Reviewed by Peter Dilley

Acappella's name is about as self-explanatory as a baked bean tin label, and they've been around for a good few years, so I perhaps don't need to say very much about their current opus. As it's quite a mixed bag though, I'd better fill in a few details. There's a retro-style kick off, first with 1950's-style doo-wop ("Love Is The Power"), then traditional gospel ("Jesus Is Coming"), more of which comes later on "Jesus Knows". "Movin'" is much funkier, and they take a soulful turn with "I Know You Know". For me the highlights are "Abba, Father", a track strongly reminiscent of the Flying Pickets' "Only You", and "Standing Right In Front Of You", a moving and challenging reflection on Jesus' trial before Pilate and Stephen's martyrdom. Notwithstanding the odd bit of "cheating" (using rhythm tracks as well as voices), Acappella have acquitted themselves well, and I was much more taken with this than I thought I'd be. However, when all is said and done, acappella tends to be one of those "love it or loathe it" genres, so most punters will probably make up their minds accordingly.

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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