Reviewed by Tom Lennie

The latest issue in the ongoing stream of Gaither Homecoming releases is a live concert from Nashville. As you might expect, a distinct country flavour enhances the existing southern gospel mix. Virtually every one of the 22 tracks on offer not only stems from a different songwriter, but is also delivered by a different soloist or vocal ensemble. Although we get some big names - the Gatlin Brothers, the Isaacs, Jeff & Sherri Easter and Mark Lowry there's also loads of lesser-known vocalists too. Remarkable diversity of music styles also - old school country and western, traditional black gospel, classic southern gospel harmonies, rag-time, Messianic, accapella, new country and even a dash of soul! Tracks that stand out to this listener include, Rhonda Dubbeld's touching "God Is In The Shadows" sung by the Collingsworth Family; an emotive Gaither-composed "It Won't Rain Always" delivered by Janet Paschal, relating to her experience of cancer, and "I Just Came To Talk With You Lord", written and sung by the late, great Dottie Rambo - her last singing performance before her sudden death. A real musical pot-pourri with some classic performances though, naturally, some songs are less strong than others. Having said that, Homecoming fans are likely to be well-pleased with this diverse CD.

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