Reviewed by Phil Thomson

Let's get the negative bit out of the way first - me. I have to admit that I could not reconcile the majesty of the cello to a set of Christian ditties. Like a good wine, you need time to taste its length, savour the slow dawning effect on your senses. Was this yet another example of self-indulgence by the worship industry? The cello demands quality writing - sustained, developed, resolved. It doesn't fit well with ambient music. The saving grace is the team involved and the way in which the album oh-so-slowly wraps itself around you with quiet, insistent reflection; and that's got to be good for hurried people. Clark's pedigree - Royal Academy/Joseph^Tippet - has equal company in seasoned players such as Dave Fitzgerald and Chris Norton (producer); and if you can remember the words, the effect is complete. In contemplative mood, such offerings can touch me in ways few others can. One thing, though: while Robin Thompson-Clarke is undoubtedly at one with his instrument, I would like to have known something of his own heart through his own writing. I can hear classical bites while the phone is on hold. Classic FM listeners will love it.

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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