Reviewed by Chris Tozer

With former president George Bush Sr amongst his fans, Larnelle Harris has amassed a huge following in the States ever since he left the Gaither Vocal Band to go it alone in the 1980s. So, at first glance the title of this 2005 album seems as curious as Cliff Richard singing "I'm Nearly Famous" long after the event. Yet the title track, written by the man himself, is clearly autobiographical, for he states: "Making all the world my stage doesn't mean that much to me. Just ask anyone who's been there - it doesn't satisfy." Larnelle's avowed intent is to light people's way to Jesus. And that he endeavours to do in this fine collection of simple songs written with his in-house songwriting team. For me the standout track has to be "The Greatest Of These", based on the evergreen verses I Corinthians 13. Somehow he manages to bring a new slant to these oft-sung verses. Taking the album as a whole entity, each of these songs reflects Harris's desire to give away the love that God has given him. There can be no finer epitaph than that.

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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