Reviewed by Tony Cummings

When Cross Rhythms spoke to the veteran soloist, music teacher and occasional operatic performer about this album earlier this year, he was at pains to explain the vision behind the project. He said, "It is a revitalising of old tunes that some of us may know from our past (eg, 'All To Jesus', 'I Stand Amazed', 'I Will Sing The Wondrous Story') and the writing of new melodies to old lyrics (eg, 'To God Be The Glory', 'And Can It Be', 'Love Divine')." It works marvellously well and Jonathan's rich tones bring the poetry and eloquence of these hymnbook evergreens to life. Co-producer Mark Edwards brings in some delightful and, at times, unexpected accompaniments (a dobro here and an accordion there) while the choir, recorded at St Saviour's Church in Guildford, give just the right support to Jonathan's uplifting interpretations. There is the occasional relatively modern song like David J Evans' "Be Still" though in the main it's the glories of past masters like Wesley, Matheson and Gabriel which are given the Veira/Edwards treatment. And very stirring they are too.

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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