Reviewed by Matthew Cordle

This CD and its companion 'Celebrate! Songs Of Praise' showcase a selection of contemporary gospel artists. The 12 tracks include both live and studio recordings and include many amazing voices, in this case predominantly female. CeCe Winans kicks off the CD with "Jesus, You're Beautiful", the distinctive voice of Oleta Adams declares "Holy Is The Lamb" and Tramaine Hawkins sings a seven minute version of "Amazing Grace". In the male camp William Murphy challenges his church to sing "Praise Is What I Do", and Men Of Standard sing metaphors with "Like the birds to the tress, trees to the leaves, Lord how I need you." Whilst there are some good songs here, in particular the Men Of Standard track, with just about every song being a slow to mid-tempo ballad by the time you are halfway through you really feel in need of a change of tempo. Also, one or two of the cuts are beginning to show their age. However, if you fancy a selection of gospel worship ballads, this could be what you're looking for.

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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