Reviewed by Paul Davis

When Jim Reeves died the world's major record companies searched high and low for a replacement and never found a lasting one. RCA Victor was perhaps the most successful in the search when they bought Stu Phillips from Canada and Jim Ed Brown from The Browns singing group. Both tried their hands yet despite expensive trials neither one replaced "Gentleman Jim". England, however, can quite honestly boast to have the nearest to the real thing in Paul Wheater. Yorkshire-based, his style and delivery are almost identical to the velvet voiced legend. Moreover, he has cleverly ensured that the gentle instrumental backgrounds are a la the '60s' Nashville sound. Highly recommended, this album is a must for all those millions (yes, millions!) who bought the now well worn, sacred recordings of Mr Reeves and have ever since longed for a replacement. Paul Wheater has a lifetime of show biz experience behind him to call upon, but what gives "icing to the cake" is that his relatively recent, spiritual new birth gives him personal motivation and understanding. Deeply committed nowadays to the cause of Christ, Paul wants to broadcast the Good News far and wide. Albums like this will do so! Mark my words, it will sell and sell and sell. Best track is the plaintive John Peterson composition "He Walked That Lonesome Road".

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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