Reviewed by Dave Brassington

Last year Daniel O'Donnell scored a huge video success when his 'Songs Of Faith' album went to the top of the national video charts, an achievement for Christian music that went almost unheralded, which left me extremely puzzled at the time. Now Rosette Records have issued a CD containing 20 tracks from this groundbreaking video. There is a wonderful mix of the old and the new, commencing with "Softly And Tenderly" and finishing with a strong version of "The Battle Hymn Of The Republic". In between we get a very varied selection ranging from the country gospel of "I Saw The Light" and "One Day At A Time" to some wonderful renditions of songs of worship such as "Here I Am Lord" and "Make Me A Channel Of Your Peace". There are a couple of very Roman Catholic-orientated songs including Daniel's own "Sweet Queen Of Peace" and "Lady Of Knock" which some ardent Protestants may object to. But personally I think this is a magnificent album, superbly sung and backed by a big gospel choir.

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.