Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

New Jersey-born Gloria Gaynor is of course famous for her 1979 disco megahit "I Will Survive" but, after coming to know Christ in 1982, the Grammy-winning recording artist has finally got round to issuing a full blown roots gospel album and the result is magnificent. Gaynor has wisely partnered up with in demand producer Chris Stevens (Toby Mac, Mandisa) who marshals a fantastic "live in the studio" band to provide the perfect setting for the "Never Can Say Goodbye" singer to give arguably the vocal performance of her long and celebrated career. Now in her 70s, Gaynor has a voice that oozes warmth, power and authority with tracks like a great augmented take on "Amazing Grace", a sublime funk/blues reading of Dylan's "Man Of Peace" and the autobiographical "Back On Top" all showcasing performances that would put vocalists 40 years her junior to shame. Elsewhere, a revolving door of guest singers including blue-eyed soul man Mike Farris, MercyMe's Bart Millard and Yolanda Adams all help to keep the party going whilst the upbeat "Joy Comes In The Morning" sums up the album's overriding message of the hope and joy that is found when a person goes beyond just surviving in life by finding purpose in Jesus.

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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