Rooftops
Not many things make me want to shout from the rooftops, but this might just be one of them. Rooftops is a collection of worship songs from Vineyard Youth’s annual gathering, Dreaming the Impossible. All the songs are performed by young worship leaders who have been mentored by Vineyard worship leader Dave Miller. The album contains some songs written by Miller as well as new arrangements of classic Vineyard songs such as Jeremy Riddles ‘Furious’.
Each individual track has a different feel to it, yet they all to fit together well. The album brings a very youthful feel to the art of worship, while still keeping the intimate atmosphere that comes with an intense worship session; though I am not too sure about the one dubstep track. Caleb
The art of celebration
I’m not a ‘folky’ person. The idea of swaying along to songs on the beach with strangers makes me uncomfortable. Yet Rend Collective has created an album that should appeal to even the toughest of townies.
The art of celebration is even more upbeat than their previous album, Homemade worship by handmade people – something we didn’t think was possible. Starting with the aptly titled ‘Joy’, which seems to serve as the central theme for the album, to quieter moments of reflection with ‘Simplicity’, the album carries you through 13 tracks of pure, unadulterated happiness. Their passion should inspire every listener to leap up and start worshipping along with them. Now, where’s my tambourine? Jasmin
Reconstructed: vol 1
This album consists of popular songs previously released by Jesus Culture, such as ‘Your Love Never Fails’ and ‘Rooftops’. The stunning vocals of Chris Quilala, Kim Walker-Smith and Bryan and Katie Torwalt are remixed with an innovative, electronic sound from ‘Oh Snap It’s Luke!’.
The remixing prowess makes each song sound different to the others yet maintains the sense of familiarity so you can sing along to the powerful lyrics. Rightly titled ‘Reconstructed’, the album engages you in an experience whereby listeners enjoy old content in a new dimension. The album exudes an amazing coherence with strong synths and captivating crescendos, yet each track retains a distinctive uniqueness. This will be the soundtrack to my summer! Fope
Young and free
Young and free is very different to the Christian music I usually listen to. To me, it sounds more like a dance album and I really like that. All the songs have a certain feel, similar to the likes of David Guetta and Calvin Harris, but still focus on praising God. This just shows that Christian music isn’t all about hymns and organs - it proves to people that Christianity can have a modern twist.
My favourite song on here is ‘Gracious Tempest’, because it has simple instruments that really make the lyrics stand out and I feel that I connected to this song the most. This is a vibrant album that makes praising God more enjoyable; even my friends admitted that this is not what they expected when I asked them to listen to a few Christian songs. Lindy
Scrapbook II
Scrapbook II is punchy and smooth in all the right places. The idea of the scrapbook really sets it apart from his record-breaking album Odd 1 out. Between songs it really gets quite raw. Guvna adds in stories and news cuttings into his songs. The production is still of the highest order and we hear from a variety of artists such as Nick Brewer and Faith Child.
The grimy feel to Carlton Palmer ft Nick Brewer (track three) has a real authentic and ‘old school’ feel to it. If we compare this to track five which has a much more mainstream feel, with some stunning vocals from Shae Jacobs, we see the real diversity that Guvna B possesses. At 25 this man has the world at his feet. Watch this space. Luke
Our hands his healing
This is certainly not a book to read all in one go, but to read over a long period of time, ensuring to take breaks of reflection and practically living this out – maybe use it with a prayer partner or in a small group. Healing is a big topic but with lots of little segments, bullet points, sub-headings and Bible verses to break it up, this makes for an informative read. Not only is Jeannie’s personal testimony an eye opener, but some of the topics covered are those not often talked about, such as mental illness, deliverance and pornography. The rawness of real people’s stories and testimonies are just some of what make this book so open and engaging. Jeannie knows what she is talking about, so sit back, read, learn and do! Philly
Genesis: the Bibluffer’s guide
Paul Kerensa charmingly looks at every spare inch of the first book of the Bible with clarity and humour, making The Bibluffer’s guide one of the most readable books I’ve ever come across. Page one begins by looking at Genesis chapter one and, a load of jokes, spoofs and scribbles later you reach the last verse of chapter 50 wondering what on earth just happened to your afternoon! It’s packed full of quick humour (the author is an award-winning writer for Miranda Hart) and cool illustrations. Although it doesn’t really apply any of the ideas to how we should live today, and perhaps lacks serious and challenging content, it will seriously brighten up your day! Sam
The dating dilemma
The dating dilemma is an insightful book, which gives us an honest look into the relationships of Rachel and Andre, both of whom are not afraid to hold back on wondering if they married the right person or on sharing their dating disasters. This is done while unpacking what
the Bible says about topics such as dating, finding ‘the one’, sex and many more.
However I found that as this is such a detailed and jam-packed book, I wouldn’t read it all in one go, but rather read certain chapters at specific times. I don’t think anyone wants to go into a relationship blindly and so I love this book for the personal stories as well as the insightful look into the Bible about relationships; this book is the perfect survival guide for what healthy relationships should look like. Bekah
On our radar
Most recently seen at Glastonbury, Jake Isaac’s deep and gravelly voice is the perfect combination of folk and soul.
At just 17, Jacob has released several singles already with more on the horizon. Watch this space.
This dynamic duo comprises of youth worker Rebecca Hamer and John Grimsey, and recently graced the stage at the Isle of Wight festival with their dulcet folky harmonies.
On the brink of releasing his debut album, Josh’s beautiful faith-inspired music is achingly cool. Well worth a listen.
His first album – a worship album called The Fire – is still one of our absolute faves.
