Reviewed by A T Bradford

As someone who has raised four children on the music of legends such as Chichester-based Ishmael, and enjoyed the trans-Atlantic work of Psalty the Singing Songbook and Colby the Computer, children's worship has a special place in my heart. This CD contains 18 tracks covering basic truths (eg, "Jesus Is The Light Of The World"), moral lessons (eg, "I Should Say Sorry"), and perennials such as "Happy Birthday, God Bless You". These are then repeated as backing tracks for use at home. The songs are sung by children some of whom must be American judging from their pronunciation (eg, "Gad gives peas"). I'm not certain about the origins of the vocalists as there's a confusing sleeve credit "All songs performed by Ingrid DuMosch & The London Fox Singers." And while we're on the origins of songs and singers, the front sleeve has a special publicity flash informing us the album contains "Julia Plaut's Blessing Song". That particular song, written by Australian Ms Plaut and a favourite with parents for use in Christening services, is sung solo by a sweet-voiced little lass who sounds as English as a chocolate digestive. Some of the messages and melodies are excellent, eg, "Holy Spirit, Fall On Me" with its gentle piano (from producer Andy Green) melody and lyric, "Lead me Holy Spirit, let me know you're there." Other songs may seem a little twee or even strangely Old Covenant, such as "Ten Important Rules" which ends with "Ten great ways to heaven!" The album's product information states "For children aged 5-11"; as one who works with children I would put it at nearer 3-6. While on balance UK parents might prefer Ishmael or Colin Buchanan, this CD may work for those parents who've very young kids.

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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