Reviewed by Joy Attmore

Former Delirious? frontman and prolific singer, songwriter and worship leader in his own right, Martin Smith, has just released his first studio album in six years - and it was definitely worth the wait. 'Iron Lung' sees Smith returning to those epic electric guitars and drums that so often became associated with the sound of Delirious? but were noticeably absent in the 'God's Great Dance Floor' offerings of 2012-13. This album isn't just a returning to something past however, it is a creation of a whole new sound. Smith has the incredible ability to create music that would comfortably be played in an underground rock club, whilst simultaneously being sung as anthems of worship in churches around the world, and 'Iron Lung' is no exception. From the title track, with a beautifully surprising second half, to the vulnerability of "Give Thanks For A Broken Heart" there is a depth of personal revelation which Smith is releasing and inviting everyone to receive from. In a recent interview he explained, "It's telling the story around my first breath as a child to the last breath of someone close to me. 'Iron Lung' is a celebration of life, love and faith." Another highlight, "Everybody Is Broken", inspired by one of Smith's favourite passages in the Bible, Ezekiel 37, contains a beautiful marriage of acoustic guitar into spoken word, surging praise, and prophetic declaration. 'Iron Lung' might just be Martin Smith's most significant and timely recording to date.

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.