Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

I've got so used to praise albums being a disappointment these days. So much is formulaic and plastic with only the occasional classic albums-ala Malt Redman and Darrel Evans. Now to that exalted company add the name Roger Hodges, who comes with a live praise album that vibrates with heartfelt passion for God and a rootsy organic musical feel. Roger knows how to pump out a lively praise tune, best examples here being the storming opening "Now Unto The King" and the effervescent "Wanna Be Close To You" which bounces along. Mixing acoustic guitar, fiddle, accordion, piano and sax. Musically this is a treat peaking and troughing with moments of high praise as well as gentle interludes. But what sets this apart is the fact that the songs draw the listener into an intimate experience of God. Hodges is at his best when singing prophetically and ministering to the congregation in spontaneous song. The powerful song of healing, "Balm Of Gilead". is followed by the spontaneous "His Name Is Jesus" which just keeps on building into a very special worship experience. Roger Hodges and band flow together like no other band I've heard. Secondly, under the anointing of God there isn't anything in the world like a spontaneous song straight from the throne of God! A very special worship album that blesses my socks off every lime I listen! What better recommendation than that?

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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