Reviewed by Tom Lennie

Richard is very much a legend in gospel music, having formed the Smallwood Singers way back in the late '70s and having had a string of releases since then, many of them, like this one, recorded live. I could give you plenty of details about his childhood and early music career, for the first track features something of a This Is Your Life - a spoken tribute but with musical snippets. To us Brits it seems to be a bit of an ego-trip, although musically the rest of this double-album has much to offer and interest the listener. Indeed this concept has been several years in the planning, during which time Smallwood's much beloved mother made the "transition to glory" - and this volume is proudly dedicated to her, with a short solo piece rendered in her memory. Otherwise, it's gospel all the way and there's some fairly soul stirring songs - both upbeat and more reflective - all delivered with passion by Smallwood's seasoned Singers. There are some orchestral arrangements (one of Richard's specialties) on some tracks, and, in line with this, "We Worship You" is rendered in fine classical tones care of Janice Chandler-Eteme. Janice is in fact just one of a whole array of high profile guests who spring up throughout the recording. Kim Burrell, Kelly Price, Chaka Khan and the groundbreaking Hawkins Family all make appearances, ensuring there's never a dull moment - although the several "reprises" do seem unnecessary. If you're a Smallwood fan you will love 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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