Reviewed by Anthony Longville

Pianist Anthony Burger tragically died during a performance on a Gaither Homecoming cruise in the Caribbean in 2006 at the age of just 44. This DVD takes the opportunity to recall the artist, with clips from videos from the Homecoming series and also 'Mark Lowry On Broadway'. The clips are linked by an interview with Bill Gaither himself, reminiscing over the pianist's musical history. Anthony's style is largely concert piano verging on music hall ala Clayderman . There are also occasional other styles, even rock and roll on "Great Balls Of Fire"! Burger's repertoire moves from hymns like "How Great Thou Art" to classical pieces like "Hallelujah Chorus" often linking the pieces together in medley form. From the Lowry show is also included an improvised medley of secular love songs. Burger exudes enthusiasm and enjoyment in his playing, throwing the kitchen sink in as well. The "Battle Hymn Of The Republic" medley is the low point of the DVD, with its banner-waving patriotism. Overall though this is not going to be everyone's cup of tea, but there's no doubting the man's talent. Poignantly the DVD finishes with a performance of "We Shall Behold Him" which was the very piece he was playing when he died.

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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