Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Bucks-based soprano Mandy Watsham, who sang with the Chesham Light Opera Co, has joined forces with fellow member Nicki Matthews to form a new professional gospel duo Soulmates. It's a brave venture considering how few paying opportunities exist in the gospel circuit but with their classy harmonies and easy-on-the-ear sound the two lasses, both members of an Amersham Baptist church, will no doubt get bookings from those with easy listening tastes. The album here features eight covers (Gary Dunham's "The Pearl", Twila Paris' "He Is No Fool", etc) and two originals written by Alistair Goudie (ex-keyboard player for Dana). The arrangements by Roger Mayor are competent though not particularly innovative.

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