Reviewed by Peter Bate

Part of Kingsway's Music For Personal Mediation selection, this CD isn't one to play to your friends at full volume on a Friday night, unless you want them to leave you in peace. Scant sleevenotes reveal the mainstay of this collection of tried and trusted worship standards is gifted percussionist/producer Dick Le Mair. Things start well with an ethereal "Holy, Holy, Holy Lord" featuring the breathy hums of Thalita Nawijn. But the album is muddied by plodding versions of "I Love You Lord", "Emmanuel" and "Sing Hallelujah To The Lord" which veer dangerously close to restaurant muzak. Le Mair's colourful marimba, vibra­phone and shakers do offer touches of freshness yet the overall feel is one of under-ambition despite the careful instrumentation. Let's hope 'Expressions Two' is a bit more adventurous.

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