Reviewed by Tony Cummings

An exceptional pianist and keyboard man, Emmanuel has long enriched the UK scene, able to turn his hand to pop and R&B, jazz and gospel. Now with his singer wife Ruth and some superlative musicians - drummer Troy Miller, Carl Stanbridge on upright and electric bass, and Andrae Brown on alto and tenor saxophone - he offers his most jazz-orientated release. Mellow sounds abound. There's a modal quality to "Summer's Dream" where Andrae's alto soars heavenwards; "The Carpenter (End)" features some impressive synth work over intense drumming; while "Cruise Control" has the flavour of '70s fusion groups like Weather Report. When Ruth Waldron steps up to the mic to sing "Amazing Grace" subtle changes in the chord progression give the ancient hymn a new lease of life. If you're looking for a quality jazz album with more than a hint of Christian spirituality, look no further.

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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