Reviewed by Trevor Raggatt

While there are numerous collections available already, if there's one Christian artist who is overdue a definitive "best of" then it's Larry Norman. This latest reissue from Solid Rock makes a valiant effort to redress that omission. 'White Blossoms From Black Roots' has a chequered history; originally set to hit the streets in 1987 it first saw light of day 10 years later (albeit with subtly changed track-listing). A further decade on we Brits get to join in the fun. The 13 tracks seem perfectly chosen - a mixture of classics from Norman's pivotal 1970s output, previously unreleased tracks and alternative mixes. Expected songs from the " Trilogy" albums are all present and correct - "I Wish We'd All Been Ready", "Why Don't You Look Into Jesus", "Why Should the Devil Have All the Good Music" and "The Outlaw" - plus a couple from the unfairly under-regarded 'Something New Under The Son'. One of these, the charming party piece "The Sun Begins To Rain", features jazzy piano from actor/comedian Dudley Moore. So often "best of" CDs can be padded out with filler material but not here. While fans may argue over tracks which have been excluded each song earns its place - be it the rockabilly of "The Man From Galilee" or the White-Album-psych-rock of "Looking For The Footprints". The same applies to the bonus tracks, including some of Norman's work with the late lamented producer/singer Mark Heard. Taken on its own terms, and without comparison to the other collections available, this album forms a handy cut-out-and-keep account of the cream of Norman's output. Here's hoping it also serves to bring this CCM icon to the attention of a whole new generation of Christian musicians and music fans.

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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