Reviewed by Matthew Cordle

Javis Mays has been making music, writing songs and leading worship for many years and this is his third CD release since 2010. His stated vision is to inspire deeper intimacy with God and that is largely the focus of the songs here; declaring God's greatness, holiness and mercy, and surrendering ourselves to him. As a contemporary gospel worship album the style is largely up-beat, with plenty of energy and funky basslines to get the feet moving. The musicianship is solid, with not a note out of place throughout the ebb and flow of the songs, and the supporting singers are similarly on the money. As well as Javis there are three guest soloists, and the highlight song for me is "Glory To The Lord", featuring Maranda C Willis, a prayer that the Lord would "open up the heavens as we call upon your name." However, many of the songs are very samey both in terms of level of intensity and lyrically. For example, "Grace", the debut single from the album, spans nine minutes across two tracks and comprises a total of 16 words. Whilst the sentiment of the song is great, "I receive your grace/For your mercy has renewed my faith/I have overcome the world," this really is a case study of "repetitive". Similarly, "Lord I Trust You" has three lines and yet lasts 07:21. I realise that singing a simple chorus multiple times can be helpful in a live worship context but, listening to the CD in the cold light of day, it just goes on too long. Across many of the songs there is a fair amount of Javis shouting exhortations and calls to "come on, church", although the way the recording has been captured it's not often possible to hear anyone except the band and singers - it would have been great to have more of the congregation mixed in. "Dance" sounds like it was fun to record - "When I think about Jesus and how he set me free I can dance all night", accompanied by a serious workout for both bassist and keyboard player! At 74 minutes the CD is certainly value for money, as long as you accept that not all those minutes are going to be different.

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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