Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

Following a decade-long break from recording, the choir from California's City Of Refuge Church have returned with a sturdy collection of gospel songs that show that they still have what it takes in this, the group's second release. The church's senior pastor Bishop Noel Jones (brother of "Slave To The Rhythm" singer Grace Jones) states in the spoken word intro that "whether you sing it, whether you preach it, whether you live it, the Gospel must be spread" and that's exactly what the Sanctuary Choir aim to do with faith-affirming tracks like "Praise Is Power" and "God Said It" bookending a live release that is as assured spiritually as it is musically. Behind the choir is a delightfully funky backing band that lets loose in high octane tracks such as "Flow" and "Holy Ghost" whilst showing that they can take it down a notch to let vocalist Camille Grigsby's star turn take centre stage in the defiant "No Way". Jason McGee, Patrick Bolton and Trent Von Lee also help out in the vocal stakes with each singer giving off commanding and passionate performances in front of a powerhouse choir and band (headed up by musical director Gerald Haddon) - all of which showcases the sheer talent which exists within Bishop Jones' flock.

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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