Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Every now and again you get an album which features a couple of songs of such monumental power that it dominates everything else on the set. Such is the case with this 2004 independent release by a Puerto Rican-origin New Yorker. For much of this album the critic can note the power and class of Daniel's classically trained tenor, the impressive instrumental prowess of the musicians (including a full on symphony orchestra) and applaud the forthright proclamation of biblical truth in these self-written songs without being particularly stirred. But then come the two breathtaking songs using the music of Armenian composer Asa Georgian. Both feature achingly beautiful melodies and both as well as powerfully theatric orchestrations and fine singing contain narrations which could have been OTT but in fact add to their impact. "Noah's Prayer" speaks of the flood and is a gem. Even more arresting is "Adana", a staggeringly impactful song which chronicles the genocide of 1915 that saw the Turks put 1,500,000 Armenians to death because they would not renounce their faith in Christ. In Armenia this song has elevated Daniel to hero status. It deserves to. For seldom has a disaster of untold suffering produced such a magnificent piece of art.

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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