Reviewed by Ian Hayter

Back in 2009 the Gaither Vocal Band went through a renovation of legendary proportions when all-star members from the group's rich history reunited to create the first ever five-member Gaither Vocal Band featuring Michael English, Mark Lowry, Wes Hampton, David Phelps and, of course, founder, Bill Gaither. Basically, this is the cream of Southern Gospel, with an extra voice. From the first bars of the opening "I Believe In A Hill Called Mount Calvary" you know exactly what you're going to get and Mr Gaither and his co-performers are not going to start tinkering with a long-successful (over a quarter of a century) formula now. There are some old favourites here - notably, "Because He Lives" - and the closer is a wonderful live version of "There's Something About That Name", with some great vocal harmonies. At times it sounds as if Jim Steinem has moved into the producer's chair, with huge orchestral soundscapes swelling from the speakers ("It Is Finished", for example). Other tracks are a little more underplayed (relatively speaking!) and there's an extended spoken section on "The Church Triumphant". If you enjoy southern gospel harmonies, massive arrangements and top-notch lead vocalists then you'll certainly love this. And the lyrics leave the listener in no doubt whatsoever where the performers are coming from.

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.

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