Reviewed by Jonathan Cairns

After listening to this album for the first time you would probably be surprised to learn that this is RCL Praise's debut album: the musicianship, recording and producing is of a standard that would suggest a long line of recordings. It is unlikely to be their last and it shows the Rhema church in London have inspiration and expert musicianship in abundance. Plaudits must go to Ian Green who wrote or co-wrote every song except for one, produced the album, led several of the songs and played four separate instruments. The music has a strong gospel influence and you'll also detect a little of the Hillsong approach. The downside is that a few of the songs feature dated instrumental arrangements, mainly in the heavy use of synthesizers and chorus effects, such as in "Raise Your Hands" and "Thank You Jesus". On the plus side "We Have Overcome" shows a great combination of Christ-centred words and extravagant praise and songs such as "Lord I Love You" and "You're All I Need" demonstrate that RCL Praise are equally capable of producing more devotional and intimate songs.

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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