Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

As you might guess, this is an album of songs inspired by a variety of Psalms. Not a new idea but with a voice pitched somewhere between Sting and Michael McDonald, this former Chuck Mangione sideman turns in a worship album which mixes a predominantly rootsy sound with other musical influences. The inclusion of a classical brass ensemble gives the proceedings warmth. Basically, it's a strong mix of styles. The album opens with a fab version of Tommy Walker's "How Glorious The Splendour" which is compellingly atmospheric building to a worshipful climax including cuckoo sound affects. I kid you not! Mathes' voice suits the late night feel prevalent in a lot of this and there are a number of nice touches - the tinkling piano intro of "Your Throne O God", the delicate piano and recorder of the closing song "Here I Am", the smooth harmonies and Hammond tinges of "I Am Not Afraid". A bit of a musical feast for a worship project. My two favourites are in the middle of the album, "Behold He Does Not Sleep" encompasses a rootsy mandolin and strong rhythm with a passionate vocal performance. "Stand In The Congregation" is an R'n'B influenced catchy little number with punchy horns and a brill jazz trombone solo.

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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