STYLE: Rock RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 173033-27326 LABEL: Independent FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1
Reviewed by Lins Honeyman
Midlands-based frontman Paul Poulton's 15th album is essentially a collection of covers in which the occasional Cross Rhythms contributor succeeds in offering up new slants on familiar material in his own laidback and unique style. From the word go, Poulton's Christian faith is referenced with a pleasing version of the old spiritual "Milky White Way" kicking things off before the likes of the sanctified Elvis number "I Believe In The Man In The Sky" and a fantastic and highly inventive reggae take on the Charles H Gabriel hymn "My Saviour's Love" continue in a similar vein. Elsewhere, secular numbers like George Harrison's "Isn't It A Pity" - complete with some fantastic Billy Preston-like Hammond - also make an appearance whilst Jeannie, once a member of the '70s and '80s group The Reapers, puts in a fine vocal performance on the Tedeschi Trucks song "Midnight In Harlem". Occasionally, proceedings stray a little into karaoke territory with brave stabs at classics such as Aretha's "I Say A Little Prayer", Corrine Bailey Rae's "Put Your Records On" and Paul Simon's "Love Me Like A Rock" falling short of the mark but only when compared to those peerless original versions. Poulton's trademark wispy vocals are bolstered by layered background vocals and arguably his best instrumental backing yet - including some gorgeous guitar solos from the man himself - to make this yet another enjoyable offering from one of the UK Christian music scene's most prolific and individualistic artists.
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