Reviewed by Jon Cooper

From his basement recording studio, Sean Croley creates the kind of worshipful, diverse and melodic tracks exemplified on 'The Ascent'. Opener "Invitacion" (sic) is an ethereal, layered falsetto showcase that sounds like it was lifted from Bon Iver's eponymous album, and the title track, with its jangly acoustic guitar and tight drum loop, recalls Death Cab For Cutie. "I can see your dirty face with tracks of tears/I will wash you with my grace; just climb up here", sings Croley, establishing a common bond with the listener as they are encouraged to look to their saviour. "Praise Loop" ("Oh God I am here to worship you/I am bowing at your feet") would sit comfortably on many a more well-known worship release, and "In Christ Alone" (not the one you already know, and are sick of) should make every church's communion background music playlist. "Legacy", the rockiest moment on 'The Ascent', brings to mind U2's more recent chart-botherers, and "Safe In You" is the chilled-out closer you'd expect with such a title. Without doubt a worthy release, the only danger is that it's a bit too 'Nooma'; the songs could blend so far into the background that they run the risk of underpinning the latest series of "hip" Christian teaching DVDs.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.