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Floyd Ellsworth's debut album on the new independent label Doxology Records is billed as "urban praise, combining the best of pop, Latin and soul—[a] culturally inclusive approach, bridging the gap between gospel and worship." That's a very ambitious mission, and the album doesn't quite live up to it. For the most part, Cried Holy is fairly conventional praise and worship.

That doesn't mean there aren't some outstanding tracks on this album, produced by well-known worship leaders Israel Houghton and Aaron Lindsey. They include the spontaneous-feeling "King of Glory," and "Lord of All." Both of these songs feature lyrics in English and Spanish. Other standouts include the energetic "Magnify the Lord" and the reflective, soaring "Everything."

In the title song, Ellsworth tells the story of a dramatic, life-changing encounter he experienced in God's presence. Though the track is lengthy (more than seven minutes), Ellsworth's story is powerful and earnestly rendered. Soft strings and delicate background vocals enhance the song, providing a sense of the powerful worship in heaven.

Two tracks listeners will recognize from Israel Houghton's 2002 album Real don't quite reach the same level here. "Magnificent and Holy" feels rushed and abrupt, lacking the drama it carried on Real, and "The Weight of Your Glory" doesn't have the breathless intimacy of before.

Cried Holy is a decent worship album, but only that. While there are several enjoyable moments that may bring listeners closer to the Lord, none of it is exceptional enough to add to your collection or church repertoire.

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