Ashley Cleveland - Big Town

Thursday 1st August 1991
Ashley Cleveland - Big Town
Ashley Cleveland - Big Town

STYLE: Rock
RATING 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 11167-31695
LABEL: Atlantic 82185
FORMAT: CD Album
ITEMS: 1

Reviewed by Tony May

Put very simply, this is by far my favourite album of the year to date. My poor mind's incapable of imagining another 1991 release to get anywhere near it. Ashley's in great demand as a backing singer on many superb albums, but steps into the front line here to spotlight her powerhouse rock voice, and to communicate her Christian faith, even though it's on a secular label. In fact, the set kicks off with "Soon And Very Soon" which you've swayed along to in time-honoured fashion no doubt, then brings in the heavy artillery for a session of almost superhuman high energy rock music. Ashley's own band is superb, especially Kenny Greenberg on guitar, but add to that some imported heavyweights such as John Hiatt, Russ Taff, sax maestro Jim Horn, Phil Madeira pumping out the Hammond, and a load besides. But import who you like it's always going to cower before the authority and sheer expanse of a voice to make many "gospel stars" go white-faced and apologise for excessive claims made on their behalf. As I said the album's liberally sprinĀ­kled with statements of faith brilliantly and relevantly expressed. You might have to scour the import specialists to find this, if there's a problem it's worth a walk to America.

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.

Be the first to comment on this article

We welcome your opinions but libellous and abusive comments are not allowed.












We are committed to protecting your privacy. By clicking 'Send comment' you consent to Cross Rhythms storing and processing your personal data. For more information about how we care for your data please see our privacy policy.