Review

Matt Redman, Paul Oakley, Tim Hughes and Neil Wilson are common names in the UK, having been a part of the renaissance of worship music that is in full swing there. The names Jason Halbert and Dwayne Larring may not be as familiar to everyone, but SONIC FLOOd certainly is. These two are part of what made their eponymous first album an instant classic.

No longer part of that band, they have taken to the studio. They had already worked with Matt Redman on his 'The Father's Song' album and, just for kicks, remixed his song 'Holy Moment'. The result so impressed Kingsway Record's CEO that he insisted on a collaboration between these two and some of his artists. 'All Around the World' is what has come out of that collaboration.

What this album does is make one reconsider their own paradigm of worship 'listening'. One person may think that a worship album should take the form of a time of worship at church. There's a sense of wanting to begin upbeat, on our feet, but ultimately bowed down at the foot of the cross, or in the throne room of the Father. Is there room for punch and sizzle in worship music? Can you put on a worship album and just dance? Or wash the car? Or work out?

Well, give this album a chance and you can find out. Because it's full of punch. It leaps out at you on the very first song and doesn't let go until the last one. Beginning with the Tim Hughes penned 'Jesus You Alone' you will soar as you sing 'So I'll set my sights upon you, set my life upon Your praise, never looking to another way. You alone will be my passion, Jesus You will be my song, You will find me longing after you'. The musicianship is tight and top-notch.

'Be Glorified' by Passion One Day's Chris Tomlin is next. This is fast becoming an anthem in churches all over the world.

Paul Oakley is up next with his 'All Around the World'. The arrangement here is, well, let's just say it will rock your paradigm! And on it goes.

Matt Redman has four songs, including 'Once Again', and Paul Oakley chips in a couple more. Each and every song stands alone as a tune crafted with intent and purpose. Halbert and Laring not only arrange but play the guitars and keyboards for the tracks. It's as if they wanted to skyrocket from the point they had reached with SONIC FLOOd. And they have!

These four British lads have been the perfect vehicle for their Yankee vision. You may have some of these songs on other albums, but I guarantee you don't have them like this. This is a must have.

Review by John Ausmus