Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

The latest gospel prodigy on Word is keyboardist, producer and writer Greg O'Quin. This is a winner in all departments - songwriting, arrangements, production and in Joyful Noyze, O'Quin has found a group of vocalists capable of outworking his musical vision with power and subtlety. A gospel album smoother than a Tory MP's alibi, O'Quin knows how to create a big sound without losing the intimacy. There's the sheer joyful explosion of "Oh Glory" and the testifying faith building of "Can God? God Can!" which integrates some good old fashioned gospel vocalising into things. Overall I haven't heard such a glossy production since Vandross was in his heyday! Check out "That's The Way I Love U" if you like your gospel with huge dollops of soul. O'Quin isn't afraid to try a variety of styles so urban grooviness on the title song and "Amen" gives way to lush balladry on "Homeland: Where I Belong" and "Forgive Me" which are a little cloying. However the admirable sentiment of "We Shall Prevail" which is dedicated to those who were affected by the church burnings in the USA is a worthy close to an enjoyable album.

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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