Reviewed by Peter Dilley

Whether she's trying to disassociate herself from her past, or simply wants to be known, in Hello celebrity style, just by her Christian name, there's only the tiniest mention of Paula's full name on the CD sleeve. This is in fact the gospel debut from Paula Wallen, who, we are told on Spirit Music's publicity sheet, previously had a solo hit "Touch Me" with RCA Records, and also worked with Mica Paris, Chaka Khan and other major artists. What a versatile voice she's got - whether she's going for the classy soul gospel of "Brighter", "Secret Place" and "Resist", the more urban sounds of "Holy Of Holies" and "Get A Grip", or a even slow ballad like "Jesus Knows", Paula's delivery is absolutely spot-on. Moreover, in working with Paul Powell, she seems to have found a no less gifted songwriter - long may their collaboration continue.

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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