Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Ignore the ghastly sleeve design which recalls the worst kind of Sunday school kitch. This is an engaging folk gospel and country gospel album full of winsome melody and some impressive musicianship, particularly Dean's nimbly picked mandolin and acoustic guitar. Dean has a nicely expressive voice able to handle country items like "From The Grave" and making it sound like a traditional item from the Carter Family songbook rather than a Himes original while the haunting folk ballad "He Surely Can Forgive You" is a delight. Sometimes Dean's desire to be boldly biblical in his lyric writing makes for some uncomfortable moments ("Heaven and Hell are the options that are waiting us" makes a better theological statement than a song lyric) but on the whole, 'The Man From Galilee' is heart warming American roots music.

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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