Reviewed by Matthew Cordle

Karen's Southern gospel-cum-country may not be to everyone's tastes but here pull out all the stops to make a thoroughly engaging sound. Produced by studio veteran Bubba Smith the music has a very live, open acoustic feel to it. Karen's voice is very strong and some of the vocal harmonies from New River remind me of the classy sounds of First Call. Each instrument seems perfectly placed in the mix and this seems to draw one's focus to the lyrics, which are crammed with Gospel truths. Highlights would be the first single "Last Night", a moving song about Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection; "Hold On", a song encouraging us to be persistent in prayer based on God sending an angel to encourage Daniel that God would answer in his time; the power that there is in "Whispered Prayers"; and a simple but poignant image of Heaven in the closing song portrayed as "where the dirt road stops and the streets of gold begin." 'Journey Of Joy' was a nominee for Southern Gospel Album Of The Year, and "Last Night" and "Round The Kitchen Table" were also nominated for Southern Gospel Song and Country Gospel Song respectively. One listen will tell you why.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.