Reviewed by Andy Cooper

Experienced Jamaican gospel/reggae singer Donna Marie's albums are now available in the UK, courtesy of Jet Star. This one is from 2002, but would not sound revolutionary if it was released 20 years earlier. This is laid-back, uncomplicated, old-school reggae, a bit like a female John Holt, with typical off-beat guitar strums and piano chords, Hammond organ and brass riffs and complimentary vocal harmonies. There are none of the modern "must-haves" such as ragga rapping and trippy drum'n'bass rhythms to be found here. Donna's vocals are strong and sure, with a heavy vibrato and slightly nasal character. She sings the gospel lyrics with faith and feeling, but lacking the spark and style needed to keep the listener interested throughout the 13 song set. The typical warm, sunny Jamaican feeling is present but varies little and becomes mundane at times during the longer songs. The clear gospel content never fades though, from "Bless His Holy Name" and "God So Loved The World" at the start, to "The Lord Is My Shepherd" and "Jesus Loves Me" towards the end.

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