Review

Ok, first of all, this CD rocks! But, beyond that simplistic evaluation, it should also be noted that All Together Separate brings a sound all their own to a set of incredible worship songs that must be experienced to be believed. Many of you may be familiar with this Christian Alternative Rock band’s more performance-oriented offerings available in the Rock section of your favorite Christian Music outlet. If so, you’ve already heard this band mix worship-themed lyrics with their unique and varied music style. If not, then All Together Separate is a band you should certainly give a listen.

Most of the songs on this disc are not original, in fact only two of the twelve tracks found here were written by the band itself. Instead what we are treated to is a groovy, rhythm-laced rock-meets-worship set of songs that you may have heard before, but you’ve never heard them performed quite like this, I promise. The band reinvents such classic worship songs as “Everything That Has Breath”, “Did You Feel The Mountains Tremble?”, “I Love You Lord” and “Sweet Presence Of Jesus” among others. Hearing such a “greatest hits” package of worship songs performed with a fresh, youthful exuberance is worth the price of the disc alone!

When the band does branch out on their own, however, the results are quite impressive. The band’s own “My Soul Finds Rest In You Alone” declares with a sweet simplicity, “When the world is raging/ And loneliness is flooding in Oh Lord/ You’re my shelter from the storm/ Nothing else can satisfy/ The loneliness inside my heart oh Lord/ You’re Salvation to my soul”.

What’s missing here is any pretentious notion that worship should be an opportunity to show off your vocal or guitar prowess. That’s a good thing, kids. The live energy is pure praise that at times can take your breath away, channel all your emotions into a shout of joy, and then surprise you with it’s sudden tenderness and brutal honesty. The truth is that, if this band were leading worship at your church, you’d probably never want to go home!

Review by Keith Giles