Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

This release from US songstress Leah Mari sees the Jesus Culture/Bethel Music artist give some of her favourite hymns a new country makeover. Whilst there are no radical re-workings here, Mari's laid back approach is pleasing enough and multi-instrumentalist Jonathan Berlin and producer Jeremy Edwardson undoubtedly pad out the artist's interpretations. Whilst fuller versions of old chestnuts such as "Holy Holy Holy" and "All Creatures" work well, a stripped down reading of "Tis So Sweet" is just as effective employing only a single guitar and Mari's whispered vocals. Unfortunately, lacklustre and pedestrian takes on "Be Thou My Vision" and "Blessed Assurance" deny the power contained within their respective lyrics and not one but two plodding versions of "Nothing But The Blood" detract from the quality contained elsewhere. Whilst this is a musically accomplished piece, it generally lacks passion although a stirring version of "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" ends this collection on a high note.

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.