Reviewed by Jonathan Priday

It's a long way from the church halls of mid-seventies South Wales to the release of his third album, but Noel Richards has "paid his dues" and has produced an album of which he can be rightly proud. The most significant change from 'Danger Line' to 'Lionheart' was the development of a more coherent band sound. That progression sees further improvement with the release of 'By Your Side'. As befits the latest release in the Worship Leader series it's a praise-oriented album that acts as a welcome antidote to the super-smooth production line output of certain US labels. Using some of the finest sidesmen in Britain Neil Costello (guitar), Les Moir (bass), Steve Thompson (keyboards), and Martin Neil (drums), Noel has put together a strong collection of largely self-penned songs that not only work well on album but will transfer to a local church setting. Under the watchful eyes of producers Les Moir and Howard Francis an old favourite like "You Laid Aside" rubs shoulders with soon-to-be classics like "There Is Power", "Blessed Be The Name", "Sing To The Lord" and personal fave the bluesy, Clapton-esque "Jesus Christ Is Lord Of This Nation". If any further recommendation is needed, the presence of Bryn Haworth on slide guitar sets the seal on an outstanding collection.

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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