Reviewed by Peter Dilley

Already flagged up in CR47, with masterful timing this one hit my doormat on 3rd October '98, as Sir Cliff celebrated 40 years in the charts. Released to mark that anniversary, the 30 songs here were selected by fans worldwide voting for their 'Favourite Cliff Christian Song'. Opening with Paul Field's apocalyptic "Thief In The Night", it's a mixed bag of studio and live recordings stretching right back to the '70s. No surprises at finding chart hits "From A Distance" and "Saviour's Day" here, though some might wonder if "The Only Way Out" blurs the selection criteria. Other goodies are Larry Norman classics "Why Should The Devil Have All The Good Music" and "I Wish We'd All Been Ready" - longstanding stalwarts of Cliff's Christian repertoire, and songs from other writers include Judy Mackenzie's "Free" and "Better Than I Know Myself", Terry Britten's "Walking In The Light" and "Yes, He Lives" and Mal Pope's "Reunion Of The Heart". Seven tracks, including the title cut, are Sir Cliffs often underrated self-penned material. I didn't go much on this particular rendition of Kendrick's "Shine, Jesus, Shine", but otherwise I've got few complaints. Cynics can make up their own gag about the title.

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.