Reviewed by Simon Carpenter

This is, quite simply, one of the most beautiful instrumental recordings I have ever come across. Beauty is of course in the ear of the listener, and there is much beautiful music around. There are also many gifted musicians in the world, but here the combination of the skills of flautist Simeon Wood, pianist Graham Hedges, and guests Amanda Barrass (violin) and John Gerighty (classical guitar), and 12 classic hymns is totally irresistible. The hymns themselves, "Thine Be The Glory", "Love Divine", "Amazing Grace" et al are of course wonderful in themselves, and have a timeless quality and an appeal that transcends boundaries of churchmanship. But as played here, in a restrained and gentle manner, they take on a new life, and have a new capacity to move and uplift. The arrangements vary from Celtic to jazz (Graham Hedges is a fully-fledged jazz pianist) to folk. I can't say any more, just go out and buy this recording!

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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