Reviewed by Simon Eden

Joe Pace is name that is synonymous with the Colorado Mass Choir. Unsurprisingly the 120-strong choir on this recording comprises members of the Colorado Mass Choir, in conjunction with members of four other choirs. Having written the majority of the tracks himself, as well as having produced the album, put together the vocal arrangements, played piano on two tracks, in addition to presumably acting as musical director, this supports the claim that it is a solo album. It was recorded live at Living Word Community Church in Nashville, although apart from the applause, sounds more like a polished studio recording. For the multitudes who enjoyed his previous recordings, this is in the same cast; in fact almost identical. The tracks on this double album are like a collection of Ford Mondeo cars, all very similar but with a variety of speeds or colours. Although the vocalists and the tempos vary slightly, the tracks have the ability to be mistaken for any other on this or previous albums. The bonus DVD accompanying this CD looks promising as the album photo of angels waving silken white banners with their hands tied behind their backs is visually impacting. The mini-sermons between the songs could have been poignant, if they had not been cut short before the point was made. The most remarkable pastoral point is in Minister Joseph W Pace II's list of thank you's commenting "lastly, even to those who would consider themselves enemies, thank you."

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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