Reviewed by Tony Cummings

The prolific Mr Birtill has come up with an unexpected winner on this album. The concept, 12 brand new songs and 18 tried and tested Birtill favourites recorded live at Betel of Britain (the Christian centre committed to restoring the broken lives of those with alcohol and drug addictions) is a strong one and the band Godfrey an excellent one with Raul D'Olivera's piercing trumpet conjuring up some nice jazz licks while the socking drums keep the whole thing percussively punchy. But it's one song which dominates this 2CD set, a song which has already proven to be a runaway hit at the recent Grapevine Bible week. If you were there you will know exactly what I am talking about. "R U Ready?" is a bit of a first for praise music - a rollicking, retro number with a sound and style like something that could have been recorded by Bill Haley And The Comets in 1956 (if they'd been Christians that is). The lyrics, about God's glory being with us in any and every situation (shop, office, bedroom. . . even pub), are fun (and thought provoking) though it has to be said that this is a Marmite kind of song - you will either love it or hate it! Elsewhere on the album Godfrey offers uplifting and sometimes challenging music with his usual rough and ready passion.

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