Reviewed by Pippa Rimmer

What could be sweeter than a bag of sweets? A sherbet lolly full of this, perhaps? Canopy Music is a new British label and they've put out this mini-album as a tester for future recordings, it's a pick 'n' mix of jazz, jazz and more jazz! Musically, it opens up new areas that are underdeveloped in Christian music terms. You've got a bit of hot salsa on the ear-catching title track where Heather Campbell hits a jazzy groove and finds her way quite nicely. Esra Gay simmers nicely on "One Day", a pulsing rumba of a number. The gang get together to let loose in real jazz-swing style on "The Lord Is Good" (check out those jazz harmonies!). The mood is a jazz club at two in the morning as Esra, backed by the coolest jazz trio, slides through "My Shield Of Grace" like a sultry Ella Fitzgerald. This five-track treat is rounded up nicely with an uplifting, but gentle instrumental that Count Basie, in his quieter moments, wouldn't turn his nose up at. The vocals may need a bit of polishing and tightening up, but hey! These guys need a big break. This is a real ear-opener, a revolutionary and welcome step forward for Christian music. Can't wait for more of this in the future. Musical honey to sweeten a jaded pallet.

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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