Reviewed by Simon Eden

Bishop TD Jakes is larger than life in many ways. Don't even bother trying to count the extent of books, ministry recordings and worship CDs that he has been the organising force behind, in addition to the massive conferences. In writing he is prolific, in worship he is passionate, in preaching he is dynamic and in leading he is powerful. 'Gold' consists of two CDs that have been released previously, 'The Storm Is Over' (2001) with the good bishop's church ensemble the Potter's House Mass Choir, with the second CD the 'Woman Thou Art Loosed Worship 2002: Run To The Water...The River Within' album. That event at the New Orleans Superdome and attended by 70,000 women was clearly an important moment in the history of the African American Church. There is a 12 minute video clip of the Bishop preaching on each CD, including clips of applauding women in correctional institutions. A DVD was also released of this conference, so the preaching is also a re-release. The worship and preaching sets a benchmark of traditional quality that many aspire to copy. It is classic black Pentecostal in style with all star worship leaders such as Darwin Hobbs, Donnie McClurkin and Beverly Crawford. As a compilation, it is a great introduction to Bishop Jakes. Although the tracks are a few years old, it is likely that they will still be played in decades to come.

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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