Reviewed by Tony Cummings

One of the unfathomable mysteries of the American Christian music scene is the huge popularity of this choir. Maybe it's the fact that they were the first multiracial ensemble to hit the choir scene that got them up and away. Or maybe it's just that Pastor Jim Cymbala knows a thing or 27 about the wily ways of direct marketing. Or maybe I'm just missing something. All I can report is that this set features a turn-of-the century hymn turned into cod-Caribbean ("All The Way To Calvary"), a mid tempo plod with funky bass and sassy horns ("God Is Working"), a slow bluesy ballad with a soul diva, Robin Giles, a dull tune and OTT arrangement ("It's Amazing") and a pile more dull live recordings. Often the main thrust of the vocals is carried by unison vocals (never a good idea with choirs), the original songs here are lacklustre and I doubt whether I'll ever play this again. As I said, an unfathomable mystery.

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.