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Styled on the tried and tested formula of famed Hillsong, Australia worship, Divine Exchange nonetheless comes over as a fresh and thoroughly inspiring set, comprising 11 brand
new songs recorded at home location of Bradford's Abundant Life Ministries in the industrial north of England. Unusually for a British church, ALM transmits weekly Europe-wide TV broadcasts, as well
as being a hubbub of dynamic activity in areas of full-time leadership training, 'Rock the Nations' youth events, 'Life Line' support on a range of social needs, plus scores of other ministries
(120 in all!).
The second live offering from the church, seven of these songs come from pen of worship pastor
Lara Martin, three from creative director Mark Stevens, previously part of the Hillsong team and having contributed to numerous of their acclaimed output. It is these two who together provide impressive lead
vocals throughout, comparisons between Lara and a certain Ms Zschech being simply unavoidable. So we find the vibrant opener 'I am changed', the sprightly 'I will bless the Lord' and 'Book
of days', or - more commonly - less hurried but wonderfully flowing tunes like the deliciously sensitive 'I enter in'
and the thoughtful title-track, just one of four songs here to last over seven minutes! Many tracks feature fine sax or woodwind tones from maestro - and founder of Celtic group Iona - David
Fitzgerald, and the warm, streaming support of a decidedly able church choir (incidentally, since the recording of this project, one of the main backing vocalists, Gareth Gates, soared to national fame as a
finalist in the unprecedently popular Pop Idol competition on UK TV - and is currently recording his debut solo disc in CA!).
Every one of these songs carries a potent, anthemic flow,
and any one would prove highly suited to congregational use. Lifting high the name of a mighty, majestic God, you are invited to enter a Divine Exchange of beauty and awesome wonder. This is music to bless the soul.
Review by
tom lennie |
