“Worship is connection. We’re not just singing to the sky. Worship is connection. We’re singing to the one who has been singing over us the whole time.”

Those lyrics from ‘Breathe (Spontaneous)’, track 4 of Starlight, the newest album from Bethel Music sum up the theme and feel of the entire record. It’s about connection and this album brims with it.

Starlight is the first offering from Bethel that has been recorded totally on tour. It’s also worth noting that, although it features 8 different named artists from the collective, it is all female led. As an avid fan of singing at extremely high volumes, with no regard for pitch or tone, this gave me real joy and caused my neighbours real pain.

In their own words, “Starlight” is anchored in the message that our lives, our world, and all eternity are held together in Jesus. Like the stars placed in the universe, no distance separates us from Him. Just as the night sky displays starlight that has been traveling for years to reach our eyes, may what we sow in this life bear fruit that extends to generations we will never see.

So what is the album like? Well, there are some moments on it that are up there with the best that Bethel has ever shared. Particular highlights include ‘Take Courage’, ‘The War is Over’ and ‘King of My Heart’, especially because of the lyrics.

What Bethel Music does so well is write lyrics which find ways to wiggle down from your ears to your spirit and then to your mouth. It’s only after a few days that you realise you have been humming truth constantly – and that it’s beginning to change you.

Bethel Music is available on iTunes, Spotify, in stores and also for free on YouTube!