Reviewed by Tim Holden

From the opening strains of the organ and a choir launching in to "And Can It Be", this compilation of 12 classic hymns wears its heart on its sleeve. The music is all traditional arrangements with a nice variety of choral formats used, from the traditional church choir on "Lo He Comes With Clouds Descending" through the male choristers on "I Lift My Eyes To The Quiet Hills" to the Welsh Male Voice Choir on "Here Is Love Vast As The Ocean". It is not all organ accompaniment either as the tracks range from full orchestras on "Name Of All Majesty" to Salvation Army style brass bands on "Blessed Lord In Thee Is Refuge". The hymn choice is wide ranging, including "The Old Rugged Cross", "Stand Up, Stand Up For Jesus" and "All Things Bright And Beautiful". The only minor criticism is that the compilation nature of the album shows through in the noticeable differences between the recording "quality" of the tracks - none are poor but it is quite apparent that some are better than others. But this does not detract from the power of such classic hymns.

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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