Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Testimony are three Manchester-based gospel singers from Central Africa, led by Emmanuela Yugolelo who is from the Democratic Republic of Congo and has been singing in church choirs since she was six. Sandra Belezika and Mimi Kalumba add their voices to create some beautiful harmonies to place on top of the compelling rhythms created by Congolese producer Sergio Tebu. The musical collaboration for the group came out of the mutual support they offered each other when they arrived in Britain to seek asylum. The blurb that accompanied the CD tells me that many of these six poignant songs are uplifting expressions of joy and hope for the future. I can't, of course, vouch for that as my command of African languages is non existent but I can tell you that "That's Why" is a beautiful lilting song of worship. The mix of contemporary rhythms and tracks and the sweet vocals styles of the trio make for a compelling six track CD.

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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