Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

In Christian circles these days, Stormie is now famed as a writer of best selling devotional books rather than for the musical collaborations she made back in the '70s with her record producer husband. Before this release Michael had produced a couple of acclaimed and musically advanced albums 'White Horse' and 'Adam Again' which could easily be cited as some of the best produced Christian material of the era. For 1979's 'Seasons Of The Soul' he was signed to a Christian label as a duo with his wife who had contributed vocals to the previous albums but now got front sleeve equal billing. Unfortunately, the demands of the Christian marketplace meant that this record had a little bit too much sugar added into the mix and some of the musical edge of the previous releases was missing here. There's no questioning Michael's production skills or musical talent and the strength of Stormie's voice but the results were just a step too far into MOR. "Where I Been" does rock it up a little and I've always loved and been encouraged by the prayerful "More Like You". From "Ms Past" which opens the set in a bouncy pop but unsubstantial fashion to the epic seven minute title track closer (probably the best track here) this still draws unsatisfying comparisons to 'White Horse' or 'Adam Again'. There's no doubting the quality of the playing but there's something a little patchy and disappointing overall.

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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