Reviewed by Andy Cooper

GK Real are a group of six talented singers and producers who have created some great music here, but unfortunately made quite a schizophrenic album (stylistically speaking). The first few tracks are cutting edge urban R&B, sounding not too unlike Craig David and Destiny's Child, and the gospel message is refreshingly clear and without cliché. Solid beats, staccato guitar riffs, slinky strings and catchy vocal hooks abound, and it all oozes quality. I was getting quite excited about discovering such a gem. But after the seventh track, things suddenly change. I haven't heard such cheesy gospel music for a long time. We're talking dinner for a Dutch mouse. It's like a completely different band. The programmed rhythms and riffs are swapped for real musicians (who are very skilful), but the songs just lose the style of the first seven and become over indulgent, clichéd and repetitive. "Blessed Jesus" repeats one phrase 50 times!! I'm sure this last group of songs could appeal to more traditional gospel audiences, but it really does not sit well with the first set. If I just heard the first seven songs, this CD would have got eight squares, but as it is.

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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