Reviewed by Ian Whitwood

There can be few in Christendom who don't know the name Darlene Zschech (or Check as I recently saw her name misspelled) and her "Shout To The Lord" and other Hillsong classics which continue to be sung in churches worldwide. So the news of her first album in four years filled many people with considerable expectation. The Australian worship leader has not disappointed. Recorded and filmed at Darlene's own Hope Unlimited Church in New South Wales, this live album (with accompanying DVD) consists of 11 brand new tracks and it delivers on every level. An ex-deejay new to the Christian faith, listening to the CD in my car, declared its production as flawless and said that it even excelled Fleetwood Mac's best! Opening with "You Are Great", penned while Darlene was battling cancer, the support of the Hope UC band and accompanying singers emphasises her anointed singing as it draws us into worship. Darlene's passion and driving force is explained in "Kingdom Come" as she sings, "Here on earth our hearts alive/We're set apart with holy fire/God, fill us now with living fire." "Beloved (When I Survey)" is a beautiful song incorporating a great hymn. Opening with a supporting male vocalist with whom Darlene harmonises, we are lifted to new heights. The title track and the final track, "Go" remind us of the implications of full surrender, "Tell the world, lift Him high/Nothing else will satisfy." This album is soaked in Holy Spirit inspiration as Darlene's flawless vocals lift us effortlessly into worship mode.

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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