Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

Released with the collective might of the RCA, Motown Gospel and Word labels behind it, the latest instalment in the long-running 'Wow Gospel' series once again showcases the current work of some of gospel music's movers and shakers. The compilers bring in the big guns from the word go with Fred Hammond's "I'm Grateful" setting the bar high for the remainder of this two disc, 30 song collection whilst the perhaps controversial appearance of megastar rapper Snoop Dogg's name on the track listing - a collaboration with gospel legend Rance Allen on "Blessing Me Again" - succeeds in catching the eye. Other big names like Israel Houghton, Anthony Brown, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Marvin Sapp and Lecrae display their talents whilst leaving enough room for less familiar acts like Zacardi Cortez and Lexi to get their chance to shine. Thanks to the consistently high production standards of each contribution, this is a slickly polished affair but what really comes across is the very wide space that modern gospel music currently inhabits. For instance, this release contains everything from gospel choirs and smooth R&B to soul ballads and doo wop with everything in between. As ever, this annual event is an ideal way for gospel music fans to sample the work of an array of performers before plunging into the artists' albums.

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