ikos treatment, before "Bethlehem Down" is done as a straight choral piece. There's lots of whistles and pipes on the instrumental "The Gloucestershire Wassail", and a warming harp sound on "Of the Father's Love Begotten". The London Telefimonic Orchestra add nice string sounds here and there - "For Unto Us A Child is Born" being one of the stronger choices. The strength of this album's overall sound and appeal is highlighted by the fact that high street record shops in the UK are now stocking it. The Ikos team must be congratulated on their efforts, for a splendid album. 8/10. (December 2006)

INDIAN SUMMER : Crown of Creation. (Private Cassette Recording. £5.50 from : A Bamforth, 162 Alexandra Road, Peterborough, PE1 3DL, England.

It's a long time since I receieved a pure olde worlde folk album. Performed here by Annie & John Bamforth, we have a colection of 16 songs of varying quality and production. Some, such as "Gaudete" and "Lord of the Dance" are well known but most, I 've heard for the first time. The simple backing of acoustic and bass guitars seem to work the best throughout, although Annie's vocals do not always suit. The opening "Crown of Creation" being an immediate example of this, with her voice being either weak or nervous. The second song contains an excellent 12 string guitar, but the words are difficult to pick out. Again, this was something that ran throughout the album and was more of a production fault. "Christ Receive" raises things a little even though it sounds like a chant. "Tree of Life/Light" is the strongest track although the use of distorted guitar(?) does detract from the basic sound. If this all sounds like a negative review, I'm afraid it's because of the production and recording. When I can hear the lyrics, they sound good and some of the tunes are quite catchy. Perhaps, this pre-release copy is not the finished product but, even if it is, there's still promise from a fledgling ministry trying to break free. 5/10. (April 1998)

INTERNATIONA WORSHIP : Live From Canada. (ICC )

This live worship album is part of series that "… aims to bring the listener a glimpse of worship from churches around the world", and with that in mind I was really looking forward to listening to it. The musicianship throughout is great, the vocalists, both lead and backing, are excellent and the production (by Johnny Markin who also provides lead vocals on 5 of the 13 tracks) is just about right. However, the overall result is a bit flat. There is nothing here that is new or earth-shattering and, while you get the impression that it would have been great to have been there, it left this listener with a feeling of having heard it all before, even with the unfamiliar songs. Having said that it is not without its highlights, the main one for me being a great version of Paul Baloche's "Open the eyes of my heart" as power ballad rather than all-out rocker, and it is always a pleasure to see the occasional traditional hymn - here we have "When I survey" sung to a traditional Scottish folk melody. Unfortunately these are not enough to rate it higher than "not bad, but nothing special". 6/10 David Cooper (April 2002)

IONA : Live - Heaven's Bright Sun. (Alliance : ALD092).

Here it is then, the live, double album from Britain's Iona. Taking tracks from their previous studio releases, and breathing new life into them all. Indeed, in some cases, that is just what they do, especially with the enigmatic "Treasure". The content, as a whole, displays many moods, swinging from high's through lows, and then back again. "Irish Day" is still a fine track but the mournful "I Will Give My Love An Apple" is one to avoid. The instrumental depth and quality of the band is highest on numbers like "Columcille" and the title track. People have raved about the 14 minute version of "When I Survey" but I can't see why. It's a dreadful durge and a poor finish to the album. There's nothing further to say about Iona that you don't know except that Mike Haughton and Terl Bryant were the most approachable guys throughout the recent series of concerts in Hull. 7/10. (August 1997)

IONA : Open Sky (Alliance : 1901772)

Now this was a pleasant surprise. I'd expected Iona to be all swirly strings, breathy chorused vocals and so forth. In effect, something from the school of Clannad. The album does start with swirly noises & stuff, but then the drums kick in and the Celtic riffs & rhythms are given a far more rocky treatment than I expected. True, there are the breathy, floaty vocals, there are the Steve Howe-esque guitar noises, there are the gentle songs you'd expect (mostly in the second half of the album). But the guitar is far more Gary Moore/Joe Satriani than Dave Bilborough. Bits of the album reminded me of Horslips at their peak, bits of All About Eve at their best, the best bits of Riverdance and, of course, of Clannad. The opening tracks are especially good, the songs giving Joanne Hogg's vocals something meaty to soar over, the instrumentals showing that this isn't a singer & backing band but a tight unit. Overall, a very strong album (as you'll have noticed from me comparing it to others "at their best"). 9/10. Paul Ganney. (June 2000)

IONA : Iona. (Open Sky Records : Openvp1cd)

I first heard this album when it was newly released back in 1990. This is classy music, combining progressive rock, jazz and folk - all with a Celtic flavour, reflecting 'the haunting, timeless atmosphere of the islands of Iona and Lindisfarne'. Here it is remastered for 2004, with eight of the tracks also remixed. Sound quality is excellent - capable of painting a deep and wide sound picture on a good hi-fi system. I did not have an original copy to hand to compare, but cannot recall being so impressed sound-wise first time around - so either the sound system has got better or the re-work has been worthwhile in this respect! Iona's founding father was multi-instrumentalist David Fitzgerald, whose 'God is love' CD I reviewed in these pages a short while back. With Iona however, instrumental tracks are interspersed with the delicious vocals of Joanne Hogg - and these tend to be the best ones, the standouts being 'The island' and 'Dancing on the wall', closely followed by 'Vision of Naran' and 'Iona'. Playing this album made me sample other Iona albums in my collection, and having dipped in and out of 'The book of Kells'(1992), 'Beyond these shores'(1993) and 'Open Sky'(2000) I was reminded of their similarity, tending to consist of many instrumentals with no obvious form or 'progression', commonly in a minor-key. People who like an album to comprise a succession of 'good tunes' will therefore be disappointed, but I feel that everyone else should own at least one Iona album, with this updated re-issue being as good a place to start as any. Overall … 7/10 Dave Deekes. (January 2005)

IONA : The Book of Kells. (Open Sky : Openvp2cd)

I always remember Iona for two reasons. Firstly, the sound of their music drifting over a festival campsite, half a mile from where I was sitting. And, secondly, stewarding one of their concerts, when the building was literally shaken with their sound, and so many of the audience left at the interval and didn't return. To me, their CCM image and persona seemed to be the equivalent of Pink Floyd in the 70's. During that time, it was obvious to spot a Floyd fan from 50 paces, and so it was with Iona. Certainly at open air events, countless young people would stand and watch the cacophony of sound for one or two numbers and then begin to drift away, leaving the older members of the crowd stood quietly and letting the music just wash over them. I'm afraid that I was one of the former and, consequently, this album reminds me of those times. Skillful and talented musicians they may be, but the end result leaves me with as much enthusiasm as a dose of the flu. Some would argue, why re-release an album of limited appeal but, then, isn't that what they said about "Dark Side of the Moon"? One for the die-hards. 2/10. (March 2005)

IONA : Beyond These Shores. (Open sky : OPENVP3CD)

This is another re-release from Iona, this was the third album that they originally released back in 1993, and although I think that this album is the best one that they made, I can't really see the point of putting it out again. Iona seem to be one of those bands that you, either love or hate, in which case you either won't want this CD, or Like me you already have the original. As far as I can tell there is no musical difference between the two, although I suppose that it's possible that the new one has been "Digitally Remastered" which nowadays seems to be the stock excuse for churning out the old back catalogue once again. I'm not going to listen to both CD's to compare them (The CD runs to just short of 70 minutes). The cover is different, perhaps that's all it is. As for the music itself, well I guess everyone knows what Iona sound like, and this is typical of them, some really atmospheric tracks mixed with some very complex rhythms courtesy of Terl Bryant, lots of Celtic sounding instruments drowned in reverb. It sounds like all their other CD's to be honest, and I can't quite see who this is aimed at. All Iona fans will most likely have the original CD, and I can't see anyone who isn't familiar with them wanting to buy an album that is now twelve years old. If the plan is to expose their music to a new audience surely it would be better to release some new material. So to sum up, not a bad album in itself, but who do they think will buy it? 5/10 Andy Sayner. (May 2005)

IONA : Iona DVD. (Open Sky : Openskydvd1)

I expect this will be the first of many releases of this type over the next few years, as the Christian music industry catches up with its secular counterpart. This DVD is a look back at some of Iona's earliest work, and includes footage of songs from their first album captured on camera at one of their first ever concerts intercut with landscape footage of Mull and Iona itself and brief interviews with band members. I have never been a massive Iona fan, but their early work is certainly worth checking out, even 15 years on. Unfortunately, it hasn't translated well to this format for a couple of reasons. Firstly, the picture quality on the concert footage is not particularly good and secondly, as I discovered for myself at The Blue Lamp in Hull some years ago, Iona's live shows, while aurally superb, are just not that interesting to look at - and the overlong pans of, admittedly beautiful and dramatic, Scottish scenery get a little wearing after a while. The interview segments are also disappointing. I now know a lot more about how Columba brought Christianity to Scotland from Ireland than I did before, but I am not much wiser as to what really makes Iona tick. All in all, a missed opportunity. The music is still great, but you would be better served simply buying the remastered CD version. 6/10 David Cooper (May 2005)

IONA (Live): Bright Heaven's Sun (Open Sky Records OPENVP7CD)

This double CD is a re-release of Iona's 1997 recording (live as the title suggests). I was amazed to see there were only 18 tracks on a double CD, but when you realise how long a lot of the tracks are, the reasons are more than clear - they're huge, highlighted by a version of the timeless hymn "When I Survey" lasting just over 14 minutes! What a version it is though...best track on the album. The style is what I'd label "mature Celtic", so don't be expecting anything remotely like Enya as I was. Tracks are largely instrumental which leaves it difficult to tell where 1 song finishes & the next starts unless you intently stare at the CD player's display. Everything is written by Iona with some words lifted from Celtic writings, but as lyrics are sparse you'd be hard-pushed to realise the Christian content. Musically it's superb & I admire their stamina maintaining the quality & energy throughout such long tracks. After listening to this, I certainly wouldn't turn down an invitation to see them live but I doubt I would rush to buy the next release. 6/10 Simon Redfern (April 2006)

IONA : Open Sky. (OPENVP8CD)

There's probably nothing new that I can tell you about Iona, that hasn't already been said over the past few years. I remember buying their debut album, and seeing them live at both a Christian festival, and concert setting. It had been a long time since I had played this album, so I wondered how I would find this re-release. The nine and a half minute "Woven Cord" begins proceedings and, as you would expect, it's full of Celtic rhythms and numerous pipes. Two thirds of the way through, they're joined by some searing guitar sounds, and the scene for the rest of the album is set. "Wave After Wave" sees Joanne Hogg step into the limelight, and her melodic vocals shine through. From then on, I'm afraid that one piece of music seemed to run into the next. I thought that "Song of Ascent (Part One)" was very peaceful in sound but the rest failed to move me at all. Perhaps I've moved on from when this was originally released. There again, perhaps so have others. I guess there must have been enough interest to warrant re-releasing all the Iona back catalogue but, for me, it all sounds very dated. 4/10. (May 2006)

IONA with the All Souls Orchestra : Wovern Cord. (Open Sky : OPENVP6CD)

This album appeared again late last year as part of the re-issue of the Iona back-catalogue. With excellent sound quality, here we have a live concert incorporating a selection of Iona compositions recorded in May 1999 at The Royal Festival Hall London. I have criticised Iona's music for not moving on and usually being based upon a fairly limited range of minor chords, but the excellent orchestral setting somehow puts it into context. I have always loved Joanne Hogg's vocals - even though I often have little idea what the songs mean, especially when Gaelic! The album begins with long instrumental chords that remind me of a mixture of Delius and Debussy, then Joanne sings mystically in... err... Gaelic. Enthusiastic drumming begins the third track, a superb thirteen minute 'symphonic poem' version of 'Man' - marvellous lead guitar set against the orchestra, interspersed by Joanne's vocals (in English). What continues often sounds like a 70's 'concept album' combining progressive rock, jazz and folk. Stand-out tracks for me were 'Murlough Bay' and 'Encircling'. Most accessible of all is the beautifully crafted folk-pop 'Dancing on the wall'. The nature of Iona's music becomes an advantage in this setting as the album has a cohesion that you wouldn't usually expect from a collection of earlier compositions. Getting better with each repeat listen, it has just reached ... 9/10. www.iona.uk. Dave Deeks (May 2006)

THE ISAACS : Heroes. (Gaither : 8425142)

Why is it that most southern gospel groups tend to be made up of family members, rather than friends? Following on in a long list of those are The Isaacs. No information sheet with this album but by the look of the sleeve photograph, it looks like mother and father, with son and daughters in the line up. The songs themselves are not spectacular but, then, they're not to be sneered at either. "Friend 'Til the End" has lots of fiddles and banjo sounds to help make it a catchy tune, as does "Great Is Thy Reward". Knowing god's peace is the subject of "Peace Like A River" and it's a gentle song that soothes and washes over you nicely. My favourite track has to be "In His Hands", a lovely number with a smashing vocal. Lasting just over 36 minutes, the album is short and sweet and does have it's moments. 6/10. (May 2005)

ISKRA STRING QUARTET : Sanctuary. (ICC : 0859D)

Don't ever say that religious music doesn't cater for all tastes. The Iskra String Quartet consists of John Smart and James Underwood on violins, Mike Schofield on viola, and Charlotte Eksteen on cello. Played, are various tunes, some of which were instantly recognisable, such as Bach's "Jesu Joy" and "Air", taken from Suite No.3. Of the others, they were much of a muchness to me. Driving across town in mid-day traffic, the soothing sounds certainly took my mind off the yard by yard journey that I was taking. There again, listening to the album in the comfort of my armchair, I found the music perfect to fall asleep to. I guess, in my own way, I'm saying that some people may find this kind of music beneficial when seeking God's peace. Let your mind's wander with each sound, and let them bring you closer to God. 6/10. (June 2005)

ISRAEL & NEW BREED : Real (Integrity Music EK086755)

Just when you think studio worship albums are getting a little stale and "samey", along comes a gem to yank you up by the hair. Israel Houghton is a renowned songwriter and worship leader in the USA, and here he has combined with a collection of talented musicians and Grammy award winning Producer Tommy Sims (who has worked with Amy Grant and Kenny Loggins among others) to produce a powerful follow-up to his Dove award nominated 2001 album New Season. If you like this kind of thing! The album focuses on a style of music that is very heavily influenced by 70s soul, with a bit of R&B and jazz thrown in for good measure, and will leave even the most cynical of hearts feeling a little lighter after just one listen. Lyrically it is wonderfully worshipful and Houghton's voice certainly sets the whole thing off beautifully, but I would give one word of warning. If you like this style (and I do) this is a rare treat, if not, there is nothing here to convert you to it. But then I don't suppose that was really the point. Check it out! 8/10 David Cooper (April 2003)

ISRAEL & NEW BREED : A Deeper Level. (Integrity Music)

On some of the recent worship compilations I have heard, Israel and New Breed have been one of the stand-out groups, mainly because their sound has been different to the other artists featured. It has a strong Gospel root but, as this album demonstrates, is also able to include an eclectic mix of other styles too, such as rock and rap. This is a live recorded album and, as an act of worship, it comes across as extremely strong, sincere and uplifting. Songs like "Say So" and "I know Who I Am" fill me with encouragement and excitement and they are memorable and well written songs. However, the strong gospel tones on this album might not sit well with a British audience, particularly the more syrupy ballad numbers. The first track, "So Come" is one such song and it didn't get the album off to a good start in my opinion. The resultant effect is an album with some great touches and some not so great ones. The bonus dvd was a slight disappointment in that it doesn't feature the whole concert; instead, four of the tracks are featured with the rest of the disc being made up of behind the scenes footage etc. Expect a separate dvd soon methinks� 6/10 Robin Thompson. (January 2008)

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