Encounter grew out of still having a large number of songs which had either existed as demos or which had been previously released in now inaccessible formats. Most had been played and used in a live context and passed the congregation test. Most of these tracks will be new to your ears.

It is worth making a couple of notes for you here.

Firstly, the only brand new song in Peace and it was a co-write between myself and Andi Foster that just popped out one day whilst we were jamming pre team rehearsal. It has a Job-like feel and takes the worshipper out of a slough of despondency via the altar of worship and on to a brighter, more hopeful future.

Jesus how we love You was one of the songs which Nigel Coltman and Geoff Shearn wanted to publish via their new company, CopyCare. They liked the arrangement so much they kept it for the release that they produced. Whilst this is not identical, it is close to that original arrangement, including the huge guitar break at the end.

Holy, holy, holy is also a classic from the 80s. My mum had chosen this (it was a favourite) to work the top line and lyrics into a tapestry which I still hold dear.

There are many other stories surrounding these songs – the aim is that you grab a coffee and give the album a listen. Let me know if you have a favourite.