Reviewed by Jonathan Priday

This tape/CD is released to complement the New Songs '93/'94 songbook and as such must be treated as a resource. That's not to say that they don't stand up in their own right but to give them a context. Despite the title I'm sure some of the songs will be familiar but many will be fresh. The tracks are largely taken from existing Kingsway albums but those that aren't - about a quarter of the total 40 - are ably recorded by a team headed by producer Paul Field. If there is a criticism of the project as a whole it's that there is a lack of spiritual depth in the songs. We don't need "deep theology" in every song we sing, but for the overwhelming majority of the tracks to feel "lightweight" is a disappointment. Even some of the settings of Psalms and other scriptures are not always successful. There are high points, though. On this volume - "Great Is The Darkness", "Called To A Battle", "I Believe" are all top quality songs. Worth investigating.

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.