Reviewed by Tim Cockram

An album which is literally a collection of prayers, set to music by one of the founding fathers of British progressive rock. Some of the prayers are sung whilst others are narrated. The prayers are from such diverse sources as Robert Louis Stevenson, Isaiah, Martin Luther and Mr Wakeman. Why set them to music? Rick has a great musical gift which he uses to enhance the impact of the words. His neo-classical music may not be to everyone's tastes but it certainly has power to reinforce the majesty and depth of the words. Stylistically, the musical setting would be instantly recognisable by anyone who is familiar with Rick Wakeman's previous compositions, there is even a hint of his early period in the second track "Hymn Of Hope" with a Mini Moogesque melody line. Rick's special gift is his ability to convey depth of emotion and power in each of the musical settings that demonstrates the quality of the composition. I have listened to the album several times in sections but only once have I been able to listen to it from beginning to end. Then it revealed an intensity that was almost overpowering. This is not an album to buy because it's by Rick Wakeman; it's an album to buy to share in the depth of prayer.

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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