Reviewed by Paul Loader

Mark Robins is an experienced worship songwriter and leader of some 20 years who, as well as being on the worship team at the New Community Church in Southampton, is also the area representative for Worship Central run out of Holy Trinity Brompton. 'The Broken' is Mark's debut album and he wrote the material here with simplicity in mind making the songs accessible in capturing aspects of God so that God can speak to the congregation. Recorded in Nashville and Florida this is a powerful album with some strong and passionate songs defying the listener not to sing along and perhaps take them to their own worship groups. The album starts well with the powerful "I Know" featuring strong lyrics and a gutsy rock guitar riff. "We Lift You Up" follows suit. "You Are The Hungry" is as powerful a worship song as I have heard and I hope to introduce it to my own church. "For These Ones" has a poignant message as Mark writes in the sleeve notes regarding child slave trafficking. For a debut album this is a strong offering which is growing on me with each play.

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.