Reviewed by Howard Williams

This second CD from New Direction delivers a live recording from Life Centre Church, Chicago and two extra tracks recorded in the studio. The live feel is captured well, featuring all the expected elements of a gospel concert. Preaching accompanied by choir echoes on "Hold Out", a prime example of this. Musically the album is excellent, offering funky bass lines and good arrangements, the featured soloists include Cedric Hodo, Alisa Gray, Curtis Brown and Valerie Houston. 'Get Your Praise On' is generally easy to listen to, the only track that I had trouble understanding the lead vocals on was "What Manner Of Man" where soloist Emoni Wilkens melted into the choir too much. I'd be the first to admit that I wouldn't normally listen to this style of music but didn't find myself switching off to it. Although unlikely to feature regularly in my listening it is certainly uplifting and never stops short of the message it wants to preach. If you're a gospel fan then I'm sure you are going to love the album from start to finish.

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.