Reviewed by Nigel Bayley

The vast majority of the Planetshakers' 18 (yes, really!) CD releases are live recordings from their conferences but every now and then they do venture into a studio, and with generally barnstorming results. 'Don't Stop' is the outcome of their latest foray and it certainly doesn't disappoint, capturing the energy and heart of all of the many contributors. Although the eight vocalists are all superb and the six-piece band is a very tight and talented unit, it's the songs, mostly written by their regular songwriter Mark Guglielmucci, which really grab the attention. The relentless rock of the title track launches you into an album of inventiveness and variety. "Everywhere I Go" and "So In Love With You" continue in the same short and sharp mindset as the opener, before a quartet of longer, slower tracks take the fore. Of these, "For The Cause" is the standout, and its powerful female vocals, challenging lyrics and memorable melody combine to make it a frontrunner for best track on the whole album. Further on, "The Way" is also in contention, and the whole of 'Never Stop' is full of passionate worship, both musically and lyrically, and the twin themes of praise and surrender weave in and around throughout. So, the Planetshakers, how was it for me? The earth moved!

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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