Israel & New Breed - A Deeper Level

Published Tuesday 25th September 2007
Israel & New Breed - A Deeper Level
Israel & New Breed - A Deeper Level

STYLE: Gospel
RATING 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 31185-13069
LABEL: Integrity 000768422021
FORMAT: CD Album
ITEMS: 2
EXTRAS: bonus DVD
RELEASE DATE: 2007-09-10
RRP: £14.99

Reviewed by Tom Lennie

Grammy Award winners for Traditional Gospel Album Of The Year (though controversially so) for their 'Alive In South Africa' output, Israel Houghton and band (+ choir) are back with a stomping new release, described by Integrity executive producer Don Moen as their "best project yet". Houghton has done much to bridge the gap between gospel and contemporary praise and worship, and this sensitive blending is once again the hallmark of this 79-minute live feast, recorded live over three nights in Humble, Texas. Aware of the platform he has been accorded, not only to bless but also to challenge believers, Houghton seeks on this project to be more bold in his music while also challenging the people of God to put their faith into action. Certainly there's a sense of spiritual potency to 'Deeper' right from the start, with a crying for God to "So Come", in an adaptation of Kevin Prosch's classic original. Indeed the entire set is a hotbed of diverse and potent sounds, each delivered with musical excellence. "Say So", like numerous others, carries a punchy sense of assurance, being co-penned with Michael Gungor, an underrated worship performer and a favourite co-writer of Houghton's (after producer Aaron Lindsey, who co-wrote five of the songs on this disc). The celebratory "Identity" dances with calypso joy, while "With Long Life" holds an infectious Latino air and contains a short rap from T-Bone, one of several guests who spring up during the course of the recording. None other than Chris Tomlin co-wrote and provides a vocal on "I Know Who I Am", another song emphasising our identity in Christ, and even Darlene Zschech makes an appearance, if only to provide a poignant prayerful intro to the title track. Israel himself also makes characteristic prayer offerings between songs. While on some albums this can be irritating, here they help unify the project and keep the listener focused on the underlying spiritual truths. And I discern no hint of the theological dubiety apparent on Houghton's predecessor. The prayers are mainly personal - "Break my heart with the things that break your heart" - but at times missionary - eg, remembering the overwhelming needs of various foreign nations. Israel's more contemplative side is evident on the more inspirational tracks that follow - "If Not For Your Grace" being one that brims over with theological significance. I am personally sorry there's no hymnal rendition - two of my favourite Houghton songs are stunning versions of "I Surrender All" and "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" to be found on separate hymns compilations. But there's no question - 'A Deeper Level' throbs with passion, making this an exciting and significant offering.

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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Product Description
Israel and New Breed have taken you to Another Level and on an international journey of worship with 'Alive In South Africa'. Now get ready for the highly anticipated release, 'A Deeper Level'.
This recording was captured during three nights of intimate worship at the annual A Deeper Level Conference in Houston, Texas. In preparation for this release Israel and New Breed fasted for 40 days, petitioning the Lord to give everyone who hears this project a heart to go deeper in worship that leads to acts of compassion and justice.
'A Deeper Level' is packed with energetic tunes like 'Say So' and' We Have Overcome' plus the poignant ballads 'If Not For Your Grace' and 'Deeper'.
This release also features special guest appearances by award winning artists and is produced by Israel Houghton and Aaron Lindsey.
Bonus DVD includes 3 songs plus additional footage.

Reader Comments

Posted by Miriam in London @ 17:00 on Feb 7 2008

I love the all song's from Israel & NEW breed. god bless him. my favourite song is...? well i dont have one coz they are all so amazing.



The opinions expressed in the Reader Comments are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms.

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