Reviewed by Helen Dean

Many artists have produced good, modern interpretations of the Psalms in recent years and now you can add to the list this venture from an Oregon-based church. Seth Gilbert, previously with the Oregon band Seven Places, serves up his contemporary Delirious?-influenced readings with text taken straight from the Bible, in uplifting bite-sized portions. "Psalm 145" and "Psalm 86" include a memorable call and response refrain, musically echoing the well balanced variety of shapes and sounds woven throughout the songs. In "Psalm 47", "Psalm 50" and "Psalm 100" a string section beautifully augments the rock sound. Quieter instrumental solos and occasional unaccompanied voices serve to underline the power of the rest of the music and words. Different vocal, percussion and synthesised effects prevent tracks sounding too similar without detracting from the core message and style. Seth Gilbert has a voice which is easy on the ear and Carrie Miller's vocals add sweetness to the otherwise all male line up. "Psalm 24" says, "This is the generation of them that seek the God of Jacob", and this CD speaks well of the generation of worshippers, as the Psalms continue to resonate with the human spirit.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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