Reviewed by Rob Andrews

So here it goes, a TV based talent competition for Christians singers. How would this measure up to the popular ones we see on Saturday nights on both main UK TV channels? We have a nationwide search, in regional heats across the US leading through to eight finalists in a "live" sing off. Three well known Christian music industry judges, namely Michael Sweet (Stryper lead singer), gospel great Andrae Crouch and EMI CMG record label executive Eddie DeGarmo are charged with the task of choosing the winner, with ex-Backstreet Boy Brian Littrell hosting the event. An exclusive recording contract was the prize waiting for the winner. This is three hours worth of auditions, interviews, songs, cheers and tears. The refreshing thing about this, as you would expect, is the building up of contestants with constructive criticism, rather than the sometimes soul destroying venom issued by those judging the secular forerunners of this format. As described on the notes to the DVD, the show's unique quality is that "the contestants desire to display the gift that God gave them and to give back that gift by sharing with the world the message of hope in Christ". Amen to that! Eight talented singers from a wide background; black, white, male, female, weird (check out the eyeliner and hairstyle of Brandon Kizer, bless him!) and wonderful. You've got Damien Lawson singing a version of Redman's "Blessed Be Your Name", Nathan Wise having a go at Charlie Peacock/dc Talk's "In The Light", Sheena Evans singing Tomlin's "Forever", Rochelle Saunders running through Stacie Orrico's "Strong Enough" and Da'Quela Payne bringing some soul power to Tim Hughes' "Here I Am To Worship". Who won? Not going to tell you - you'll have to watch it through like I did! And I don't want to spoil the ending for you!

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.