Reviewed by George Luke

Despite its name, this 21-track compilation album really stretches the definition of gospel music - a bit too much, I fear, for those gospel fans who have always held 'inspirational' songs and anything with a low J-word count in contempt. It's hard enough trying to convince them that the Staples' "I'll Take You There" is a gospel song, without having to do the same for Fontella Bass' "Rescue me", Ben E King's "Stand By Me", or even Aretha's and George Michael's ") Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)" - in fact, I don't think I'd want to! They may, though, be satisfied with the Impressions' "People Get Ready", or the New Jersey Gospel Choir's "Anytime You Need A Friend". I guess what I'm trying to say is, ignore the album's title and enjoy it for what it is - a collection of great soul classics, a few of which happen to be gospel songs.

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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