Reviewed by Dave Palmer

The veteran American worship leader and producer presents his take on 16 classic hymns that have been recorded in Don's distinctive laid back and reflective style. The tracks are built upon a very simple instrumentation of piano, acoustic guitar, bass guitar and some occasional layers of Hammond organ, and are arranged with some pleasant, but subtle musical ideas such as the simple piano motif in "Our Great Saviour" or the ascending piano riff in "Abide With Me". However, overall the project lacks any great diversity in its mid tempo collection of arrangements, and whilst there are some delicate dynamic variations throughout each track, some of the hymns would have lent themselves to a more rousing interpretation. The actual choice of hymns feels very rounded and complete, combining both popular and lesser known works. From a musical perspective, it is very difficult to suggest that any one track stands out above another but each listener will have their favourite choices, such is the emotive nature of hymns. In that sense, if Don's intention was to strip away the complex arrangements and let the hymns speak for themselves then this project can be counted a success.

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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