Reviewed by Pippa Rimmer

Another release from Big Ron! This time there's a two-fold tale behind the album - Ron going back to lead worship at his home church in San Jose and the return of his prodigal son to the family. The flavour is definitely family-orientated. Sons Sam and Ron Junior join Dad on "I Love To Love You Lord", a gently loping R&B number that proves all the Kenolys can sing! Big Ron's brother Mark teams up with him on the worshipful "Center Of My Joy", reminiscent of "Keeper Of My Heart" on Ron's 'Jesus Is Alive' album. Mark also plays bass in the band (bring back Abraham Laboriel!). The title track is a painfully honest 'prodigal son" story about his son Tony's return not only to the family fold but to God. Ron and the singers really vamp it up, gospel style, on "Sweepin' Through The City", a stomping, whooping version of the old classic. But, despite all of this, the album lacks a certain je ne sais quoi. It's true that Big Ron is a first rate worship leader, but after five albums, it's beginning to sound formulaic. This latest offering doesn't have the grabability of 'Lift Him Up' and "Jesus Is Alive' or the innovation of 'God Is Able'. But for all die-hard Kenoly fans, it is sure to please. The reggae lilt of "Winna, Mon" (as in Jesus is the winner, man!) has an island attitude to it. but sounds a bit strange coming from Ron and his fake Jamaican accent. Hmm. Also, it sounds as though he's singing "Jesus is the weatherman!" Overall, it's got all the usual Kenoly traits, but without the freshness I expected.

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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