Reviewed by Andrew Rolfe

First released in 2003, 'Diary Of A Psalmist' is Marvin's fifth solo album fitting in nicely with his apparent release-one-every-two-years schedule. Filmed with a live audience and specially selected singers and musicians (one quickly hears why they are his favourites) this DVD blasts off with the first chord. By the time the first track ("Lift Your Hands") is over, "planet mediocre" is so far behind it doesn't even register on the radar. The performers are outer space cool, with capital letters, especially the larger-than-life keyboard player, and of course Mr Sapp whose boxer-bulky frame doesn't fill the hall quite as much as his confident and polished stage presence. His singing maintains aural interest ranging from nasalized lead to gritty cryings-out. He talks as well, with a tendency towards hyper-evangelicalism, but he is gentle-voiced and normal-looking enough to be taken seriously. The ninth track, "Unrestricted Praise," summarizes about half the album: Marvin and producer Kevin Bond have produced a gospel rocket. The other half is filled with calmer intimacy tracks. All in all it's uplifting stuff and not just because of the sweeping camera work. Marvin hit the solo big time last year with 'Thirsty', his 2007 release selling by the bushel and winning all manner of awards. Reportedly his albums keep getting better. I'm off to search out his latest to see if that's true.

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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