Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

I have to confess that I love Carman's music. I have done ever since I saw a clip of  "Lazarus" on the Rock Gospel Show back in the '80s. I actually think he's a creative, anointed genius capable of stirring the heart like no other artist since Keith Green. But for me, every single Carman is spoilt by those moments when he decides to present us with a cheesy ballad! When the music slows down, it highlights the fact that Carman doesn't really have the voice to carry off the ballads and I always find myself fast forwarding. It was therefore with trepidation that I placed this CD in my player. Unfortunately all my worst fears were fulfilled. So what do we have ? Slick production ? Yep! Sincere Carman voice overs ? Errr, , yep! Just check out "I Feel Jesus"! Really obvious choices of cover versions? Sadly the usual suspects "Lord I Lift Your Name On High", "Give Thanks", "Shout To The Lord", and "Awesome God" (complete with Carman reading the verses!). Do we really need to have these all over again ? Occasionally he hits a groove with "Now's The Time/Hosanna" which is a bit of fun and his own "Jesus Is The Light" which is given a bit of a bluesy arrangement. Leaves me thinking though, there are thousands of slick unimaginative worship albums in the world and do we really need Carman to give us any more? At the other end, there are  few people with the creative anointing to write story songs like Carman, wouldn't it be great if he concentrated on his real gifting? This will probably sell sheds full but don't be fooled!

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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