Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

Although the name on the cover is that of the popular Songs Of Praise presenter Pam Rhodes there is nothing to suggest that she performs any of them. Instead her role seems to be that of compiler as the two discs represent the "tried and true favourites" from her weekly programme on Premier Radio. Disc one unlocks the gems from the past, with 15 powerful hymns - ranging from "Amazing Grace" and "Praise My Soul The King Of Heaven" to "O For A Thousand Tongues To Sing" and "The Old Rugged Cross". Disc two brings the soundtrack up to date with everything from Tim Hughes' "Here I Am To Worship" to Matt Redman's "Blessed Be Your Name" and Stuart Townend's "In Christ Alone" to Kristyn Getty's rendition of "The Power Of The Cross". With a total of 30 songs there is sure to be some if not many of your favourites present and correct although it is, of course, very easy to point out omissions. For this reviewer the total lack of Psalms is puzzling, unless there is a companion album of 'Psalms Of Praise' or a psimilar title planned. That there are no Christmas hymns is more understandable although we are confident that a scientific poll of favourites would have at least some carols in the top 30. However this is a debate for a different day. We expect that many readers of this website will own versions of many of these hymns although it is interesting to hear the modern ones sung by a church choir rather than a solo artist - and encouraging too, as the arrangements on offer here are surely within the grasp of most congregations: worship leaders may find this a useful investment. Another use for this mid-price release would be to have a spare copy to lend those who come to your church asking to celebrate a rite of passage ("hatching, matching and dispatching" as baptisms, marriages and funerals are known in the trade). Often these visitors have little or no idea about the wonderful range of hymns open to them - which explains why "All Things Bright And Beautiful" (included on disc one) is chosen so often - it is the only hymn people remember from their school days. Send them away with a copy of this CD to play and they might come back with a more inspired choice. The final use to which I can think of putting this is to take it with me when visiting our housebound members as we can listen to - and perhaps even join in with - some of these great hymns. The liner notes are minimal although the words are included (in rather small print), the singing is generally rousing - think of a good church choir rather than a specialist cathedral choir, and the accompaniments are safe and sound and, occasionally, inventive.

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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Classic hymns and modern worship anthems unite in this unique 2-CD compilation.

Hand picked by BBC Songs Of Praise presenter, Pam Rhodes, the album contains many of the best loved songs at work in the church today.

Disc one unlocks the gems from the past, with fifteen powerful hymns - ranging from Amazing Grace and Praise My Soul The King Of Heaven to O For A Thousand Tongues To Sing and The Old Rugged Cross.

Disc two brings the soundtrack up to date with everything from Tim Hughes’ Here I Am To Worship to Matt Redman’s Blessed Be Your Name and Stuart Townend’s In Christ Alone to Kristyn Getty’s rendition of The Power Of The Cross.