STYLE: Pop RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 120543-18758 LABEL: Independent FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1
Reviewed by Neil Phipps
For those new to Godfrey, the songwriter and worship leader is a prophet/musician who divides opinion. At times Godrey's musical style on this live recording sounds like a throwback to early '90s worship events. But here he is greatly aided by some superlative musicianship courtesy of various members of Iona while his unique way with lyrics will probably strike the listener as powerfully prophetic or OTT according to their theological perspective. Some of the lyrics are sure to raise eyebrows: "I'm not talking about break through/I'm not talking about do do/I'm talking about Jesus" may not have everyone reaching to their Bibles to look up the references in Scripture, but may raise a smile during listening. The production is decent and the congregation clearly participated fully in the worship. A high point of the album is "Living In the Unforced", a simpler song than many others and with a prophetic message which all of us could do with taking to heart ("It's time to quit trying to please me/Stop beating yourself up"). In these moments Birtill is at his best. Having said that, this album won't connect with every believer.
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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Leeland Mooring
Listening to Godfrey Birtill 's new record "The Wine Is Alive" and I love it!!! Cant wait to minister with Godfrey again:)