Reviewed by Tony May

Marilla's certainly maintaining a fast pace of new releases, but who is complaining? This set balances old and new, each treated to the superlative Manila Ness finesse. Old favourites dusted down and coming up all sparkly and shiny include "Alleluia My Father", "Abba Father", "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus". Some very fine newer material includes "I Will Never Forget You My People" from the American Catholic composer Carey Landry, whose fine work is sadly little known here. There's also a pleasing, folky version of the Lord's Prayer, "Our Father", written by Estelle White/Kevin Mayhew. The two most attractive new songs are the lovely "The Light In You" and one of Charlie Landsborough's finest "What Colour Is The Wind". I am sure Marilla would agree that Charlie's own version is unmatchable but Charlie would agree that Manila's version, slightly altered, is beautiful. 12 tracks full of the artist's consistent sensitivity and care. Few singers can coax the full beauty out of songs as can this one.

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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