Reviewed by Alastair McCollum

This five-track selection from newcomer Claire is a delight. Sounding very much like early Jennifer Knapp there is here the power and passion of a faith which has seen her through various experiences in her walk with Jesus. This debut from a 19 year old Buckinghamshire-based singer/songwriter is the product of obviously powerful, perhaps painful, personal experience and reflects a sense of journey and movement but ultimately a sense of the faithfulness of God. Like the Psalmist the pain yields to a sense of perspective with God over all. Lyrically and musically assured this is an uplifting collection, dominated by acoustic guitar and Claire's voice, not over-produced but with a backing group that enhances the sound rather than distracts from the simplicity of the songs. Highlights are the piano and string introduction to "That's Your God" along with the gentle ambient/dance remix of the same track that closes the album, and the opening chords of the first track "Up" with a cello backing that lets Claire's voice come in powerfully and take the hearer on this journey with her. Her producer says that Claire doesn't have "grandiose designs" for a career in the music business. Hopefully though we will hear much more of her talent in days to come.

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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