Reviewed in the United States on August 16, 2010

Being intrigued by this new worship-name, I was curious to find out what lay beneath the artistic cover of this musical box. A veritable treasure, as I soon discovered. Husband and father-of-one Rick Stokes, lives in Lyttelton, New Zealand, and has been writing worship songs for 13 years. Here he offers a collection of his own compositions before a 'live' and participatory audience. Rick has a great voice, augmented by the delicious harmony vocals of Alison Smyth, and supported by a proficient team of musicians (providing moments of e.g. skillful flute-playing and mean guitar licks). But it's the quality of the songs themselves that makes this production stand out. This man sure knows how to write a catchy tune! Listening to this offering, you can't help wondering why no-one has written these songs before! They are gorgeously simple (and simply gorgeous). And boy do they work! Once Rick finds a good worship tune, he sticks to it, allowing it to flow gently in heart-lifting worship for 9, 10, - even 12 minutes. You cannot help but join in, and you wouldn't wish to do otherwise. Crown Of Thorns' is a profound expression of thankfulness for Christ's sacrifice, while 'Here I Am' is a touching worship ballad, expressing openness to God. 'After years of empty, frustrated living, I met the Lord Jesus Christ, and began to delight myself in Him, and He has begun giving me the desires of my heart; the ones I was born with'. Thus says Rick, following with the intimate 'Delight'.

The CD comes complete with an attractive booklet containing personal photos, song-introductions, and guitar-chords to all the lyrics. This album is indeed a 'delight'.

Review by Tom Lennie, for CrossRhythms Magazin

Format: Audio CD | MP3 | Streaming
Publisher: Rick Stokes & Friends
Publication country: New Zealand