Reviewed by Rebecca Mason

"A triple CD collection digitally remastered to document the huge influence of Graham Kendrick's writing". CD one - "Carnival Of Praise" - recorded live at Icthus Christian Fellowship. All the classics are here including "Make Way", "The Lord Is Marching Out" and "Rejoice, Rejoice". Favourites for me include the punchy "We Believe" and "He That Is In Us" along with the worshipful sounds of "Lord You Are So Precious To Me" and "0 Lord Your Tenderness". CD two features the Scottish choir, New Horizon. Some of the songs from CD one are repeated here, but are now sung by a choir, therefore, obviously losing the live worship atmosphere of the preceding recording. Each song is performed impeccably, if, however, somewhat on the melancholic side. Other songs featured are "From Heaven You Came" and "Look To The Skies". The final CD - "The Kendrick Collection" - is an instrumental CD arranged for orchestra by Christopher Norton. This is my favourite of the three CDs. Graham's music is thoughtfully interpreted, allowing stirring melodies, such as "My Lord What Love Is This", "We Are Here To Praise You" and "Come And See" to be expressed in a fresh way. Tagged on the end is a rendition of "Shine Jesus Shine!" I loved it! It is a beautiful recording, impressively produced and arranged. No one can deny the musical impact Graham Kendrick has had on the Church, or his mammoth contribution to the wealth of worship songs we possess today. Christendom would not be the same without him and this CD collection is a perfect way to celebrate that.

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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