Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

As you might surmise from its title, this release is purposely aimed at aiding worship musicians and enhancing praise in small groups. Stripping everything back to just piano, acoustic guitar and vocals in time honoured unplugged fashion, this style is certainly more accessible and achievable for many church groups than some of the full band worship releases that are on the market. Refreshingly, this has not warranted a reduction in musical and production standards and, if anything, the 14 songs on offer have been revitalised by becoming more simple - mainly thanks to the expert production of ICC stalwart Neil Costello. To keep things fresh, vocals are provided alternately by Cathy Burton, Jim Bailey, Martin Cooper, Matt Leeder and Andy Arganor and their performances seem to shine in the less cluttered surroundings. Instrumentally, Dan Boreham and Phil Loose provide a rock solid backdrop on guitar and piano respectively and together keep the format from becoming staid by constantly varying their styles to suit each song. The songs themselves come from a variety of sources and, thankfully, the team have not plumped for ultra familiar and well worn songs. Brenton Brown's "Everlasting God" is a suitably stirring opener whilst Reuben Morgan's "I Give You My Heart" is given new life by Cathy Burton's tender vocal. Elsewhere, Matt Redman's "You Never Let Me Go" and "Centre" feature in contemplative splendour whilst Boreham's strikingly earthy guitar takes "Refiner's Fire" by Brian Doerksen to a new level. In summary, this is a delightful collection of reflective worship songs that should benefit small groups and personal quiet times throughout the land.

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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