Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

Denver singer/songwriter Michael Gungor has carved out a niche for himself in the field of alternative worship over the past few years and his eponymous band's latest release cements their standing as one of the music scene's most innovative outfits. Opening up with the ethereal and ultimately explosive "Let There Be", which features the haunting vocals of Michael's wife Lisa, this album is a rollercoaster ride of passionate and deeply spiritual music that passes through a number of musical landscapes - often within the same song - whilst transcending any preconceptions about what worship music should sound like. Gungor ensure that each song is as strong as the other by creating a veritable smorgasbord of sound and use atmospheric washes alongside acoustic instruments such as banjos and mandolins which in turn are augmented by electric guitars, pounding drums and even driving techno bass lines. Amongst the many highlights, the defiant "Church Bells" showcases Gungor's melodic leanings whilst the abstract "Wake Up Sleeper" not only contains some virtuoso mandolin from Michael but also reflects this album's deep roots in Scripture. Elsewhere, songs such as "Brother Moon" and the cross bred bluegrass flamenco of "You Are The Beauty" are non-conventional odes of praise to God whilst the majestic "Every Breath" closes this hugely pioneering, skilful and enthralling release in style.

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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Ghosts Upon The Earth, the new release from GRAMMY® nominated group Gungor, was produced by the musical collective’s namesake, Michael Gungor.

This follow-up to the critically acclaimed Beautiful Things project was composed as a full narrative celebrating both the beauty and frailty of existence.