Reviewed by Tony Cummings

I've never been too enthusiastic with Lynda's previous recordings. Michael Tait's sister's long term association with the Gaithers has meant that some of her previous recordings have been an uncomfortable black gospel/Southern gospel hybrid. But with this project Lynda has plenty of scope to recreate past glories of the African American Church. It was probably a smart move not to rehash some of Mahalia's best known classics (there's no "Move On Up A Little Higher", no "In The Upper Room") while her rendition of the traditional hymn "I'm Holding My Saviour's Hand" plods a bit. But on the whole, with a band re-creating a timeless, bluesy accompaniment Lynda breathes surprising life into songs like "The Christian's Testimony" and "That's Alright". Lynda, of course, isn't in the same class as Mahalia, but this is still an enjoyable tribute to the gospel matriarch.

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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