Rebecca St James - The Early Years

Reviewed by Sarah Lawrence

A compilation of tracks from Rebecca's first three albums, 'Rebecca St James,' 'God' and ' Pray', all of which are well represented. There is an excellent and varied selection of music including the ballad "Above All Things" from 'Rebecca St James'. It is an enchanting song with a gentle melody and moving lyrics that speak of the wonder of God's love for us. This is immediately followed by the exhilarating and contrasting rock-orientated number "God", in which Rebecca's stunning vocals are highlighted as she belts out the powerful chorus declaring that God can only be explained as God. The mesmerising title track from 'Pray', which has a violin solo as an introduction that leads into guitars and drums, is also featured. The play list is structured beautifully so that as the listener progresses through the tracks they also progress through time and they can hear the music style change and develop. A thoroughly enjoyable compilation though it is a shame that the lyrics of these superb hits have not been provided.