Reviewed by Philip Crawley

This is great - a serious compilation of hymns to go along with the Songs Of Fellowship songbooks that Kingsway do and are considered essential even by my own (lively) worship leader! Across three CDs we have 50 excellent examples of hymnody. From my personal fave "In Christ Alone" to Wesley's "Love Divine" there isn't a bad song here. The arrangements vary between Anglican-organ and Salvationist brass-band with rich harmonies and truly joyful delivery. These are very accomplished choirs in studio settings - but why aren't they credited? No matter - if (like me) you'd never consider acquiring a compilation of traditional church music then this is the set to change your mind! A real gem is "Angels From The Realms Of Glory" which sounds like a renaissance piece. The blending of lady's and gent's voices on "What A Friend We Have In Jesus" sounds like it comes straight out of the valleys. Whatever your musical tastes you can't deny the power and glory of songs like these, and when they're this well executed you owe it to yourself to check them out.

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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