Reviewed by Allan Clare

Even though this compilation of 12 Zomba gospel tracks appeared in 2006, the majority of the songs were released in the 1990s. The packaging is perfunctory - no lyrics, but the original albums the tracks featured on get a mention. A squealing electric guitar solo kicks things off - not exactly gospel territory, but things soon get gospel-fied as the ubiquitous Kirk Franklin sings the opening "Smile Again". The familiar gospel ingredients soon appear: positive God-centred lyrics, glorious choirs and an energetic vibe. Things turn funky on Percy Bady's "You Oughta Been There" while another highlight is Kurt Carr's "The Lord Is Strong And Mighty" which is led by a woman, (confusingly, for this album) but backed by a real powerhouse of a choir! Blue eyed soul man Jon Gibson makes an appearance and in truth the soul-funk of "Get It Together" doesn't really suit the general gospel style of the rest of the album. They saved the best till last with "Bow Down" from the Full Gospel Baptist Fellowship Mass Choir. This song is a worship classic! If you don't own the tracks on this CD then you may well care to investigate.

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