Reviewed by Stella Redburn

We have come to expect a really high standard from London's renowned focal point for modern worship, Worship Central, and this doesn't disappoint. 14 beautiful songs recorded live at Hillsongs' Warehouse Project, South Bermondsey, 'Set Apart' showcases strong tunes, catchy hook lines, impeccable arrangements and meaningful, original lyrics. The UK Church's approach to worship music seems decidedly grittier than the one across the pond. The opening track "The Way" is a cracker featuring Tim Hughes giving us that fusion of high energy dance, anthemic chorus and up-in-the-mix bass which he does so well. The title track is another of Tim's and in both tracks it's so good to hear the audience responding as he manipulates the dynamics for emotional effect allowing us and them to get lost in worship. In fact, Hughes seems to grow in stature with each release. "Can't Stop Your Love" and "Worth It All" are standout tracks led by Ben Cantelon. Luke Hellebronth gets a chance in "Stand Up", a call to the army of God where a snare drum underlines the theme and his "Pursue Me" is a slower paced reflection on the unrelenting nature of God's love. Sadly only two songs are led by women: Anna Hellebronth heads up the pure worship of "Awesome Is He" and Karen Gillespie leads the synth heavy "Singing Over Us". The final "Wide Open Space" is a spontaneous, Spirit-filled track where Tim Hughes prays movingly for the prodigals to come home. Worship Central continue to lay down a benchmark for other worship ministries.

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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