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Following a series of quite stunningly fresh and relevant worship discs created by top Vineyard writers and
musicians from across the UK and Ireland ('Come Now is the Time', 'Hungry', 'Surrender'), what we've been seeing in more recent times is a focus on output from individual British Vineyard churches. Hence, came 'Beautiful' from St. Albans fellowship in 2002; now appears 'Hold On' from Trent Vineyard, Nottingham.
However you try to asses it, this is worship with a potent rock edge, claiming influences from the likes of Coldplay, Radiohead U2 and other groups on the current
British music scene. Certainly there's an intensity, a vibe, a powerful drive that runs right through this 12-song recording, and if you like vibrancy in your musical diet you'll feel right at home with this
serving.
Main songwriter and lead vocalist is Nige(l) Briggs, who previously featured on 'Surrender' and 'Doing the Stuff'
recordings. The piano-based title track starts off gingerly, then builds into a throbbing declaration of trust in an ever faithful God. Locally recorded - in the appropriately named Electric Mayhem
studios - the standard of musicianship throughout is exemplary, especially those searing layered guitars which seek to drive home spiritual truths with passion and verve. The fresh illumination of
'You are the light' also carries striking effect, while 'Right here' hits you 'right there', between the eyes.
This isn't all-out rock in its entirety though. 'King forever'
is an effective pop-rock worship anthem, written and finely sung by Kat Regester (where she sounds not totally dissimilar to fellow Vineyard UK-er's Vicky Beeching or Kathryn Scott). '40'
- based on Psalm of same number - is a swirling slice of yearning atmospherics in vein of Irish superstars U2, who in fact composed the tune. 'Turn it all down'
- co-authored by Briggs and Rich Bull, chief guitar wizard - appears when the recording engineer does just that, and, like 'Fool' before it, and the wonderful 'Journey home'
after it, is a tender ballad of vulnerability.
Take time to appreciate the diversity of soundscapes and emotions reflected on this adventurous disc. You won't appreciate its full scope in one
listen. Rather, with it's complexity of sounds, you're gonna discover something fresh on each play. And chances are - you're gonna fall in love with it pretty quickly. Hold On rocks!
Review by
tom lennie - Nov 2003 |
