STYLE: Gospel RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 83712-16884 LABEL: 5099930699922 FORMAT: CD Album RELEASE DATE: 2009-12-11 RRP: £6.98
Reviewed by Keren Perrott
This taster collection showcasing eight EMI Gospel artists is a thumping crowd pleaser with broad appeal that unites relative newcomers with gospel's all time greats. Why EMI limited the album to eight tracks is anyone's guess; the compilation certainly leaves you wanting more and the label is hardly short of gifted artists in its archives. Sandwiched between a fine selection of spirited uptempo praise tracks showcasing new talents like Myron Butler & Levi and Sheri Jones-Moffett is industry stalwart Vanessa Bell Armstrong, who delivers a rousing traditional gospel track in "Help", recorded live and taken from her latest and much celebrated album 'The Experience'. And whilst this will appeal to many traditionalists, EMI reminds us that there is no shortage of fresh talent and modern day entertainers on the gospel scene. Among the standout tracks are offerings from two relative newcomers to the contemporary gospel scene; "Get Ready" is a soul funk hit from musical family group Forever Jones, which reached number three in the Billboard Gospel Chart when it was released in June 2010, whilst "Extra Mile" gives a flavour of the excellent debut from Chicago-based singer/songwriter Aaron Sledge.
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