Review

I have never really been a big fan of Steve Green's work. This is mostly because growing up in the 80's, I thought Steve Green was a little too "straight-laced" for my "cool" taste. Admittedly, I was young, oblivious and full of myself back then, and now I look back with respect on his work and contribution to Contemporary Christian and Church music. This admiration was furthered when I first heard his latest release "Always: Songs Of Worship".

"Always" is a collection of mostly well-known worship songs sung by Steve in his own vocal style, with some very nicely done arrangements ranging from big ballads with strings and background singers to guitar driven adult rock tunes. For those who feel that the recent worship releases have been getting more and more "younger" or too edgy, "Always" is a nice respite from that heavy rock worship sound. This CD is also a great resource for worship leaders who have yet to introduce modern worship songs to thier congregations and are looking for a ideas to make them more palletable.

Steve Green has paired with producer Phil Nash to create a very well produced, but not overly produced project. The songs feature guitars, loops and various modern worship elements but they do not distract from Steve's vocals or the message of the songs. In my opinion, what they have done is filled a big need by creating modern worship for folks that have lighter, easy listening tastes in music but are tired of canned, elevator-style worship. I would imagine that fans of Phillips, Craig and Dean and other adult contemporary CCM artist would welcome this genuinely well balanced, CD into their collection.

Review by Jeremy Dunn