Reviewed by Philip Child

"You can't judge a book by it's cover"; not so with CCM CDs. The lettering of the title has chinks of light reflecting off them above a globe nestling in crushed velvet, turned to display the American continent. And, without trying to be snide, this is definitely an American praise and worship recording. And there is no escaping that! we are two countries divided by an ocean. This is not deliberate or desirable, it simply is. For example: the pastor encourages his congregation (but to Anglo-ears sounds cheesy); an organ sets the mood as it ripples into song (immediately conjuring images of insincere tele-evangelists); a saxophone sassily introduces another (reminiscent of over-assertive talk-show hosts with super Colgate smiles). This is not a bad album, but the differences are just so obvious that they are the overall impression one is left with. I have no doubt that the participants are genuinely worshipping, but I do doubt it will have the same effect over here. Having said this, if this is your bag you'll love it. What I do question, however, is how broad the base of appeal will be; I'm sure it sounds phenomenal on the other side of the Atlantic.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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