Unique
Nick and Becky Drake // Kingsway
All-age worship can be a thorny subject. To some it represents a magical time of celebration with their children, to others it’s 20 minutes of torture that comes in the form of exaggerated hand movements, ludicrously simple lyrics, and the occasional need to leap about for no apparent purpose. Nick and Becky Drake have set out to address this conflict with Unique (Worship for Everyone), and in many instances succeed. The 13 tracks range from power pop anthems to campfire-style sing alongs, all of which are easy to pick up. Some will still struggle with the sugar-sweet nature of a few songs, but kids will quickly take to the upbeat, God-focused tracks, as will those willing to let themselves loosen up and have fun. For everyone? No. For many? Definitely. MC Martyn Casserly is a freelance writer
Still Believe
Kim Walker-Smith // Jesus Culture Music & Elevation
With Kim Walker-Smith is back for a second solo album, and so are her trademark gravelly vocals. Already well known for being a worship leader for the Jesus Culture movement, Walker-Smith featured on last year’s Live From New York album, with Martin (Delirious?) Smith. Recorded during a live worship set, Still Believe features a mix of new and old tracks. A largely upbeat offering, each song captures a desire to pursue God’s presence and power. ‘Alive’ is the perfect opener ? a gentle piano melody and vocals that builds into a heartfelt cry: ‘I know that you’re alive. I’m coming alive.’ It’s a passionate declaration and immediately draws you into a place of worship. A great album, led by a contagious worship leader, this is definitely one to buy and enjoy. RG Ruth Garner is editorial intern on Premier Christianity magazine
Rosie Meek & the Open Road
Rosie Meek // Open Road Music
An enchanting find. The debut album from a bunch of Midlands-based musicians is fresh and lyrical. It speaks of the wonder of small things, with songs about coffee, books and Chinese lanterns. While the lyrics tell a story, the melodies are stylistically varied. The opening track How the Mighty Fall launches with a surprising dash of Jewish character and plenty of brass and accordion. The rest of the album is mellower, but keeps its folky charm. Rosie has a clear, uncomplicated voice, and the rest of the group are gifted musicians. One particularly beautiful track is Swallows, a great one for reflection. This isn’t worship music, or even explicitly ‘Christian’ music, but the lyrics are written from a place of hope by a band of Christian musicians. I’ve had it on loop and I’ve not yet tired of it. LBJ Lucinda Borkett-Jones is editorial intern at Premier Christianity magazine
