Review

Israel Houghton meets Lincoln Brewster is probably the best way to describe the sound and lyrical content of "Moving Forward", the new CD from Free Chapel featuring worship leader Ricardo Sanchez. Given the popularity of both of Israel and Lincoln I could probably end the review here and you would have a pretty good idea of what's on this CD, but for the benefit of those of you that require clarification, I will continue. Imagine the big urban sound of Israel and New Breed mixed with the accessible rock worship sound of Lincoln Brewster. Now throw in an ever present choir and you end up with a pretty exciting Urban Rock Worship CD. While Lincoln Brewster has nothing to do with this project, Israel Hougton is in fact credited as Music Director, as well as playing guitar and taking lead vocals on a few songs. He also co-wrote most of the songs with Ricardo Sanchez.

Despite Israel's obvious thumbprint on "Moving Forward", the heart of this CD is expressed through Free Chapel's worship leader Ricardo Sanchez. Not only does he have a great voice, he has a strong presence to lead. This presence is a constant reminder that "Moving Forward" is not a worship performance but a real worship service taking place in a real church service. His prayers and exaltations reflect a congregation seeking God to be present in their church, homes and nation. As a collaborative songwriter, Sanchez is an excellent fit with Israel. I would venture to say that the songs on this CD (mostly written by Sanchez/Hougton) are every bit as strong as past Israel Houghton/Michael Gungor collaborations. And that's saying a lot!

One of the most appealing things about "Moving Forward" is the large amount of congregation friendly songs. If you are a worshipper that likes this style of music, then you will have a great time listening and worshiping along. Not only are the songs congregation friendly, but they are worship band friendly as well. Whether your team is rock oriented or more urban, you will probably be able to tackle any of the songs if you want. Let's hope that they eventually make print music available for this great CD. And let's hope that we hear more worship music from Ricardo Sanchez in the future!

Review by Jeremy Dunn