Reviewed by Dave Brassington

Blind singer/pianist Ronnie Milsap started of in the 60's as a soul singer (he even once had Northern soul hit), switched to country music in the 70's and enjoyed a string of major country hits. But like many artists from that decade Milsap's star has rather faded in recent years. Before I received this CD, I was reminded just what a good singer the veteran is by a recent appearance on Rural TV. This is Ronnie's first gospel project and for it he has picked out 21 very well known gospel songs and hymns, added three new songs and, most hearteningly of all, has avoided the trap of recording the oldies in the same old way. For instance, the album opens with Albert Brumley's 'I'll Fly Away' performed in a very slow, haunting tempo, quite unusual in a song often performed at breakneck speed! There are also fine interpretations of such classics as "How Great Thou Art", "Peace In The Valley" and "It Is No Secret". Ronnie's music often adds in a little jazz influence and I particularly enjoyed his versions of Andraé Crouch's "Soon And Very Soon" and Curtis Mayfield's "People Get Ready". There is not a dud track on the whole double CD with and musicianship and singing of a very high standard. Recommended.

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