Josh White is a pastor and worship leader from Portland, Oregon, relatively unknown outside the west coast area. He had moderate fame in the Christian music scene as lead singer for BEC Recordings rock group Telecast, and has been a staple leading worship along the left coast for over 10 years. Recently, White planted a church in Southeast Portland, Oregon called Door of Hope and has been spending his days ministering there. It states on their website that they take the name of their church from Hosea 2:15 "they will make the valley of achor a door of hope." His first solo album is aptly titled Achor, which translates into "trouble," and reflects his belief that God can use troubled times into a door of hope.

Achor is an intimate, raw record that incorporates Americana, bluegrass, and roots music, harnessing the vibe of their church located in the bohemian district of Portland, Oregon. Producer Sebastian Rogers (Catherine Feeney, The Rushes) captured Josh White and musicians in a live acoustic setting recorded over an eight-day period with no vocal overdubs or editing, giving it that intimate front porch feel.

The album begins with the twangy ballad "He Who Feeds the Ravens," which features a bottleneck slide guitar alongside the bluesy tent revival of "Holy Ghost Revival," and will appeal to all blues and Allman Brothers Fans. White's folk inspired "I Love My God" lyrically reflects on love, belonging to God because He is love. Josh White's soulful vocals get a chance to shine on the transcending praise song "Our God is Present." The bluegrass infused "Let Me See Your Hands" is the most raw and intense track on the album, begging Jesus to "Let me see Your hands," accompanied by raucous banjo. The sparse arrangement of acoustic track "He is Able" gives the listener a chance to reflect on White's poetic and introspective lyrics always centered on his love for Christ. "Awake" blends the worship aspect by incorporating his congregation singing heavenly harmonies alongside White and his guitar.

Achor is musically speaking one of the most original albums you will hear this year in the Christian music market. The honest feel of this record and Josh White's genuine heart for worship and praise will enable his music to touch lives everywhere. Fans of the Glory Revealed series, John Mark McMillan and Americana/bluegrass will love this record.

- PReview date: 9/19/10, Review date: 10/13/10, written by Jason Rooks of Jesusfreakhideout.com