Reviewed by Phil Thomson

Here is an album of solo piano music aimed unashamedly at those who are as familiar with Bill Gaither and Billy Graham as C Hubert H Parry, John Newton and Isaac Watts - in other words, standards. In one respect, it is uncomplicated nostalgia for those lost days when sacred hymns brought home a message and not just an income for a worship leader. "Immortal, Invisible", "Praise My Soul The King Of Heaven", "Breathe On Me, Breath Of God" - hymns which, thankfully, never fade and are so very familiar, so very profound. However, I have a problem with offerings like this; by printing the words, the implication is that this could be used for a church singalong. It is surely no substitute for building a sustainable relationship with a piano player. And as a tool for worship, it only comes into its own if, like myself, you have been steeped in such beautiful music and life-changing concepts over those decades since you left your mother's womb. If so, the memories of "What A Friend We Have In Jesus", "How Sweet The Name Of Jesus Sounds" and "When I Survey The Wondrous Cross" are matchless touchstones. If not, it is all rather uninspired karaoke fodder. A shame, UK producer Andy Harsant has done much better than this.

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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