Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

As the winner of American Idol, Studdard has recorded a moderately successful mainstream R&B album. Never ashamed of his faith, it seemed an obvious move to record a gospel album though surprising he's done it this early in his career! The results are actually mixed. There's no doubting Studdard's star quality when it comes to his voice but the mixture of material here is disappointing. So you get all the clichéd gospel selections you'd expect like passable versions of "Amazing Grace" and "I Surrender All" where Ruben sounds like he's singing in his sleep. There's a pedestrian "Shout To The Lord" and okay versions of Walter Hawkins' "Goin Up Yonder" and The Winans' "Restoration" but none of this is setting my soul on fire. The R Kelly-penned title cut is a surprising highlight amongst all the average dross here. It takes Tina Campbell from Mary Mary to add some spice to this album on the duet of "Ain't No Need To Worry" taking the Anita Baker role in a remake of the Winans' classic duet. The Canton Spirituals' Harvey Watkins brings some down home gospel flavours and Fred Hammond contributes a song and duet on "We Have Not Forgotten" which stands out here. Personally this is disappointing because for all the big name producers and guest appearances and Studdard's undoubted talents, I seem to have heard it all before.

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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