Reviewed by Andy Cooper

This is the third major release from the Denver group based around Michael and Lisa Gungor, and is recorded live without any additional editing. As such, the recording is a little rough around the edges, though it captures the atmosphere and honesty of the group admirably, and there are some truly virtuoso performances on guitar, piano, violin and others! The range of musical styles covered by the band is truly astounding and you never quite know what is going to happen next, but that's the beauty of a well crafted concept album. All the necessary ingredients are there: poetry, mystery, extended solos, drama, indulgence, strange timings and just about no songs suited to radio play! This is non-commercial music at its best: inventive and unusual yet soulful and tuneful. And worshipful. The set opens with a folky harmony that reminds of Mumford & Sons. The guitar plucking dazzles and a violin solo astounds before a menacing crescendo leads to some ghostly voices chanting something beautiful. Then suddenly everything changes and you think Jimmy Hendrix has returned, redeemed! At times Lisa's vocal reminds of Dido, and the band are capable of Iona levels of dramatic atmosphere. Creation is the central theme of the set and it culminates in the triumphant anthem "Beautiful Things". This is a captivating and cliché-free example of creative worship that breaks free from pigeon holed marketing. There is potential for it to be misunderstood, but greater potential for it to inspire.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.