Reviewed by Tony Cummings

The vast majority of artists from the Roman Catholic Church who have recorded music down the years have had to rely on support solely from their own particular denomination to build a ministry but like John Michael Talbot before him, Canada's Matt Maher has shown that songwriting craftsmanship and the avoidance of contentious theological issues can occasionally win American Christian radio support. Matt has already enjoyed considerable success with several of his modern worship songs and this new album is in many ways certain to expand his popularity. At least six of the songs here draw their inspiration from particular figures from the history of the Church including "Sons And Daughters" (Martin Luther King Jr), "Firelight" (Mother Theresa), "Instrument" (St Francis of Assisi), "A Future Not My Own" (Archbishop Oscar Romero) and "Everything Is Grace" (St Therese). Maher wrote "Sons And Daughters" with Jason Ingram and Ike Ndolo and it's a triumphant evocation of freedom ("How free is anyone when some are in chains?/Slaves to brokenness, all this blindness"). 'Saints And Sinners' abounds in co-writes including David Leonard and Leslie Jordan (All Sons And Daughters), Jon Foreman (Switchfoot) and Bo and Bear Rhinehart (Needtobreathe). The track with Foreman is particularly strong, featuring a deft blend of Foreman's acoustic approach as heard on his EPs with Maher's sweeping stadium anthems. Another gem is "Because He Lives (Amen)" with octave-leaping vocals over strings, piano and thunderous drums. The song registered on the Billboard charts for many weeks and will surely be heard in a church near you before long. All in all, this album is a work of inspiring craftsmanship.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.