Reviewed by Tony Cummings

An album of old school Christian music from an elegant, if not young, Southern belle that in the old days would have been called "sacred solos" but (with the arrangements becoming orchestral rather than just piano) became known as "inspirational". Whether it's oldies like the towering title track or the ponderous "Carry The Cross" the music here bears little resemblance to current popular music, but in America at least still finds a connection with older Christians. Gloria warbles the inspiring lyrics of subjects like the Calvary road and Shekinah glory with theatric aplomb though occasionally she wobbles on some of the lower notes. Production and material-wise there are one or two surprises. Veteran producer Gary S Paxton takes Gloria outside the insp genre on the jaunty, gospel-sounding "Free At Last" while the song "King David Could Have Been A Biker" is surely the most unlikely number a matronly MOR singer is ever likely to record.

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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