Reviewed by Richard Dawson

The latest album from the hugely influential Birmingham-based epicentre for modern worship is indeed a cry to God to stir passion in all worshippers. Recorded at their joint conference with 24-7 Prayer, The Gathering, in October 2018, this is a culmination of months of listening to God, songwriting and refining. 'Stir A Passion' features brand new songs as well as live recordings of songs previously featured on 'Mercy Road'. "Pray" is a great start to the album and really grounds the album with the attitude of prayer. "Majesty" is probably my favourite track. It focuses on the mystery of God and how everything bows at his name, praising God not for what he has done but for who he is. "All For Love" is a song which starts around the Garden of Gethsemane and goes through to the cross and Jesus' death. Lyrics start with "darkness descended" and Jesus pouring out his Spirit and it ends with "You were forsaken, my heart was awakened", making this song really powerful. The album finishes with "Hope And Glory", a song that emphasises our need for God. "Only you can move the mountains/Only you can heal our land." Throughout, the vocals are strong, the musicianship excellent and the arrangements showing clear signs that they are moving away from the rather formulaic sounds which have dogged some modern worship in recent times. All in all, an album with the potential to impact the UK Church and the wider Christian community.

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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