Reviewed by Tony Cummings

I saw Al Denson when I was out in Nashville a few months back. He was presenter/anchorman for a wheel-em-on-wheel-em-off showcase of diverse gospel artists (MOR and rap, it was all there) for a plush hall full of 'industry' people. The fact that I seemed to be the only person in the hall who'd never heard of Mr Denson didn't phase me. He seemed to be the kind of MOR-tinged pop gospeller with a carefully groomed All American Boy image which middle America goes for but which generally leaves Europe cold. Having unenthusiastically investigated this tape I feel I may have underestimated the man. At least this doesn't have the schmaltz overkill that I vaguely remember sent me into an embarrassed re-examination of my egg mayonnaise when Al tried an inspirational ballad at that Nashville do. 'Stand Up' was originally released in 1985 and is showing signs of dating. But if you like a Wayne Watson-style pop gospel, Al's warm way with a ballad may appeal.

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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