Reviewed by Ato Erzan-Essien

Jo Bollands spent a year recording this album following the death of her husband, Steve, from cancer at the age of 41. The album stands out as a personal testimony to her belief of how God saw her through what for most people would inevitably be a deeply traumatic time. Jo's experience as a worship leader at her home church in Chesterfield is clearly demonstrated throughout the songs. Although tinged with an intimacy that could, in the hands of someone else, leave the listener feeling as if they shouldn't really be involved - like some uninvited guest at a family gathering, most of the songs here would not be out of place in the worship of any church. Particularly outstanding in this respect are "Build Your Throne Lord", "I Am Dancing With My King" and "There Could Never Be Anyone Else". And this is the strength of her songwriting. She has successfully converted what can only be a deeply personal experience into music that only touches others on a personal level even if they are unaware of its background. This is because 'The Mirror' is essentially an album about faith - and as Jo demonstrates, when it comes to that, nothing more needs to be said.

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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