Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

When you look back, Matt Redman has recorded some amazing albums and in the process has introduced songs into the Church that have captured a generation. Songs like "Heart Of Worship" and "Blessed Be Your Name" are sung the world over so there is much anticipation amongst worshipers about a new studio set. And they won't be disappointed! Teaming up with the production duo Doubledutch aka Robert Marvin and Josiah Bell was a stroke of genius as artistically and musically this sees Redman moving on in subtle ways. He has to tread carefully since the whole purpose is to introduce new songs but at the same time, this album has a little more bite to it and the results are superb. Thematically, the 'Beautiful News', is of course, the Gospel message and these songs encourage the worshiper to be inspired to share the Gospel and to worship God in response to the message. Redman manages to combine both themes on the brilliant "Shine" which is one of the most immediate songs on the album. Martin Smith has teased Matt that he's not very good at writing fast songs, consequently the two most upbeat songs "All Over The World" and "Take It To The Streets" were both co-written with Smith with the Delirious? singer adding some vocals to the latter. "You Never Let Go" could almost be a "Blessed Be The Name" Part 2 as its words of encouragement of God's closeness in good a bad times are set to the catchiest chorus you'll be shouting at the top of your lungs three seconds after hearing it. At the centre of the album the co-write with Paul Baloche "A Greater Song" is classic Redman. The closing "If You Know You Are Loved" was birthed in spontaneous worship and fades out to reveal a hidden reprise of the title song. This time though it's done in Beatlesque style with a distorted vocal a la John Lennon. If only Matt was brave enough to let a little more of that kind of edginess into his music. Maybe next time. for now I reckon that 'Beautiful News' is his most artistically and spiritually complete album to date. His songwriting keeps getting better and musically he's stretched into some new places. Time will tell which of this collection of excellent songs catches the imagination of congregational worshipers. In the meantime, just spin the album and be inspired!

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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