“Worship” albums are a dime a dozen and the “christian” music world pumps them out like they are feeding an addicted population (with the same regard for spiritual quality that a street dealer has for his drug, that is to say, near none.) Sadly, the sheer volume of tepidness out there makes doubt the industry can sustain itself. Then, along comes an album that makes me really respect the heart behind the musician. Tim Hughes’ new album, Holding Nothing Back, seems genuine and real. Sure, there is a bit of gloss here and there, but his words reveal far more than any amount of post-production. His words cry out to God for renewal, for re-creation, and for realignment to the priorities of God.

It is refreshing to hear an album that emphasizes many aspects of the faith life, the CD starts with the glory of our salvation (Happy Day), while reminding us that that calling pulls us into a life of service (God Of Justice), and that the real meaning of all of this is God alone (Center of All.) This story arc closes with the final track, Take the World, that offers a counterpoint to all of the “noise” in the Church – the books, the CD’s, the cars, the fancy neckties, and all of the emptiness that pales, and that we need to cry out for God whether in voice, song, or silence.

Having been a worship leader off and on for a few years I would say that the song “Happy Day” would be a ton of fun to perform; the pacing, words, and style lead me to the believe that I could sing that song and pray it at the same time, which is what I need when leading worship. “Holding Nothing Back,” the title track, is a wonderful energetic push that could be an awesome song in the hands of a good worship team, it could certainly get people moving (if you are in that kind of church.) “Almighty God” is a great starter tune for a service it allows a leader to bring the congregation into the story of worship for the day; we must sing out today in worship, not just because it is Sunday, but because God requires, not by force, but by His own presence.

If your collection can fit one more album that you use to facilitate your personal worship or that you use to get ideas for corporate worship, this might just be an album worth shelling out a few bucks on iTunes to purchase.