Stuart Townend - The Best Of Stuart Townend, Vol. 2 (live)
Artist:
Title:
The Best Of Stuart Townend, Vol. 2 (live)
Type:
Album
Released:
17 Mar 2015 (US), 15 Mar 2015 (UK)
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Review
The title of this collection says a lot about just how much Stuart Townend has written and contributed to the UK worship arena. Ladies and gentlemen, not only is this a “Best Of”, let me tell you it’s a Volume Two Best of. And on top of that, it’s Live too. Surely only the most prolific artists can put out such collections. And I’m glad it’s “Live”, as those albums always add a special element. In fact, listening to this reminded me of some of the wonderful moments that first got my interest in worship...
Read More The title of this collection says a lot about just how much Stuart Townend has written and contributed to the UK worship arena. Ladies and gentlemen, not only is this a “Best Of”, let me tell you it’s a Volume Two Best of. And on top of that, it’s Live too. Surely only the most prolific artists can put out such collections. And I’m glad it’s “Live”, as those albums always add a special element. In fact, listening to this reminded me of some of the wonderful moments that first got my interest in worship (my Spring Harvest Live 92 cassette has long since sadly snapped but it remains firmly in my heart).
This collection is great. It covers so many topics: rejoicing, praising, worshipping, as well as deep moments of reflection. The mood is always uplifting, never slipping into deep worshipper-centred territory, but staying God-focussed. It’s full of joyful moments too, at times having a hint of an alcohol-free barn dance: tap that toe, clap those hands (preferably on the snare, not the kick drum otherwise it’ll drag a little). And you there, stop that smiling at the back: this is church or haven’t you realised?
Many people will no doubt know and sing these songs already: the melodies and themes are strong and clear, and reach their goal of providing high quality and intelligent songs that can easily be sung by congregations of all ages.
The collection is a well delivered musical and scriptural experience, and makes wide use of traditional folk instruments: violins, flutes and - don’t tell my wife as she’ll see it a licence to get hers out of the box - accordion, all providing an excellent and sensitive backdrop for Stuart’s smooth voice and sensitive worship style.
And finally, I’m amazed that I’ve written a whole review of 26 Stuart Townend songs without saying how much my mum likes his music.
Review by Phil Aldis
LTTM Rating 3.5 Out of 5 Stars
Standout Tracks
How deep the Father’s Love For Us
Promise of the Ages
Come People of the Risen King
