Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

Cheshire-based singer/songwriter Steve has chosen to doff his cap to the hymnwriters of old in his latest release which contains sensitively modified versions of old church favourites such as "All Creatures Of Our God And King", "Abide With Me" and "To Be A Pilgrim". As hinted at in the liner notes, this has obviously been a labour of love for Parsons and this collection sees him once again team up with guitar virtuoso Dan Wheeler to offer up stripped back and considered versions of songs that most people will be familiar with. For the most part, Parsons wisely keeps the melody of each hymn intact and his trademark rich vocals breathe new life into the beautifully poetic, God-centred words of the likes of "Dear Lord And Father Of Mankind", "O For A Thousand Tongues" and "Great God Of Wonders". Elsewhere, Parsons slips in a couple of original numbers - the title track and the contemplative "Man Of Sorrows" - which proves that Parsons is a songwriter whose work doesn't seem out of place amidst the pillar-like Christian songs of old. A brave rewrite of Charles Wesley's "And Can It Be" - which unfortunately only serves in toning down the wonderful urgency of the original's matchless melody - fails to take away from this otherwise accomplished release.

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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