Jason Upton yet again emerges from the underground with Trusting The Angels, his fifth full-length album from his own music ministry, Key Of David. The album delivers in some areas while not so much in others. That being said, Trusting The Angels should be a treat for any fan of Upton's, or any fan of worship music in general, if you're willing to adjust to his unique style of music.

It might not seem so at first listen, but Trusting The Angels is a pretty well-rounded worship experience, although not live. The album commences with a nearly-three-minute-long intro that, while pleasant and a valid way of getting the album started, can fortunately be skipped. The next song, "Emma (Not Alone)," feeds off the same slick guitar rhythm as the "Intro," with the exception of Upton offering the comforting words, "Don't be afraid, baby, don't you cry… Daddy's here, it'll be all right… You're not alone." From there, "Emma (Not Alone)" sets itself up to be the perfect bedtime ballad, while proving to be assertive and full of faith at the same time. "One Of These Days" is more upbeat, peeling hope for the listener and giving a vivid picture of the life God promises for those who love Him. "When It Thunders" is a musical highlight on the album; one that doesn't require as much of an acquired taste as the others do.

From there, alas, the album takes an exhausting dip with "Face Of Time" and "Where Fools Turn To Gold," maybe two of the more forgettable songs in the set. "Cloud By Day," however, picks things up to the album's regular pace. Next, "Hannah (A Child Is Born)" is a nice declaration, but drags with an unnecessary minute-long introduction. It might feel a bit more natural to have a Selah-style intro on a live recording, but having three lengthy instrumentals in a studio album gives off a dismal vibe. The title track has Upton starting the verse with a very child-like tone: "I'm just a bird, with a melody to sing…" The final track, "Is There Room," is a touching cry to God to make room for us, and it runs for a whopping seven minutes and thirty-two seconds.

Upon hearing every track, it might seem noticeable that the highlights are somewhat bunched and compressed into the first few songs. This album might not be one you'd enjoy listening to all the time, or even one you'd quickly pick up the lyrics to, for that matter. Like I mentioned before, the majority of these songs require some getting used to and time alone with God in a worshipper's posture. They're not exactly the catchiest songs, but that was never Jason Upton's intention. If you're questing for some deeper music to play as you worship God, Trusting The Angels is probably an experience you will enjoy. If, on the other hand, you're looking for a fun jam in the car, or even a worship experience with a more modern feel (Hillsong, Desperation Band, etc.), this album won't match your expectations. Even still, check this one out and expand your variety in taste for worship music.

- Review date: 3/4/09, written by Ben Cardenas of Jesusfreakhideout.com