Bill & Gloria Gaither and Their Homecoming Friends - Gaither Homecoming: Live From Toronto

Reviewed by Mark Lawrence

Gospel Hall Of Famer Bill Gaither started his homecoming tours in 1991. With their mixture of music and comedy from some of the biggest names in Southern gospel music they've sold more then 1.1 million tickets worldwide. This DVD captures the homecoming tour live in Toronto in front of a 16,000 strong audience and features performances from, amongst others, the Gaither Vocal Band, Russ Taff and Mark Lowry. Songs include an 'interesting' medley of "Shout To The Lord" and "Rhapsody In Blue" performed by the recently deceased pianist Anthony Burger as well as a large dose of Southern gospel favourites like "Bread Upon The Water". The DVD itself is hosted by Bill Gaither from his tour bus and includes a behind the scenes look of the tour with interviews with the performers and members of the audience. Alongside the main show, extras include additional songs and an interactive menu. The whole thing (including the performances themselves) is very polished and rather over-produced, a bit like a very American version of Songs Of Praise. This is certainly not everyone's cup of tea, musically or theologically, however, for many this DVD would be a hugely enjoyable watch.