Introducing Eoghan Heaslip

Photographer: Andy Hutch.
Eoghan Heaslip's Kingsway debut shows off a pure modern worship sound that has no intention of mainstream crossover; it's quite simply intended to edify the church. The Irish product of Vineyard-style worship, Eoghan (pronounced "Owen") has a couple of things going for him: first, an approachable, contemporary sound that has drawn comparisons to Matt Redman, David Crowder, and Brian Doerksen; and second, authentic aspirations manifest on tracks like "God Only Wise," where he begs vertically, "to use us to bless this broken world." Heaslip may not aim to be the loudest or proudest worship leader, but his unmistakable lyrics hit a bull's-eye where it counts. The tempo never rises above half-speed, but it's obvious he never intends to be boisterous about his convictions, and simply offers singalong themes of praise. These tracks are obviously meant for congregations to digest easily. He is at his most reflective on "Love Come Down" and at his most passionate on the rousing "Creator King." Fans of fellow Kingsway artist Brenton Brown will enjoy this collection of simple yet appealing worship anthems. ~ Jared Johnson