Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Not many private, low budget recordings come complete with a foreword from the Archbishop Of Canterbury on the sleeve. But then Gill Beard is a very special lady. A classically trained cello teacher and mother of two, she sings her own compositions in a sweet pure-toned soprano. In 1991 she sang her song "Now Is The Time" at Dr Carey's alternative worship service and attracted the attention of the mass media (BBC's Songs Of Praise and an interview in the Sunday Telegraph). In fact her opener "Now Is The Time" is by far the least successful track here, Gill doesn't have the voice or the feel for the pop rhythms and the drum programming is pretty naff. Elsewhere, like on the truly lovely "God So Loves" Gill finds her forte - haunting, gentle, worshipful music. Gill sees her function as a bridge between the traditional elements in the church, still clinging to the ancient glories of Parry et al and these Anglicans who've embraced Kendricks and Richards (and even NOS!). Gill's tender love of Jesus shines through this collection. Recommended, though better skip song one.

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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