Reviewed by Tony Cummings

I have to confess I am not a big fan of The X Factor, American Idol and all those other reality talent shows and the thought of a Christian music version, Gifted, which is apparently popular here on Christian satellite TV, didn't exactly fill me with expectation. Having said that this CD which features seven tracks by Gifted finalists, two tracks by the winner, the awesomely voiced DaQuela Payne, and a track where all eight finalists get round the vocal mic together clearly demonstrates that there is plenty of singing talent out there in America's churches. Payne's two contributions "I Will Find A Way" and "Here I Am To Worship" are pretty impressive and she's even managed to make the over-recorded Tim Hughes anthem sparkle afresh. Rochelle Saunders does an impressive cover of Stacie Orrico's "Strong Enough" while Nathan Wise, although sounding to me extraordinarily like Avalon's Greg Long, is impressive on the Charlie Peacock/dc Talk classic "In The Light". Sometimes the revamps of worship songs try a little too hard to find a new arrangement while I'll admit that this showcase of grassroots CCM talent isn't for everyone. But all in all, it could have been far, far worse.

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.