Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

I have long mourned the loss of Kevin Prosch's ministry from the Church but his influence lingers on in the lives of the many musicians that he encouraged and touched. Before I even read the blurb that came with this album that tells of Prosch's encouragement and prophetic input into Mary's Den, it was obvious that Kevin is their favourite worship leader! A mixture of spontaneous songs, drifting ambient sounds, prominent percussion and cool music infused with a powerfully prophetic edge. There's enough originality here to ensure that this is not a Black Peppercorns rip off whilst it's obvious that there are certain adventurous elements of that band that have been taken on board by the boys. The result is an excellent worship album that sometimes spits out loud praise and at other times unhurriedly lingers in the presence of God. Musically it's rootsy rock'n'roll with a pile of influences all melded together. So many highlights but let me try and rope 'em in! "Praise Goes Up" is a raucous affair unleashed in an explosion of guitars. "Freedom" is a vibey, bluesy piano ballad that explores the life changing love of God that heals us. The opening set of songs, "Captured By Your Majesty", "Supernatural Love" and "God With Us" all demonstrate the songwriting talents of the band and their ability to create worship songs that are free from the clichés that bog down much worship music. I find the album moving me in a similar way to the recent Waterdeep recordings especially when the band kick into the spontaneous sections where they touch an extra dimension. Favourites? I love the musical atmosphere and psalm-like lyrics of "You Sustain Me" and the eight-minute "Open Arms" which brings the proceedings to a drifting close. Just when I was worried that worship music was returning to the formulaic, Mary's Den breaks the mould.

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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