REVIEWS

Keeping you up to date with the latest chrisitan album releases.

tim hughes
holding nothing back
survior records [2007]

I awaited the release of this album with baited breath and wasn't disappointed. Holding Nothing Back is Tim's third solo album and it seems quality has increased with each release.

Produced in part chapel Lane Studios, England by Nathan Nockels and in part at Los Angeles' Conway Recording Studios, U.S.A by Matt Bronleewe, the sound is edgier with multi-layered guitars featuring Stu G (Delirious?) energizing many anthemic choruses.

Tim has partnered with some wonderful musicians, producers and songwriterswho have birthed an inspiringoffering of worship.

Clinging to the Cross features the pure and captivating vocals of New Zealand's Brooke Fraser which rouses that deep cry within for Jesus above all else. The stomping opener Happy Day equips the church with a fresh melody through which we can celebrate Jesus' victorious resurrection. The title track Holding Nothing Back a co-write with Martin Smith (Delirious?) is one of the many congregational songs that leave you humming it's truth all day. The lyrics of God of Justice taken from Micah 6:8, challenges us "to act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with God."

All in all the songs on this album invite you to celebrate, to persevere and cry out, to respond in worship to Him, the reason for it all.

Emily Layzell, April 2007

matt redman
beautiful news
survior records [2007]

Its been a while since we had a studio album from Matt Redman and Beautiful News, under the survivor label seeking to bring 'worship for a new generation', is a welcome return.

It boasts excellent production and some heartfelt songs, though it seems Redman has made a conscious effort to integrate a more contemporary feel to the album, reminiscent of the band Delirious?, whilst managing to retain an atmosphere of worhsip. It kicks off with the celebratory title track Beautiful News and takes the listener on a journey, featuring songs of hope amidst desperation in You never let go and Thank You for healing me, and the more anthemic global praise of All over the world

There are also such songs as Take it to the streets where Matt is joined by the voice of Delirious?, Martin Smith, as they respond to the 'beautiful news' of the gospel. Redman also co-writes with Martin Smith and American worship leader, Paul Baloche, and two of the songs were wirtten with his wife, Beth. Highlights include the prayerful, When all is said and done, and Beautiful News.

This album is definitely a 'must buy' for those who want to enrich their times of devotion and thanksgiving and gives us a reminder of God's exciting mission to reach every corner of the world with His good news.

Rich White, March 2007