Mayo singer James Kilbane continues his now well-established tradition of Christian- and country-based music with the release of his new album Mary: The Lord’s servant.

The 25-track collection is in association with Veritas Publications, Dublin – Ireland’s leading religious publisher.

“The album is a mix of traditional and contemporary songs, drawing on scripture and prayer to highlight aspects of the life of Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ,” reflects James.

“There are many well-loved hymns and country Christian songs, as well as contemporary songs that honour Mary’s story and memory.

“It also features verses sourced from sacred scriptures in which we hear the voices of the ancient prophet Isaiah, the Gospel writers St John and St Luke, and strains of the Book of Revelation.”

James has also included a selection of hymns about Mary that were part of his childhood and teenage years, as well as the new recording If Jesus Comes Tomorrow, What Then?

Other popular songs include Mary Did You Know?, Holy is His Name, As I Kneel Before You, Mary’s Boy Child, Lady of Knock, Bring Flowers of the Rarest, Silent Night, and Via Dolorosa.

Irish writer John Waters recently declared: “James Kilbane tells his stories in a way that makes them seem certain, true and real. He knows that faith is knowledge of reality and every note he sings carries this conviction.”

James, who is also a hill sheep farmer in Achill, continues to tour and is currently staging Christian country events across the country.

Mary: The Lord’s Servant album is widely available in all Veritas stores, Knock Shrine, and other shops and religious centres across Ireland, as well as online from Veritas.ie, iTunes and Amazon.