Reviewed by Chris Webb

This stalwart of modern hymn writing provides us with another collection of new worship songs. Stuart's desire is for these to be used for congregational singing and some will easily fit this bill, and are destined to be classics such as "O Church Of Christ Invincible", "Promise Of The Ages" and "There Is Grace For Me". Other songs presented here will need a level of competency to sing that may be scarce in many church congregations. The musical influences on 'The Paths Of Grace' range from country to Celtic but are more generally rooted in English folk music. Lyrical themes are of exploring the grace of God, remembering Christ's sacrifice and praising him for who he is and all he has done for us. Many of the songs are written in collaboration with other luminaries of the modern worship age, such as the Gettys, Susan Ashton and Chris Eaton. This album is workmanlike and solid rather than dazzling with only a couple of chances taken such as on "Singing Hallelujah" and a version of "The Lord's Prayer".

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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