Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand

Reviewed by Jono Ryan

Parachute Music (2001)

Fun, uplifting, heartfelt, a rocking-good-time...Marvel is everything one would expect from the fourth album from The Lads. It features a new guitarist, and sees the songwriting shared by the band. With a good quality of recording and production, this is an album that will also be enjoyed by the mainstream market. Chris (keyboardist) explains that their hope is that the album can be a 'catalyst', with lyrics, songwriting and arrangements that "describe the character of God". This quality is evident throughout the album, from energetic anthems like 'Creator' and 'International Mystery Man' to sincere songs of repentance like 'Call My Name'. They even try to address the difficult issue of cannibalism... Marvellous.

Reviewed by Jono Ryan

Parachute Music (2002)

Follow is the much-anticipated third album from this Auckland-based worship band. Form have developed a reputation for raw guitar-driven worship, and this album will not disappoint fans. It retains the elements crucial to their sound: a driving rhythm section, melodic vocals, and catchy guitar riffs, complemented with drum programming and backing choir. With this album, Form have climbed to new heights. Every track is a beautifully crafted, balancing layers of production with honest songwriting that refuses to be ignored, and certainly can't be forgotten. Of the many excellent worship releases from the last year, this is undoubtedly my favourite. Highly recommended.