Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

After his time as the singer with one of the most successful bands of Christians working in the mainstream, Anberlin, Christian made a monumental change of direction when he recorded this album and joined the worship team of a local church. Released in July 2017, 'Wildfires' got mixed reviews, some claiming it to be the best worship album of the year and others suggesting it was disappointing compared with the aural dynamics of Anberlin. This solid release kicks off with the upbeat double shot of "Trust" and "Gloria" and two things are immediately evident at the heart of the album - the glossy production and the power of his voice. Songs like "Hope Has A Name" And "Wide Eyed Wonder" are optimistic, encouraging and uplifting but if you want to attempt them in your church you'd better make sure your worship leader is vocally up to the soaring peaks. The highlight of the project is "Atmosphere" where Christian shares the song with singer/worship leader Sarah Reeves with very pleasing results. It's a beautiful evocative prayerful invitation for Jesus to impact a life. The album ends with a couple of beautiful songs "One More Moment" and "All I Need To Know" which are an intimate ending to proceedings with its "I surrender all" theme. Ultimately in the middle of being scared at what might be happening around us, as long as God is still with us, that's all we need to know. Though these songs will probably only work congregationally in Stephen Christian's own church, as a worship album to be enjoyed in the car or in the home, this works on many levels.

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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