Homemade Worship By Handmade People

iTunes Review

Extensive touring on both sides of the Atlantic hasn’t spoiled the feisty spirit of this 15-member Irish combo or slicked up its folksy sound. The tone here is set by the opening track, “Praise Like Fireworks,” a celebratory number with the rollicking air of a '60s-era hootenanny. With luminous harmonies and acoustic guitar–driven rhythms, “Build Your Kingdom Here,” “Christ Has Set Me Free," and “Come On” invite comparisons to Mumford & Sons and Fleet Foxes. Of special note is “You Are My Vision,” a reimagining of the traditional hymn “Be Thou My Vision” that builds into a powerful collective act of worship. More subdued but still compelling tunes like “Desert Soul” and “Alabaster” are sung with quietly revelatory performances. Recorded at various church halls and private homes, Homemade Worship by Handmade People lives up to its title by keeping its approach simple and organic. What’s captured here is a heartfelt love for the Savior, expressed without guile or gimmickry.