Reviewed by Tom Lennie

You might love it, or you may strongly dislike it. But you're hardly likely to feel lukewarm about it. It jumps out at you and demands a response. Clearly, Godfrey's songs work best in a live setting, but this is often achieved at the cost of professionalism of sound, re-takes, production, etc. With 'Hijacked Into Paradise', Birtill seems to have hit the mark - a live recording with wonderful live vibes, and matched by top notch recording and production, care of Dan Bowater and others. Birtill writes his own songs, of course - and boy do they stand the test of originality! Clearly it's these, at times incisive, lyrics, the build-up of atmosphere, the audience participation and the percussion (c/o Paul D'Oliveria) that are most prominent throughout this set, but the band's delivery is at times enhanced by some great trumpet and trombone, and by female group vocals. Certainly the passion he injects into every stanza of every song is thoroughly impressive. Certainly also, this guy has faith in a big God, and there's definitely a lesson to learn from that. Personally, I struggle with Birtill's predominant style - brawny, often repetitive choruses with lyrics that make me cringe. Eg, "I wanna honk, I wanna ho, I wanna hoot, I wanna hey, I wanna flip, flap, flow, fly, Excuse me while I kiss the sky" (from "Let Me Shout"). Then there's the "Beep Beep" song, and another "Yeah, Yeah" chorus. One song sees Godfrey having a go at those who have a go at him. In the midst of all this there's a couple of more adorational moments - "All Of My Heart (Forever)" and "Redeemed", a piece of thoughtful praise which clearly represents Godfrey's love of the Lord. Generally, however, these songs differ markedly from most contemporary worship styles. The majority here I don't find particularly worshipful. Much as I love strong, lively worship, this format just doesn't tick all the necessary boxes.

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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