Reviewed by George Luke

Thanks a million, Mr. Cummings - getting me to review an album which I don't particularly like, recorded by people who practically live down the road from me! Maybe I exaggerate; it's more like a short bus ride away - but what am I to say if I bump into any of them in the street? Youth With A Voice (for that is what the letters stand for) are a youth choir put together by Velroy Bailey and Andrew Smith, and this, their debut album, was recorded live at the Church of God of Prophecy in Sydenham, South London, in August this year. I don't want to make any comparisons, but it's obvious that YWAV are in the God's Property mould, but lacking a Kirk Franklin figure to really harness all that youthful energy properly. Whereas GP nick all their best lines from George Clinton, YWAV sing, I've got to keep on pressing on, with more than a slight nod to Spandau Ballet. The blurb on the CD cover informs us that the kids take a bold stand against drugs, violence, abortion, abuse and racism. However, their songwriting needs to catch up, as none of their songs actually address any of the issues mentioned. They do have good voices, but on the whole the album didn't do much for me and Mr. Cummings, the bill from the removal man is in the post.

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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