Reviewed by Joy Attmore

The fingerprints of the worship team at Bradford-based megachurch are clearly evident here. Worship leader and songwriter Matt Hooper penned the lyrics to the title track which also opens this 12-song album. The basis and vision for the entire work can be found in Romans 5:1-2: "We throw open our doors to God and discover at the same moment that he has already thrown open His door to us. We find ourselves standing where we always hoped we might stand - out in the wide open spaces of God's grace and glory, standing tall and shouting our praise" [The Message]. Coming two years after their hugely popular 'Dance Again' album, 'Wide Open Space' brings a more mature sound and deeper expression of encounters with God. Several times throughout the listener is drawn into moments of near stillness as they experience a place of intimacy and adoration beyond the music. Examples of this are "With Me Always", "Nothing Here Is Broken" and the final track, "Holy". Elsewhere, "Love Let Loose" is sure to be a popular track with its electronic beats and catchy chorus. Stylistically, LIFE Worship have a sound reminiscent of Hillsong and also at times similar to some of Michael W. Smith's newer works. The Abundant Life/LIFE Worship movement continues to be a key element in what God is doing in the British Church.

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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