Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

Worship leader Steve Abley helps run a programme in his church, Winchester Vineyard, which provides leadership, tools and a setting for children to engage with God and, as a result, he has released an album of live contemporary worship aimed at said young ones. All of the songs on the album have been penned by the able Abley and cover a broad range of musical styles to keep the interest of the kids. For example, the mock rock 'n' roll of "God Loves Everyone" sits alongside the rapped "Hands" and the disco rhythms of "On And On". There is even a cheesy hoedown on "God Made The Sun" which can be excused given the obvious fun everyone's having in the process. Accompanied by some good quality backing tracks, Abley wisely provides the majority of lead vocals and allows some en masse kids to sing along rather than dominate proceedings to avoid the squeaky voiced overkill of many children's releases. Contemplative tracks like "I Think About" and "Can You Hear His Voice?" will hopefully encourage younger ears to think about what a relationship with God means for them and this thread is continued in "I Am Waiting" which contains spoken teaching and Bible reading elements. All in all, an above average kids release.

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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Steve Abley has been leading worship for both children and adults for a number years and is one of the worship leaders at Winchester Vineyard Christian Fellowship.

The songs on Raise Up An Army have been written specifically for younger children, to provide easy to learn songs in current styles which are both fun and support God’s work in their lives.

Though aimed specifically at the youngest members of the church, these songs have been received with great excitement by children and adults alike, and encourage and build faith during family worship across all ages.