Reviewed by Ian Hayter

This CD is supposed to contain 25 of America's favourite hymns sung in a contemporary style. The cover notes claim it to be "arranged in a perfect blend of acoustic guitar, keyboards, light percussion and a small vocal ensemble." There should be some kind of legal redress for anyone who buys this on the strength of what's on the cover because it's by no means perfect, and at times is hardly even a blend: the acoustic ensemble is augmented by an intrusive electric bass and a (badly played) electronic organ. The five voices are, quite frankly, appalling and the production is, to say the least, eccentric - the arrangements alternate between dirge-like and something akin to the Fisherfolk on amphetamines. For British audiences, many of the hymns are unlikely to be their favourites, and those that are ("All Hail The Power", "Rock Of Ages") are sung to tunes which are rarely used this side of the Atlantic. I cannot imagine who might buy this stuff other than the producer's close family, nor what possessed Brentwood to release it in the first place. The fact that it's entitled 'Volume 1' ominously suggests that someone might already be thinking of 'Volume 2'. It is insensitive, poorly produced pap which should not be touched even with very long and sanctified barge pole.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.

This track data is supplied by the Cross Rhythms CD/DVD review library. Please note that CD tracks may vary according to release region or product version.