Reviewed by Doug Holland

Since beginning public performances at the age of two, Oklahoma-born, multi-award winning Sandi Patty has become a legend (and more than a little infamous because of issues in her private life that a few years ago cost her a considerable proportion of her fan base). A huge voice combines with an equally-sized personality to provide staggering performances of worshipful songs and well known hymns. This album is a collection of previously released material and as the title (translated as "way of suffering") suggests the theme is primarily the cross, with other songs unpacking issues around the resurrection. The songs are mainly story-telling in nature and all are either good or very good, and the inclusion of the standards "The Old Rugged Cross" and "I Will Sing The Wondrous Story" will entice those not previously exposed to her work. Above all, however, the songs are almost universally high-produced, big and very intense, and the lack of variety and absence of gentler moments for reflection is the major weakness from the listener's point of view. This is an excellent album, but stamina is needed to get through it at one sitting.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.