Reviewed by Andy Cooper

If unfamiliar with the current crop of top gospel artists, then this DVD could be a good introduction. Donnie McClurkin, Kirk Franklin, Tonex, Smokie Norful and Fred Hammond are all featured. Most of the videos are of live performances, the most lively of which is from Tonex: a lot of thought and planning went into his stage routine and the choir is one of the most energetic I've ever seen! Smokie Norful puts in an awesome vocal and piano performance too, with "God Is Able": a simple arrangement, but absolutely captivating. The concept video for Kirk Franklin's "Looking For You" is the highlight, with fun city-street scenes and a real encouraging vibe. But be warned, a couple of the other concepts turn into a sickening aren't-I-gorgeous ego massage, such as J Moss's "We Must Praise" and Donnie McClurkin's remake of the old Five Stairsteps classic "Ooh Child". This latter one is an absolute disgrace in my opinion: with the gospel star riding around wearing a thousand dollar make-over in a hundred-thousand dollar SUV while singing "Things are going to get easier" and trying to raise money for the victims of Hurricane Katrina! Shame this cut is the opener, tainting an otherwise half-decent, and generally sincere set of gospel vids.

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.