Reviewed by Godfrey Rust

Number Three in Kingsway's 'Hymn Makers' series takes in the work of the 19th century Sheffield rogue-turned-philanthropist (aren't they all?) James Montgomery. It's an earnest effort, but like many "greatest" albums, once you've hummed along to "Hail To The Lord's Anointed", "Stand Up And Bless The Lord" and "Angels From The Realms Of Glory" (done here at breathless speed) the hits quickly run out and there are no hidden gems, I'm afraid, among the stolid four-square Victoriana that makes up the rest. The Celebration Choir are competent but, like the material, dull while the album's not uplifted by workmanlike performance and production by Chris Norton although there are some imaginative musical settings (including "0 Waly Waly"). The best hymn-writers transcend their age, but unlike Wesley, Watts or Newton, Montgomery seems largely rooted in his.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.