Never for Nothing - CCM Record Reviews archive V

V*ENNA : Where I Wanna Be. (Alliance : 1908272)

Lucy Britten and Sharnessa Shelton are the two girls who make up V*enna and practically take all the writing credits on this debut release. In the background, however, is that gifted guy Zarc Porter. Together with a few friends, he and the girls have produced one of the best British pop/dance albums for some time. To say that it matches anything that the likes of Britney Spears, Steps and the like have brought out, would be an understatement. The power pop sound of the title track immediately makes you sit up and take note of just what V*enna are all about. "Make That Noize", too, has the same flavour but "Why Did I Let You Go" oozes with that 'something' extra. Slower mixes like "Sometimes" still hold your attention but my favourite track had to be "Don't Stop". It would be my pick for a single release but, in all honesty, there's not a bad track on show. 10/10. (November 2000, Album of the Month)

V12 - Transitions. (www.v-12music.co.uk)

The whispering voice of Daniel Wilcock starts up the first track, 'Disconnected', and the most intelligent comment you can make is "Well it's interesting…" However the whispering doesn't last long and the song changes into the harshly melodic sound similar to that of mainstream bands such as KoRn or System Of A Down. Don't get me wrong though, this is not just yet another band trying to imitate the mainstream bands in order to gain the popularity of the youth; this a very individual and distinct sounding band. Although I'm not a fan of the whispering intro, track one has swiftly become a well-played song in my stereo. The next three tracks in my opinion are not up to the same standard as track one, but this does not make them anything below standard as the memorable drumbeats and uniquely sounding guitars that can cause anyone to nod their head along. Track five is purely a short, instrumental finale to the CD which is a great shame as four songs is not even enough for an EP. Sadly I can only give this CD a 7/10 but that is purely because of its very brief nature; this is definitely a band to look out for in the future. Rik Howlett. (April 2003)

V3 : V3. (EMI : EGD71822)

With a pastor father and a professional singer mother, V3 are three sisters LaToya, Sacha and Shelly Vinson (i.e. three whose surname starts with 'V' = V3!). They grew up "singing under their mother's careful tutelage, guided by the spiritual teachings and example set for them by their dad". Here we have a well performed and produced r&b / hip-hop / gospel ballad album with excellent sound quality that sounds good on first listen and includes a number of songs that grow with repeated plays - my favourites being 'Have you ever' and 'Let's take it'. The sisters share a number of the songwriting credits. A number of producers are listed, yet the whole album sounds seamless - possibly as a result of the oversight of 'executive producers' Brandon Egerton and Ken Pennel (respectively A& R manager and President of EMI Gospel). As I listened I found myself reminded of some of the 'smoother' songs on the 'Mary Mary' album I reviewed back in 2005, but that included others with more energy, variety and 'personal stamp' about them. This aspect highlights the main failing of V3's offering - the fact that there are many albums of this ilk, and this one doesn't really stand out. If it's your favourite genre however, you'll probably love it. For more info and to have a listen to V3, try www.v3place.com. 7/10 Dave Deeks. (January 2007)

VARIOUS : 51 Must Have Modern Worship Hits. (Integrity : 41322)

Ouch! Another one of those awful titles. Why do the record companies do this? This is a 3 Cd collection of songs that feature a lot of unknown singers giving us their renditions of worship songs. To be fair, there's a lot of well produced numbers featured, but there's also a few real stinkers. For instance, don't expect all those songs to be played in the same style that you know and love. "Come, Now is the Time to Worship" gets an early heavy rock treatment with out of tune guitars thrown in for good measure. The result is just plain horrible. The same can be said of the RnB versions of "I Could Sing of Your Love Forever", and "Forever". On the plus side, however, there are some very good songs. "The Heart of Worship" has lots of feeling put into it, while "Everyday" sounds very much like an early Backstreet Boys number. Stand out track has to be "Your Grace is Enough", while the classy anthemic worship of Amazed" runs it a close second. There's a surprising dance version of "Blessed Be Your Name" that I particularly liked, and a rousing version of "Open the Eyes of My Heart" too. Out of 51songs, there's certainly more good songs than bad, but listening to all three CD's proved I was worshipped out!. 6/10 (August 2008)

VARIOUS : 17 Christian Rock Hits 2007. (bed71749 : EMI)

This is probably one of the daftest named CD's ever. For a start off, there are 21 tracks not 17. (Yes we have the good old bonus track marketing con yet again). Presumably there must be another version of this CD out there somewhere, which is four tracks lighter, otherwise, in what way are these bonus tracks? Secondly, most of the tracks are from 2006 not 2007, and, in fact one track is from 1983, and also happens to be the best track on the CD by far, it's Audio Adrenaline's "Blaze of Glory". So what we have here seems to be just another attempt to flog the back catalogue. I can't help thinking that EMI haven't quite grasped the idea when it comes to Christian music sometimes. Anyway, onto the music itself. As you would expect a lot of it is quite heavy, loads of de-tuned guitars, screaming vocals etc, as you would expect from a rock collection. There are a few tracks that are worth a mention. Audio Adrenaline as have already been mentioned is the best track, and there is a track by David Crowder called "Do Not Move" which is quite good. "Invisible hook" by House of Heroes stands out too. In fact most of the tracks are ok taken on their on their own. However, I wouldn't say that this is a CD that I'd play everyday. There are a lot of songs on it and you'd be amazed how many of them sound almost exactly the same. By it's very nature this is not the kind of music that you can leave playing quietly in the background while you get on with something else, yet I found that If I tried to sit and listen to it I got bored with it by about half way through, 21 tracks is a bit too long. If it had been exactly what it said on the box it might actually have been a better CD. 5/10 Andy Sayner. (April 2007)

VARIOUS : 60 Big Worship Songs 4 Little Ones. (Kingsway KMCD2872)

Kids Worship compilations seem to be getting bigger these days - this is a 3cd set with a whopping 60 songs. This could make one shiver at the prospect of 3 ½ hours of torturous naffness but wait - this is actually rather good. Actually, I do children's worship an injustice because the quality has improved so much in recent years. This cd demonstrates why. Worship leaders such as Doug Horley, who not surprisingly features quite heavily on here ("He's the Gaffa", "Have we Made our God Too Small" to name but a couple) seem to understand children's psyche and so this is filled with wondrously insane yet theology sound songs. It also continues the trend of including "adult" songs because we forget that kids can love these too - though they're probably less forgiving and often see through your average novice guitarist's attempts to play anything more complex than a C major. Songs like "Jesus Christ (Once Again)" are a welcome addition and there is a wonderful version of "Hosanna". I was going to cringe at first when the kids started singing it but then I heard the wonderful staccato string arrangement and though "Wow! Now there IS something different"! The acid test is always whether my kids love it and they do, so, full marks Kingsway! 10/10 Robin Thompson. (October 2008, Album of the Month)

VARIOUS : A Christmas Blessing (Kingsway : KMCD2819)

The songs on this album have been put together in a bid to remind us why we celebrate Christmas and, while it may lack the collective originality of, say, Graham Kendrick's current release, there are enough quality recordings on this release to make it a jolly good buy. Sadly, there are no artist credits, but those who take part give a good showing throughout. Offering something a little different for Christmas, is the opening, celtic song 'Deep Peace of the Gentle Christ' written by Nick Fletcher. 'Holy Child' is a pretty, acoustic number, while there's an instrumental that gives us 'On Christmas night'. Indeed, that rendition led me back to the 70's when Steeleye Span could rattle of a good tune in a folk/pop style. I'd not heard of 'Joy Has Dawned' before but, written by Stuart Townend and Keith Getty, I thought this was extremely enjoyable and well sung, too. A plus point of this album has to be the variety of songs used and, at a budget price, this album is well worth adding to your Christmas collection. 7/10. (December 2007)

Various : A Celtic Prayer. (Kingsway : KMCD2739)

Here we have fifteen tracks presenting 'an instrumental tapestry of Celtic worship based on the prayer of St Patrick'. To further quote the sleeve notes: 'St Patrick's Lorica is today still widely used as a prayer seeking God's protection and on this beautifully crafted CD, the indigenous sound of the Celts helps us focus on the call for Christ to be at the kernel of everything we do'. No performers are credited - although the production team John Hartley and Stephen Doherty get a mention. Musicians and producers have done a good job. The music is indeed beautifully crafted and also beautifully recorded, in a natural-sounding acoustic. Piano and strings predominate, but there are also percussion, guitar, harp, brass and keyboard - and 'voices' that are probably synthesized but still effective. Some of the tracks tend to be somewhat 'meandering' and I prefer the ones with more structure - including 'Christ with me', 'Christ in me', 'Christ in every ear that hears me' and the almost Enya-esque 'Christ above me'. I cannot honestly say that any of the track titles give a clue as to what that track may sound like, each one being a product of the inspiration of whoever wrote it - but overall this is a very nicely produced CD that makes for pleasant background listening, as well as music to reflect to. It's only a shame that the performers don't get a mention - and I couldn't find any reference to it on the Kingsway web site, or by a Google search. 8/10 Dave Deeks (March 2007)

VARIOUS : A New Day of Worship. (Kingsway : KMCD2761)

Here's a super collection of worship songs that will enhance anyone's collection. They're mostly new songs, but with a couple of tried and trusted favourites given new life for good measure. Matt Redman starts proceedings with 'Joy Is the Theme of My Song' - a number that you just can't resist joining in with. Godfrey Birtill's 'The Die Has Been Cast' is another infectious song, with a great chorus. I really enjoyed the opening songs and even when things mellowed down a little, I was still worshipping my God. 'Be Thou My Vision' is given a stirring rendition by Andy Bromley, and it builds into a crescendo of noise. Top of the songs has to be 'Praise the Lord Who Reigns Above'. Led by Kelly Minter, it is just oozing with quality. The sound is awesome and the production, breath-taking. The album rarely runs out of steam, and it's a credit to Kingsway for producing such a terrific album. 9/10 (August 2008, Album of the Month)

VARIOUS : A Harvest of Hymns. (Kingsway : KMCD2476)

Just another collection of hymns I thought. Wrong! There's some well known ones here, sure, but even they've been given a fresh sound by producer John Hartley. There's also a few new tunes to my ears and they were very pleasing to the ear. "On Christ the Solid Rock" was really good to listen to, and I found myself immediately playing the track again. In similar tones, "What A Faithful God" hit the right note with me. Other tracks include "How Deep the Father's love" and "O The Deep Deep love", while the closing "We Have An Anchor" also rates highly. This album is definitely one of the better hymn collections and the new arrangements work very well. 8/10 (January 2004)

VARIOUS : Absolute Modern Worship for Kids 4. (Fervent/Curb/Warner Bros : 8874442)

There are quite a few reasons to hate this album. Firstly, it's sung by kids (though thankfully not played by them) secondly the singers are at times heavily accented and thirdly, some of the solo pieces are a bit sickly sweet. There's a good choice of songs though and as the title suggests, they are pretty modern. So contemporary stalwarts such as "Come now is the time to Worship", "Better is One Day" and "How Deep the Fathers Love for Us" demonstrate the range of songs available; these are not kids songs per se, they are worship songs sung by kids. The best for me though, is "Everlasting God" which is a good song anyway and holds up well here. However, whatever I may think, it's really a matter of whether it works with it's target audience. I put this on the car stereo the other day and the kids wouldn't let me take it out! So, I guess it's job done! 7/10 Robin Thompson. (May 2009)

VARIOUS : "Absolute Smash Hits" (Fervant Records).

This is another of those compilation CD's that seem to make up so much of the market nowadays, I must confess that I have never heard of most of the people on this, but there are no prizes for guessing that this is an American CD. There are eleven tracks per CD, plus three bonus cuts which for some bizarre reason are not named on the sleeve. There is also a free DVD with the retail version, although from past experience most of these don't seem to work too well on DVD players over here. The music is mostly what you'd expect from the title, American Rock/Pop with all the life produced out of it, which makes it all seem to sound the same after a while. Most of the songs are quite good on their own, possibly a double CD is a bit much though. There is a good version of "More Love, More Power" by Jeff Deyo, this was the best track for me anyway. "Broken" by 12 Stones is quite good too. I found it went better if I put it on in the background whilst doing something else rather than sitting down and listening to it, which is what you'd do with the radio I suppose. So in that respect It does "Exactly what it says on the tin". 6/10 Andy Sayner. (August 2004)

VARIOUS: Absolute Smash Hits (Fervent Records 4300502)

And so the rise and rise of the Double CD compilation continues to gather speed on the Christian music scene. Unusually, however, this one is not a praise and worship album - instead it is a collection of 25 "smash radio hits". What "radio" they might be talking about is not specified, but I'll let that one pass! Disc 1 contains 13 tracks ranging in style from some highly contemporary hip-hop to some hard rock (complete with 'screech' vocals) and stopping off at all points in between. Unashamedly rocky, the pace never lets up from start to finish with Todd Agnew's "This Fragile Breath", 12 Stones' "Broken" and Jeff Deyo's version of "More Love, More Power" particularly standing out. Disc 2 is (a little) more laidback, with the electric guitars taking more of a back seat overall, and even dropping in a couple of worship ballads for good measure - Natalie Grant's "I Will Be" is a superb example of this, Overall disc 1 is pretty adventurous while disc 2 is almost typical CCM in style, and my only criticism would be a feeling that the whole collection might have benefited from swapping some of the disc 1 and 2 tracks around to create a more eclectic experience rather than having all the songs of a similar style coming together. However that would be to carp. This is an excellent collection of songs that grabs you on first listen and gets better as you go. 9/10 David Cooper (February 2005)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : All Creation Sing. (Kingsway : KMCD2437)

Well, this one tested my ears, as I tried to identify the singers on this pre-release copy. No prizes though for identifying Graham Kendrick on the title track, co written by Keith Getty - the press release DID tell me that much. Then we go all celtic-like, on "Hear All Creation" before a really exhilarating version of "Song of the Kingdom". This is the fourth album in the series featuring themed songs dedicated to a specific attribute of the Lord and celebrates the Creator and Creation. "Maker of All Things" does just that with a guitar band sound, and carries the flavour through on "Praise Him You Heavens". It's then I found myself recognizing the unmistakable sound of Maire Brennan, Margaret Becker and Joanne Hogg on "Hear All Creation", quickly followed by Sue Rinaldi(?) on "Sing to the Lord". Another classy compilation of praise and worship that's worthy of your ears. 8/10. (November 2002)

VARIOUS : All For Jesus. (ICC : ICCD81130)

There seems to be an increasing tendency for these double CD collections to go beyond worship songs and include other complementary materials, and this is one of the better ones I have heard. The first CD in the set is a collection of 17 songs, covering quite an eclectic mixture of musical styles including Rock, Country(ish), Pop ballad and all points in between. There are some very familiar ones, such as "Here I am to Worship" and "Jesus, all for Jesus" and some less well known and the whole thing works very nicely as background music rather than something you would sit and actively listen to. Having said that, a few tracks do grab you by the ears, including the rocky "Take the World But Give Me Jesus" and the beautiful ballad "Lord, What I Wouldn't Give", which closes the disc. Overall it is a good collection of songs that work well together and many people will find something of value, and something they can worship to, here whatever their musical preferences. Disc 2 contains a collection of short inspirational extracts from longer works of teaching by such luminaries as Tony Campolo, Rich Nathan and Anne Graham-Lotz. Of the ten extracts, six last for less than two minutes, and the longest is only just over six, and all provide some excellent bite-size pieces of spiritual insight and encouragement. A good and simple idea, done very well. All in all, this is a great package that offers something a little different and, for a change, it is all the better for it. 8/10 David Cooper (September 2004)

VARIOUS : All That is Within Me (Collector's edition) Integrity Music 43042

This CD contains some very powerful arrangements, guitar led rock music at it's best. I didn't find anything that I disliked at all in the main part of the album, It was really enjoyable to listen to it. There's a song on here called "Grace Tells Another Story" which for me was the outstanding track, but all the lyrics are well thought out. And the whole thing works well. Being a collector's edition of course there are the usual bonus tracks stuck on the end, three in this case. All of them are acoustic versions of tracks that appear earlier, and to be honest after hearing the original versions these acoustic tracks sound a bit lame. Personally I wouldn't have included them, they do nothing to improve the CD at all. There's also a DVD included, which contains some live stuff, and a documentary about making the CD. Plus a press pack. So apart from the last three tracks this is an excellent album. Definitely worth a look if you come across it. 9/10 Andy Sayner. (May 2008)

VARIOUS : Amazing Grace. (EMI : SPD73848)

Living in the city where William Wilberforce lived, I've been aware of so many celebratory events regarding the abolition of slavery. I've not seen the motion picture, but I understand that it's gained mixed reviews. This album contains period hymns, sung by top CCM and country artists, and there's quite a range of styles included. Indeed, unlike a lot of compilation albums, this one suffers from being rather dis-jointed in presentation. Multi-Dove Award winner, Chris Tomlin sings a gentle version of the title track, while Jeremy and Adie Camp give a passable performance on a rock orientated "It Is Well". I thought that a lot of the songs were very mediocre in quality and the artists interpretations of classic hymns, rather ordinary. "I Need Thee Every Hour" by Jars of Clay starts off well, but it gets so repetitive towards the end that I was glad when it finished. Dave Crowder sounds rather like any street busker that you can see on any street corner on "Rock Of Ages", but Bart Millard lifts things out of the mire with an earthy, warm vocal on "My Jesus I Love Thee". Country star Martina McBride has a beautiful voice but even her version of "How Great Thou Art" didn't raise my spirits. If this IS the music inspired by the motion picture (as advertised) then I'm glad I haven't seen the film. 4/10. (June 2007)

Various : Apostles Creed (Kingsway : KMCD2460)

Apostles Creed is a compilation of contemporary hymns from the Stuart Townend / Keith Getty partnership which has been on the go since 2001 - notable contributions also on this CD from Kirstyn (Keith's wife) on both songwriting & vocals . With both being major forces in the CCM songwriting world, this was bound to be of a consistently high standard…and so it was! The most well known inclusion is probably "In Christ Alone" - sung in almost every modern church across the land. Despite the familiarity, this version is refreshing & excellent with a light Celtic air & refined vocals from Susan Ashton. Musical styles across the album vary, with each artist bringing their own distinctive flavour to the songs; this is no bad thing as there's always the danger with a compilation made entirely from deeply meaningful hymns that your mind can wander elsewhere unless you're really focused at the time. Two great examples are "You're The Word of God the Father" sung by Brenton Brown (Vineyard) & Tim Hughes' rendition of "O Church Arise" - songs great in their own right but with added zest from 2 accomplished CCM artists. Another plus point of this is that they are all highly useable in a congregational setting, with Keith Getty's website having an excellent resource for worship leaders - www.gettymusic.com - well worth a look. A very listenable & usable compilation worth adding to your collection. 8/10 Simon Redfern (October 2006)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Awesome God - A Tribute to Rich Mullins. (Reunion : 0234100092).

Regular reader's will know that I am one of the few people who had never heard any of Rich's music prior to his untimely death in 1997. Therefore, I can't tell you if any of this collection of songs are better or worse than the originals. What I can say is, for me, they are a mixed bag of songs that have been lovingly put together as a tribute to the man and his music. Jars of Clay provide the best track "If I Stand" where it's the simplicity of the song as a whole that beams through. Indeed, the second half of the album is much brighter than the first with flashes of inspiration from the likes of Billy Sprague ("A Place to Stand") and Ashley Cleveland's "I See You". Earlier on, Amy Grant provides what is, arguably, the best ballad "Hold Me Jesus", her sweet vocals singing as pure and true as ever. An album for Rich's fans primarily, but others may want to catch up on the music that lives on. 7/10. (February 1999)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Beautiful Saviour - Stoneleigh Live Worship 1998. (Kingsway : KMCD2057).

Here's another worship release that tries to capture the essence of a live event with just over 60 minutes of music. Led by Stuart Townsend, Kate Simmonds, and Jonathan LeTocq, the record shares well known songs with one or two that were new to me. The power of the album comes from songs like 'Let Everything That Has Breath' and 'Let There Be Joy', while 'All My Days' really gives you time to worship along with those gathered. This track lasts for over 7 minutes and really does draw you closer to the Lord's presence. 'When the Music Fades', 'We Sing Your Mercies' and 'Before the Throne of God Above' are just three more quality songs to enjoy on this better than average worship album. 7/10. (December 1998)

VARIOUS : Beautiful Saviour. (Kingsway : KMCD2950)

This is a collection of 12 instrumental versions of songs, written by Stuart Townend. The sleeve notes call them "Classic Towned songs…", but I've got to admit that I didn't know most of them. The problem with an instrumental package from the same artist, is the similarity between each piece. Both the title track and 'The King of Love' are fairly pleasant, but they do have an amazing likeness in this form. Flutes, whistles, trumpets and the like, all take turns in leading the music, but they all got me wondering just what the point of the release was? Well, I guess that if you knew the original songs, then, you could singalong. Saying that, I just wonder how many of the songs Joe Public would know? Other songs featured include 'My Heart is Filled with Thankfulness', 'Jesus is Lord' and 'How Deep the Father's Love'. I didn't dislike any of them but I wouldn't bother playing this one again. 3/10 (May 2009)

VARIOUS : The Beginnings Concert.

Billed as 'The Jesus Music Reunion', this 2DVD + 2CD boxed set features a concert performed by artists who were in at the beginnings of the 'Jesus Music Revolution'. The DVDs and CDs cover the same performances, DVD2 also covering additional material including clips from rehearsals and artist intros from the concert. Sound and video quality are excellent, and overall production spot-on. Even though I am venerable enough to have been around in the era represented here, some of the artists were unfamiliar to me. Exceptions include Chuck Girard, Don Francisco, Barry McGuire and Leon Patillo. Leon is the only artist who gets to deliver just one song - regrettably, as I would pick the infectious J-E-S-U-S - as my stand-out performance. Others worth special mention include Janny Grein's 'More than conquerors', Dallas Holm's trad-jazz-style 'Heaven' and Barry McGuire (of 'Eve Of Destruction' fame) with 'Bullfrogs and Butterflies' - the catchy chorus had me humming it for ages! Particular downsides? Firstly, with apologies to his many fans I must confess I have never understood the musical appeal of Don Francisco, who writes great lyrics but seems to have only two tunes, both of which we hear. Secondly, whilst the whole concert is very 'American', to my British ears Barry McGuire's 7min 30sec 'Cosmic Cowboy' monologue is toe-curlingly so. Finally, the passing of time has brought painfully excessive vibrato to some voices. Overall however I watched and listened with interest, and this concert was obviously a great success for all involved. CCM owes a huge debt to performers such as these, who were in at the 'beginnings'. Check out www.thebeginningsconcert.com. 7/10. Dave Deeks (September 2008)

Various: The Best Gospel Album In The World...Ever! (Virgin EMI VTDCD742)

Most of us will probably have at least one "Best...Album in The World...Ever" title in our CD library & we buy them for much the same reason as we'd buy Ronseal to paint the shed with…It does exactly what it says on the tin! This is no exception to the rule with a double CD containing 30 highly polished Gospel style songs ranging from renditions of contemporary favourites such as Tim Hughes' "Here I am to Worship" & Matt Redman's "Blessed Be Your Name" to those you might traditionally associate with Gospel such as "Swing Low Sweet Chariot" & "Oh Happy Day". Vocals are delivered with passion & the music is top quality, which on the whole makes the album very listenable, but I feel that Gospel styles don't apply as well in the Redman/Hughes context. That said it is interesting to hear how someone else interprets something you hear on a regular basis! If Gospel is your regular flavour then this will make a good choice for your collection. Even if it's not, it's can be good to try something else occasionally & this is unlikely to offend many taste buds. 6/10 Simon Redfern (June 2006)

Various - The Best Modern Hymns Album...Ever! Kingsway KMCD2848

Another of the "Best Album...Ever" series but with hymns as the theme this time around. I can almost hear the stampede of modern CCM fans running for the hills already, but hold on just a mo! It really isn't quite as bad as you may imagine. In common with previous collections, you get a compilation of 50 songs on a theme, but the title in this case is ever-so-slightly misleading. Despite being billed as modern hymns, there's a fair old proportion of golden oldie classics in there with the likes of Charles Wesley & John Newton having penned a few of these along with the modern greats such as Brenton Brown & Stuart Townend. That said however the classics have been given a CCM workout with guitars, drums, bands as well as in some cases a bit of a re-write...makes me think that earlier rumbling sound is more likely to be protesting traditionalists! The album holds no great surprises with a real mish-mash of mostly well-known tunes (O Church Arise, Here Is Love, Jesus Lover of my Soul) from the current big names on the worship scene (Tim Hughes, Paul Oakley, Andy Bromley). The vast majority are of a typically high standard but I have to say O Lord My God (How Great Thou Art) was slaughtered - a very grim representation of my personal favourite hymn. That said, overall a good album presenting excellent value appealing more to fans of CCM worship that followers of the traditional. 8/10 Simon Redfern (October 2008)

Various: The Best New Worship Songs...Ever! (Virgin EMI KMCD2712)

The last couple of compilations in this series have been good, so this should be no exception. My first thought however on studying the track listing was "they're stretching the NEW theme a bit" as I was familiar with the vast majority of tracks! The oldest is from around 2000, so hardly hot off the presses! That said though, the tracks are varied with the big names you expect being ever present; Delirious, Matt Redman & Tim Hughes make several appearances. As is often the case, the live tracks have the edge giving a much better ambience for worship, but sadly they are relatively few in number. Delirious' "Here I Am" was rather refreshing though as it tends to be one of those songs that's flogged to within an inch of its life on Sunday mornings, but this had plenty of zip left! Other noteworthy tracks are Gareth Robinson's "I Love You Lord" (live), I Will Never Be The Same sung by Susan Ashton & Tim Hughes' "Whole World In His Hands", which along with a number of others are good to listen to but are also very useable in a congregational setting. There's the odd cringe-worthy number, but on the whole, a good album but not exceptional by any stretch of the imagination. If you prefer your music on the more energetic side like myself, this is probably not the best mix for you though. 7/10 Simon Redfern. (July 2006)

VARIOUS : The Best Soul Survivor Worship Album ... ever! (Kingsway : KMCD2933)

Most Christians these days will be familiar with Soul Survivor (www.soulsurvivor.com), an outreach for teenagers originating in 1993 out of the 'New Wine' movement. A number of Soul Survivor events are now held in the UK each year - with attendances totalling 28,000 in 2008. There are also six international Soul Survivor Centres. This 'live rock worship group' 3 CD set contains '50 of the most popular Soul Survivor worship songs'. Bearing in mind the target age group, it is hardly surprising that an oldie like me finds much of the pace fairly relentless - but this is made worse by many of the tracks featuring unimaginative arrangements in 'belt it out' style. As is so often the case in such instances I would imagine 'you had to be there' to fully appreciate them. There are also variations in 'perceived volume' so the remote came in handy, and my hi-fi system revealed much of the sound quality to be poorish. Having said all of that however, some tracks stood out as good-uns. These included the excellently arranged and sung 'You call us first to love your name' by Lex Buckley (watch out for this lady - she has an excellent 8 track cd available), 'When I call on your name' by Ben Cantelon, 'You chose the cross' and 'Who can know' by Martyn Lazell, 'See His love', 'Blessed be your name', 'Saviour' (featuring an effective rap), 'God of justice' and 'When all around is fading' by Tim Hughes, an excellent funk gospel arrangement of 'Lord I lift your name on high' by Mark Beswick, 'O sacred King' by Matt Redman, and the brilliantly delivered 'I stand amazed' by Sam Parker. A mixed bag then, worth an average 6/10 Dave Deeks (August 2009)

VARIOUS : The Best Worship Songs...Ever! (Virgin 2004 VTDCD 593)

When I first got my mits on this I had to blink hard & look twice...a mainstream compilation album with CHRISTIAN worship song on it? NO, surely not? But yes it is true. Reading through the track list, I knew the huge majority of the songs which made me feel rather good & quite positive that I was going to like this. Many of these tunes will be given a good airing on a weekly basis in any church that doesn't swing burning handbags & the variety of styles on this album should be wide-ranging enough to please most people. I think it's great to hear them done by people other than your regular worship band as it can give you a fresh perspective & a renewed enthusiasm for some songs which were staring to get a little tiresome. There's also a decent mix of live worship & studio album tracks from artists such as Delirious, Matt Redman Tim Hughes & Vineyard. It would be nigh on impossible to review every track, but a few do stand out. One is the excellent rendition of "Come, now is the time! sung in a live worship setting by Vineyard's Brian Doersken & Wendy O'Connel. It builds the vocals & instruments gradually making a really powerful rendition, which made the hairs on my neck stand to attention, had me joining in belting out the lyrics at the traffic lights. It's not all energetic full-on worship with the presence of my all-time favourite "Jesus be the Centre" in there, as well as other reflective tracks including "The Heart of Worship" and "Here I Am to Worship". Overall, an excellent compilation with wide appeal. Hopefully being on a mainstream label it will reach a wider audience & show that Christian music is no longer stuck in 1662. 9/10 Simon Redfern (August 2004)

VARIOUS : The Best Worship Songs in the World. (Integrity - 41732)

Ooh look, another album claiming to contain "the best worship songs in the world"! Really? That's quite a bold claim and one which it, not surprisingly, does not live up to. The songs on here are not new and include such classics as "Ancient of Days", "Days of Elijah" and "Here I am to Worship" which is a good start. In fact, I recognised a lot of the songs on here. However, there are many that are not so well known and I found them to be, quite frankly, ordinary! Even some of my favourites just don't work particularly well. Those that do work are generally more original in their approach and have strong vocal leads, such as those by the Oslo Gospel Choir. This contrasts starkly with those who have adopted the increasingly tiresome yet currently fashionable worship "sound" (chord bashing guitars fronted by harsh, limited vocals). On the whole, I think it makes for a really disappointing album which, far from giving me "an incredible experience of worshipping God through song" as the sleeve promises, leaves me wondering where all this worship stuff is heading. 5/10 Robin Thompson. (September 2007)

VARIOUS : Billy Graham Crusades Through the Years. (Authentic: 8203422)

I was brought up in a family that held the Billy Graham Crusades in high regard. My mum, now 80 yrs old, sang in the choir and later became a counsellor. She tells how her closest friend was converted at one of the services, and another dear friend is a lady she counselled. Billy Graham's evangelist team first visited the UK in 1954 for a crusade at London's Harringay Arena. This album features best loved songs from the crusades between 1967 and 1991, including Mission England, Mission London and Mission Scotland. Recording quality varies - some is excellent, some less so. There is something uniquely attractive about the way the songs are presented. Arrangements are traditional, stirring, and mostly delivered by large choirs under the crisp and professional directorship of Cliff Barrows, with some songs featuring George Beverley Shea and other soloists. The tremendous 'How great thou art' must surely be the song made most famous by these crusades. Rare low points to my ears are provided by a wobbly Ethel Walters singing 'His eye is on the sparrow' and the medley 'Oh how I love Jesus / To me it is so wonderful'. Mum's favourites were 'There is a redeemer', 'Majesty' and 'Shine, Jesus, Shine' - and interestingly, even she felt that there was an overall 'old fashioned' feel to the album. I agree, but feel that this is part of its charm. I also support mum's choices as it happens - but would add 'Give Thanks' to her list. A pity we aren't given the date and venue of each song. Overall however, I am happy to add this CD to my collection. 8/10 Dave Deekes (December 2004)

Various: Born To Worship (Kingsway - KMCD2657)

Born to Worship is the 1st in the series & comes as a triple CD album with a whopping 50 modern worship tracks. Coming from the Kingsway stable, many of the big names you'd expect to be there are present, with the likes of Tim Hughes, Matt Redman & Gareth Robinson as well as old favourites such as Graham Kendrick & Dave Bilborough. The styles of music are as varied as the artist list, ranging through energetic modern rock to laid-back acoustic, jazz & gospel! One good thing this CD does is present some interesting reworks of songs we probably hear week-in-week-out such as "To be in Your Presence" & "Jesus is the Name we Honour", which can help with approaching them with a renewed passion. It does represent great value for money as the average selling price is around the £12 mark, but you'd be more than likely be picking out individual tracks than listening the full length of each CD. 7/10 - Simon Redfern (January 2006)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Breath of Life - Celtic Expressions of Worship Vol. 3. (Kingsway : KMCD2017).

Featuring hymns both old and new 'Breath of life' is performed using traditional Celtic instruments. Indeed, it is the sparse, yet cleverly used accompaniment that mould gently around Joanne Hoggs' lovely vocals on the opening track "The Lord is My Shepherd". There's lots of whistles, pipes and fiddles featured on the uptempo instrumental "Praise to the Lord...", while in comparison the sweet sounds of "O Breath of life" and "O Come O Come Immanuel" reflects a quieter mode. Terl Bryant's excellent percussion work on "All Creatures of Our God & King", added to Troy Donockley's Uileann pipes, brings a superb sound that is only complimented by the rest of the backing. I can't say that I am a real lover of this type of music but I did find this album enjoyable. On the whole, lovely renditions of hymns in a different style to those you're used to hearing. Well worth a purchase. 8/10. (June 1998)

VARIOUS : Bridges. (Authentic : 8203827)

The sleeve notes say that this release is a response to a "need expressed by worship leaders for music that brings forth the foundational theology expressed in our greatest hymns with a more modern musical approach". The result is a bit hit and miss, as some of the new arrangements work quite well, while others miss the mark completely. Michael Tait's opening "How Great Thou Art" is sung with a great sense of feeling while Leeland Mooring's "Lord, I Want to Be a Christian" has a gentler, yet appealing, approach. Paul Colman absolutely murder's "Amazing Grace" but does well with the jangly guitars on "Jesus Keep Me Near the Cross". Christiane Byrd offers a folk version of "Come Thou Font", and I particularly liked Jason Ingram's energetic, yet thoughtful, version of "It is Well With My Soul". It's a bit of a mixed bag overall, and I'm not sure whether the initial idea of the album has really worked. 6/10. (December 2005)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Celtic Source - Worship on Ancient Soil. (Alliance : 1901572).

Soothing, relaxing, and resting were just three words that immediately sprung to mind when describing the music contained on this album. Although both Joanne Hogg and Troy Donockley are the most well known artists featuring in this celtic collective, nothing should be taken away from the rest of the musicians. "Be Thou My Vision" is the first track, beautifully delivered with the solo provided by Sarah Lacy. Donockley's array of talents come to the fore during "Not By Might" when his soothing pipes really do drift right through you. However, the light-weight version of Robin Mark's "Lion of Judah" doesn't quite mix in with the rest of the album. Maybe it's because I know the song so well, but it sounds decidedly odd. That would be my one moan of what is a delightful album to either meditate or relax to. 9/10. (February 1999)

VARIOUS : Celtic Worship - Live from Ireland. (Integrity : 41512)

I'm a little confused after listening to this album. Previously, I had it clear in my mind just what celtic music was, but now? The only thing that varies from any other live worship album is that every now and again, someone decides to throw in a few whistles and fiddles to the mix. Led by internationally known and award winning artists Brian Doerksen, Eoghan Heaslip, Robin Mark, and Kathryn Scott, this two Cd collection does stand up well with other live worship albums available. Mark's distinctive vocals are prominent form the start with the song 'Garments of Praise'. Doerksen sings 'Hope of All Nations' and 'Your Love is Amazing', while Scott stands out on "Heaven is Our Home'. There's no surprise whn Robin Mark takes the lead again on a passionate version of 'Revival', and it's he, again, who really lifts the roof with 'Days of Elijah' and 'Shout to the North'. One or two numbers seem to be a little tired in sound, but overall the album does deliver. 8/10 (September 2007)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Champion of the World - Wembley Arena Event. (Kingsway : KMCD976)

I've already heard two excuses as to why this album is so poor. 1. You had to be there, the music was only secondary to the atmosphere. 2. It was a very difficult event to record and reproduce. The likes of Noel Richards, The Wades, Sue Rinaldi, & Delirious, all appear on this sub-standard album that has failed to even send a flicker to my heart, never mind Miss Rinaldi's call to 'Carry the Fire'. The production is dull and the outlook cloudy. Unless you were there and want a momento, forget it. 2/10 (January 1997)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Classical Gold Volume 3. (Kingsway : KMCD2229)

Now, I'm not the biggest classical music fan you'll ever find. In fact, it's very rare that I even contemplate listening to any. But, there's always certain surprises in life, and "Classical Gold" is one. A triple CD package that features 37 tracks of worship played by the piano, harp, and strings. In all honesty, I found the piano too thin on a lot of the tracks, although "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" will always be a favourite of mine. As for the harp, I found all the tracks very peaceful and, therefore, more listenable. "The Servant King" and "As the Deer" just two of the many excellent numbers. "I Will Sing His Wondrous Story" and "He Was Pierced" kick off the the final CD, and the string arrangements did work best. All in all, quite a feast for classical fans, as well as people like me. 8/10. (September 2000)

VARIOUS : Come Let Us Adore Him. (Essential Records : 830610760 2)

Sub-titled "A Christmas Worship Experience", this album must get some brownie points for not just churning out the same carols and hymns that we hear each year. Even the appearance of "O Come All Ye Faithful" has been given a new melody line, albeit quite short in length. Indeed, there's two short laments that kick off proceedings, sung by Ana Laura, and Bebo Norman. Neither of these inspire, but Joy Williams' "Here With Us" has a distinct quality and shines well. "Hail Almighty King" is quite a good folk/pop song, but the celebratory song of Jesus' birth, "Messiah Has Come", by Cindy Morgan is the top ditty on show." Silver Starlight", by Caedmon's Call is another good pop song, but then comes an amazing offering by Jars of Clay. Don't expect to hear their full rock sound here, it's sweet and sickly, and sounds like a tacky music box, yet somehow, it works well. Over songs include the warming "Manger Throne" by Third Day and Krystal Meyers' "King of Angels". It's a bit of a mixed bag really and I'm not sure whether it will appeal to fans of the respective artists. 6/10. (December 2005)

Various : Cover the Earth. (Integrity)

Described on the sleeve as '25 powerful songs from churches around the world', this 2-CD Integrity Music collection features recordings made in locations as farflung as Zimbabwe, London and Singapore - although the USA predominates. It is disappointing that there is little evidence of location when it comes to the music. This is largely of the standard CCM worship-leader variety, lacking for instance the originality of the Springhill Worship collection that I reviewed recently for NFN. Some tracks do stand out however. Two of these are recorded at Bethany World Prayer Centre Los Angeles, and feature Jonathan Stockstill. His voice has oodles of emotion and power - I find him to be an unusually effective communicator of the Christian message. 'Let the Church Rise' has a good melody and is well produced. 'Chasing after you' is also excellent and I could happily listen to more than the almost 7 minutes! Other tracks worth a mention include 'Not unto us'. Delivered by the Christ Fellowship Church Choir of Florida, this is a simple but classy piece that builds beautifully, and features a very able but unnamed female lead vocalist. 'Jesus is' comes from Hillsong Church London and features an effective repeating chorus within a carefully arranged setting, well delivered and fading to a reflective ending. The Sonic Edge Band's 'The song that I sing' from the Church of our Saviour Singapore, features a standard guitar, bass and drums lineup but with good lyrics thoughtfully delivered and with effective harmonies. Check out www.globalworshipnow.com, or www.worshipmusic.com for more on Jonathan Stockstill, including music samples. Some good stuff here, then, but insufficient to boost the score above an overall 6/10. Dave Deeks (June 2007)

VARIOUS : DAVID - Ordinary Man…Extraordinary God. (www.spiritmusic.co.uk)

This project celebrates the life of David, described as a gifted musician, a brave man, and a warrior. The songs were first performed live in St Paul, Minnesota on the night of June 26 by Bob Carlisle, Russ Lee, Clay Crosse, Greg Long, Scott Krippayne, and Steve Camp. The songs range from the Jewish sounding "the Heart of You" to the big production sound of "Satisfied in You", based around Psalm 63. On this, Russ Lee's voice is pure gold. And talking of great voices, Scott Krippayne's "The Lord is my Rock" shows just what this artist can achieve when he puts his mind to it. A DVD comes in the package and it shows all the songs being performed in the vastness that is, the Nevada Desert. All in all, something a little different, and worthy of it's place in anyone's collection. 8/10. (October 2003)

VARIOUS : Declare His Glory! (Jarrod Cooper Ministries : JCM006)

This brand new release features, not only, Jarrod Cooper, but singer/songwriter Paul Hemingway, and vocal worship group Shekinah. With almost all the writing credits falling to the two solo artists, it's a mixture of songs that lacks a little continuity but has many highlights. The mixture of live and studio recordings work well and it's in the former style that "He's Alive" begins the listing. A typical opener, with lots of clapping & praising, it would grace any gathering. "I Rejoice…" is rather too short in length and finishes before it really has chance to shine. Indeed, this was my disappointment with many of Paul's songs. "I Surrender" is a lovely acoustic number and Felicity Cooper's "A Ti Sea La Gloria" provides the listener with a great sense of God's peace. On the whole, another winner from this fine ministry. 8/10. (March 2000)

VARIOUS : Deeper. (Integrity Music : 44552)

I must admit that my heart sank somewhat as I found this CD in the post, I expected it to be just another tedious compilation of recycled songs from the usual crowd, and although it is a compilation of songs from the usual crowd, it's actually quite good. The CD is subtitled "Two hours of deep worship for prayer and intercession". If you were to listen to the whole thing at once it would be a bit of a drag after a while, there are a few of the usual cringe inducing comments littered through it here and there, although not as many as some CD's seem to have, also some of the "spontaneous" worship sounds very well rehearsed, and a lot of the congregations seem to consist of large choirs. One outstanding example, in one song the leader exhorts the congregation to sing louder, and you can tell that the huge increase in volume is not because people are singing louder, but because the sound engineer has pushed the fader up. (Or perhaps I'm being cynical) Despite that though there are some really good tracks on here. "Glory" by Klaus is excellent, as is "Make way for the King" by Lenny Leblanc. The outstanding tracks for me thought were "All creation worships you" by Tony Melendez, and "Open up the sky" by Deluge. There are songs by Hillsong, Gateway and New Life on here among others, providing different styles of worship. A double CD of live worship that actually makes it onto my MP3 player has to have something going for it. Definitely worth a listen this one. 8/10 Andy Sayner. (September 2009)

VARIOUS : Discover Worship. (Elevation : ICC1285D)

Here's a novel idea from Elevation. A selection of 16 worship songs from 4 emerging writers, Leigh Barnard, Luke Finch, John Mongan and Wayne Sanders. Three of them have previously released albums of their music, but this idea is the chance to bring the new writer's to your attention. First up is ' Fall' by Luke Finch. It's a good song, and worthy of opening any time of worship, but the following songs lack any real punch. 'Let Your Mercy', Highest Praise', 'Glorify the King', and 'Glory Streams From Your Throne' are all pretty much the same and nothing different to hundreds of songs I've heard before. 'Countless Are the Mercies' briefly turn things round with a catchy tune and I found myself singing along to this one quite quickly. 'See Your Glory' is a prayer for revival, while 'Your Love Has lifted Me High' wasn't a bad song, but it's heavy feel made it difficult for me to see it as a song for collective worship. Leigh Barnard's 'Faithful God' reminded me of an old James Taylor song from long ago, while 'Shout to You' is an uplifting rock tune. As a brief look at four song writers, I guess Luke Finch was the one to impress me the most. As for the others, well, they offered little different to what's already out there. 5/10 (September 2009)

VARIOUS : Dove Hits 2004. (Word : 0806 8863131 1)

Subtitled "15 of the year's best Dove Award nominated artists and songs", this release should give you some idea of just what's happening in US Christian music. Like a lot of compilations, I guess personal taste counts for how many of the songs really appeal. Mercy Me give it a good pop start with "The Change Inside of Me", before Mark Schultz performs the brilliant tear-jerker "Letters From War". What's happened to the Newsboys over the years I just don't know. From the quirky days of "Take Me To Your Leader", they seem to have mellowed into just another praise and worship band. However, their contribution, "He Reigns" is a good song. The album also features a No.1 country hit, that being Randy Travis' "Three Wooden Crosses", while Casting Crowns sound remarkably like Nickleback on "American Dreams". Jaci Velasquez gives a polished performance of "Jesus Is", and Christiandoms latest pop sensation, Stacie Orrico delivers a tepid little number called "Strong Enough". Good in parts, but that personal taste means this is only a 6/10. (September 2004)

VARIOUS : Encounter Worship Vol.3. (Fierce : Fiercd41)

Here's another worship album with a host of new songs for you to enjoy. The lead vocals are shared by four leaders, but the only one you can definitely name to a song is Cathy Burton, as she is the sole female. Indeed, she gives a great individual vocal to 'Hosanna'. It's a beautiful song, and Cathy is on top form. Before that comes the song that should have been a huge hit last Christmas, Tim Hughes' 'Happy Day'. 9 months on, it's still a great song. Song wise, I thought there was a great variation in quality. Some, like 'Glorious' and 'I've Found a love' just didn't hit the right spots for me. However, Cathy Burton comes to the fore again on 'Great and Glorious', lifting things once more. Of the remainder, 'Mighty To Save' is praise song of real quality, and I think that 'The Highest and the Greatest' has all the ingredients to become a classic song around the world. A bit of a hit and miss overall, but certainly has it's moments. 6/10. (September 2008)

VARIOUS : Essential Christian Songs - God of Wonders. (ICC : ICCD72530)

When the title includes the words "best of.." or, as in this case, "Essential", I often wonder on what, criteria the songs are chosen, and by who? There's certainly no complaints from me about the contents of the lyrics of any of the songs here. They're all full of praise, worship, prayers, and hopes, written by a number of well respected writers. "God of Wonders" reminds me a lot of a Fernando Ortega song but is, in fact, penned by Steve Hindalong. "Testify to Love" is co-written by Paul Field, Henk Pool, Ralph VanManen, and Robert Riekerk, and the combined influences result in an 80's sounding pop/rocker that has somehow survived the test of time. Other songs included are Michael Card's "El Shaddai" and John De Jong's beautiful "All I Can Bring". I also liked the edgy worship of "I Want to Hear Your Voice" - very fresh sounding. Essential Christian songs? It's your choice. 7/10. (July 2003)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Eurochrist Sampler 1. (CD £10 from: NSC, West Down, Cheriton Bishop, Exeter, England, EX6 6HG).

Over in Norway, two small record labels have come together to produce a fine sampler of tracks from European CCM bands. Sarepta and 1340 Records have taken tracks from As If…,NSC, Skellig, and many more to feature an insight into 18 different bands/artists. If there's one thing that's constant throughout the album it's the driving guitar. From the Wheatus sounding Maybe June and through the bonus American contribution Wonderboys, it's the stringed instrument that's to the fore. Mind you, As If's experimental "Full Bloom" doesn't mean to say that they've changed their style, perhaps just continuing to grow? Debby Barnes' "Three in One" is Garbage, and I mean that in the sense that the finished product sounds like the band! Target's "Perseverance" features their bright pop style that was so evident in their Cd release of last year, while Ascension's "Goats" is another track lifted from a successful album. Of those I'd heard before, it was good to hear NSC's "Breakpedal" again and, while not a personal favourite of mine, it's very popular live. For something completely different, Nancy Sawyer's "Dancing on the Inside" is a welcome relief, with her lighter, folk/pop and sweet voice. There again, if moshing's your sort of thing, check out the German band Woodencross. "Ghandi" is wonderful. Starting with a terrific brass section, it's then head's down for some music. Interesting collection and one that does show what unearthed talent lies across Europe. 7/10. (June 2001)

VARIOUS : Everlasting God - Live Worship. (Kingsway : KMCD2893)

Everlasting God is the latest in what appears to be a never-ending stream of worship compilations that are doing the rounds at the moment. That aside however, it is one of good quality as you would expect from such a huge label in the CCM business, featuring 10 tracks from many of today's big names with the likes of Brenton Brown, Tim Hughes, Stuart Townend & Andy Bromley making appearances on here. To kick the CD off, we have "The Greatest Day In History (Happy Day)" a Tim Hughes/Ben Cantelon collaboration which has plenty of bounce to it & is full of great praise to get things off to a good start - one I have heard at a number of summer conferences & I have to say this is a great rendition, capturing a lot of the live atmosphere. Others also fare well in this area - "Lord I'm Grateful (Grace)" & the ever-present Gareth Robinson classic "Good & Gracious" are classic examples with bucket loads of feeling & great musicianship. "Strength Will Rise (Everlasting God)" also does a particularly good job despite if not being one of my personal live favourites. Not all capture the essence of the events quite so well, as "Clothed With Splendour (Awesome God)" by Andy Bromley/Chris Donohue demonstrates; a track which I found a somewhat flat & lacking punch in what I thought would be energetic with bags of flavour. The massive majority are however very well executed. As with many compilations, there's no real order to the tracks that would suggest a natural progression to worship, but it is certainly worthy of consideration for the content of familiar & atmospheric live worship from the major names. 8/10 Simon Redfern (December 2008)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Everybody Praise - All Age Worship. (ICC : ICCD20130).

I've got to get it off my chest right now...this is pretty awful. My most humble apologies to everyone involved with this record but it contains some of the worst praise and worship songs that I've ever heard. Writers such as Paul Field, Noel Richards and Judy Mackenzie Dunn all contribute but of little consequence. "Wake Up My Body" made my children cringe, complete with it's Sesame Street type chorus. "Fruit of the Spirit" is worse still and sounds as if it's come straight from one of those awful 1960's variety shows. If there is a highlight to the album, it could be the way that the acoustic guitar playing on "Father God I Come To You" lifts an ordinary song out of mediocrity. 1 don't think that I've ever felt so bad about reviewing an album . 1/10. (September 1997)

VARIOUS : Experience His Presence. (Integrity : 42642)

Here's another one of those compilation albums that you wonder from the moment you see it, is it just going to be the same old songs been churned out once again. Well, thankfully, this one isn't and it has plenty of bright new songs for the listener. Paul Baloche starts proceedings with a typically, empowering rendition of 'Hosanna'. In similar style, New Life Worship's Ross Parsley delivers a rousing and uplifting 'My Saviour Lives'. The Gateway Worship come up next, and deliver a medium paced song called 'Come Thou Font, Come Thou King'. It's a really good song and has a celtic feel about it. Other artists featured include Don Moen, Bethany Worship and Brian Doerksen - the latter contributing well with 'Holy God'. Probably not one for the radio, but I'm sure the epic 'Revelation Song' will go down well with listeners. This version really raises the roof and the sound is bound to lift your spirits. All in all, a nice collection of new music. 8/10. (January 2008)

VARIOUS : Face to Face. (Kingsway : KMCD2915)

This worship Cd is subtitled "Songs For Women", but as I don't have a female reviewer on the team, I took the plunge and listened while I did some ironing! There are 10 songs on offer featuring artists such as Joanne Hogg, Lou Fellingham, Margaret Becker, Geraldine Latty, Kelly Minter, Kristyn Getty and more. I guess, from the Celtic sound and writing credits that 'From the Breaking of the Dawn' is Kristyn Getty singing. There's no track listing for each artist, but the song itself is very nice, and proclaims how we should stand firm in our love for God. Matt Redman's 'Jesus Christ' gets a fantastic treatment from Margaret Becker. Indeed, this is Becker at her very best, and the version is very deep and meaningful. The next song of note is Kelly Minter's 'Fallen From A Perfect Place'. This gentle song really draws the listener in for some peaceful worship. It's not all heavenly though in sound. Mid album, there are some rather ordinary tracks, before the closing 'When the Music Fades' brings back the quality. So, is it a women only album? Not really, but the sentiment is quite good. 6/10 (April 2009)

VARIOUS : Favourite Carols. (Alliance : 50285 1902782 5)

Performed by the Scottish Festival Singers, and recorded at St Cuthbert's Church Edinburgh, this releases features exactly what it says. Twenty Favourite Carols, sung by a seasoned choir and soloists, that gives you an old fashioned Christmas feeling. There's no surprises, no frills, and no techno wizardry involved (recording apart), it's just plain, simple carols, sung in a way that the older members of any family will appreciate. Tracks include "On Christmas Night", "We Three Kings", "O Come All Ye Faithful", and "Joy to the World". A very healthy Christmas serving. 7/10. (December 2002)

VARIOUS : Favourite Hymns Vol.3 & 4. (Alliance : 505285 19020222 & 50285 19020321)

What new words can be said about two collections of hymns that have, already, stood the test of time? Two albums that contain 40 of the best loved hymns, from classic writers such as Charles Wesley and William Henry Parker, as well as the relatively new school of Graham Kendrick and Melody Green. Recorded at St Cuthbert's Church, Edinburgh, and featuring The Scottish Festival Singers, songs old and new bring old fashioned church worship alive once more. "O For A Thousand Tongues" is acknowledged as one of Wesley's greatest pieces, and it's always been one of my personal favourites. I was soon singing along, much to my work colleagues mystification. "Low in the Grave" is presented with great gusto, while the gentleness of "Spirit of the Living God" flows easily into the listener's spirit. "The Old Rugged Cross", "The Lord is My Shepherd", and "Immortal Invisible" are just three more excellent pieces on these wonderfully produced albums. 9/10. (August 2002)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Feel It - New Country. (Pila/Nelson Word).

Get me my ten gallon hat and rhinestone jacket.....Sorry, country music has this effect on me. Twenty-one tracks on show with this release featuring the top artists of the new country age. To be fair, there's five easy going tracks before the real classy stuff is let loose. Michael James gives us track 6, a ballad, called 'With Every Turn of the World'. Excellent numbers include Kate Taylor's 'Satellite Sky', Mid South's guitar driven 'Love Comes Through', and Jackson Finch's thought provoking 'It's A Hard Life'. Add to this, songs by Carolyn Arrends, Andy Landis (both NFN fave's) and Steve Grace and you'll realise what quality is on offer. Two interesting songs require a special mention. Lost Dogs' 'Bad Indigestion' - referring to the fact that we take in so much junk from the world, it gives us...- and the simply superb 'Elvis has Left the Building, Jesus is Coming Soon' by Mercy River. If it wasn't for those first few songs, this would be almost a ten. Instead... 8/10 (December 1996)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : First Love. (KINGSWAY : KMCD2181).

In early 1997, an historic gathering of music pioneers of the Jesus Movement took place at a mountain retreat in South California. More than 25 years after those initial times, the likes of Love Song, Barry McGuire, 2nd Chapter of Acts, and many others, share their music from those early beginning of Jesus Music to the present. It's a double CD, and one that really takes some listening too, for a relative youngster of CCM. In fact, all but two of the artists featured were brand new to me and I found it difficult to listen to the old fashioned music. However, let's not take away just what is on offer here and, also, remember that without these people CCM might not have got to where it is today. For all you historians, there's plenty to get your teeth into, including a brand new Keith Green song that has only recently been found. Randy Stonehill sounds as good as he does today and Darrell Mansfiled's "Million Dollar Feeling" stands up well. Also available is a two video set of the performances with extra interview footage that really does give you the feel of what it was to be involved in the Jesus Movement. Too many artists to list, but an album for those with a real love for early 70's musicas well as those who just want to find out more. 7/10 for the CD and 8/10 for the video. (November 1999)

VARIOUS : Focus on Intimacy. Kingsway : KMCD2653)

Here are 15 songs that, according to the CD sleeve, will help us to "come close to the Lord and know that you are safe in His arms of love." The first thing that struck me about this compilation of songs was just how many were brand new to me. Credit Kingsway for not just collecting the better known songs. It starts off with a gentle rendition of Matt Redman's "One Thing My Heart is Set Upon", and is followed by a breathy male vocal on "I Sing a Simple Song of Love". By track 3, "I Will Be yours", I'd already found the songs soothing and relaxing, bringing a peace to my surroundings. By the time "I Just Want to Be Where You Are" appeared, I was experiencing a new awakening of my closeness with God. That song, alone, really said it all for me. I've rarely found an album like this to really soak in God's love, but tis one really did do it for me. Other highlights included "My Times Are in Your Hands" and "Welcomed Into the Courts", both refreshing and God filled. 9/10. (February 2006)

Various : For God So Loved the World. (EMI CMG)

This is an EMI CMG-released compilation seeking to draw the listener again into meditation upon the cross. Collections which contain exclusively songs which have already been released are always a bit of a difficult one for me. Take this one for example: the songs are great, particularly the contributions from two underrated artists, Charlie Hall and Nichole Nordemann (both two songs each) while rousing contributions from Brits Matt Redman (a duet of "The Wonderful Cross" with Chris Tomlin) and Martyn Layzell with his classic "Lost in Wonder" have this fair isle well represented. There's even an outing for the quite brilliant "Son of God" by Starfield, taken from an album that anyone who likes modern worship (Delirious, Matt Redman et al) really should be checking out), and on and on. Simply put, there's not a dud here. Listening, I found myself being transported into an attitude of worship, so I suppose you might say that the compilation achieves its aim. I can't help but feel though a small sense of disquiet that labels in the Christian "market" continue to re-package previously released material and ask fans to buy it more than once. 7/10. Haydon Spenceley. (April 2007)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : For the One I Love. (Kingsway KMCD2049).

Primarily released for Valentine's Day, "For the One I Love" is a collection of songs, to "celebrate the love that you cherish". Twelve tracks, given the instrumental treatment of soft and gentle, piano and saxophone sounds. Imagine a candlelight dinner for two, a warm fire, and this album playing in the background. Got the mood? Mike Haughton's saxophone work is quite outstanding throughout, married to the keyboards and piano of Pete Haslam and others. Needless to say, all the songs are either medium paced or slow ballads. There's a lovely version of Michael W. Smith's "I Will Be Here For You", as well as Lionel Ritchie's "Hello". The downside to this album, for me, was the unfamiliarity with most of the tracks. Despite Haughton's skills, by mid-way the whole thing was beginning to tire. 5/10. (April 1998)

Various: Freaked! A Gotee Tribute to dcTalk's "Jesus Freak" (Gotee GTD 39233)

No surprise from the title as this is indeed a collection of re-worked tracks in tribute to dcTalk's original album. Well, the title of this one certainly had more than a little bearing on my initial reaction to this CD…I was indeed freaked! Don't get me wrong, a great collection of mostly palatable songs indeed but what a peculiar mix of styles…I mean the opening "So Help me God" by The Showdown is very Nickelback in style but is followed by a track named "Colored People" which is something more akin to Gabrielle (remember her from the 90's)? Weird choice, but it gets even odder. Interspersed between the mainly rocky numbers are a few short musical interludes which defy all rhyme & reason, especially track 9, the "Jesus Freak Reprise" which sounds like a group of drunks at the end of a long night - did make me chuckle & guffaw even if it wasn't a major musical triumph. That said though, if you can ignore the interludes the album is highly listenable with mainstream rock, grunge & something a bit heavier for the hardcore amongst us - all best played at high volume for added effect! One of my favourites was the "Jesus Freak" done by 4th Avenue Jones which combines Nirvana-style music backing with rap & female vocals - sounds bizarre but it works. "Like it, Love it Need it" from Fighting Instinct is also worthy of a mention - great nodding dog song. Overall a good listen but let down by the weird combination of styles & the strange interludes. 6/10 Simon Redfern (December 2006)

VARIOUS : Global Gathering. (Kingsway : KMCD2466)

When 40,000 gathered at Wembley Stadium in 1997 to praise and worship God, it was the culmination of a vision that had been in the heart of Noel Richard's for nearly 10 years. But, that gathering wasn't the end of the vision and in the year 2000 66,000 people attended the Millenium Stadium in Wales for another gathering. More stadium events have since been played and now a Cd has been released featuring some of the best moments from those concerts. "Global Gathering" is the title of this new CD and includes artists such as Matt Redman, Robin Mark, and of course Noel Richards. The former gives renditions of songs such as "Lord Let Your Glory Fall" and "Let Everthing That Has Breath", while the Richards' himself chips in with the storming "Calling All Nations" and the excellent "Dreamers of Your Dreams". Some of the songs seems to have been recorded to death over the last few years but new ones like Chris Tomlin's "You Are the Lord" and 100 Hours' "You Are Holy" stop this from becoming just "another worship album". 7/10. (February 2003)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : 'Global Warming'. (Sparrow/Alliance).

Another one of those compilations that let you sample artists that you may not have heard of before. Five artists here, from five different countries, each performing three songs. What About? are from Norway and sound like their secular hero's A-ha. There pop songs are the best, if a little short. Holland's Ralph Van Manen plays the best version of Martyn Joseph's 'I Will Follow' for some time and he looks like a man to watch out for. Sweden's Edward Negussie has a laid back style which is quite bland, while Ireland's Split Level bounce things up again with the terrific 'Why'. Rounding up the collection is England Message Tribe and the pick of their offering being 'The Year of The Lord's Favour'. It's a full price album, and I just wonder whether you'd want to part with your well-earned cash for this? If you've got a few quid, you could do a lot worse than giving this a try. 7/10. (August 1996)

VARIOUS : Gloria. (Rockettown : 826872003327)

Produced by those leading lights, Charlie Peacock and Scott Dente, here's something fresh for the Festive period. When I say, fresh, I mean that it's not just a collection of well known artists singing the same old carols and Christmas songs as usual. It begins with Peacock's rendition of his own song, "Gloria", sung in a duet with Ginny Owens. From that moment on, you know that this album has something going for it. Wayne Kirkpatrick's "God is With Us" is sung by Amy Grant, and that's closely followed by Kirkpatrick's rendition of a Chris Rice song, "Welcome to Our World". "O Come All Ye Faithful" IS one well known carol that makes the listing, but Shaun Groves and George Rowe's version makes it a worthwhile inclusion. My favourite track came from Christine Dente, and co-written with Peacock. Here, she sounds just full of Christmas in an olde world type number. A nice collection from some great artists. 8/10. (December 2004)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Grapevine 96 The Power of Your Love. (ICC)

I wasn't there, but I do like this live worship album. Featuring Chris Bowater, Johnny Markin, and Trish Morgan - amongst others - there are 14 songs to keep your eyes and hearts firmly fixed on God. Kicking off with 'He's the Lord of Hosts', the music slowly leads you into worship rather than expecting an immediate response. It's always difficult to imagine the event as it happened, unless you were actually there, but the leaders do seem to have a gentle way of encouraging. 'Lord We Come to You', 'Ready For the Rain' , and 'Heartbeat' are just three more titles that Grapevine 'fans' can hear on this album. 7/10. (December 1996)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Grapevine Celebrations - The Best of... (Word : SPND009)

Not another compilation? There seems to be rather too many of these being released at the moment instead of spending the money to promote new talent. "What next?", I ask myself, "The Best of the 'Best of' album?". This one, for what it's worth, is fairly mediocre in quality. The opening two tracks had me cringing as I visualised Alvin Stardust on those quirky Rock Gospel Shows of the 80's. The first high point comes from Trish Morgan and the beautifully crafted 'You Are Lord'. Martin Smith then brings acoustic worship to it's peak with his own 'Thank You For Saving Me'. Listening to the response of those gathered at the event, there is no doubt that, at the time, worship was special. However, after listening to so many similar albums over the last couple of months, I found this - despite Noel Richard's 'Behold the Lord' - just uninspiring. 4/10. (November 1997)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Greenbelt 25. (ICC ICCD27630)

Although I have never been a great Greenbelt fan myself, this album is undoubtedly going to stir a lot of happy memories in people. In fact, the opening track from River City People prompted me to buy their album many moons ago. There's some really good sounds here, like, Michael W. Smith's "Secret Ambition", Eden Burning's "Deep Blue Sea", and "Bright Red Carpet" from All Star United. For me, there's also some poor material included but, there again, I've never been a fan of Ricky Ross or Martyn Joseph. Some of these songs you won't of heard for years and Steve Taylor's "We Don't Need No Colour Code" will remind everyone of his outrageous stage shows. Vigilantes of Love provide something different with the acoustic-folk "The Opposite's True" and, for once, I even enjoyed Garth Hewitt! 8/10. (February 1999)

VARIOUS : Hallelujahs. (Rocketown Records : 826872000326)

After the success of Michael W Smith's worship albums it is, perhaps, no surprise that his record label puts out a similar collection from the company's artists. Chris Rice, Watermark, Shaun Groves, etc, they're all here. The former sings the title track nicely, even if it is a little dull in content, while Ginny Owens chips in with two good songs "All I Want to Do" and the pretty "I Am Nothing". Alathea contribute, perhaps, the best track from their debut album, "Emmanuel". I liked it on release, and I still get the same tingling feeling listening to it now. Ronnie Freeman and Out of the Grey are also featured on an album that doesn't really lead anywhere. As a promo, it's passable. 5/10. (October 2003)

VARIOUS : Heart of Worship Vol 5. (Authentic : 8203352)

For those not familiar with this series, this album consists of studio recordings of well known worship songs performed by an independent group of musicians and worship leaders. So what you are not getting is a repackaging of something you may already have or a snapshot of a particular worship event. My initial impression of this particular two disc set was that it is an album of two halves, disc one being far stronger overall than disc two (although two of the best songs, excellent renditions of "Beautiful" and "May the Words of My Mouth" are found on the second cd). I think this rests mainly in a poor choice of track ordering for disc two which does not allow the worship to flow naturally and seems not to make musical sense either. The musicianship however, is excellent and there is a strong sense of worship from the band although the production, particularly on the opening tracks, sounds rather "boomy". The big let down though is the addition of a congregation on a large proportion of the songs. This is completely contrived and makes no sense to me at all. If you want a congregation to be involved to enhance the worship feel then surely it is best record it live in a worship setting. If you want a studio album, make it that. What you end up with here is a worship mess which works against the best intentions of the band and completely spoils some of the more initmate numbers. Another niggle is that the track listing for disc one is wrong. Overall then, a little disappointing, which is a shame because there really is some excellent stuff on here. The songs work better in isolation rather than as a whole package and that is probably how I would use an album like this. 6/10 Robin Thompson (May 2005)

VARIOUS : Heart of Worship. Vol.8. (Authentic : 8204952)

The first thing I liked about this two CD package was the sleeve notes. The use of a slightly larger typeface meant that I could actually read them without reaching for a magnifying glass! You know the formula here, a mixture of live and studio recorded tracks, with some well known songs, and a few new ones thrown in too. CD1 has an uplifting and inspiring start with "Enough" and "Because of Your Love". "Hosanna" is a great song and the female vocalist really gives everything. "Refuge" is sung about an unchanging God, and that is another top number. There are no references to the actual singers of each song but the male on "Send Me" does a remarkable impression of Enrique Iglesias. The regularity of good songs throughout the album is a massive plus and although I preferred the first Cd, the second does have it's moments, such as "Holding Nothing Back", "I Am Yours" and "Worthy is the Lamb". Whether luck comes into it I don't know, but this seems to be a well thought out collection for worship. 8/10. (August 2009)

VARIOUS : Here I Am to Worship 3. (EMI : WTD 45993)

As the title suggests, this is the third in the series of 'Here I Am to Worship' which looks to bring the listener the best in modern worship sung in churches across the country. And, after listening to the album, I'd certainly be very pleased to see some of these songs used in my church. Jeremy Camp starts things off with a good version of Tim Hughes' 'Beautiful One". That's followed by a powerful, guitar driven 'Father, Spirit, Jesus' from Casting Crowns, which was new to me. Vicky Beeching provides the reflective "Above All Else" while Chris Tomlin continues to impress with the radio friendly 'Not to Us'. The Robbie Seay Band is a new name to me, but with distinctive vocals, provide the attractive 'Hallelujah God Is near'. By now, we're at mid-album, and the quality doesn't drop, with further offerings from Rebecca St James, and Kutless. Matt Redman sings a spirit filled version of 'Once Again' and there's a punchy rock number from Audio Adrenaline. This is certainly one of the better compilation albums around. 8/10 (June 2006)

VARIOUS : Heritage Hymns. (Kingsway : KMCD2823)

For those of you who just love the old fashioned hymns, here's a super collection of 50 such pieces of music. Some are sang accappella, whilst others have either organ or orchestral backing. All are sang with the utmost care and attention. It might be a bit much to expect you to listen to all 50 hymns one after another, but I enjoyed hearing some long forgotten tunes in short doses. The list is endless, but classics include 'Thine Be the Glory', 'Love Divine All Loves Excelling', 'Morning Has Broken', 'Great is Thy Faithfulness', and 'When I Survey the Wondrous Cross'. From those I wasn't too familiar with, 'From the Squalor of a Borrowed Stable' and 'Lord I Come Before Your Throne of Grace', were both worthy of a mention. This collection will probably not appeal to those used to a lively, modern church, but for us oldies, it's a reminder of something special. 7/10 (Feburary 2008)

Various : Hip Hope Hits 2007 (Gotee : GT047744)

This is a compilation of the best Christian Hip Hop Hits of the last year and features artists such as DJ Maj, John Reuben and Toby Mac. Grits kick the cd off with "Changes", an honest appraisal of the change that takes place in the life of a believer. This is a rather laid back number, which contrasts with the more aggressive second track, "Stepped On" from Pettidee. There are a number of stand out tracks on this album, my favourites being Mars iLL's "More", the brass driven "Crazy" from Liquid and the frank honesty of "Plain White Rapper" from KJ-52. Many of these artists have very clever and subtle ways of expressing their intentions and emotions and many of the strengths of these songs lie in their lyrics which are often underpinned with humour. There are far too many good examples of this to quote here, and I suggest you try them out for yourself. Rap often has dark suggestive overtones but these are not present here. Far from it, this is an album bubbling with hope and optimism amidst the angst and troubles of life. If this cd can't speak to a troubled generation, what can? 9/10 Robin Thompson. (March 2007)

VARIOUS : Hip Hope 2008. (Gotee : 67090118)

This is the fourth album in the series of Hip Hope hits, and gives a selection of today's music scene in the hip hop genre. I'm always keen to listen to all types of music, so I thought that I'd give this one a go myself. Toby Mac starts things off with a song called 'Boomin'. Now, this really sounded like rock music, and I was a bit cofused. The second track is 'Whatcha Gonna Do With It' by Family Force 5, and this, too, is more rock orientated than hip hop. I'm afraid that a lot of the songs made no impression on me and I found Christian messages rather thin on the ground when it came to the lyrics. However, 'Hear My Cry' by Soul P talks about being led to God and I quite liked this one. The track that did stand out for me was Diverse Citizens' 'Party'. Let's all celebrate being part of God's family and do it like the band, with a fusion of rock and hip hop, and some great, blazing vocals. It's a tired old cliché I know, but if this is the best that hip hop has to offer, I'd rather not bother with another album. 3/10 (April 2008)

VARIOUS : I AM Free. (Inpop : POD1388)

This collection of contemporary worship songs opens with the latest radio hit from the Newsboys. Called " I Am Free". It's a corker of a track, and one of those that you could listen to loudly, whilst you're driving down an open road. Israel Houghton performs "Friend of God" in his own inimitable, gospel style, while Tree 63 give a good account of themselves on "Blessed Be Your Name". A new song to me was "Yearn", performed by Shane and Shane. I found it to be very passionate and it really hits home about how we should "yearn" for God. What would a collection be without a Delirious track? It's not the best version I've ever heard, but there's a lot of power in "I Could Sing of Your Love Forever". Other acts featured include Jimmy Needham, Foolish Things, and Superchick who give us a timely reminder just how and why we should worship an all powerful, loving God. As compilations go, this is quite a good collection of songs. 8/10. (February 2007)

Various: I Could Sing of Your Love Forever Vols 1&2. (Sparrow/EMI EMID2705)

This is a compilation of two previously released compilations and contains 50 tracks, split conveniently into two studio discs and two live discs. Some of the recordings on here are excellent, Ten Shekel Shirt"s "Meet with Me" and Noel Richards version of "Come Now is the Time" being my notable favourites but I also found some of the material to be much less engaging. I have to say that, on the whole, the live discs capture the essence of worship much better than their studio counterparts. They are far more vibrant and passionate whereas, and this is a worrying trend in CCM at the moment, the arrangements in some of the studio songs are so at odds with the songs themselves that their meaning and sentiment is swamped. You only have to listen to Matt Redman's "Heart of Worship " to see what I mean. I know that this is not the fault of the compilers of this collection but it has an effect of the overall ambience and feel nonetheless. I'm always sceptical of compilations to be honest, often finding it hard to find a ministry basis for them - this is yet another that seeks to showcase "songs that are having a major impact in worship around the world". However, this is better than some others and is probably worth it for the live discs alone. 7/10 Robin Thompson. (June 2006)

VARIOUS : 'i-Sing Worship'. (Kingsway : KMCD2871)

This double CD set is intended as a contemporary worship resource. CD1 includes lead vocals, CD2 does not. Printed lyrics are included, and sheet music is said to be available via www.kingswaysongs.com, although I couldn't find any reference to the album when I tried - hopefully the review copy was an 'advance' one and all details will be available by the time you read this. Seven vocalists are featured on CD1 - Susan Ashton, Andrew Mitchell, Steve Garrett, Andy Bromley, Christine Dente, Paul Oakley and Godfrey Birtill. Unfortunately they are not identified track by track, although intelligent guesswork(!) can identify some of them from the songwriting credits. My favourite was Paul Oakley's update of Frances R Havergal's 'Take my life and let it be', which features a nice repeating piano riff that carries the melody along and beautifully underpins the strong lyrics. Other standouts for me were 'All glory to the King of Ages', a good melody, well performed, written by Paul Oakley and Chris Spring - and 'In Christ Alone', which seems to have become such a 'standard' that I can barely believe that Keith Getty and Chris Townend wrote it as recently as 2001! Whilst production quality overall ranges from good to adequate, the sound quality ranges from adequate to poor- the opener 'Clothed with splendour' being particularly distorted and compressed. The backing tracks on CD2 are exactly what they say. In common with other 'performance-style' worship tracks however, groups intending singing to these for 'small meeting' worship may struggle with the lack of musical 'cues'. Overall, 7/10. Dave Deeks (August 2008)

VARIOUS : IN The Name of Love. (EMI : Spd 83552R)

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this album goes directly to World Vision (UK) to help their HIV/Aids work in Zambia and other Southern African countries. Kingsway Communications will also donate 30p for each full price copy sold. So, it's all in a good cause, but is that a good enough reason to buy the album? Imagine going to see 13 U2 tribute bands and artists at your local pub. Then, on your way out, buy the CD of the night's highlights. That, in a nutshell,is what you get here. Some you will like, others you will not. Pillar start things off with a passable version of "Sunday Bloody Sunday", which is quickly followed by a better than average "Beautiful Day" performed by Sanctus Real. Sixpence none the Richer and Delirious? perform weak versions of "Love is Blindness" and "Pride", respectively, while Tait covers "One" quite well. Best by far comes the Grits featuring Jadyn Maria, and their hip-hop take of "With or Without You". It keeps just enough of the original feeling of the song, yet they really make it their own. For the money it raises, this album must be worth your while. For the music content, let's just say, it could be better. 6/10. (March 2005)

VARIOUS : Irish Christmas. (Spring Hill : 7890 4210502 6)

Sub-titled "Tradtional Christmas carols featuring authentic Celtic instruments", the first thing that struck a chord with me was the fact that this album was recorded and produced in Nashville and, not, Ireland. Still, the list of musicians seemed to capture the spirit quite well, and we're treated to some jigs, ballads, and haunting music. The "I Saw Three Ships" medley is, indeed, a jig, and it works well, adding a certain spice to those well known songs. "The First Noel" is also played well, but I did start to tire by the time "The Wexford Carol" came along. There's over 50 minutes of music here featuring well known classics such as "Good Christian Men Rejoice" and "Deck the Halls" but I lost interest very early in proceedings. One tune slips anonymously into the next and an album that started so brightly dims to a flicker by the end. A good idea, but not one that lasts the course. 4/10. (December 2004)

VARIOUS : iWORSHIP 24:7 - Expreience. (Integrity 44542)

The latest in the top-selling iWORSHIP series is a 2 disc package comprising a 16-track CD plus a DVD of live worship videos, song movies, a couple of videos plus a few bits of extras thrown in for good measure. For this alone, it can't be criticised for value! The CD pulls together songs from a variety of well known bands & artists with the likes of The Newsboys, Paul Baloche, & Hillsong making appearances with what have become very well known recent classics in churches everywhere such as "Hosanna" (Hillsong) & "Mighty to Save" as well as Lincoln Brewster's variation on the old clappy favourite "This is the Day" (Today is the Day). This is indeed a successful recipe, but it means there's little variety in the style (i.e. quieter verses building to loud rocky choruses of praise) which has become what seems to be the current popular formula. There is some variation however in the form of Israel Houghton's "I Will Search" & the wonderful ballad-style "You Are Good" from Gateway Worship. Personally I love this stuff & I know it'll be a hit with the target audience, but I am becoming ever more conscious of a growing yearning for something a bit different in the P&W arena. The DVD presents us with 5 live worship songs, including "Mighty to Save" from the CD - all the renditions are excellent but some of the camera work is frustrating as the images dart very quickly from one place to another which does become a slight annoyance. 5 Song Movies follow on which are in essence songs with lyrics set to moving images which again are OK but some of the backgrounds can make reading them difficult. Ignore the promotion for iWORSHIP Flexx software & there are a couple of bonus music videos & downloads plus a snippet from Paul Baloche talking through his song "Rising". An excellent value compilation with some great current material but a bit of variety would be a bonus for some. 9/10 Simon Redfern (April 2009)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Jesus - The Epic Mini Series. (Sparrow :7243 85111129)

Boasting a list of brilliant artists, this album was bound to be something special. Leann Rimes makes full use of her precocious talent on "I Need You", a great ballad, and DC Talk present a re-vamped version of the classic 60's hit "Spirit in the Sky". Avalon show off their pop pedigree on "Fly To You" and Sarah Brightman reprises her hit "Pie Jesu". And, if those are not enough, the icing on the cake is provided by two superb ballads. Top American country act, Lonestar follow up their world wide hit "Amazed" with "Love Can Change Your Mind" - a song that brings a lump to my throat every time I hear it. Magnificent, just doesn't do the song justice, it really is incredible. Jaci Velasquez then follows with a track "When You Walked Into My Life". Her smooth, rich vocals, melt into your heart and produce one, very classy, love song. Often, these compilations fail to deliver the promise but, on this occasion, you won't be disappointed. 9/10. (June 2000)

VARIOUS : Joy to the World. (INO Records : 40462)

Sub-titled "The Ultimate Christmas Collection", this album had a lot to live up to before it had even reached my CD player. It begins with Mercy Me and "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen". Production hasn't been spared on this track and the intstrumentation and choral backing are of epic proportions. Phil Whickham's droning vocals, on the other hand, a real turn off for the song "Messiah". Phillips, Craig & Dean, Mark Harris, and Todd Agnew provide pleasurable listening with their contributions but I'm not sure what Sonicflood were thinking of when it came to their interpretation of "Angels We Have Heard on High". On the plus side, it's not just a straight copy of the ancient tune, and some thought must have gone into it, but this version does absolutely nothing for such a classic carol. Of the rest, Darlene Zschech and Hillsong provide the pick with "Hallelujah", while 4Him runs a close second. The Ultimate Christmas Collection? No, not really. 6/10. (December 2006)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Jumping in the House of God III. (Alliance:1908122).

Featuring the Tribe, Delirious?, Raze, Matt Redman, and many more, this release moves on from it's predecessor. It starts well enough, with the Tribe giving it all with 'Lift It' but it's track 3 that really makes the hair on the back of your neck stand up. Ex-HOG man, Justin Thomas raps his way - Coolio style - with the super excellent 'Thank You For the Rain'. Believe me, this number is just soooooo good! Things go rather downhill after this with bland efforts from Minds of Men and Storm. Delirious? go disco? 'Revival Town' has been been turned into a monster, while Matt Redman's 'Be in My Life' has become nothing more than a dirge. There are other highlights, including Lucy Britten's pumping 'Nothing Compares' and both contributions from Raze. On the whole, I guess I disllike this album as much as I cringe when my daughter has left the car stereo tuned in to the dance music radio station. I suppose, therefore, it's not too bad but it's not patch on God II. 5/10. (October 1998)

VARIOUS : Jumping..The Highest. (Alliance : 50285 19082220).

An upbeat album not to be missed. A mixture of the previous "Jumping in the House of God" albums. There's something for everyone, if you like dance music. From very 'jumping' tracks to rap, and to old songs given the dance treatment, this is an album for the youth generation. There are quite a few WWMT songs featured on this compilation so, if you're not a fan, this may not be the album for you. I was most surprised to see an old hymn "Be Still" had made it onto the album but, I liked it's new dance style backing - far better than the traditional tune! As I said, it's a good dance album which also features Cameron Dante, Delirious, and Raze. 7/10. Annabel Wray. (June 2000)

VARIOUS : Just Worship. (Kingsway : KMCD2861)

Sub-titled '50 Must Have Worship Songs', this is another collection of songs, put together on 3 CD's. However, the brilliant thing about this collection is that I don't think that I had heard of any of the songs before! Certainly, they aren't the usual crop of well known tunes that get churned out several times each year. There are no credits for the singers or musicians featured, but they all do a sterling job. First song of note was Paul Oakley's 'We Have Prayed' sung memorably, for me, by a female vocalist. What a good song it is. Then, comes Brenton Brown and Paul Baloche's 'Praise is Rising' - an exhilarating number. A song I enjoyed singing along to was 'I Have No-one in Heaven', written by Gareth Robinson, while songs like 'You Never Cease to Amaze Me', 'So This is Love' and 'How Can I Become' all take worship to another level. It really was a pleasure to listen to these songs and latterly, I thought that 'You Give Rest to the Weary' was very beautiful. If you tired of hearing the same worship songs over Andover again, this collection will brighten your day. 9/10 (June 2008)

VARIOUS : Keswick Praise 17. (ICC : ICCD69830)

As always, hundreds gathered for the annual Keswick Convention last summer and, from it, comes the album "Keswick Praise 17". Led by John Risbridger and Colin Webster, the congregation are accompanied by some talented musicians. It begins with some Celtic worship that builds from a quiet, reflective piece, to a strong middle piece, before slowly, closing quite gently. "My Lips Shall Praise You" is a joyous song but the recording is hampered somewhat by what sounds like a chirping bird throughout! "Above All" is delivered with all the majesty that it deserves, while "When I Was Lost" gathers everyone together in full praise. I'd never heard of "Awake, Awake O Zion" but, I really enjoyed listening to it here. The mood changes towards the end for some old fashioned hymns and worship, that includes the lovely "Jesus, I Am Resting, Resting" and "Thank You For Saving Me". Not outstanding, but a worthy addition to your collection. 7/10. (February 2003)

VARIOUS : Keswick Praise 20. (ICC : ICCD0888D)

There's nothing really new about the format of a Keswick praise album, only the songs change, so you know basically what to expect. However, saying that, I've been pleased to receive and review copies of this series over the years, mostly resulting in pleasant experiences. But, on this occasion, I have to say that I found the whole thing sounding very tired. Worship leaders such as Steve James and John Risbridger, fail to liven things up and the musicianship is very ordinary. Indeed, I'm not sure whether it was a poor recording or just that some over zealous musicians in the brass section often seemed to want to take over proceedings. Songs include "Come, Now Is the Time to Worship", "Let Everything That Has Breath", and "Your Name Is Holy", but they sound very bland. The only song to really catch my imagination was the version of Stuart Townend's "Psalm 23". For once, it sounded as if the congregation and musicians really were praising as one. Not one I'd really recommend. 3/10. (March 2006)

VARIOUS : The King of All of Me. (Maranatha : 1280722)

This album of new worship from Maranatha! And Vineyard UK uniquely features new worship songs collected from churches in North America and the UK. Indeed, there's quite a variety of styles and I particularly liked the first track, "All From You". Sam Lanes provides excellent vocals to a song that although recorded in a studio, looks certain to become a favourite at live events. "How Very Great You Are" acknowledges Jesus as Saviour, while I found "Forever You" to be very anointing. "Unfailing Love" is a nice pop song and Carly Orpen sings beautifully on "How Could I Live Without You". There's some quiet worship to be found with "All That I Can Say", while there's a Delirious sound to "King Forever". I'd enjoyed most of the song by this time, so I was somewhat surprised by sombre renditions, "All Hail Jesus" and "Thirst". Neither song inspired me to worship or praise the Lord, and I found them both to be rather tedious. But, that's just a minor moan on an album that boasts some very good songs, otherwise. 7/10. (October 2006)

VARIOUS : Kingdom Come. (Gospo Centric: 5751700352).

Adapted for film from the hit stage play "Dearly Departed", Kingdom come is a collection of stories about a family that has experienced the death of the figurehead, Woodrow "Bud" Slocumb. Although tension run high during the funeral, the family finds that Bud has a valuable lesson to teach them before they lower him into the ground. With all tracks written by Kirk Franklin, you know that the standard of music is going to be good. With artists such as the man himself, plus Crystal Lewis, and Mary Mary all taking part, the result should be exceptional. Shouldn't it? The 11 songs are a mix of Urban and Gospel music. The title track is okay and the soulful "Daddy's Song" met with nodding approval from those I played it too. "Thank You" features Franklin and Mary Mary, in a hip hop number that Destiny's Child wouldn't be out of place performing. "Thy Will Be Done" features some top female harmonies, with the lead being taken by Deborah Cox. The movie features Whoopie Goldberg, amongst others, and that should ensure that the soundtrack sells in bucketloads. For me, I'd like to see the film before decididng. 6/10. (August 2001)

VARIOUS : Light of the World. (Kingsway : KMCD2859)

One thing I've noticed about this year's praise and worship compilations is the number of new songs included. Gone, are the days when the record companies released the same dozen or so songs, sung by different artists. Instead, we have fresh arrangements and joyful sounds, like this 3 CD collection from Kingsway. The songs are all live recordings and are led by worship leaders, Chris Bowater, Godfrey Birtill, Andy Bromley, Howard Williams, Gareth Clark, and Geraldine Latty. One of the early exciting songs just happens to be a well known number. 'Your Mercy Taught Us How To Dance' just leaps from your speakers and you're soon singing along. 'There's A Song' has a funky, brass accompaniment, while 'God So Loved This Whole World' is cleverly based around the words of John 3:16. I could list many highlights of this recording, but there just isn't room within this review. One minor moan is that certain songs fade out just when you're in full voice, but on the whole this is a great collection. 9/10 (September 2008, Album of the month)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Little Worshippers - Just For Kids. (Integrity: 97204).

With my family taking their turn at running the Summer Sunday School at our church, it was a gift from God when this tape turned up to review. What better way to gauge it's use than in a live situation? This is a collection aimed at little people (we used to call them children) that teach, praise, and help them learn about coming into the presence of God. Such well known songs as "From the Rising of the Sun", "He's Got the Whole World", and "This is the Day" went down really well and even the slightly differing arrangement failed to throw our group. Out of the new songs, most of them were a little difficult to learn in one session but I think that - with practice - numbers like "The B.I.B.L.E." and "If You're Saved" are going to be winners. For an age range of 4-8 year olds, the songs are fine but our 9 year old certainly wanted the Spice Girls! 7/10. (September 1997)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Live '98 - A Classic Year of live Worship. (Kingsway : KMCD2159)

1998 saw 20,000 people gather at Stoneleigh. The largest gathering of Christian women in the UK, for decades, came together at Focusfest, followed by Mandate and a huge assembly of Christian men. Soul Survivor & Re.vive @ Stoneleigh saw young people pouring out their love for the Lord, and the same generation in Canada did the same at Salvation Singing. If that's not enough, a worship team who's average age was just 21, led more than 12,000 worshippers at the Easter People event. This release captures some of these moments with many of the big names in worship appearing on this double CD - including Matt Redman, Paul Oakley, Stuart Towned, Ian White, and others. My favourite tracks are "Take Us to the River" by Robin Mark, and "Great Is He" with leader, Kate Simmonds. Wayne Drain's version of "Be Thou My Vision" is really good and the instrumental at the end rounds it off nicely. Overall, this CD is a good mixture of worship from the year's successful events. We do like these compilation records as they give you the opportunity to listen to musicians you would not normally get the chance to hear. A sound collection of live worship. 8/10. Pam & Tim Robinson. (May 1999)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Live 2002. (Kingsway : KMCD2363)

Featuring worship leaders like David Ruis, Robin Mark, Matt Redman, Brian Doerksen, Kate Simmonds, and a host of others, this double album celebrates the best of the years events from around the world. I'll get it off my chest straight away, so here goes. Why do so many modern worship leaders sound like Redman or Martin Smith? Of the 32 tracks on offer, quite a number fall into this category and I find them all quite tedious to listen to. However, there's a lot of good stuff, so let's focus on that shall we? Kate Simmonds and Redman, himself, begin things with "In Every Day That Dawns" and "I'm Making Melody" respectively. Andy Park's "I Will Praise You Lord My God" is a simple love song to the Lord, while Noel Richards' "When We Turn Our Hearts To Heaven" is a song of great power. Robin Mark's "Men Of Faith" is a rousing number of epic proportion, and always a favourite at live events. Of the other highlights, Tim Sherrington's "I Will Come To the Waters" stands out, as does Rhys Scott's "Almighty God". Both are quality songs from relatively new writers. Not an original release but pretty good for your money. 7/10. (May 2002)

VARIOUS : Live 2008 - Reviewing a Great Year of Worship. (Kingsway : KMCD 2839)

Do we need yet another worship compilation? Apparently so but at least with this one it is clear in its mission. i.e. to provide the best of the worship from 2007's various Christian events. Hang on - 2007 events yet this is Live 2008? Yup, I can't work that one out either - maybe 2007 is just too old hat. Two things strike me about this double cd. Firstly, for the most part it's your typical worship fayre - usual sound, usual suspects so it's solid but not exciting. Secondly, it actually hangs together rather well for a compilation that has taken its source material from different events. Stuart Townend, Andy Bromley, Matt Redman and Godfrey Birtill are some of the many worship leaders represented. It's great to hear Godfrey's stuff on here as it has a certain edge to it and this lifts the whole cd. There's a couple of gospel moments too from Mark Beswick and Smokie Norful which are obviously noticeable by their very different style. So, overall, its not a bad worship cd and will appeal to those that buy these sort of albums. For me though, I'm still searching for something a little different... 6/10 Robin Thompson (June 2008)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Live From Wembley Stadium. Kingsway : KMCD2004)

So now the British 'Event of the Year' has made it onto CD. While the video boasts Delirious?, they are noticeably absent from the album. The man behind it all, Noel Richards, kicks of proceedings with the powerful 'Let Your Love Come Down' and returns later with the excellent 'We Want to See Jesus Lifted High'. Is it me or is Sue Rinaldi still singing the same songs as she did 10 years ago? The Wades? Well, thankfully they only make a brief appearance, but that was more than enough for me. I've never heard of Chris Flason before, but his quite exceptional 'I See the Lord' is a stomping good foot tapper. Matt Redman's the other man with an eye for a good song and there's no doubt that his 'I Will Dance' went down a storm. It's not a brilliant listen, as a whole, but you can't help being captured by the vision and the bravery of the event and the people. 7/10. (November 1997)

VARIOUS : Live to Worship. (Fierce Distribution - FIERCD15)

Here is another double cd compilation, which seem very popular with the record companies at the moment. Twenty-eight songs feature on this one, taken from the artists' own albums. It starts with the Matt Redman number "Praise Awaits You" getting the whole thing off to a rousing start, and this continues with "Salvation is Here" from Hillsong United. By this point you begin to get a feel for what the album is about. Pretty much all the key artists from the new generation of worship leaders are here, Tim Hughes, Chris Tomlin, Delirious? et al. It claims to be a "collection of worship songs for a generation of people living their faith out loud" and I can't really argue with that. Indeed, such are these songs that you cannot help but feel suitably inspired to do the same. Included too, is one of my all time favourites, "Surrender" by Marc James from the Vineyard album of the same name. And for those of you that were around in 1978, an excellent version of "I Love You, Lord" which was a Mission Praise stalwart I seem to recall! All in all, nothing new in the sense that these have all been released before, but a great summary of what has been new in worship circles over the last few years. 9/10 Robin Thompson. (October 2005)

VARIOUS : Live to Worship 2. (Fierce! : Fiercd27)

"Live to worship and live for better or worse in the gaze of the King: Live to Worship and live to the full." Those notes are taken from the Cd's sleeve, and really says what this album is all about. There's 30 tracks on 2 CD's, and the songs range from glorious numbers like Delirious?' "Our God Reigns" to the diabolical prog' rock sound of Marc James and "Nothing in This World". Perhaps that's been a bit cruel, as there are other great songs to choose from. Take, for instance, the Simon Parkin Band. On "You Give Hope", they sound very much like The Who in all of their early 60's pomp. Hillsong's "Tell the World" is full of excitement, while there's just pure energy from the Dave Crowder Band ("Undignifed") and Matt Redman ("Dancing Generation"). Then, there's the terrific sound of praise from the Newsboys and "Presence". The collection really tries to give a wide array of contemporary styles and there's lot more plus points to it than minus. Third Day, RPM, and Tim Hughes all produce great moments, but it's Michael W Smith who steals the show with a wholesome version of "Healing Rain". Plenty, here, to get your teeth into. 8/10. (February 2007)

VARIOUS : Live to Worship Vol 3. (Fierce Distribution. FIERCD35)

This is yet another compilation of worship songs that we've all heard hundreds of times before. All the usual suspects are on here. Tim Hughes, Matt Redman, Michael W Smith, various Hillsong groups, and of course, the track that nobody in the world can live without, if all the worship CD's for the last fifteen years are anything to go by. "My Glorious" by Delirious? The newest songs on this CD are from 2006 so there's probably nothing here that you haven't heard before. "Indescribable" and "Open the eyes of my heart" are on here to name a couple, oh and there's another Delirious song too "Miracle Maker". It's also very noticeable, that many of the artists on here sound exactly the same. I found that I had to keep looking at the sleeve to see who was singing what, because half the time there was no way of telling them apart just by listening. If this were a collection of new songs it would be a good album to listen to, as the music is quite rocky and up tempo, but you could go into any Christian bookshop and pick up another dozen CD's with virtually the same songs on them. I found myself asking the question. What's the point? 5/10 Andy Sayner. (Feburary 2008)

VARIOUS : Live to Worship 4. (Fierce! : FIERCD45)

So, we come to number four of this series and, once again, a double CD package. Matt Redman rarely disappoints, and he's well up to his usual high quality standard with 'Beautiful News'. Leeland's 'Yes, You Have', has a sound of Snow Patrol about it, but it has a brilliant chorus to get your teeth into. From then on, disc one goes rather flat, despite the presence of Tim Hughes, Delirious? and Hillsong United. The second Cd has Ben Cantelon and Vineyard UK presenting 'Celebrate' and 'Holy'. Both are highly charged renditions and full of praise. Cathy Burton seems to improve all the time and her inclusion with 'Great & Glorious' is inspirational. For an "old timer", Graham Kendrick shows that he can still rub shoulders with the best on 'Creation's King', but these a just a few highlights in a rather mediocre release. 6/10 (December 2008)

VARIOUS : Live to Worship 4. (Fierce! : FIERCD45)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Look What Love Has Done. (Myrrh : 080688601621)

Primarily released for Valentine's Day, I'm afraid that this one was over a month late in dropping through my letter box. However, let that not detract from the fact that this is, possibly, the best collection of Christian love songs that I've come across. The obvious contribution, of course, is Sixpence's "Kiss Me", but it's far from being a 'one-track' album. Jaci Velasquez sings the title track as well as Grammy nominated "Llegar A Ti", a very beautiful Latin number. Burlap to Cashmere present "Eileen's Song" and, one of my personal favourites, Fernando Ortega sings "Margee Ann" in his quiet way. Other tracks come from Amy Grant, Russ Taff, and Phil Keaggy, while Annointed's "Ooh Baby" was the only obvious filler. So, Valentine's day may have passed for another year but, loved ones should be loved, everyday of the year. 8/10. (April 2000)

VARIOUS : Lord I Lift Your Name on High. (M? Communications: 080688620325)

I'm always worried that 'budget' releases are no more than re-releases of old albums or, as in this case, another excuse to put a collection of well known songs together. There's no credits to the vocal artists featured but it's all been put together in Nashville with top producer Dan Huff at the helm. So, is it good or bad? Funnily enough, after all that, it's quite good. It's easy listening stuff for the - dare I say it - over 40's. There's nothing exciting about the songs, yet nothing to dislike. "You're Love Olord" is a nice opener and that's followed by "Shout to the lord" and "Be Glorified". There's some good acoustic guitar playing in the title track, and a smashing lead vocal on "You Are My All in All". Other tracks include "Did you Feel the Mountains Tremble" and "I Could Sing of Your love Forever". So, while not exactly setting the world alight, this is does have a pleasing feel. 6/10. (July 2002)

VARIOUS : Love Mercy - Songs of Worship and Justice. Kingsway KMCD2856

This album features Andreana Arganda, Lou Fellingham, and Cathy Burton, performing 11 of their own songs, to aid the charity "Ray of Hope" who are helping the people who live along the Amazon in Brazil. I'm afraid that this is a fairly bland CD, with no stand out tracks at all. "What shall I bring" (Extravagant sacrifice) and "Jesus you are worthy" being probably the best known songs, all of which are all fairly laid back mainly acoustic guitar led songs, and basically, if you've heard one you've heard them all. "Eva Cassidy does worship" sums it up really. I suppose you could give this to your granny without causing offence, but aside from using it as a cure for insomnia I wouldn't bother. Someone should have had a word with the designer of the sleeve too. There is a list of tracks on the back which are written in very small and pale pink letters on a white background, and they are next to impossible to read, which should be basic stuff for someone of Kingsway's ilk. If I'd picked this up in a shop I would simply have put it straight back down again and moved on to the next CD. 4/10 Andy Sayner. (December 2008)

VARIOUS : Love Songs From Heaven. (Kingsway : KMCD : 2855)

Noel Richards' songs have spanned over 25 years, and this collection celebrates that feat. Various well known singers portray 13 of Noel's best loved worship songs. Now, although I'm aware of Noel's pedigree, I must admit that there were a few on this album that I had never heard before, and that includes the title track. However, that can't be said of 'All Heaven Declares'. The beauty of this song is, in my opinion, it's simplicity but Darlene Zschech changes it's delivery out of all recognition and, as a result, it loses a lot of it's power. Tim Hughes thoughtfully sings 'Overwhelmed By Love' and Matt Redman brings the old standard 'You Laid Aside Your Majesty' back to life. Indeed, I'd really forgotten just what a brilliant song this was. 'Great is the Darkness' has a majestic feel about it and 'When I Worship You' (Stuart Townend) gives a feeling of being in the presence of God. The album has some classic moments, but the use of various artists interrupts the flow of things, making the result a little dis-jointed. 7/10 (December 2008)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : The Mercy Project. (Word : 080688607128.

Since 1983 Mercy Ministries of America has successfully restored the hopes and futures of thousands of troubled young women, unwed mothers and their children through it's residential programs and adoption agencies. The counselling skills and love are God centred and provided totally free of charge to these women. This album will not only raise funds but awareness, too, that the project exists. Gathered together for this album are female singers such as Darlene Zschech, Amy Grant, and Christine Dente, but there's more. Michelle Tumes' "Sanctuary" fits in 100% with the theme and sounds as fresh as it did upon it's release a year ago. Martina McBride (one of my favourite country singers) adds her velvet vocals to "You'll Get Through This" - a song of hope and the promise of God. Kim Hill's "New Eyes" is another strong track with some fine harmonica playing in the background. It bounces along at a good pace and is quite infectious. You can tell the quality of the song collection as a whole when I say that Amy Grant's "Irresistible Love" is, perhaps, the weakest on show! 9/10. (March 2001, Album of the Month)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Mighty Warrior - Powerpack. (ICC : 25120)

The more I listened to this tape, the more I enjoyed it. All of the tracks are good, and some VERY good. I was very impressed with the biblical content. My favourite track is 'I Am The Vine', a lively calypso style, putting across the message of John Ch15:5 to young people. I took this tape into Sunday School to ascertain the children's opinion (Ages 3-11). The reaction was very favourable, with most of the children giving it a 9 or 10 out of 10 score. In conclusion, the tape is good for both use in the Sunday School and at home with a young family. 9/10. Pam Robinson. (October 1998)

VARIOUS : Mission Worship. (Kingsway KWCD 2678)

When you see the names of the four worship leaders who were involved in this event (Stuart Townend, Paul Oakley, Andy Bromley and Mark Tedder), you expect something special and spirit filled. In my experience though, this doesn't always follow but thankfully, the dynamics of the occasion have been captured extremely well on this recording. The choice of songs is excellent too and it is hard to find a weak song on here. There are well known numbers such as "Who Is There Like You?" and "In Christ Alone" but my favourite has to be the riff driven "Become What You Believe". It's also interesting to hear the composers re-interpret their own songs and the arrangement for "How Deep The Father's Love For Us" is definitely worth a mention. It's quite up-tempo with a funk feel in places - it is not what I would have attempted but on here it is delivered with aplomb. My one criticism, and I've mentioned this countless times before on other worship albums, is the congregation are too loud in the mix, dwarfing some of the wonderful harmonies. A shame really, because without that this would have been given top marks. 8/10 Robin Thompson. (September 2006)

VARIOUS : New Frontiers - Live 2002 (Kingsway Music KMCD2424)

Live contemporary worship albums seem to be everywhere these days, and this particular offering from the team behind the Stoneleigh Bible Week worship albums is the follow up to the popular "In Christ Alone" and, in itself, isn't half bad with some good new songs from the likes of Stuart Townend, Paul Oakley and various Fellinghams! Production quality and musicality is excellent throughout, with some good variations of sound and pace and a strong worshipful atmosphere which doesn't leave you feeling that you had to be there to appreciate it. The strongest songs, for me, are Nathan Fellingham's "To You King Jesus" and Paul Oakley's "And After All", both of which have a more rocky edge to them than the others, which are fairly standard Christian pop/rock. On the downside, there is nothing here that really made me sit up and pay attention. As usual, some of Stuart Townend's lyrics stand out as a little different from the norm but musically we have been here so many times that you do start to wonder how many of these albums the CCM market can handle. The biggest problem though is that there isn't a single, simple hook to get you singing along on the first couple of listens - in my opinion a necessity when faced with 13 new worship songs. You could definitely do a lot worse than to check out this album, just don't expect anything earth-shattering. 7/10 David Cooper (January 2003)

VARIOUS : New Songs 2004/5 - Vol 1&2. (Kingsway : SFCD358/359)

Each of these CDs contains 20 tracks and some are really rather good. Stand outs on Volume 1 are "Your Love O Lord", "No Longer in Chains" and "Come Unto Me" whilst the best one on Volume 2 is the opener "I Know That You Have Waited". Others worth a mention are "Jesus You Humbled Yourself", "When the Sunlight is Shining" (an excellent live recording), "God of Grace", "You are Righteous", "How Easy we Forget" and "Like a Mighty River". There are some really effective vocal performances here (particularly female) and it's a shame that no artists are credited. There are too few good tracks however to make the whole two volumes worthwhile. The contrast between best and worst is very marked. The opener on Volume 1 "I Have a Promise" starts things off rather badly, sounding as though it was recorded on a home keyboard, with an unimaginative arrangement and a vocal that is too far back in the mix to hear properly - and we have to wait until track 8 ("Your Love O Lord") for a song that is well produced and (very) well sung. "In Heaven and Earth"and "Dance Dance Everybody Dance" are particular low points. A pity that more selectivity had not been applied to the 'New Songs' that are out there! Overall then, four excellent tracks and six good ones filled out with thirty err… others. Regrettably, 4/10 Dave Deekes. (November 2004)

Various - New Songs 2005/6 Vol 1 (Kingsway SFC0363)

As always with a mixture like this, you get quite a variety both in terms of style and quality and this album is no exception. There are a number of tracks that caught my ear, namely "From the Highest of Heights" and "Indescribable" and I can imagine these being used by a variety of congregations. Surprisingly, I found the offerings from the emerging generation writers to be a bit disappointing; they shone on in 2002, my first introduction to this worship series, but seem more laboured in 2005. Whilst the execution of them is first class, the actual songs seem to cover the same ground as countless others and are not as well crafted as what we have heard before. This album also suffers from a very irritating habit of swiftly fading out a number of the songs, which I can only assume is done to cut the length of them in order to fit 20 songs on the cd. Unfortunately, it is very obvious and spoils the listening pleasure of the album. It is not a problem if you are a worship leader using this as a resource for learning new material but for the average worshipper this is a bit unfair. I would rather have 16 full songs than 20 with edits. That said, this still represents good value for money and you will find plenty of songs to like, even if they don't quite stand out as exceptional. Previous editions featured quite a number of songs that have now become worship stalwarts, Tim Hughes' "Light of the World" being one example. Whether any from the current assortment will reach such heights remains to be seen but my gut reaction is that they will struggle to do so. 6/10 Robin Thompson(September 2005)

Various - New Songs 2005/6 Vol 2 (Kingsway SFC0364)

With songwriters of the calibre of Matt Redman, Johnny Parks, Nathan Fellingham, and Kate Simmonds on show, you'd expect some strong songs, and that's exactly what you have here......SOME strong songs. Redman's "Your Mercy Taught Us How To Dance" is one of them, and it starts of the listing. However, just as you're really starting to enjoy the song, it fades out. The same happens with Parks' "God You Are My God", and a number of other tracks too, its most annoying. Fellingham's "Wonderful Lord" is a wonderful song, but the female vocals are so way down in the mix that it's hard to pick out the words unless you're following them with the sleeve notes.Paul Oakley's "A Father to the Fatherless" is a well structured song while Redman's second contribtution, Praise Awaits You…" has lots of energy.So, some good songs on show, but also some that don't quite cut it. There again, it's only one man's opinion. 7/10.(September 2005)

VARIOUS : New Songs 08/09'. (Kingsway : KMCD2888)

This latest compilation of worship songs from the Kingsway stable consists of 3 CDs covering 50 songs in all, and a CD rom providing piano scores and lead sheets plus words for projection purposes. Overall then, a thoroughly prepared worship resource. There are some very good songs here. I particularly enjoyed the funk gospel 'Come on lift your voice in praise', the worshipful 'Elohim Creator God' (nice melody, well sung), the classy and beautifully delivered Lou Fellingham numbers 'God immortal' and 'You've granted perfect merit', and the almost 7 minute long 'Oh Lord you've searched me' from Darlene Zschech. There is also variety - including funk, heavy rock, latino, straight rock n' roll and 'lounge crooner' style. Inevitably perhaps with so many tracks however, there are many that are standard, run-of-the mill contemporary praise and worship of the type that we have heard many times before - leaving probably 15 or so that I would wish to play again. Also understandable with such a compilation is the fact that the sound quality varies - but further smoothing out of levels and frequency balance at final mastering would have made for easier listening. Such aspects should not of course matter when picking out individual tracks for 'small group' worship. A compilation of contrasts then, worth checking out at www.kingsway.co.uk, and averaging 7/10. Dave Deeks (November 2008)

VARIOUS : Nothin' But Worship. (Kingsway : KMCD2809)

"50 Massive Worship Songs" is the tag on the front cover, but does it deliver exactly what it says on the tin? With the presentation of the overall package, the target is obviously the younger end of the market & it does indeed bring forward a collection of some very well known contemporary favourites. Tim Hughes' "Here I am to Worship", "Hungry" (Kathryn Scott - Vineyard) & "Blessed be Your Name" (Matt Redman) are amongst those present but into the mix are thrown some modern renditions of classics like "How Great Thou Art" & "When I Survey", so could therefore appeal to a wider audience. It is difficult to fault the pedigrees of the songs featured or indeed the quality of the artists featured (that's if you ignore the occasional irksome pronunciation of the largely American artists featured). Nearly all tracks are live which do give it that much more authentic feel than studio produced material, but that said I feel as though I have to level the odd critique in its direction. Great though it can be to see a collection of wonderfully well known tunes together on a triple CD compilation, no one track stands out & there's a plethora of this type of product out there with many like myself finding the contents a little too familiar. It's also a tad annoying on this & many other such products that labelling is poor - you can never tell who is leading worship & it would occasionally be good to know. Overall not a bad introduction for those unfamiliar with CCM, but for those of us that are we've heard it all before & could do with a refreshing change now & again. 7/10 Simon Redfern (September 2007)

VARIOUS : O Worship the King - Instrumental Hymns. (Brentwood Records : 83061-0576-2)

Produced and arranged by Don Marsh this collection of instrumental hymns contains contemporary arrangements of many favourites, all with a unique combination of solo instruments. Flute, saxophone, oboe, violin, cello, and many more wonderful sounds light up, what is, a very good album. Some hymns, like "O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go" and "I Sing the Mighty Power of God" weren't so well known to me, but I still found them very listenable. Of course, you can't stop yourself singing along with those you do know, such as the title track and "Rock of Ages", and I really enjoyed that. The only downside is that the 15 tracks only last for 35 minutes in total but, that aside, this album really helped me meditate through a quite stressful time. 9/10. (November 2000)

VARIOUS : One Body, One Spirit, One Reason to Worship. (ICC: ICMKCD002)

Recroded in both the UK and the US, this album has been "crafted out of a desire to bring songs that glorify God".With singers like Krissy Nordhoff amongst those featured, you'd expect a quality of album that would reach new heights of worship, or at least match some old ones. What you actually get is a collection of tepid songs that do none of the singers any justice and fail, for me, to move one to worship in any way. The songs are so typically bland that it was difficult for me to pick any one of them out for special mention. Perhaps, if I'm pushed, "He Knows My Name" has the edge as the best on show. There's also a version of "Here I Am to Worship" which surely must go down as the worst presentation of such a good song. Try as I may, I just couldn't get passed the feeling of being let down, big time, by this recording. 2/10 (February 2005)

VARIOUS : 'One Voice' : (Survivor)

Due out on CD for early September but provided for review as a download, this release caused me some confusion regarding track sequence and song titles - the website lists 13 tracks whereas only 12 were provided for review, and the titles don't quite match! Having finally created a CD that (hopefully) approximates to the final product, I settled down to listen to this release that has evidently been 4 years in the making and features a 'dazzling array of talents' including Erica Campbell, Brenton Brown, Tim Hughes, Lou Fellingham and 'many others' - 150 in all, including 'to be confirmed' Steven Curtis Chapman and Paul Carrack. The project represents the culmination of an idea by London Community Gospel Choir co-founder Lawrence Johnson, to create a charity record in response to the Christmas 2004 Tsunami. With Les Moir in the chair and recorded at Abbey Road Studios, sales of the single 'One voice, one heart' generated £30,000 which helped rebuild a devastated fishing village in South India. So, what about the album? If professionally delivered and produced pop soul gospel is your thing, this one's for you. First track according to the web site is the excellent, loping along minor key 'Angels' followed by a similarly slow tempo 'Somebody please'. Things then get going with the upbeat 'Nothing is impossible' with clearly autotuned lead vocal, but effective none the less. To be honest, it is difficult to pick a bad track here - standouts for me were the aforementioned 'Angels', 'Let the people' with its 'Paul Simon Graceland groove', the beautifully delivered ballad 'Anywhere' and the single that started it all - the drum'n'bass underpinned 'One voice one heart', with everyone singing their hearts out. Visit www.kingsway.co.uk/shop. 9/10 Dave Deeks (September 2009)

VARIOUS : Outrageous Praise. (Kingsway : KMCD2416)

This double CD features Chris Bowater with his friends/worship leaders including Trish Morgan, Johnny Markin, Paul Simpson Parry, Dave Middleton and Hannah Middleton & Worshippers from Grapevine, which is held at Lincolnshire Showground. There is a really good selection of praise songs on these two C.D.'s, many I had heard before, and some were already my favourites eg. When the music fades, Jesus all for Jesus, Here I am once again and O Sacred King. Some, however, I had not heard before. This album, I would say, is definately worth listening to, and is one of the best I have heard for some time. The selection of songs, music and singing are all exceptionally good. My favourite tracks? Well, as I have already said there are a few. Songs I particularly liked, but either didn't know or didn't know so well:- "I Believe in Angels", "There's a Lot of Pain", "O God of Burning Cleansing Flame"; "All of Me", and "Here I Am Waiting". There are also a couple of traditional songs including When I Survey The Wondrous Cross led by Paul Simpson Parry and a rousing adaptation of William Booth's, O God of burning cleansing flame. The whole album is good from beginning to end. 9/10 Pam Robinson (October 2002)

VARIOUS : The Passion of the Christ - Songs Inspired by…(Universal South : Fiercd06)

This really is a most unusual CD and seeks to capitalise on the massive success of Mel Gibson's film. It contains songs by a variety of artists (and I do mean variety - how about Elvis Presley, Nick Cave and a spoken intro to one track by Dr Billy Graham?!) with these being selected / sanctioned by Mr Gibson himself, continuing the inspiration behind the film. The whole rationale for the album is therefore to give a 'message', so it is surprising that no lyrics are printed. Much of the album has a dark, morose feel to it - which of course does reflect the film itself. I obviously acknowledge the seriousness of the Christian gospel as represented by Jesus' death - but I also revel in the joy of the salvation I gained when He rose again, and this album doesn't reflect much of the latter! If your bag is mostly stripped-down, stark arrangements with heavy lyrics and minimal accompaniment, then this is for you. The best tracks for me however were those that tended to lift the proceedings a bit - not in lyrical terms necessarily, but at least musically. These included the closer, Bob Dylan's magnificent 'Not dark yet' from his 1997 'Time out of mind' album, and Leonard Cohen's 'By the rivers dark'. Such sparks of brilliance are all too rare however, so worth a rather modest …. 4/10. Dave Deeks. (August 2004)

VARIOUS : Passport to Worship. (Kingsway : KMCD2717)

As it seems to be the season for praise and worship albums, I wasn't surprised to receive yet another. It contains 15 songs, written by some of the top writers of our time. Mark Tedder's "Can't Understand the Cost of Grace" is a foot tapping opener, and one that I hadn't heard of before. In fact, it was very pleasing on the ear. "Clothed With Splendour" aka "Awesome God" really lifted the praise with a number full of excitement. I must admit that I thought the next highlight was another new song. However, when I looked at the details I found that it was actually written by J M Harris, who died in 1934! But, I wasn't totally wrong, as this track had been given a new lease of life by Andy Bromley, and it really works well. Stuart Townend, Matt Redman, and Lou Fellingham all have songs included on the listing before Paul Oakley's "You Have Loved Me" rounds things off rather nicely. Good to hear a few songs that aren't usually put on worship collections and that must be a plus point for this one. 7/10 (August 2008)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : The People's Album. (Soul Survivor : SURCD009).

This is one of the bravest releases of the year. An album of songs, written by relatively unknown writers but given the expert musicianship of Matt Redman and co. Thirteen songs of differing styles and quality that have you dancing and praising with joy, and reaching for the fast forward button. If you had played me "Now" without knowing which record it was from I would have guessed at the latest Delirious? single. In fact, it is Martin Smith singing in that oh so well known manner. "Lord I've Found You" is a bouncy and infectious little number while the jazzy funk affair "Higher" is one of those I'd rather forget. Paul Oakley provides the voice to one of the other high points "I've Fallen in Love" while the worshipful "Search Me O God" has been thoughtfully put together. Matt Redman's best is on the 'Hey Jude-esque' "Father God" and, all in all, it's well worth your time. 7/10. (October 1997)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : People Get Ready. (Forefront : 7243 82521525)

"People get ready, Jesus is coming", so sings Crystal Lewis on the opening track of this retrospective kind of album. Retrospective in the way that most of the tracks are 'blasts from the past'. For instance Barry McGuire's 1965 "Eve of Destruction" is included, as is Al Green's "Jesus Is Waiting" from '72. As a thought provoking album, I guess the songs do make you think about certain things in your life. DC Talk's "Wish We'd All Been Ready" pulls no punches as it asks if you met face to face with God today, would you be ready? Big Tent Revival always seem to come up with catchy pop/rock tunes, and "Thief in the Night" is another excellent example. What the compilation lacks in originality it makes up for in its wide range of artists and song styles. All in all, a good album. 7/10. (September 1999)

VARIOUS : Perfect Sacrifice. (Spring Harvest : ICC1260D)

This double Cd package heralds "20 New Songs for the Church" all recorded at Spring Harvest. The first Cd begins with the Tim Hughes and Eoghan Heaslip song proclaiming that Jesus is Lord, with the bouncy song, 'Round the Earth'. There's some smooth vocals on 'Amazing God', but the song to make the hairs on my neck stand up was Steve Fortunato's 'Would You Restore'. Andreana Aganda has a voice like an angel, and I'm sure that this song is set to become a classic. There's more uptempo praise with 'Sing, Sing, Sing', while the pure worship of 'Adoration' is very well performed. The second Cd sees all the songs stripped down to acoustic sounds, and these would be perfect for an intimate setting. None of the song blew my socks off, but 'More of You' and Forth in Your Name' deserve a mention. Certainly, there's a few new songs here that I would like to use in church. 6/10 (August 2009)

VARIOUS : Platinum Worship. (Integrity : 40772)

This 2 CD collection contains platinum and gold selling award-winning artists, presenting 22 top worship songs in various musical styles. If I'm pushed, I'd say that I enjoyed disc 1 the most. There's a passionate start with the sound of Hillsong United and "Everyday", while The Newsboys provide energy with the fabulous "I Am Free". Todd Agnew's "My Jesus" has the same monotone vocals as the Crash Test Dummies hit song a few years ago - I didn't like that one either! The title track from Brian Littrell's solo album makes the cut and months on from it's release, it's still a very strong number. One of my favourite worship leaders is Robin Mark, and his contribution is a terrific version of "Blessed Be Your Name" Disc 2 starts well enough with the joyful sound of "Days of Elijah" sung by Twila Paris, while - for me - the deifintive version of "Above All" is sung in all it's glory by Michael W.Smith. Don Moen's "Arise" will raise your spirits, but the best is left until last. The song is medium paced but "Your Name" is so beautifully delivered by Paul Baloche and Kathryn Scott. Overall, quite a good and varied collection. 8/10. (April 2007)

VARIOUS : Pure Worship 3 - Jesus Precious Blood (Kingsway Music KMCD2542)

This is a double cd, the first featuring studio recordings whilst the second features a different set of songs but in a live setting. I was neither impressed by the majority of the songs - although there one or two exceptions - and even less so by their interpretation. There doesn't appear to be much passion or feeling in the vocals on these tracks; they sound very laboured and mechanical, as if the singers are just "going through the motions". One of my favourites songs on here, "You Pour Out Grace" is killed stone dead on this album, falling way short of the live version released on the New Wine live cd a few years ago. It is hard to believe that it is the composer performing on this version, and it sums up the whole studio disc for me. I was hoping the live cd would redeem this album, but alas it does not. It remains as insipid and uninspiring as the first disc which is a shame as there are some good well known worship songs here, "Over the Mountains and the Sea" and "Hungry" to name just two. I think the problem is that the album doesn't really have any direction. Every song reflects the same mood as the previous, which is not really how worship works. Honestly and truly, looking at this, I should like this album. It is billed as "featuring many of the finest songs from worship leaders the world over" that will "stir the hearts of passionate worshippers". The truth is, I don't, and I refuse to accept that this is because I am an unpassionate worshipper! 2/10 Robin Thompson (August 2004)

VARIOUS : r:age 98 - Spring Harvest. (ICC : ICCD24430).

After listening to this I really am starting to wonder about collecting my old age pension this month. The sleeve notes say that that this is "new life...young people, living people, bringing the Christian faith new energy." What I found was a trail of uninspiring music that led to few glimmers of light on a very dark trail. Those glimmers did, however, include the dancey 'And Death Shall Have No Dominion', very current club culture, and no worse that anything you'll hear on Radio 1. 'Waiting For the Healing' is a funky number that has it's moments, while the closing 'Waiting Heart' is more ambient and quiet. In between those two, there's not a lot to say. Maybe you had to be there? 4/10. (July 1998)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Raise It (Alliance Music 1908322)

They say the test of a good piece of music is that it can work equally well in a number of different and diverse styles - the theme from "The Simpsons" being a good example! Here that theory is put to the test as this compilation from "Re: Source 2000 & 2001" and "Jumping in the House of God I & II" gives 18 well known worship songs a very contemporary Pop/Dance/R&B treatment. Sadly, the end result is a bit hit and miss. When it works, such as with "Heart Of Worship", "Hosanna" and "We Want To See Jesus Lifted High", it is very effective, but when it doesn't it just comes off as annoying and by the time you reach the end of track 18 the incessant drums and bass have started to grate and you yearn for a change of pace, of which this album has too little. There are some really good ideas here, and some obviously talented musicians, but the lack of variation in sound and tempo ultimately lets it down. Overall production quality, and the aforementioned high watermarks, make it worth the effort. The rest I could happily live without. 7/10 David Cooper (December 2002)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Reflections Guitar - Light Jazz to Soothe the Spirit. (Fairhope : 12862).

"Each record in the Reflections series is designed to move your spirit into a place of peace and relaxation. Virtuosity and the complementative merge to provide sounds that will soothe the troubled spirit". Well, that's what the sleeve notes say, but does it happen? Not for me I'm afraid. I tried listening as background music, and as a relaxation tool but found it all rather bland and meaningless. Sure, there's some good guitar playing on tracks like 'Ancient of Days' and 'Firm Foundation' but I've heard better private recordings than this. For me,, there's nothing you would say was really outstanding or memorable about the album. It's part of a budget priced series but that doesn't excuse the finished product. 3/10. (October 1998)

VARIOUS : Released - 7. (www.db-studios.co.uk)

This is the first album that I've received from Lincoln's db studios, where they release a compilation album of tracks from unknown/unsigned artists. Each artist pays towards the costs of producing the Cd, and then receives copies to sell. Sounds a good idea, but what's the musical quality like? Well, everything starts off well enough, with the sound of Jo Le Page and the triumphant intro to her song, 'Take My Hand'. She sings well and the song marches along nicely. Matt McChlery is next up and his uptempo praise on 'Ten Thousand, Thousand' really suits his voice. The quality remains high for the first half dozen songs, even though 'Your Mercy' sounds very much like an old Sammy Horner number. Daniel Caldwell's 'Broken For Me' contains a rather annoying piano phrase that gets rather repetitive. There are more good contributions from the quirky Katherine Davison, and the Fernando Ortega soundalike, David Buckley, which all help to make this release a sound investment for all. 7/10. (May 2009)

VARIOUS : Revive - Live Worship. (Kingsway : KMCD2912)

This album was recorded at Mission Worship, Eastbourne, and what a corker it is too. It features some new arrangements of timeless songs, hymns and Psalms. Lou Fellingham is on top form, leading those gathered on the triumphant sound of 'Once I Was Dead to You' and 'Praise My Soul the King of Heaven'. It's great to hear some contemporary versions of some of these sacred hymns, and Stuart Townend delivers 'And Can It Be' as if it had just been discovered for the first time. It's an incredible take. 'I Know That My Redeemer Lives' and 'Elohim Creator God' are both full of loving praise, sung by Chris McClarney and Aaron Keys respectively. Singing modern hymns each week in church sometimes makes you forget just how good traditional hymns are. Godfrey Birtill lifts the roof with 'O For A Thousand Tongues' and Geraldine Latty's version of 'Great Is Your Faithfulness' ends a truly, first class recording. 9/10 (August 2009)

VARIOUS : Rockettown Records. (Rockettown Records : 08068861932)

Celebrating 5 years of Michael W Smith's record label, this release chronicles some of the highlights of that period. Is it really 5 years, I hear you ask? Yes, it certainly is - how time flies. The first artist ever to release on this label - if my memory serves me well - was Chris Rice, and he has two tracks included. "Deep Enough to Dream" was my favourite track then, and it still rates just as high. Sounding like Simon & Garfunkle in their prime, he delivers this song to perfection. Later on in the listing, he also sings the lovely piano led "Welcome to Our World". Ginny Owens is another singer to be featured twice on her own, as well as with Apt.Core. "If You Want Me To" is a really beautiful, ethereal sounding song that I enjoyed over and over again. Watermark's contributions surprised me as I've never been a big fan of there's. The ountryesque "More Than You'll Ever Know" is excellent, while the closing "Gloria" is just too short - I wanted it to go on forever. Listening to the whole thing, you realize just how talented the Rockettown label artists are. 8/10. (February 2002)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : 'Romantic Rock Vol 5&6'. (Pila/Alliance).

A double album release that contains 32 tracks and over 2 hours of real listening pleasure. Here's a collection of the cream of CCM plus a few newcomers too, like Paul Janz and his superb 'You're Never Alone'. Ballads are presented in numerous styles, but there's also some classy pop tunes on offer . Bryan Duncan opens proceedings, sounding very much like Peter Cetera, and Laila Dahl's 'He's the Man of Her Life' suggests that we'll be hearing a lot more from her in the future. Clay Crosse, Ashley Cleveland, and Charlie Peacock are all featured, as well as Christine Dente with her poppy 'Taking My Time'. Britain's Helen Jayne has one track culled from her 'Safe' album while American's Margaret Becker and Sandi Patti offer two excellent ballads from recent releases. What more can I say, there's just so much on offer here, not least the superb vocals of Michael W.Smith. Wonderful. 9/10. (June 1996, Album of the Month)

VARIOUS : Seasons of Life. (Kingsway : KMCD2887)

Well, I really wasn't looking forward to this one. 80 instrumental tracks, on 4 CD's, and over 4 hours of music. But, I took the plunge, and I was very much surprised how much I enjoyed the collection. Now, it's not going to be easy to listen to the whole album in one listen, but taking a few songs or a CD at a time is a real boon to meditation or just plain relaxation. There's plenty of songs that you know so well, that you'll soon find yourself either singing out loud with, or in your head. The melody is provided by a whole host of individual instruments, and the backing is first class. Not a lot more you can say really. Tracks include 'In Christ Alone', 'How Deep the Father's Love', 'Dear Lord and Father of Mankind' and so many more favourites. Well done Kingsway. 7/10. (December 2008)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Secrets of the Vine. (Forefront : FFD36241)

This EP contains 6 original songs, all inspired by the book "Secrets of the Vine" The book is written by Dr. Bruce Wilkinson, who explores John 15 to show readers how to make maximum impact for God. Dr. Wilkinson demonstrates how Jesus is the Vine of life, discusses four levels of "fruit bearing" (doing the good work of God), and reveals three life-changing truths that will lead readers to new joy and effectiveness in His kingdom. The CD features Margaret Becker, Chris Tomlin, Janna long, The Katinas, Kim Hill, and a duet by Adrienne Liesching and Geoff Moore. The songs are supposed to follow the theme of the book and Becker starts the ball rolling with an average sort of title track. "Satisfied" sees Tomlin praying to ask God as ruler of his life. The guitar led song has some great piano playing too, and this makes for a good song. Long's "Awakening" is a nice MOR pop song and the closing duet, "In Christ Alone" is well done. Why an EP? Not sure, but I would have liked to have heard more. 6/10. (June 2002)

VARIOUS : Seriously Hot Worship. (Kingsway - KMCD2901)

The release of this cd shows that the current trend of recycling and repackaging worship songs continues apace with yet another mammoth compilation for our listening pleasure. This contains 50 songs split over 2 cds and is, as expected, a variable mix. When I started listening to the first cd I though that perhaps this album might live up to it's name and really be seriously hot. But about half way through the songs turn into a more Coldplay-esqe style of worship - you know the type I mean. The songs are weaker melodically and lyrically. This particular worship sound - once new and exciting - seems to have stagnated and that really shows on here. I know it's a "fashionable" worship style, but I'm hoping the fashion changes soon! The second cd is the best of the three, the highlights being songs from Godfrey Birtill and Stuart Townend - in fact, these are the stand out worship leaders from all 3 cds really. Godfrey's Clash inspired "Lift up Your Heads" is a real corker and is wonderfully refreshing. This cd isn't all bad, but like most of them I really find that it's too much like hard work to skip the dross to find the stuff that's good. A shorter compilation would be more effective or even, no compilation at all. Let's face it, those who buy worship cds are likely to already have the songs on here that they like anyway. Seriously hot? Not really - just lukewarm. 6/10 RobinThompson. (November 2008)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Shipwrecks & Islands. (Word : GRCD003)

"From the creators of 'City of Gold' says the sticker on the front. Never having heard 'City of Gold', I just have to hope it's better than this. It's a collection of songs & poems on a theme. The poems are by Adrian Plass (with & without backing), a man noted for his humour, yet his poems are serious (as you'll know if you've seen him live). "It is finished" is very good. The rest are average, I'm afraid. The songs are by Phil Baggaley (of Phil & John), Dave Clifton & Ian Blythe and wouldn't be out of place on a late 80s Chris de Burgh album. It's all washy synths, ripply guitars and ponderous vocals. Well recorded, well played, well past their sell-by date. It's well executed, just like synchronised swimming (although "What Jesus Would Have Done" is OK). I have no doubts about the sincerity of those involved in the project, or how well the concept may work live, where you can give it your full attention. But in my study, with its bright light and occasional telephone calls, it needs something better than this to grab my attention. Some may say that this is a prophetic work that speaks to the heart: you'll have gathered by now that I'm not one of them. (Actually, it does seem to get better as the album goes on: or maybe I was just getting used to it). Two good tracks don't make an album: best wait for the "best of"... 3/10. Paul Ganney. (July 1999)

VARIOUS : The Simply Xcellent Sampler. (Allliance : 8207172).

Costing just £1.49 for 18 tracks, this has got to be the bargain of the year! Featuring 15 different artists, this really does give you a sample of a wide range of new music from Alliance. New bands that I've never come across before include Seven Day Jesus - good Brit pop - , ELI and The Waiting - both giving guitar rock -, and the inspirational The Echoing Green with their brilliant 'Hide'. Bleach weigh in with two classic cuts from their new album 'Reality Check' and there's Sarah Masen's infectious '75 Grains of Sand'. There's a m touch of ska from The Dingees, which I didn't like and even some 40's swing, courtesy of The W's. The question is, can you afford not to sample this delight? 9/10 for music. 10/10 for value. (October 1998)

VARIOUS : Sing For Joy. (Hosanna! Music : 21372)

In September 2001 during a time of great turmoil and worldwide uncertainty, nearly 1000 believers joined key worship leaders from around the world to celebrate God's greatness. Recorded live in the World Prayer Centre in Colorado Springs USA, this album is a reminder of the joy and strength that can be found when we praise our Lord. And, indeed, that is exactly what this album does. In all honesty, this is one of the best worship albums that I've heard for some time. "Sing For Joy" is the title, and that joy really does roll out of your speakers. Live event recordings can sometimes fall a bit flat, but this one drew me as if I'd been at the actually gathering. "Your Love is Deep" has a lovely female vocal leading the way, and "For the Lord Our God Reigns" is just full of joy and praise. "We turn Our Eyes To You" is a slower number but it has such power, and what a great ending in "We Speak to the Nations". A must for all p&w fans. 10/10. (January 2003, Album of the Month)

VARIOUS : Sing Over Me. (Sparrow : SPD57114)

This project is aimed at parents who love to sing to their children. Reading in between the lines, I guessed that to mean children at the younger end of the spectrum, say 3-10 years. It's a mixture of songs old and new with the likes of Bethany Dillon, Erin O'Donnell, Christy Nockels, Nichole Nordeman and Janna Long providing the vocals. "How Great is Our God" is a nice start, while the whistful "Here I am to worship" reminded me of Genie Nilsson. Nordeman's version of "How Deep the Father's Love For Us" was the first song that I thought "yes, that's a lullaby" as, pretty as some of the songs were, they just didn't fall into that category. "Whole World in His Hands" is beautifully sung by Christy Nockels and the O'Donnell/Long duet of "Hold on to Jesus is very gentle. For me, I'm not convinced that the idea of the project has worked. There are certainly some nice songs here but I think that older people will embrace them rather than children. 7/10. (January 2007)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : 'Sisters....The Story Goes On'. (Alliance).

This is the second of the series in which the album is made by women, for women, in an effort to bond them closer together as SISTERS! It features a number of top artists and begins with the ever popular Winans, and 'Always Sisters', one of the strongest tracks. Unfortunately, there are too many forgettable numbers to make this release an epic. The country rock title track is sung by Ashley Cleveland, Kathy Troccoli, and Beth Nielsen Chapman and, is the best cut available. There's a touch of soul, there's smattering of piano based ballads but, all in all, there's just not enough class. Mind you, that's a man's view. Perhaps I'm missing something? 5/10. (June 1996)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Sisters With Soul. (Word : MYRCD!£!$).

Despite the title of this compilation album, not all the tracks featured are by soul artists. 'Sisters' such as Yolanda Adams and Ashley Cleveland do what they do best, and there's contributions from Point of Grace and Out of Eden. Jaci Valasquez has had a lot of media attention over the last 18 months and "On My Knees" is a track that shows why. I've heard a lot of the songs before but, perhaps, Pam Thum's "Innocence of the Heart" is the best of the new ones. However, 3 tracks did stand out from, the rest even though they are a few years old. Carolyn Arends' "Love is All Around" and Helen Jayne's "To Do Your Will" both sound as fresh as ever, while Julie Miller's "River Where Mercy Flows" got me reaching in my collection for her "Orphans & Angels" album. This compilation is a good start if you want to check out some of the female artists in CCM. 6/10. (September 1997)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Solid Rock. (Word : Rockcd01).

Here's the latest compilation of 14 rock songs by the supposed cream of CCM. Petra and Guardian lead the way with guitar standards before Michael Sweet brings things to a summit with the magnificent 'All This and Heaven Too'. This track is three years old, yet still sounds as fresh as the day I first heard it. Bride provide a Gun's & Roses type belter called 'Only Hurts...', while Three Crosses rendition of 'Calvary' is just a tad too close to Alice Cooper's 'Poison'. Nouveaux are a new name to me and deliver a medium paced rocker called 'Red, White, Black & Blue' but there's far too much run of the mill fodder to make this a brilliant release. Take, for instance, Jars of Clay - supposedly big in the U.S - who are very disappointing. 6/10 (June 1997)

VARIOUS : Songs For Luca. (Open Sky : Open VP999CD)

All proceeds from this album will go towards helping Iona's Dave Bainbridge and wife Debbie's autistic son Luca through his Son-Rise program run by the Autism Treatment Centre of America. The two Cd package features cuts from many artists, dating as far back as 1990 for Iona's "Beijing - The Widescreen Remix". There's a lot of progressive rock on show here, such as The Flower Kings' "A King's Prayer" and Terl Bryant's "My Song is Love Unknown", and they're really a bit dated in sound. Rick Wakeman provides a pleasant piano solo version of "Morning Has Broken", and Troy Donockley's instrumental, "Sights" is quite nice. The biggest laugh raised by an album so far this year came when I listened to the Peter Fairclough Group and "Shepherd Wheel". All I can say is, imagine trying to sing the contents of a car manual to the noise made by a group of 5 year olds, given a host of musical instruments for the first time. The result is simply awful. If you'd like to dip into the back catalogue of artists like Mairre Brenna, Joanne Hogg, Eden's Bridge, and the like, then this may be for you. It's all been put together for a good cause and it's up to you to decide whether the album's good enough. 4/10. (April 2005)

VARIOUS : Songs 4 Worship. (Integrity : TL WSR/07 19942)

Here's a double CD that seems to split itself between America on one disc, and the rest of the world on the other.The first features well known names like Andy Park, Darlene Zschech and The Stoneleigh Band. Delirious? Provide, perhaps, the best moment with a rousing version of "Shout to the North". I hadn't heard "Hosanna" for ages, and Carl Tuttle's rendition had me singing at the top of my voice. The second disc is rather tepid by comparison, with the Maranatha Singers contributing 4 songs in that muzak sort of way. Joey Holder's "Unto the King" is quite majestic in it's delivery, and Kent Henry's "All Consuming Fire" is not far behind in the ratings. 22 songs in all, and I enjoyed just over half of them. I guess that means that it's an above average release and, therefore, rates as 6/10. (January 2003)

VARIOUS : Songs 4 Worship - The Greatest P&W Songs of All Time. (Time Life Music : TL WSR/09)

This is a bit of a mixed bag, some of the songs are very good while others are just dire. Although I'm not really sure that any of the songs on this double CD would be what most people would consider to be the greatest worship songs of all time. The highlights are Matt Redman's "Better is one day" and "What a friend I've found" by Delirious. There's a fairly good version of "Faithful one" by Andy Park, but the other nineteen songs are nothing special. The Bill Gaither Trio's version of "There's Something About That Name" with it's sugary "Ad lib" section in the middle was particularly awful. I don't know who this CD is supposed to appeal to really, it seems to be just another of those aimless compilation albums that Christian labels like to churn out endlessly. I guess it wouldn't offend your Granny, but that's about the best I can say for it. 4/10 Andy Sayner. (May 2003)

VARIOUS : Songs for Worship - Christmas Joy. (Integrity : 42942)

Sub-titled "the Greatest Christmas Worship Songs of All Time", this two CD package features a whole host of top CCM artists. I didn't like the start of the album, particularly, Newsong's 'It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year'. It's a dreadful rendition of a well known festive song. That was followed by an equally bad version of 'Silent Night' by Hillsong. The vocals weren't too bad, but the backing music sounded like something out of a cheap cabaret lounge. Thankfully, things do start to pick up after this and Israel & New Breed, breath life into 'God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen'. The Integrity Singers give a splendid show with 'Holy Lamb of God', while Paul Baloche shines on 'Offering'. The second disc provides pleasant listening, with the highlights being Hillsong's versions of 'Angels We Have Heard on High' and 'The First Noel'. Featuring the vocal talents of Darlene Zschech, the former has some great guitar sounds on an unptempo tune, while the latter is really very sweet. In summing up, there's nothing earth shattering about this collection but if you want something new this Christmas to celebrate the season, this could be for you. 6/10 (December 2007)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Songs of Fellowship 'New Songs 96/97 Vol 1 & 2. (Kingsway).

Particularly welcome for praise and worship group leaders, here's Kingway's latest collection of modern P&W songs. 40 songs here, which are accompanied by a music book, as well as a set of acetate masters. The problem is, so I'm reliably told by a P&W leader, is that you'll only find half of them suitable for your church. So, I listened and picked out those that I thought to be personally appealing. Would you believe it, almost half? Great songs such as 'Bells Are Ringing' and 'Be Still and Know' show the writing talents of Jim Bailey and Lex Loizides, but there's also the likes of Dave Bilbrough and Matt Redman on show too. One of the children's songs is just too awful, containing the chorus line of "Bright colours like daisies, more fruit than Sainsbury's". All in all though, it was refreshing to hear some new songs and, even though I only picked out half of them..... 7/10. (September 1996)

VARIOUS : Songs of Fellowship Collection Vol.7. (Kingsway: SFCD328)

The songs on this album are all taken from the Songs of Fellowship songbook. They are mostly well known traditional hymns and songs, plus one or two I had not heard before. This is a nice compilation, put together well with good music and vocals. The traditional hymns include "To God Be the Glory" and "Love Divine". There is also a fine adaptation of "Breathe On Me, Breath of God", by Dave Fellingham. More recent songs include "Filled With Compassion" by Noel & Tricia Richards, "They That Wait On the Lord" by Kevin Prosch, "Father God" by Ian Smale, and "Majesty" by Jack W Hayford. My favourite songs include "Who's Lips Will Plead" (Alex Moir) - a quiet song with very powerful words - and "So Freely" (Dave Bilborough) a personal favourite of mine. The album contains a good mixture of traditional hymns and renewal songs, as well as praise and quieter prayerful numbers. It's also an enjoyable listen. 8/10. Pam Robinson. (January 2001)

VARIOUS : Songs of Taize. (Kingsway : KMCD2210)

I've never quite got the hang of Taize music, so this was quite a challenge. The music itself is "contemplative in nature, with simple, repeated chorale-like refrains". And, as much as I'd like to understand them, I found song after song just running into one another. I tried listening at work, I tired listening at home. I tried listening in the car, and I even tried listening in the bath. Peaceful? Yes, I've got to agree. But that was all. A 2 Cd package with plenty of songs or chants and, probably good if you get on with this sort of thing. For me, Taize is still a mystery. 2/10. (July 2003)

Various : Songs of Taize Volume 5. (Kingsway : KMCD2783)

Taize became popular in the UK as a form of worship in the late 80s and judging by the fact that this collection is now on volume 5, it still is! Twenty five tracks spread over 2 cds, although to be honest, the track lengths are so short that they could all have fitted on one cd. It seems that double albums are popular at the moment, so that's what we've got. Content wise its pretty much what you would expect - sixty minutes of relaxing and refreshing choral worship. There is some instrumentation here and there, but it is not allowed to get in the way of the voices. It's superbly sung and sympathetically handled by producer Christopher Norton. Overall, not one to win converts (to Taize that is!) but if Taize is your thing it's an album definitely worth having. 7/10 Robin Thompson. (September 2007)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Spirit of Praise - New Songs. (Word : SPND011)

Here's a collection of praise songs that bring to light a host of lesser known, yet very talented, musicians. With them, comes a fresher approach than, say, the more recognised names in CCM and the result is very good. Peacefully praise the Lord with the Matt Chart written 'Draw Near' - yes, he's a new name to me too. 'For Every Worry...' is a catchy song that will, no doubt, be prominent all over the country in the months ahead. Lovely vocals and an excellent song. The only down side to the album is the use of songs dating back to 1993 on a release entitled 'New Songs'. Suffering badly from overkill, in this instance, is Matt Redman's 'Jesus Christ', were even fine guitar work fails to make it 'new'. Produced by Johnny Markin and Chris Bowater, they have put together a promising album that just dips into oblivion now and again. However, rising from the mire comes other worthy mentions such as 'He Can Make...' and the simple, yet effective, 'You Turn My Night'. 7/10. (February 1998)

VARIOUS : Stoneleigh Praise. (Kingsway : KMCD2558)

Regular NFN readers may recall that this particular reviewer is wary of Praise and Worship albums, as many second rate ones have been 'churned out'. This three CD compilation sounds less like a 'production line' job than many however and on the whole, arrangements are good and performances too, although occasionally the adrenaline of a live performance causes lead singers to waver off the notes a bit. Production and mixing is of a high standard for such recordings - with sound quality good and surprisingly consistent, as the 50 songs (some familiar, some less so) are 'taken from eleven years of Stoneleigh Bible weeks'. One standout is "Lord I Come to You" (one of my favourites to sing, as it happens) which has a reflective, nice beginning and builds very effectively - as does "Light of the World". "We Have Sung Our Songs" is simple but very effective. Others worth a mention include "Jesus Loves the Church", "My First Love" (which uses a Corrs-like riff to good effect), "I Stand Amazed" and "You Are My Anchor"' (that girl can really sing!). The sleeve announces that 'Stoneleigh Praise 2' is due May 2005, so a series may have been born. If these tracks represent the pick of the eleven years, the follow-up may not maintain the same standard. This first one however provides an enjoyable way to do the ironing - and in the 3-CD player, all the other housework as well! Overall, 7/10 Dave Deeks. (September 2004)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Streams. (Word : 7012578262).

Add the cream of CCM with a sprinkling of top secular artists. Bring together with some of the finest songwriters and mix it all together. The result should be perfect, but is it? Pair up Maire Brennan and Michael McDonald for Peter Gabriel's "Don't Give Up" and the result is Clannad through and through. It's not a bad rendition but there's little surprise in the outcome. The same can be said for Cindy Morgan on "Job". You know, the piano led ballad, the emotional vocals, it can only be Miss Morgan at her best. In fact, most of the album could come under the same banner. As a showcase for the featured artists it's a good release, showing the likes of Sixpence Non the Richer and Jaci Velasquez at just what they are good at. Michelle Tumes' "Hold On" is simply excellent (I love this lady's voice) and the Delirious?/Amy Grant version of "Find Me in the River" would melt the hardest of hearts. Why end the album with an orchestral suite, I'm not sure? It doesn't match up with the songs and I didn't like it at all. 7/10.

(October 1999)

VARIOUS : Sufficient. (ICC : ICCD81830)

From the Passion and Purpose Worship Series comes this offering with songs almost totally written by Russ Hughes. "Sufficient" is the title, but sufficient for what, is the question I'd like to ask. I can't honestly remember a worship album that made me feel quite so miserable. The first track is called "Glory, Glory Hallelujah". Doesn't that sound like it should be uplifting? Here, the song sounds like the singer is bored by the whole affair and is just going through the motions. The same can be said of the next two songs, before "King of Kings" raises hopes with something a little more uplifting. "Our Father in Heaven" is a total "downer". "Come Lord Jesus, come and bring your healing to this land" are words sung - He should start with this album. The droning of "Holy Spirit" left me quite cold but the closing "Your Blood is Enough" is so sweet, it sticks out like a single rose between many thorns. Sufficent? No, not for me. 2/10. (January 2005)

VARIOUS : Taize - The Best of.... (Kingsway : KMCD2951)

Wikipedia states that "the Taize community, though Western European in origin, seeks to welcome people and traditions from across the globe. This is reflected in the music and prayers where songs are sung in many languages, and increasingly include chants and icons from the Eastern Orthodox tradition. The music emphasises simple phrases, usually lines from Psalms or other pieces of Scripture, repeated and sometimes also sung in canon. The repetition is intended to aid meditation and prayer." Here, then are 50 such arrangements that, for me, did nothing to aid my prayer and meditation. I found most of the tracks to be similar to each other, and the tendency was for one to run straight into the other. For aficionados, tracks include 'Surrex Christus', 'Jubilate, Servite', 'Gloria Et In Terra Pax' and 'Crucem Tuam'. Lyrics are included within the sleeve notes but unless you are a multi-linguist, few will have any real meaning for you. For followers of Taize, I guess that this recording will be a welcome addition, but for others, it might be best to give it a wide birth. 4/10. (May 2009)

VARIOUS : TheName. (Springhill Worship : 4211152)

The Spring Hill Worship website www.springhillworship.com proclaims "New songs today for the Church tomorrow". 'The Name' contains 16 tracks of contemporary CCM pop praise, including ones from artists with their own albums on the Springhill label. A nice touch is that via a PC the CD includes printable lyrics, chord charts, bio information etc. I found it an enjoyable listen that largely succeeds in treading that difficult line for compilations - i.e. enough consistency to make it sound like a product in its own right, with enough variation and originality to keep the listener engaged. There are some excellent tracks here. As I listened however, I was reminded of Jesus' first reported miracle when he turned the water into wine and guests commented that the best had been kept until last! The opening track is simple formulaic pop and in my view one of the weakest, whereas I found the closer 'Song of my surrender' (Anadara) to be one of those 'I wish I had written that' songs - an absolute corker, very well sung. The title track 'The Name' was also a favourite, sung by the same talented lady - and whose first solo CD is featured heavily on the Springhill website. Other stand outs for me were Caleb Rowden's 'Falling', 'King of my World' featuring an effective anthemic chorus and sung by Rick Cua and Charity Von, and 'Adoration' sung by The Booth Brothers with Lydia Gott and including some particularly tight and well played drumming. With more space I could happily mention others. Overall, worth a comfortable 8/10. Dave Deeks (February 2007)

VARIOUS : The Big Worship Box Set 5 (Kingsway : KMCD2822)

This is the latest in the series of budget priced box set compilation CDs from Kingsway, with 3 CDs containing 50 full-length worship songs for the bargain basement price of £7.99. Despite it's price, it does bring forward tunes from well known worship leaders, including Chris Bowater, Paul Oakley, Robin Mark, Andy Bromley & Gareth Robinson. Don't however be expecting every track to be from the big names - certainly not for less than £8! The music included is mostly contemporary with a few older numbers from the vast Kingsway back catalogue, so there's something in here that should appeal to most tastes with studio & live recordings. However as with pretty much every compilation I have ever come across, it is for dipping into as you feel the need rather than listening to from beginning to end. You wouldn't tend to use it "as is" as an all out worship CD as there is no real pattern in terms of content or tempo. There are a few noteworthy tracks such as "O God The God Of Blessing" from Gareth Robinson with plenty of bounce and the rocky "We Worship You (This Side of Heaven)" from Nick Herbert but other than that I got a sense of deja vu - nothing really jumped out to grab me. If you're after good value this is a great option but if you want something a little different, this is not the place to be looking. 6/10 Simon Redfern (April 2008)

VARIOUS : The Peace Of God. (Kingsway : KMCD2920)

With the wealth of so many great Celtic albums in the vaults, it comes, perhaps, as no surprise that Kingsway have put together this collection. It's a 3 CD release featuring writing credits from the likes of Stuart Townend and Keith Getty, as well as Joanne Hogg and Margaret Becker. There are no artists credits included in the sleeve notes, but I'm sure both Hogg and Becker feature on tracks like 'I Did Something Today' and 'Oh For A Heart'. On the whole, the songs and instrumentals are very pleasing to the ear. 'Deep Peace of the Gentle Christ' is an instant highlight, while 'My Soul Finds Rest' is sung with great grandeur. A lot of the songs were new to my ears, but Sammy Horner's 'May Your Life in This World' brought back lots of memories for me from when I first heard it many years ago. 'Your Hand O God Has Guided' is a very strong track, and I smiled at the "reel" feel of 'Sound the Trumpet'. While listening to all 3 CD's in one go might be a little taxing on the brain, it's a fine collection to dip in and out of. 8/10 (March 2009)

VARIOUS : The New Sound of Worship. (Integrity : 99732)

This album features Mark Beswick, Roger Samuels, Ian Pitter, Faye Simpson, and Raymond & Co. From the sleeve notes, I think that most, if not all, of these worship leaders are British but, for whatever reason, the resulting album is very American in style. Also, there's a lot of emphasis put on the performance of each song, rather than letting God "in the house". For instance, I liked the female harmonies on 'Grateful Heart', but Mark Beswick's "Oh Lord" and "Yes, Lord" contributions sound rather staged than spontaneous. Meanwhile, Samuels' big voice on 'Seeking Your Face' shines out from the muddy waters, and it's a good song too. Sadly, by track 6, I was getting tired of this transatlantic muzak, that just doesn't travel well. It's all a little too over the top, and the grisly, gospel of 'Rejoice' was just too much. If this is the new sound of worship, give me the old stuff please. 3/10. (December 2008)

VARIOUS : The Ultimate Collection - Modern Worship. (Sparrow : SPD59098)

The press release says that this collection "captures 25 songs that are sung by tens of millions in church every week, and are quickly becoming the hymns of our day". I guess it depends where you go to church, as there were still a few songs on this double Cd package that I didn't recognise. There's a host of well known names featured, and it all starts with the Newsboys awesome number, "He Reigns" and an energetic live version of "Open the Eyes of My Heart" by Sonicflood. As much as I like Rebecca St James' music, I'm afraid her version of "Above All" just doesn't match up to the original Michael W.Smith release. Tim Hughes offers "Here I Am to Worship" while Delirious give you "I Could Sing of Your love Forever" and, the song that always lifts me up, "Shout to the North". Other artists featured include Chris Tomlin, Brenton Bown, Vicky Beeching and Matt Redman while Sonicflood must also get the plaudits for the most horrendous track with their version of "Lord, I lift Your Name on High". In a nutshell, there should be something for everyone on this album of worship. 7/10 (December 2006)

VARIOUS : The Veil Torn. (Kingsway : KMCD2895)

This 3CD package sets to take you on a journey of praise and thanksgiving, repentance and cleansing, leading to the awesome glory of God. 50 tracks, in total, make it quite an ordeal to listen to in one sitting, and I failed to manage that. There's a mixture of songs old and new, and various re-workings included, but no credits as to who's actually singing them. 'Arise' gives a bouncy, pop start, and a lively version of 'Blessed Be Your Name' caught my ears as being quite good. The first re-working came with 'Beautiful One' and a very individual vocal, just to make it different from the norm. I think that most of the tracks have been recorded live, and the musicianship shines well throughout. I had forgotten just what a good song' Come On and Celebrate' was, and it's bubblegum, pop production here, gave it new life. It may have been written in 1994, but Paul Oakley's 'We Have Prayed' is fairly new to me. I like it's structure and the easy to pick up, catchy tune - first class. It wasn't all plain sailing with the album though, as I found some of the songs to be rather bland, but whoever sings on 'I Am A New Creation' has been certainly blessed. What a great voice the female singer has! Not the best compilation I've come across this year, but enough for your average listener to find plenty of highlights. 7/10 (November 2008)

VARIOUS : This Way Up. (Elevation : ELED00830)

Three bands/I sonic assault. Well, that's what the label says. As ICC's Elevation label gives three UK bands to the chance to air their music with full company backing. All three bands featured show that the guitar is not dead, and there's some stunning effects on show. First up are Chasing Stars with the effervescent "Come On". "Only Human" is a brand new song, and not the one from the late-lamented Giants Will Fall, and "Another Place" rocks things nicely. Supervision, on the other hand, I found to be a cross between Oasis and Duran Duran. Some good lyrics, catchy music, but the delivery didn't quite happen for me on any of their offerings. Enter, Newcastle's finest, Titus. Three Chinese lads, doing it their way. There's a rawness about their music that even comes out on CD, and that just generates excitement to me. "I Could Run A Thousand Miles" and "Made For God" are terrific, especially the latters' guitar work. Then, they finish with "Lost In You". Simple, straight forward lyrics, and a punch packing song is the result. And if that's all not enough, the nice chaps at elevation throw in a Kato song for good measure. Into UK guitar bands? Give it a try. 7/10 (April 2004)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Top 25 Heart Seekers. (Maranatha : UPC738597131622).

Featuring some of the fastest rising praise & worship songs from the past year or two, this album contains ten tracks and makes for good listening. In fact, this pre-release has left me wanting to hear more and I fully intend to buy the full version in the future. The songs are all produced well, singing and music excellent. Reading the sleeve note, I recognised several songs, although some are quite different from the original versions. Included are well-known numbers such as "I Could Sing of Your Love For Ever", "Did You Feel the Mountains Tremble", and "Heart of Worship". One song that I had never heard before was "Hungry", very much in the style of Delirious? A good album with plenty of modern songs. 9/10. Pam Robinson. (August 2001, Album of the Month)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Top 25 UK Praise Songs. (Maranatha : MMCD0101)

Here we are then, the top 25 UK Praise songs as reported by the Christian Copyright Licensing International organisation. Two CD's produced and recorded in the UK, by UK artists. But don't think that this is just another collection of well known songs. Each track has been recorded in quite a different style by several artists. "We Want to See Jesus Lifted high" is given a full guitar band treatment, with singer JK Jamieson leading the way. In fact, Mr Jamieson performs well throughout including the smooth "All Heaven Declares" and "I Will Offer Up My Life". In similar fashion, Paul Oakley shines on "As The Deer" and his rock version of "Jesus is the Name We Honour". Slower songs of note are Carla Hayes' "Faithful One" and Esther Alexander's "The Power of Your Love". Then, of course, there is the most hideous version of "Shine Jesus Shine" that I have ever heard. This is one of the most joyful songs that, usually, never fails to lift flagging spirits but, on this occasion, to say it was bad would be being kind. The Watchman raps his way through the verse while the chorus is sung by a children's choir that sound as if they are being forced to do so. Yes, it is that bad. Still, that still leaves another 24 songs to enjoy, so that can't be bad. 9/10. (June 2002, Album of the Month)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Touched By An Angel. (Myrrh : 080688591120)

From the massive TV programme that is "Touched By An Angel", comes this soundtrack featuring a host of top artists. In America, the show pulls a staggering 22 million viewers but I can't see the album doing it much good. Celine Dion guests with God's Property for some serious whailing and hollering on "Love Can Move Mountains", which follows the equally tedious "Walk With You" by Della Reese & the Verity All Stars. The Kinley's provide the first bright ray, with a modern country sound called "Somebody's Out There Watching". Amanda Marshall sings the pick of the bunch, a particularly well orchestrated, "Believe in You", while Uncle Sam do a good East 17 impersonation on "When I see You Smile". Amy Grant may be having trouble in her personal life right now, but no-one can touch her voice for the beautiful rendition of "Shine All Your Light". It's a bitty, rather than polished affair and, having never seen the programme, I'm not over impressed. 6/10. (April 1999)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Trad Jazz Praise - Be Bold. (Kingsway : KMCD2041).

I honestly couldn't believe what I was hearing when this album began. Those of you old enough to remember the TV variety shows of the 60's & 70's will also remember the appearances of Kenny Ball and Acker Bilk. Well, this could be them, playing well known hymns and praises in their, oh, so familiar style. "Father God I Wonder", "Jubilate" and the title track are all given an injection of jazz. "We Are Gathering Together" reminded me of one of those old negro funeral processions and is downright mournfull. I did tap my feet to a few of the tracks but I really didn't feel uplifted by it all. I certainly didn't dislike the music but my previous aversion to jazz has not been converted by this. 6/10. (April 1998)

VARIOUS : Trinity. (Authentic Media - 8203962)

Finally, a compilation is released that seems to have a purpose, in this case a celebration of the Trinitarian nature of our God. This unifying reason helps the compilation to hang together better than many others, and this is assisted by consistent production, handled in the main by Nathan Fellingham. There is a certain pomp rock feel to the opener, "See What a Morning" and this guitar driven feel continues until track five, "Dance of Our God", a wonderful hebrew style praise number sung superbly by Geraldine Latty. Other highlights include the wonderfully Celtic "Come Let Us Sing" and a quite sublime original arrangement of Graham Kendrick's old stalwart "We Believe". This remains inherently a rock album, and I think there is some nice inteplay between old and new styles on this album. The only real disappointment is that, as good as Cathy Burton's voice is, she lacks the power to make the most of the two songs she sings. She is much better suited to a pop style, and a more appropriate vocalist would have been a better choice. Overall though, a good compilation, and one you are likely to keep playing for some time. 8/10 Robin Thompson. (August 2006)

VARIOUS : Ultimate Hymns. (Authentic : 8204672)

'Ultimate Hymns' is a spot on title for this 4 CD collection. It really does contain the cream of hymns that we have grown to love over the years. Sung exactly how they were written, there are some real crackers for the listener. Writers such as Charles Wesley, John Newton and many others are featured here on an album that, for me, re-kindled so many happy memories. The list of great songs is endless and are far too many to list, but hymns like 'Now Thank We All Our God', 'Be Thou My Vision', 'O For A Thousand Tonuges' and 'Amazing Grace', all appear on the first disc alone. Other personal highlights include 'Holy, Holy' Holy', 'Immortal, Invisible', and 'Onward Christian Soldiers'. The vocals are crisp and clean and the accompaniment unobtrusive. Delight, once more, in the hymns that have stood the test of time. 8/10. (July 2008)

VARIOUS : Ultimate Worship. (Authentic : 8204282)

Anyone familiar with the 'Heart of Worship' series from Authentic Media will know what to expect from this 'Ultimate Worship' four CD set drawn from the original 6 volumes. Whilst the sleeve notes mention the songwriters, it is a shame that the artists remain anonymous for there are some very capable singers here, as well as some excellent songs, in the main well recorded, and with a nice clean sound. As is so often the case with such material however, many of the tunes are predictable and most of the arrangements bland and uninteresting. I did find four tracks worth a mention because they stood out musically - as it happens, one from each disc. Disc 1's 'Majesty (here I am)' features a great bass-guitar-led groove. On disc 2 Marie Barnet's gorgeous 'Breathe' features a strong piano intro and excellent female vocal. Disc 3 brings us 'Holy, holy' - always strong musically, and here featuring nice harmonies and excellent drumming that lifts it above the ordinary. On disc 4 we have the Phatfish song 'There is a day', again strong musically and with its strong anthemic chorus - but the Phatfish original is better. Overall then, a fair introduction to the Christian worship scene, but I can't help wishing better things were happening in terms of variation and originality. Suitable as 'Christian bookshop' background music then, but for home listening not really interesting enough to raise it above a lowly 4/10.. Dave Deeks. (August 2008)

VARIOUS : Vertical Momentum - Trading My Sorrows. (Vertical Music : 29082)

The sleeve notes tell me that this is the ultimate contemporary worship collection of the church's fastest rising favourites of today (disc1) and emerging hits of tomorrow (disc2). Sorry to say, that my church sings none of them, so does that mean I'm missing something? Well, the first Cd is fully charged with some great songs. David Chatel's "I Give You My Heart" is very Third Day in sound and pounds away at your head. "My Glorious" is, in my opinion, the best Delirious? track the boys have come up with since those heady days UK single chart success of the 90's. Drawing you deep into worship is Ten Shekel Shirt with their terrific number "Meet With Me", while Kathryn Scott's great voice treats you to "I Can Only Imagine". Other songs of note include Lamont Heibert's "Sing for Joy" and United Live with "God is Great". The second disc turned out to be a bit of a let down and despite the opening promise of Lincoln Brewster's "Let the Praises Ring", I found very little to enthuse about. Perhaps I am missing something. 5/10 (March 2005)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : "Video You Can Believe In". (Reunion Records). (Video)

For those of you who want to see what some of top CCM artists look like, you could do a lot worse that to spend a few quid on this budget priced video. Only 34 minutes, but containing 8 tracks. Best of the bunch, visually, must be Michael W.Smith's "Cry For Love", while Clay Crosse, singing on a mountain top with a fully robed gospel choir, pushes a close second. Great to see Carolyn Arends sing "Seize the Day" from her debut album "I Can Hear You". Others featured are Wes King, Kathy Troccoli, Church of Rhythm, Rich Mullins, and Joanna Carlson. Shop around, I picked this up for less than a fiver, and can well recommend it. 8/10. (October 1996)

VARIOUS : We Bow Down : (Kingsway : KMCD2949)

I'm not sure whether worship compilations are getting better, or whether my tastes are changing(!), but I found this one mostly a pleasant surprise in the same way as the 'Worship Shuffle' release that I reviewed last month. Kingsway of course have a massive back catalogue to draw from, and whilst the songs here are written dating back to 1994 by the usual well known names - Godfrey Birtill, Stuart Townend et al - there are some tracks that I had not heard before. Again, as with last month's review, production is mostly of a high standard - but it is also again a pity that the artists are not actually credited on the sleeve or insert. The Fellingham family's compositions always seem to stand out for me on such issues, and it is the same here - with two of their offerings 'All I have and all I am' and 'We have this treasure' being my favourites, featuring strong arrangements and excellent performances from lead vocalist Lou. Other tracks that I found worthy of particular mention are 'Most Holy Father I come to You' (written by John Hartley and Chris Eaton), 'In all I do and all I say' (Nathan Fellingham), 'Angels bow (Keith Getty)' and Paul Oakley's 'We have prayed (Let it rain)'. Overall then, another worthy compilation. 8/10. Dave Deeks (May 2009)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : When Women Worship (Kingsway: KMCD2248)

When this CD dropped through my letterbox, I thought, 'Oh no, not another one of those!' It's a nice pastel shade of lilac, very feminine and obviously designed by a man. But it just shows that you shouldn't judge a CD by it's cover. I was surprised by the content and quality of this album. There are a couple of tracks from Sue Rinaldi's excellent 'Promised Land', a couple from Viola Grafstrom, and a vast array of one off's including Lou Fellingham from Stoneleigh and Geraldine Latty from Focusfest. This compilation is a real mixture - some studio, some live recordings; some hymns, some recent songs but with the common theme that all are fronted by female vocalists. I have to say that I preferred the studio renditions, as you tend to get some strange mixes on live ones, and it's very rare that a live atmosphere can be captured on CD. The tracks that stood out for me were Sue Rinaldi's 'Holy River', Viola Grafstrom's 'We Bow Down' and the final track, Joanna Hogg's 'The Lord's My Shepherd'. A nice album, shame about the cover. Kingsway must have designed it with a female market in mind. Strange, I would have thought the opposite as I'm waiting here with bated breath for the release of 'When Men Worship'!! 6/10. Julie Lord. (May 2000)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : When Women Worship - Vol.3. (Kingsway :KMCD2364)

As the title says, this is the third release in the series that features some of the world's finest female vocalists, singing songs of worship. Sadly, (you can tell what I'm going to say, can't you?) it's not as good as it's predecessors. Not that it doesn't have it's moments. Take, for instance, Sue Rinaldi's passionate rendition of James Taylor's "Only You". Expertly sung, with great feeling and dedication. Also, Kate Simmonds produces a real "feel good" factor as you listen to her version of Stuart Townsend's "You Are My Anchor". But, "Come to the Table" is nothing more than a 'happy clappy' number, while "O God of Love" bears more than a passing nod at Wet Wet Wet's version of "Love is All Around". Okay, so I'm not a woman, listening. There again, I've heard the previous albums in the series and have enjoyed the worship. This time, however, perhaps I was too masculine to appreciate it properly. 4/10. (May 2002)

VARIOUS : Wonderful Saviour - 20 new songs for Spring Harvest'. (ICC : 1160D)

Considered 'the 20 outstanding worship songs to emerge through the Church this year', the first of this double CD set features full band arrangements, and the second stripped-back acoustic ones. Five lead vocalists - Andreana Arganda, Cathy Burton, Ross Gill, Adrian Thompson & Neil Wilson - are found on CD1, whilst Andreana, Cathy and Ross share the songs on CD2. Unfortunately they are not identified track by track. There are some very good songs here however, including lyrically - and the insert includes printed lyrics. Production and sound quality are excellent, apart from one track on CD2 ('All I am') where the lead vocal is set too high. The standout track for me on CD1 is the (female vocal) 'Mighty to save', featuring a slightly out of the ordinary drum riff that strongly contributes to the effectiveness of the overall performance. Other strong ones on this CD are the Sarah Masen-like 'From the inside out', 'Beauty unspoken', and the title track 'Wonderful Saviour'. I found the arrangements to be strong, apart from a tendency for the slightly predictable 'drums kick in on second verse' approach. On CD2 'Psalm 13' worked well, but I thought that overall this CD was less successful, with the piano/acoustic guitar providing insufficient variety and several of the songs crying out for a fuller treatment. To help you decide whether to purchase, hear some of the tracks at www.essentialchristian.com. With the emphasis on CD1 however, a worthy 8/10. Dave Deeks (July 2008)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : World Worship 2. (Kingsway : KMCD2373)

Worship leaders on this album come from Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, the Carribean, England, Sweden, and Native America. It's quite a collection, with a wide range of styles contained within. Perhaps this, then, is the reason there seemed to be so much variety on offer to keep my ears interested. I'm still a sucker when it comes to a good old fashioned jig, and so wasn't disappointed by "Sound the Trumpet". I'm not a big fan of David Ruis but I thought that "everybody Come Now" rates as one of his best songs of praise. Viola 's "A Generation Comes and Goes" really stands out because of her whispering voice. It simply makes you listen more intently and, therefore, you enjoy the song much more! I wasn't to keen on the gospel tinged "Yes I Thank you", but found the accappella lament "I Turn and Come To you" a compelling listen. Lots of styles on show and lots to commend this album. 8/10. (May 2002)

VARIOUS : Worship 24:7. (Integrity : 42632)

Following up on last year's highly successful Worship Platinum release, 'Worship 24:7 is the next release in the best-selling series. Here are 31 songs on a two CD collection that features some stirring performances. Lincoln Brewster's 'Salvation is Here' kicks things off, and it's a very bright start. Don Moen's 'How Great is Our God' is a rather luke warm rendition, but Aaron Shust's 'My Saviour My God' is great, in your face worship and declaration. Hillsong United contribute two fabulous tracks, 'From the Inside Out' and 'Lead Me to the Cross', while there's terrific harmonies from Phillips, Craig and Dean on 'Your Name'. The songs keep rolling on and Kathryn Scott's sweet voice on 'I Belong' is particularly beautiful. One of the lesser known artists, Phil Whickham shows what a talented singer he is on 'Always Forever' while Robin Mark typically leads worship with 'I Have Been Crucified With Christ'. As I say, 31 songs, and hardly a bad one among them. 9/10. (March 2008)

VARIOUS : Worship at the Abbey. (Kingsway : KMCD2762)

Recorded live at the famous Studio One of London's Abbey Road Studios, this Cd features an evening of celebration. Included are a whole host of artists, delivering various musical styles. It all starts off in triumphant mood with the terrific 'Happy Day' by Tim Hughes (a song that you will read more about in this month's NFN). Along with 'Clothed With Splendour', it's as good as anything that Hillsong have thrown at us in the last couple of years. Jocelyn Brown flexes her vocals chords on the gospel number, 'Praise the Mighty Name of 'Jesus', while Smokie Norful's voice grates rather on the repetitive 'Celebrate'. The varying styles tend to make the running order rather dis-jointed, and I think that this makes for a rather "stop-start" production overall. I enjoyed the more traditional songs mostly, including 'Here I Am To Worship' and 'How Deep the Father's Love'. An album that is more than just another worship compilation. 7/10. (November 2007)

VARIOUS : Worship Encounter Vol.2. (Fierce : Fiercd30)

Let me get one moan right out of my system from the beginning. It took a very bright light and a magnifying glass for me to read the horrible small white print on an orange background, of the sleeve notes. I don't wear glasses but I was certainly thinking of paying the optician a visit after my first squinting look. Still, the music is what it's all about, and I settled down to listen. There are 18 tracks on the Cd, featuring some well known, and some not so well known, songs. "Beautiful One" is a good starter but David Lyle Morris' "Blessed Be Your Name" really kicks things off with a super rendition. Cathy Burton shows her vocal prowess on "Indescribable" and, later, returns to duet smoothly with Marc James on "Faithful One". David Lyle Morris provides the best of the tracks with "Whole World" and "You". The latter is produced very much in the style of recent Snow Patrol singles, and is a real winner for fans of that genre. "Come Let Us Return" and "I Love Your Presence" were new songs to me, but I didn't really like either of them. Neil Wilson sings a nice version of "I Could Sing of Your Love Forever" and ends the album on a solid footing. As worship albums go, this one is quite good. 7/10. (July 2007)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Worship from Ireland (ICC: ICCD79430)

The sub-title of this twenty four track double album is 'songs and events that have influenced the church in Ireland' - so although the worship leaders do tend to have Irish accents the music itself is perhaps not quite as 'Irish' as may have been thought from the title! Whatever, some of the arrangements found here are more musically interesting than in many contemporary P&W albums. 'This Is the Air I Breathe', 'Closer, Nearer' and 'Deeper Still' follow one another and are examples of songs that are carefully produced and well sung as 'performances' rather than attempts to lead worship, and will therefore stand repeated plays on the home CD player. Other high points for me, although more in 'worship leading mode', were 'Lion of Judah', 'Surely Our God' and 'Awake, Awake O Zion'. 'How Deep the Father's Love' is more than five minutes of beautifully played instrumental. Some of the remaining tracks are led by vocalists who sound rather strained and tired. 'Shout to the Lord' is one example - I would suspect this song was recorded towards the end of an especially uplifting time of corporate worship! A mixed bag, then, worth an average of … 6/10 Dave Deeks. (April 2004)

VARIOUS : Worship From the Heart of Ireland. (Integrity Music: 30922)

I found this CD quite a refreshing change to a lot of the worship CDs that I've heard lately. The people involved seemed to be really enjoying themselves, and genuine about what they were doing. There are some well known people here, Brian Doerksen, Robin Mark, and Joanne Hogg just to name a few. A mix of traditional hymns like Be Thou My Vision, and When I Survey are side by side with more modern songs like Days of Elijah, and the Anthem for Ireland, which goes to the tune of Danny Boy unsurprisingly. This is a double CD, with 22 tracks, so most people will find something that they know on it somewhere I should think. If like me you sometimes despair at the sugar coated mush that is all too often served up by the big American labels, then give this CD a try. I'm sure that you won't be disappointed. Andy Sayner 9/10 (June 2004)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Worship on Location. (ICC : ICCD52230)

This is a double album featuring live praise and worship from some of the top worship leaders today - Robin Mark, Matt Redman, David Ruis and Graham Kendrick to name but a few. An excellent compilation of new, and some not so new, songs. Music, singing, lyrics all of a very high standard. Songs taken from Spring Harvest, soul Survivor, and New Wine etc. There are rousing praises and plenty of quieter prayerful numbers. One minor criticism about the sleeve notes, where I would have liked to have been told who was actually leading each song. Some voices are very distinctive but others left me wondering. I found it difficult to pick out favourite tracks, there being so many, but from disk one; "It's Our confession, Lord" begins fairly quietly and then gradually moves into a stirring praise song. From the second disc, then, "Stand Amazed In the Presence" is a favourite of mine anyway. Sung with a haunting voice, a beautiful version of a superb song. "O Sacred King" works well but isn't quite as polished as Matt Redman's original rendering. On the whole, an excellent album. 9/10. Pam Robinson. (December 2001)

VARIOUS : Worship Shuffle - 50 great songs for your MP3 player. (Kingsway : KMCD2902)

I must admit my first impression wasn't good when I received this 3 CD set for review. For a start, it comes in a garish 'highlighter pen' orange. Then the title seems to imply the worst kind of 'conveyor belt' worship songs. The outcome however is better than I imagined, with production mostly of a high standard and enough good tracks to make this a cost effective way to obtain a worthwhile range of recent worship material. Whilst regular worship listeners will recognise most of the lead vocalists when they hear them, it is a pity that artists are not credited against songs. The composers are however, and there is also a general statement that the set 'includes songs from worship leaders such as Stuart Townend, Matt Redman, Tim Hughes, Lou Fellingham, Brenton Brown and so many more'. Strongest tracks for me from CD1 were 'You've granted perfect merit' (Nathan Fellingham) and 'Now that I am born of God' (Kate Simmonds and Mark Edwards), from CD2 'In all I do and all I say' (Nathan Fellingham), 'Jesus you are mercy' (Brenton Brown and Don Williams), 'Though I walk upon ground that is rugged' (Simon Brading) and 'Speak oh Lord' (Keith Getty and Stuart Townend), and from CD3 'When we turn our hearts to Heaven' (Noel Richards and Ken Riley), 'God of justice' (Tim Hughes) and the haunting 'If this life's just these last few days' (Kate Simmonds and Mark Edwards). It isn't often that a mastering engineer gets a mention in a review, but I want to praise Denis Blackham at Skye Studios for doing an excellent job of making the compilation sound uniformly good. Overall then, worth an easy 8/10. Dave Deeks (April 2009)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Worship - The Acoustic Set. (Kingsway :KMCD916).

Earlier this year, Kingsway released another album from the Worship Together 97 conference, which was nothing special. However, with this release we hear musicians perform in an intimate venue, producing live acoustic recordings of their best songs. Bryn Haworth starts things off with the bluesy "I'm Grateful" and soon gets the audience clapping along. This is followed by some lovely prayerful worship, in the shape of Dave Bilbrough "What Kind of Love is This?". Oh yes, my friend Graham Kendrick is featured too....at his best. "Lift Him High", "Abba Father" and "Thorns in the Straw" are his contributions, all excellent but, with the former standing out. Andy Piercy's "Psalm 139" washes peacefully over you and Matt Redman's "Show Me the Way of the Cross" ministers in such a profound way. Also featured are Noel Richards, Stuart Townend and Carol Owen, on a worship album of great power. 9/10. (October 1997)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Worship Together 97. (Kingsway : KMCD994).

In January this year, 3,000 worship leaders and musicians from across the UK , Europe and the U.S gathered in Eastbourne for a unique conference - to rediscover the heart of worship. This album captures some of the worship time led by several gifted leaders. Kicking off with Matt Redman and "The Cross Has Said It All", it's a bouncy and exciting number. Graham Kendrick comes next with a stuttering gospel offering called "Say It Loud", before the pace picks up again with the hoe-down "I Will Dance". It's a well crafted album that does get you excited, as well as quietly worshipping. Stuart Townend and Noel Richards are just two of the other artists featured on a live worship recording that stands up well. 7/10 (July 1997)

VARIOUS : Worship Together Platinum - CD & DVD Set. (Kingsway : WTD60606)

The publicity blurb gives the rationale for this set as follows: "Following the rapid success of the certified platinum release 'Worship Together: I could sing of your love forever', accompanied by major television advertising from Time Life, Worship Together introduces a new collection featuring the best songs from the top selling 15 volume continuity series - all in one new package". So there you go. Essentially, what we have here is a CD containing what are considered to be the top 15 tracks from the full volume, plus a 'bonus' DVD of '"7 top worship videos". With one or two exceptions, the CD contains medium paced, guitar-based pop-rock worship songs - some studio recorded, others live. Here we have names like SonicFlood, Newsboys, Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman - beginning with the excellent 'Breathe' by the only lady here, Rebecca St James. The other stand-out for me is 'Blessed be your name' by Tree63, done in anthemic fashion and great to sing along to in the car. The other tracks are familiar and mainly enjoyable, but I couldn't help noticing that many suffer from the overall similarity that much of CCM seems to have developed these days, with each artist/band progressing seamlessly to the next. The 7 track DVD is better, with more variety on offer - and there is also the obvious benefit of seeing the artists in action. Rebecca James again has one of the best tracks, opening with a 'pop video' of 'Song of Love'. Other stand-outs are the live 'O Praise Him' by the David Crowder Band, Matt Redman's (very hot and sweaty!) live performance on 'The heart of worship', and Newsboys' 'pop video' style 'He reigns'. Unfortunately, Plus One's live performance of 'Here I am to worship' is sung out of tune. Mostly however, an enjoyable DVD with good sound and picture quality - and this puts my score for the whole package up to 8/10. Dave Deeks. (February 2006)

Various Artists - WOW 1997. (Alliance Music : SPV3222) (Video)

Good CCM videos are a rarity and I'm usually disappointed by those I do see. This collection features nine artists, of which none would be out of their depth on MTV. But, they do - generally - lack imagination. Jaci Velasquez sings about Heaven, in a desert, while Audio Adrenaline make the most of an elevator and roof top. Carmen's R.I.O.T. video is the pick of the bunch. Set in a factory, where workers are shackled and ruled by an evil boss, it tells of breaking free, with good triumphing over evil. It's clever setting, dance routines, and brilliant tune ensure that your eyes are glued to the screen. Michael W. Smith's 'Cry For Love' does have some stunning effects but this film is now over two years old, and has lost it's freshness. There's quite a variation in the styles, including the whacky Newsboys in space suits and grunge band, Third Day, debuting well with 'Consuming Fire'. WOW 1997 will open a few people's eyes but 'Quite Good 1997' would be a more apt title. 7/10. (July 1997)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Wow 1999. (Alliance : 7243 8516862 8)

Now this IS really good! Actually 33 tracks, this double CD contains 11 potential number one hits (in my humble opinion) and at least a dozen more that are top 10 material. The first category includes the massive hits by DC Talk "Supernatural"; Jars of Clay "Crazy Times"; Delirious? "Deeper"; and Mairre Brennan "The Light on the Hill". The quality ofd these songs alone should not be underestimated, and they are backed by Michelle Tumes, Fernando Otega, The Newsboys, and Michael W.Smith. Of course, no-one is going to like every single track and neither Stephen Curtis Chapman or Smalltown Poets win my votes. However, at single CD price, this album ranks alongside all those compilations that hit our TV screen throughout the year. A good buy if ever there was one. 9/10. (February 1999, Album of the Month)

VARIOUS : Wow Christmas. (Word : WD2-886078)

A two CD package this, featuring some of the top names in US CCM today. 31 songs ranging from the awful opening, swing version of "Winter Wonderland" by Avalon, to the simply astounding and passionate performance of Third Day and "Do You Hear What I Hear". Full marks for everyone not just contributing a standard version of these well known Christmas tunes but the quality is a little "up and down". 4Him show off their great vocals harmonies on "A Strange Way to Save the World", and similarly, Plus One provide class with "A Payer for Every Year". Mark Schultz and Nichole Nordeman duet well on "Silent Night", while Kathy Mattea's "Mary, Did You Know?" sounds awfully like Tracey Chapman. Jennifer Knapp's "Sing Mary Sing" is simply devine, but ZOEgirl's disco version of "Angels We Have Heard on High", just doesn't work. There something for everyone on this Cd but, for me, not enough to make me give it more than…5/10. (December 2002)

VARIOUS ARTISTS : Wow The 90s (Word : 701997760X)

This compilation covers Christian music from 1990 to 98 with the exception of 93 (obviously a bad year!) and features many well known artists all of which are American. My overall impression was of an album well suited to being background music with little to really draw my attention. Both CDs from this double album start with a series of more pacey numbers including Jesus Freak from dc Talk, Shine from the Newsboys and Keep the Candle Burning from Point of Grace. The later tracks of both CDs seem to allow the pace to drop and leave me feeling a sense of repetitiveness about the melodic pop and rock based ballads from the likes of Michael English and Avalon. Highlights for me include Twila Paris with God is in Control and Kathy Troccoli's Everything Changes not to mention the old favourites such as offerings from Michael W Smith and Amy Grant. Being a pre-release, I don't get to review the final inlay, but I hope that is more than just a list of artists and tracks, as it would improve the value of the product if plenty of information were forthcoming. I couldn't help feeling that this album lacks British input and innovation, but if you like American Christian music then it could be for you. 5/10 Geoff Waring. (September 1999)

VARIOUS : WOW 2001. (Alliance : 7243 8 51779 2 7)

I sometimes look bewildered at the latest secular compilation that adorns my teenage children's CD collection. If I recognise half a dozen of the artists, I'm doing well. If I recognise the same number of songs that I actually like, well, that's really good going. So, if I tell you that there are more than 20 personal favourites on this latest CCM collection, you'll know just how good it is. 30 top 40 CCM hits, plus 3 bonus tracks, results in a top notch release. I've got to also say that I was absolutely knocked out by the brilliant Plus One, and the song "Written on My Heart". Matching anything the Backstreet Boys can give, this IS the class cut of all. Michael W Smith's on show, as is, Steven Curtis Chapman, and Jaci Velasquez shines with "Crystal Clear". Pop outfit Avalon, FFH, Fernando Ortega, and Mark Schultz are just a few of the other artists on the first CD performing great songs. Then, it's on to the second disc which includes the massive hit "Shackles" by Mary Mary and Third Day's "King of Glory". Who else? Well, how about Rebecca St James, V*enna, Delirious?, the list is endless. Sorry, but this must be….10/10. (December 2000, Album of the month)

VARIOUS : Wow Hits 1. (Provident : ProvID879)

The WOW series of albums has always endeavoured to bring together some of the biggest Christian music releases of the year. Now, the series has been re-launched, bringing the listener more music, more often and at a budget price. It's an ideal album if you want to sample a broad spectrum of CCM, or give to someone as a present. Included are some of the very top names around, including Michael W Smith, Casting Crowns, Relient K, and Newsboys. Smith opens things with a typical song. He has a big voice and 'So Great' has a big production behind it. 'Everything Glorious' by the Dave Crowder Band really draws you in, and I was soon singing along with the chorus. Point of Grace have often flattered to deceive in my opinion, but 'All the World' sees them harmonising at their very best. A new name to me is Matthew West, but he has a wonderful voice and gives it his all on the quite brilliant song, 'You Are Everything'. Provident have really put together a good collection of songs here, and 'Wow Hits 1' carries on their great tradition. 9/10 (October 2008)

VARIOUS : Wow Hits 2006. (Kingsway : SPD11247)

Here we have a double CD labelled 'Gold' and 'Bronze' containing '30 of the year's top Christian artists and hits'. Three 'bonus tracks' actually make the total 33. The two CDs turn out to be quite different. 'Gold' gets off to a good start with 'Voice of Truth' by Casting Crowns - nice sound, good lead vocal, smoothly produced, starting quietly, building into a memorable hook. The only real stand out on 'Gold' however, is the excellent Bebo Norman track 'Nothing without you'. 'Bronze' tends to be more 'rocky', with more variety. Best tracks here are Barlowgirl's 'Mirror' (with a Michelle Tumes-sounding piano-led intro), Tobymac's 'Atmosphere', Relient K's 'Be my escape', the David Crowder*Band's 'Here is our King', Bethany Dillon's 'All that I can do', Superchick's 'Pure', and the Josh Bates closer 'Perfect Day'. On 'Gold', much of the content sounds too similar to the opener. Many of the artists may well be talented and individual, and there are some good songs here, but such songwriting and performance talents seem to have been 'processed out' by the somewhat formulaic production approach so that, regretfully, these special giftings from God have been lost along the way. When are such artists going to be revealed as the Coldplays, the Athletes, the K T Tunstalls, the Katie Meluas and Keanes of CCM? So, 'Gold' for background, 'Bronze' for more rewarding listening. Overall 8/10. Dave Deeks. (April 2006)

VARIOUS : Wow Hits 2007. (EMI : SPD67196)

This series of albums has become very popular over the last few years, giving the listener a great diversity of styles and genre. However, on the downside, if you're not a rock fan, then there's a fair few songs on this 2 CD album that you're not going to like. But, for those of you who like a variety in their music, this is a perfect addition to any music collection. Casting Crowns start the ball rolling the title track from their award winning album, "Lifesong". Aaron Shust delivers a chorus of power with "My Saviour My God", and there's some sweet vocals from Natalie Grant on "Held". Highlights of the second CD, for me, are Relient K's "Who I Am Hates Who I've Been", and Hawk Nelson's "Everything You Ever Wanted". The former is performed in typical Blink 182 style while the latter has one of the catchiest choruses of the year. Rebecca St James and Krystal Meyers provide some chart orientated rock and, all in all, help to make this a very good collection. 8/10 (March 2007)

VARIOUS : WOW Hits 2008. (EMI/Provident : 0946 3 96677 2 7)

Oh no, not another compilation, I hear you cry! Thankfully, this is a good one, which in a market awash with such things is a welcome relief. To be honest, the WOW collections are normally pretty excellent and this is no exception. Of particular note on this one is how well the different styles actually work together. From the awesome guitar riffs and catchy melody on "The Show" by Hawk Nelson to Mandisa's touchingly soulful "Only the World" the album hangs together extraordinarily well thanks to a well selected collection of songs that are actually very good. This is to be expected when artists such as Third Day, Michael W. Smith and Newsboys are represented but it's not always the case. Worship clichés are thankfully avoided and the whole collection is infused with a passion and enthusiasm which makes this whole thing work with professionalism and panache. The album encourages you to "share it with a friend" and, to be honest, you wouldn't be embarrassed to do so. Want a summary of the current healthy state of Christian Contemporary Music? Look no further. 10/10 Robin Thompson. (April 2008, Album of the Month)

VARIOUS : WOW Hymns. (EMI : 8068871472)

This is supposed to be a collection featuring 30 of the best-loved hymns, but there are certainly plenty that I have never heard of before. Steven Curtis Chapman and Chris Tomlin are the first two artists to feature, with renditions of 'Holy, Holy, Holy' and 'Take My Life' respectively. Both are nice enough, but nothing out of the ordinary. Indeed, that, sadly, was my feeling throughout this two CD collection. Third Day give a celtic style cover of 'All the Heavens' while the Newsboys' 'In Christ Alone' has a powerful production to it. Unmistakable, is the sound of Michael W Smith on a new song called 'The Wonderful Cross' and the duet by Bethany Dillon and Shaun McDonald on 'All Creatures of Our God & King' shines out as high points. Late on in proceedings we get the real polished affair of Passion, featuring Christy Nockels, singing 'Praise to the Lord, the Almighty', while at the other end of the scale, Point of Grace provide the most awful, twee, harmonies it's ever been my misfortune to hear. Overall, a rather weak album which fails to inspire. 4/10. (November 2007)

VARIOUS : X2006. (BEC : BED45605)

"X 2006" offers plenty for those who like their music a little more on the loud side of the spectrum. It features 20 different artists and shows the great variety of top sounds for fans of this type of music. Kutless kick off things with a grunge-rock start on the track "Shut Me Out". Thousand Foot Krutch supply an Evanesence style sound on "Move", while Relient K sound like Blink 182 on "I SO Hate the Consequences". Both songs are top notch quality and I liked them very much. It must be my age, but I'm afraid I just can't get into the growling vocals of bands like Demon Hunter and Underoath. I'd like to understand what the bands are singing about, but I found it almost impossible to hear any of the words. Hawk Nelson have had good things written about them over the last 12 months and their showing on this album with "The One Thing I Have Left" sees them shine brightly. Possibly the most commercial song on the album comes from Superchick. Here, the sound is very much akin to that of Kelly Clarkson, and the song is really catchy. The album is supposed to be what is the best in Christian rock music, and I don't think that it will disappoint. 8/10. (August 2006)

VARIOUS : X2008. (EMI : BED00408)

Well, here's this year's batch of Christian rock hits for the lover of the harder edge of music. The track listing showed that their was a varied range of acts performing, so I was hopeful that despite my advancing years, there would be a few tracks that I would enjoy. I began to fear the worst as Thousand Foot Krutch screamed out of the speakers with the aptly named 'Falls Apart'. What a lot of noise, and not much else really. Toby Mac didn't raise my spirits either, but Barlowgirl at least showed signs of life. Their 'Song for the Broken' is much like that which propelled Evanesence to popularity a couple of years ago. Relient K proved to be the best for me. 'Forgiven is a lighter rock sound and has a great chorus for lots of jumping up and down to. For those who like the grunge and growling vocals, there's typical fayre from The Almost, and Underoath - but these did nothing for me. Of the heavier music, Kutless' 'Heart of the Innocent' was probably the best, as I could actually understand the words being sung. Skillet provide the "My Chemical Romance" moment with a great guitar solo on 'Whispers in the Dark', while Amberlin's roaring chorus on 'A Whisper and a Clamor' made me sit up and take note. 6/10 (March 2008 - repeated April 2008)

VARIOUS : You Raise Me Up. (Curb : 8789292)

There's not many CCM compilations that can boast two #1 mainstream country singles, but this one can! Leanne Rimes' "I Need You" and Tim McGraw's "Live Like You Were Dying" are both featured on this Curb release. Miss Rimes' voice works the song well, but it was Tim McGraw's song that hit me the most. I've not previously liked this song, but on this occasion, the worlds just seemed so alive and true. The title track of the album is done by Selah, and how beautiful it is too. By The Tree sing a good, energetic version of "Beautiful One" and Plumb present "I Can't Do This" is an Evanescence style, but the most lovliest song comes from Natalie Grant. "Held" is such a personal song and she manges to caress each word that she sings. Other artists featured include Mercy Me, Big Daddy Weave, Barlowgirl, and Nate Sallie, on this more than average collection. 7/10. (September 2006)

VARIOUS : Your Kingdom Come. (ICC : ICCD69930)

Here's the latest release of live worship recorded at Detling 2002. I reviewed it by listening on a train journey, too and from London. So, with a very early start, I fancied that "worship" was the right CD to take. The opening tracks disappeared without a trace and, although "God Is Good" is a quite bouncy song, none of the first five songs either lifted my spirits or brought me closer to God. Then, "Salvation Belongs To Our God" hit my ears. It's a song I know well, but I'd never heard it sung to this tune before. Russ Hughes leads, what is, a very strong rendition of an excellent song. The versions of "How Great Thou Art" and "We Humbly Pray" are sung with similar power, and the album really kicks off. "Jesus Thank You For the Cross", led by Eoghan Heaslip follows suit, while Simon Goodall's "Deeper in Love with You", is a quieter, more personal meditation. One of those albums of two halves. The first is quite lack lustre, while the second has everything a good worship album should have. 5/10. (February 2003)

VERITY RECORDS : The First Decade. Vol 1. (Verity : 8287 66067224)

Conceived in 1994, Verity Records was the culmination of shared vision and purposed destiny. Ten years later, and following countless, massive hit records, this album celebrates those years. It's a two CD set. One is subtitled "Meditation & Strength", while the second is called "Praise Party!". On the first we have a whole host of artists plying their trade in inimitable style. Everything I loathe about traditional gospel music is on show here. Hollering and yelling to their hearts content may give the chest muscles a good work out, but it only leaves me reaching for the volume control. Main culprits here are Richard Smallwood, Vickie Winans and Albertina Walker. Joann Rosario sings what is the best number with some sweet vocals and restrained choir backing on "More, More, More". Disc 2 is more of the same, although Tonex does sing a passable funky dance number called 'Bout a Thang". Not sure what Deitrick Haddon is singing about but unless my ears deceive me, he delivers some sort of message bout "booty's and thongs". Where he's going with this one I'm not sure. Virtue save this disc from oblvion with a chart tinged hip hop number called "He's Been Good", but overall, it doesn't save this collection from being pretty mundane. 3/10. (November 2004)

VERRA CRUZ : Emancipation Day. (Fierce : Fierc023)

Verra Cruz burst onto the scene in September 2003 after the demise of rock band Dust. The band have played almost every kind of venue and are led by singer Marc James, who also provides all the lyrics for the songs. The sound is very old fashioned rock, with more than a passing nod to the likes of Deep Purple and Black Sabbath. There's thumping beats and distorted guitars, and these feature heavily on the opening "Cold That You Feel" and "Strange Food". After listening to many of the new rock sounds, I thought that the overall sound of this album was quite dated. "Hell Hound" and "Guns in the Distance" both sounded as if they would be better suited to the 80's rather than this millennium. The best song, by far, has to be "Soul Collides". It's an energy packed number, complete with racing guitars. Sadly, the album, then, seems to have run it's course and apart from the dreadful acoustic "Lead Me", the songs just stutter on. I can't say that I was particularly impressed by the album, nor the sound. Verra Cruz have picked up some decent reviews for this album. Sadly, tis isn't one of them. 5/10. (January 2007)

VERRA CRUZ : Innocence. (Fierce! : FIERCD40P)

Verra Cruz are an English band that attract descriptions such as 'American mainstream rock', 'nu-grunge' and 'blues-rock'. Their first album 'Emancipation Day' brought some excellent reviews, some commenting in particular on the sophistication and depth of the song lyrics. Having been well received at Greenbelt last summer, this follow-up 'Innocence' includes some of the songs featured on stage. My pre-release copy did not include the jewel case insert, so I don't know whether printed lyrics are provided - I would like to think so. As with the first offering however, here we have high quality intelligent 'adult' lyrics and strong melodies delivered by Marc James' excellent lead vocals sitting on distorted guitar-driven heavy rock, blues and blues/rock. In addition to vocals, Marc provides the excellent bluesy guitar sounds, Jimmy Cooke drives things along on drums, and recently-joined Henry Cross underpins everything with effective bass playing. The sound is unusually good for such an album, a quality system revealing a spacious acoustic that contributes to the whole Verra Cruz experience. The best tracks for me were 'Weapon' (delta-blues/rock featuring slide guitar), and 'Friend to you' (medium-paced, featuring acoustic guitars and strings and a chorus with a strong hook). Others worth particular mention are 'She don't want him' and 'Grace' - both straightforward heavy pop/rock. To sample the Verra Cruz sound, visit www.verracruz.com. 8/10. David Deeks (May 2008)

VESTAL GOODMAN : Vestal & Friends. (Pamplin : PMCD2058)

Vestal Goodman has sung and ministered to countless thousands of fans for nearly 50 years, along with husband, Howard, and Johnny Minnick. As a celebration of her ministry, Vestal has teamed up with a host of top stars to produce some memorable, and some not so memorable, duets. Things begin with country legend Vince Gill and a typical gospel number called "Jesus Made A Way". That cross of country meets gospel runs throughout the album and, with them, we find the likes of Dolly Parton and Jake Hess. The former features some great steel guitar, while the latter is just good old fashioned country music. Track 4 sees The Newsboys providing the backing for an extremely nice version of "Great Is Thy Faithfulness", a crazy sort of thing but works well. Vestal has a great voice and, upon hearing it for the first time, I can see why she's become so popular. Hats off to Pamplin (or whoever had the idea) for this off the wall marriage that, overall, can consider itself a hit. 8/10. (May 2000)

VIGILANTES OF LOVE : To the Roof the Sky. (Private Recording US Import : Telephone 0181 3595059 for details).

Since leaving their record label and setting out their own stall, VOL have been far from just sitting around. This first self financed release sees a move forward in their musical make-up, resulting in a sound that encompasses The Waterboys, The Electrics, and Garth Brookes! Quite a concoction, I agree, but there you have it. My pre-release copy came with no track listing, so apologies if I get the titles wrong. The second half of the album is much stronger than the first, with 'Fill A Dream' having a quite infectious chorus, and the slower 'Proven Ground' being just as catchy. The vocals, throughout, are very tight but meander depressingly - for what seems like a life time - on 'From the Verge'. 'Code Blue' is quite quirky, complete with it's mandolin and harmonica backing, and I enjoyed this style most of all. The overall sound was a bit muddy, but I guess these things will all be ironed out by the time the album is released. Good album. 8/10. (September 1998)

VINESONG : The Christmas Album. (VM MUSIC)

"A refreshing new approach to Christmas music combining traditional carols with modern worship songs declaring the birth of Jesus Christ" - so says the sleeve notes. Mind you, for the first 4 songs I wondered just where these refreshing new approaches where hiding? There was nothing new about "O Come All Ye Faithful", nor "Silent Night" with it's over the top bass. "Angels We Have Heard" sounded better, but new? Then, just as I was getting pretty fed up with proceedings, "Nations Rejoice" appeared. What a change! What a brilliant song! I could see (in my minds eye) thousands upon thousands of people using this song for some serious praise. All of a sudden the skies were blue and "Joy To the World" shone like the summer sun. Great funly rhythms and some of the best brass I've heard in some time. Why it took Vinesong so long to hit the right note I'm not sure but the rest of the album stays right on track. 7/10. (December 1999)

VINEYARD MUSIC : Surrender. Alliance : 1995022

"Surrender" is the third album to focus in the very best the Vineyard Fellowships in the UK and Ireland have to offer. It is, in fact, a strong recording, with many fine songs of worship. Nigel Briggs' "For Me" has got that 'Matt Redman' sound about it, and it's simple lyrics really do hit home. The title track is one of those beautiful, yet powerful, worship songs that bring to mind a scene of thousands praising God as one and singing "I Surrender all to you". Kathryn Scott's "Devotion" is another brilliant song and, if it's her singing, what great vocals she has too. "You Are My King" doesn't quite make the grade but "All That I Need" raises up the praise again, with the assurance of God's protection. Nice touch for worship groups is that the CD contains a section for use with a PC that includes acetate masters, guitar lead sheets, and many other bits of useful stuff. 9/10. (September 2000)

VINEYARD MUSIC : Holy. (Vineyard : 50285 1995062 8)

If you want a good pop worship album, then look no further than "Holy". Beginning with Brenton Brown's "Thank You For the Cross" and ending with the Delirious/U2 sounding "So Near", this is a highly polished release. Indeed, Brenton Brown shows what a great writer he is on the title track too - more pop worship. Esther Alexader's moving "Let My Heart Be Your Home" will, I believe, become a great favourite around the churches, but Daniel Chadney's vocals on James Hellings' song "What Love is This?" takes a lot of beating. led by acoustic guitar, the worship during this song just gets deeper and deeper. I can say no more than I did in the first line of this review. That should say it all. 9/10. (July 2002)

VINEYARD : Come Now Is the Time. (Vineyard : 6012 1280412 9)

Taken from recordings made as far back as 1977, this album tries to capture the live passion and energy of worship events from around the world. The UK, America, Canada, and more are all venues featured with 25 songs sung by various leaders. It all totals around 2 hours of music, but where there's quantity, I'm afraid that the quality suffers. Being perfectly honest, there wasn't one track that made me say "Ooh, that was good". On the other hand, there's adequate versions of songs like "Refiner's Fire", "Hungry", "The River Is Here", and "Sweet Mercies", but there's also some dire rubbish such as the OTT "Holy" which is just truly outrageous. Nothing really to write home about, just a very ordinary album. 5/10. (December 2004)

VINEYARD : Emmanuel (Vineyard : 6012 1280422 8)

This, short, eight track Cd represents songs both traditional and modern in style. The listing begins with "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day", which has a very nice feel about it. "Away in a Manger" is sung most carefully in lullaby style and it's no surprise that this comes over very well. Of the others, I especially liked "Adoramus Te", a tune that I'd not heard before, but enjoyed immensely. Of the two new songs featured, the title track is, perhaps, the stronger and it's instrumental backing brings a glowing warmth to the proceedings. As I write, this is the best Christmas offering I've heard so far this year, but that's not saying much. 7/10. (December 2004)

VINEYARD UK WORSHIP : Be the Centre - The Best of... (Vineyard : 1280882)

This collection features the most influential songs that have been birthed in the UK Vineyard Churches since 1998. It includes worship leaders like Brian Doerksen, Brenton Brown, and Kathryn Scott, amongst others and mixes both live and studio recordings. 'Come Now is the Time' is an empowering cry for people to do just that, and this version is simply superb. Kathryn Scott leads an excellent version of 'Hungry', while 'holy' is just jam packed full of the spirit. There's a quieter sound to the title track, and a rather sedate version of 'Lord Reign In Me', but I found myself really enjoying the album. On the live tracks, you get a real sense of togetherness from those gathered and that, too, helped me feel part of the event itself. 'Hallelujah (Your Love is Amazing) runs well, as does the terrific 'Awesome God', before the album closes with quieter songs again. After listening to this album, I can honestly say that my personal spiritual life had been enriched. 8/10. (July 2006)

VINEYARD UK : All From You. (Vineyard : 1280692)

This album features the Vineyard St Albans Burn Band, following up their 2002 release, "Beautiful". Now, I may be completely wrong here, but I assumed that this was a worship album for people to worship along to. Therefore, I was stumped by the approach of most of the songs, which seem "performance" orientated. Each of the first three tracks were very repetitive and unimaginative, and I found little to get my teeth into. On "Have Mercy" there's lots of shouting and crying featured, but I just didn't feel anything at all from it, and found it hugely disappointing. I thought that "How Could I Live Without You" was a nice song in it's own right, but just couldn't see it in a congregational worship session. The same can be said of "Joy". It's an energetic and powerful song, but one that makes joining in rather difficult. On the other hand, the gentle worship of "More Than A Friend" is ideal for worship and it's truly a fine song. Try as I may, I just kept seeing this as a performance album from a competent band, playing some ordinary songs. 4/10. (August 2006)

VINEYARD UK : Thank You For the Cross. (Vineyard : 1280702)

Our second Vineyard release of the month captures 8 songs echoing the cry of humble submission and gratitude for the Cross within Vineyard churches across the UK. Brenton Brown leads the worship on the title track, which is just full of praise and worship. Marc James' "Great Is Your Name" was rather dull in contrast, the vocals needing a lift. I felt that the music really did focus fully on the Cross and both "When I Survey" and "What Love Is This" cemented these thoughts. Again, on "Jesus Meet Me", I found Marc James' vocals to be more performance orientated, but that couldn't be said of Kathryn Scott's "Devotion". What a super, little song it is - and well worth playing again and again. It may be short in duration, but this low priced EP would certainly please many. 6/10. (August 2006)

VINEYARD MUSIC : Sweetly Broken (CD1280752)

Vineyard UK have for some time had an excellent formula for producing worship CDs that are pleasing to the ear whilst also being very accessible for use in the church environment (with their CDs including free printable chord sheets & lyrics). This said though, some of the recent offerings from US Vineyard Music have failed to inspire, but thankfully they seem to have taken a leaf from the UK's book with this latest offering, using new generation worship leaders such as Ryan Delamore & songs brimming with passionate lyrics from the outset. Music production as you would expect is excellent as is the musicianship…not overdone or too complicated. The title track Sweetly Broken is a typically Vineyard styled rocky ballad that builds up slowly with poignant lyrics before launching into a powerful & energetic chorus. The majority of tracks follow in a similar style with nothing I'd call an out-and-out rock anthem, which is what I think helps them to be so accessible for live worship in church. The only real let-down is "We Need Your Touch", which seems to backtrack to the older style US material with slightly cheesy gospel style vocals 'colouring' the song & lyrics and music failing to inspire, which is a bit disappointing given the rest of the top quality content. If you like Vineyard UK's recent CDs, Sweetly Broken is one very much worth considering adding to your collection. 8/10 Simon Redfern (February 2007)

VINEYARD : You Are A Holy God. (Vineyard : 1280762)

This CD contains a selection of songs from previous Vineyard releases, described as '10 reflections on holiness from Vineyard UK' and delivered by a range of worship leaders including Brian Doerksen, Brenton Brown and Kathryn Scott. Brian Doerksen's opener "Your Name is Holy" is straightforward formulaic P&W pop with handclaps, a 'congregation' joining in and applause at the end, and includes a female vocal with less than perfect tuning. Marc James' "I Surrender" is a bit weak to begin with, but builds and finishes well. Brenton Brown's "Holy" is next and is ok, but it is tracks 4, 5 and 6 that stand out. Wendy O'Connell's "I surrender" is probably the best. Here we have a well arranged song, with a vulnerable but beautifully sung lead vocal (reminded me of Sinead O'Connor) delivered with real conviction. The slow "You Are a Holy God", by Kathryn Scott and Brian Duane, is quite a good arrangement that is well performed and builds nicely. Keith Sadler's 'Holy (Isaiah 6)' is an effective though extended song that takes 4 minutes before it begins to build into more than 2 minutes of extended repeat chorus. In the main however, what we have here is standard and unexceptional production-line P&W. Overall, 5/10. Dave Deeks (April 2007)

VINI CONTREAS : Kingdom of Conscience. (www.vinicontreas.com)

Haling from Southern California, Vini Contreas cites his many influence as including Bob Dylan, Arlo Guthrie, and James Taylor. For me, it's the Dylan influence that comes through here, although I much prefer Vini's voice! Perhaps it's the inclusion of some good harmonica playing in some of the songs. There again, maybe it's the simple, yet incisive writing of his lyrics that reminds me of Dylan in all his pomp of the sixties. This album starts with a bright song (The Invitation) and some of the best acoustic guitar recording that I've heard in some time. As I've said, I like Vini's vocal prowess and he is a very engaging singer. For something a little out of the ordinary, 'Christ Crucified' has a South American feel to it, complete with trumpets playing. I once wrote a song called 'Give it to Jesus'. On this album, Vini includes a song called 'Give it to Christ'. Two songs, but the sentiments are the same - confess your sins and be made whole again. There's also a song about revival, called 'Derek's Lament', and that's rather catchy too. One minor moan? Well, there's only 9 songs. I've listened to a lot albums from singer/songwriters lately and Vini Contreas is the most original and freshest of all. 9/10. (December 2007, Album of the Month)

VINI JONES : Restless Bride (Private CD/Cassette : Price from Vini Jones, 16 Kaye Don Way, Weybridge, Surrey, England, KT13 0UX).

It's not often that someone releases an album of acoustic folk but, inspired by the likes of Robin Mark, this is just what Vini Jones has done. Not to be confused with the ex- hardman of British soccer, nevertheless, Vini's songs are just as hard hitting. Straight biblical truths, written in a style that can only be his, Mr Jones opens things with the very accessible "Footprints". With all the current debate about Bob Dylan, it's easy to say that this IS the sort of album that he, himself, should be releasing. you know what I mean, it's a nineties thing but there's still a feel of sixties protest in songs like "Hollywood" and "Breakthrough". "Young in You" would easily find it's way onto radio but, perhaps, its overall strength would be in the confines of the smaller, folk field. Vini says that he would like to hear other people sing his songs but I, personally, feel that there is an interesting ministry here that - although limited in appeal - would be of great value in the folk clubs around the country. Folk lovers take note, Vini Jones is a name to remember. 8/10. (October 1999)

VIOLA : Our Master, Our Saviour. (Kingsway : KMCD2162).

Involved in outreach and ministry since meeting Jesus at 17, worship leader Viola believes that worship is a lifestyle, not simply a series of performances. On this new album, she treats us to some simply exquisite songs like "In His Time" and the 'lay it all before the Lord' "Break Me Open". The simplicity of both songs are their strength, and Viola's delicate voice will melt the hardest heart. Of the 9 tracks featured, 3 are duets, of which the title track is by far the best. In between, come songs of hope and love, including the country style arrangement of "It's You" Probably better known in the States and the rest of Europe, perhaps this will open the UK to the sweetness and gift that is, Viola. 8/10. (July 1999)

VIOLA : O Holy Night. (Kingsway : KMCD2278)

Just when you think that surely no-one else could release an album of the same Christmas songs that have been churned out year after year, along comes Viola, complete with her festive offering. I loved her previous album "Our Master, Our Saviour", but this is the sort of thing you wish you'd never heard. Guess what songs are included? Yes, "Away in a Manger", "O Little Town of Bethlehem", "Silent Night", you could probably fill the rest of the track listing in a couple of minutes. The only new track to my ears was "The Swedish Song", a delicate little lament sung in her native tongue. Sorry, it's a bit like Amy Grant's Christmas album last year, tacky, and doesn't do anything for a very talented and gifted lady. 2/10. (December 2000)

THE VIOLET BURNING : Faith & Devotions of a Satellite Heart. (Sovereign Productions : SP70006-2)

Praise and worship doesn't get any stranger than this release from The Violet Burning. It's a bit hippy sounding. Then again, it's pop….or is it alternative indie? To be honest I'm not sure, perhaps it's a bit of all those styles and more. There's lots of swirly sounds throughout the album, as well as some atmospheric guitar playing. "Invitation Fountain" has some very simple lyrics about god's offer of the living water but, in all honesty, the music detracts from the message the lyrics portray. "Clean" is a lot cleaner in sound, with an acoustic guitar being caressed by a nice string pad. All the songs are written by Michael J. Pritzl and, within them, contain plain honesty and passion about the Lord. Try as I may, though, I couldn't get in the right frame of mind to either enjoy listening to this album nor to use it as a worship tool. The closing "Lord, Shine Your Light" lasts for 10 very long minutes, during which I was longing to reach for the eject button of my CD player. Cross Rhythms recently gave it a 10 out of 10 rating but, I'm afraid, this reviewer obviously missed just what TVB are about. 3/10. (April 2001)

THE VIOLET BURNING : Drop-Dead. (Northern Records : NRCD0027)

The first thing that grabbed my attention about this CD was the rather strange title. And, after listening to the songs, and researching a little about the band, I'm still not sure what the title means. Lead singer and guitarist, Michael J Pritel seems to be the driving force behind the group. He was raised in and around the Los Angeles punk scene. Therefore, the music on the album is geared, in some way, to that sound. There's not just guitar rhythms on show, but some programmed sequences too. As for the songs, most of the first half of the album are instantly forgettable, apart from the way Pritel snarls his way through "Do You Love Me?". The second half, however, becomes more commercial and the influences of New Order come to the fore. "Rewind" for instance, is one such song, and is electro pop at it's best. Similarly, "Blown Away" has the identical traits but with the added bonus of a clever guitar hook. I thought that "The Ends Begin" has a smattering of Verve-like orchestralness about it, and "One Thousand Years" ends things on a high. It's definitely a little different to anything else I've listened to this month, and needed more than a couple of plays to appreciate it's intricacies. 6/10. (September 2006)

THE VIP MUSIC & ARTS SEMINAR MASS CHOIR FEATURING JOHN P KEE : The Power of Worship. (Verity : 53728-2)

Maybe it's my ignorance of this type of music, or maybe I've just heard too many albums all sounding very much alike. John P Kee leads the Mass Choir through 15 tracks of live, and powerful, worship. I don't have to tell you the style, it's gospel and very run of the mill stuff. There's nothing much wrong with it but, there again, not one single track really stood up from the others. From the funky groove of the opening "Throw Up your hands" to mellow sounds of "I Am Blessed", the track listing…well, it just "happens". Basically, if this type of gospel music is your thing, then you're not going to be disappointed. Sadly, I was. 4/10. (January 2004)

VIRTUE : Free (Verity Records)

Virtue are a three piece female vocal group described as 'the only female gospel group that combines hymns, praise and worship', and the 'premier girl group for praise and worship'. So does this, their fourth album, live up to this kind of hype? The honest answer is ... not being a big fan of girl groups (or boy bands for that matter) I cannot comment on those particular claims only on the album itself, which, for me, never rises above "OK" in spite of the fullsome praise I have seen it given elsewhere. The three vocalists (sisters) are all extremely talented and the sound they produce with their harmonies is very pleasing indeed, but the songs, in mostly gospel and R'n'B style, just don't grab me at all. Best of the bunch are the title track 'Free' and the traditional hymn 'Lord I lift my hands' and the rest are all very pleasant, just not my cup of tea. If you are looking for a Christian equivalent to Destiny's Child you would be well advised to check out Virtue. Unfortunately I'm not! 6/10 David Cooper (November 2003)

VIRTUE : Nothing But the Hits. (Verity : 8287 6599982 3)

As far as I can gather, these three girls have been recording albums for around 10 years, scoring radio hit after hit with their R'n'B style. This collection showcases those hits and gives new listeners like me, the chance to see what all the fuss is about. "He's Been Good" starts things off in an upbeat Destiny's Child sort of way, and this song would not be out of place in the UK singles chart in any way. For me, it is, perhaps, the cream of the crop as I didn't find anything better on the album to beat it. The three girls lose their early edge and go for more traditional gospel traits on numbers like "Love Me Like You Do" and"Quiet Time", but it's still quite enjoyable. The girls also include a short "commentary" every now and again, stating their beliefs and despite cutting the music flow, it all fits very nicely together. For those of you who like the style of Destiny's Child and the like, you could do a lot worse than to check out Virtue. 7/10. (January 2005)

VIV NEVILLE : Holy One. (Plankton Records : Plancd007)

Darlington's Viv Neville is an Oxford Brookes graduate, writing contemporary Christian music and choir arrangements. She has also led worship at Durham Cathedral, as well as performing on the fringe at many festivals around the UK with the band, Asylum. This 4 track CD is her first release, and she hopes to release an album later in the year. The sound is contemporary folk, with a hint of celtic influence thrown in for good measure. In Stuart Elwin and Barry Marshall, she has two talented musicians that help bring her music to life. On 'Holy One' Viv gently weaves her vocals through a song of praise. 'Lover of My Soul' and 'A Celtic Saint's Prayer' have been co-written with Cindy Spear, who has previously written for Iona. Both songs carry on the praise and worship feel and tell of Viv's own faith. If I could liken her to anyone, it would be another British artist, Rachel MacDonald. Her own keyboard skills are well used and the closing 'I Love You Lord'. This is the simplest of the 4 songs in production but, somehow, the most memorable. Viv has also just finished writing two books, one of which explores issues relating to trying to understand God's will and leading in our life. She's obviously a very talented lady, and this fledgling artist is getting ready to fly. 7/10 (February 2009)

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