Cityalight, based out of St Pauls Castle Hill, has been producing some of the most biblically based songs for the local church in recent years.  ‘Yet not I’ is a particular favourite, on my list to be sung at my funeral!  And the likes of “only a holy god” and “ancient of days” are regular staples week by week..

They stand out as slightly different from some of the other songwriting stables, in that they are written and performed by a group of essentially normal people with normal jobs, written as very simple to play and pick up by the most unmusical of congregations,  and they also give their sheet music out for free which is a bonus when scrambling on a Sunday for lyrics and chords!  

So when they release something new, as they did yesterday, we’re keen to check it out!  Here are some brief thoughts on their new EP “Hear the Hallelujahs Roar”. 

1. Hear the Hallelujahs Roar 

An upbeat, joyful one to start with! Would be a brilliant, objective praise song to begin a service, or on the theme of the second coming and the hope we carry with us as Christians. The arrangement makes it sound a bit more complicated than it is, but with a simplified link and intro, it would be an easy teach.

2. My Labour Is Not In Vain 

A softer, more prayerful one on the theme of persevering in the Christian life.  I love the message here of the Lord honouring all work done in His name, whether it be big or small.  A great one if you’re on the theme of service, or even after a plea for more volunteers!

So may all I do, be it great or small

Bring glory to Your name

In Your grace alone I will carry on

Your promise to me remains

My labour is not in vain

3. We Too Have Overcome 

A lively song of hope when the world looks scary and out of control.  Sounds topical for these political days, hey?!  And amid personal upheaval too.

4. He Will Be 

A lovely little song on the faithfulness of God, reminding us of his character is the same as it’s always been and always will be.  He has proven himself and so we can go forward with confidence that He will never change.

This one also has a great bridge!  Sometimes bridges feel a bit superfluous, this one is a cracker.

5. All to Honour Jesus 

This sounds vulnerable, for the vulnerable.  Also could work as a kids song.  

The theme is service again, similar to track two. Reminding us that we are called to love and serve like our Saviour; working for justice and mercy, and sharing the saving gospel of Christ with others.  My Presby roots come through a little as I am reminded of the catechism’s first question – “Man’s chief purpose is to glorify God and enjoy him forever’.   

So much of the world would have us chasing happiness and success, this song is a wonderful reminder of what we are created for.

Thank you CityAlight!