Reviewed by Matthew Cordle

Christian celebrations of the death and resurrection of Jesus at Easter are a unique mixture of sorrow and joy and have resulted in much inspired songwriting over the years. Here we have (as you might infer from the title) a collection of 10 songs celebrating the resurrection, although this celebration is firmly rooted in the context of Christ's prior suffering and death. The rear insert states that these songs "celebrate the hope that Christ gives us", and that they certainly do. The CD is bookended at the beginning by Matt Maher's "Christ Is Risen" with its wonderful chorus line declaring the fact that "Christ is risen from the dead, trampling over death by death/Christ is risen from the dead, we are one with him again", and at the end by "All Things New" from Elevation Worship, declaring the resultant freedom, healing, restoration and new life there is in being saved by God's grace. Within these bookends we have many uplifting and moving moments, such as Casting Crowns' rendition of the already uplifting traditional hymn, "Living, he loved me, dying, he saved me, buried, he carried my sins far away/Rising, he justified, freely forever/One day he's coming, O glorious day!", One Sonic Society's thoughtful "Jesus, Son Of God" with its declaration that "The cross was enough!" and Third Day's reflection from Jesus' perspective, "Carry My Cross", that reminds me of the earthy, emotive storytelling style of Don Francisco. Solid, singable songs full of hope, for Christ is risen!

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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