I sat in the sanctuary of Greater Works Outreach Center, expecting to hear a great concert. The problem was; my expectation wasn’t even close to what really happened that night. Israel and New Breed were introduced, and the audience showed them love. From the moment they began to sing, the atmosphere began to change, but in a vertical way. The new breed band definitely has the “Maestro’s” touch. They used their instruments to give God crazy praise. The background singers were “bringing it” with some of the tightest harmonies I’ve ever heard.

Despite their awesome musical talents, it was clear that New Breed’s focus was on worship and praise. The band and singers were being led by Israel Houghton, one of the most anointed, musically gifted, “New Season” Levite, who constantly “Kicked it up a notch.” Israel’s quest to dwell in the presence of the Lord is contagious. There was such a freedom in worship; people began to exchange their spirit of heaviness, for the garment of extravagant praise.

This was indeed a Worship Experience not a concert. Days later the message in song was still resonating in my spirit. “I am A Friend Of God,”, one of my favorites, gives the church a glimpse of how special they are to God. Earlier that day in a time of fellowship with other worship leaders, Israel shared the fact that he didn’t always know that God could actually call us “Friend.” Israel, like many other true worshippers, had to overcome many religious obstacles in order to develop “relationship” with Christ.

As he ministers you can feel his passion for God and his zeal to introduce believers to “The Lord of the Breakthrough.” If you want to go to another level, you owe it to yourself to join Israel & New Breed at a Worship Service, or purchase all of his CD’s, it’s not just music it’s ministry.

Bby Michelle McAllister, Writer, The Church Online