The latest CD release reviewed

DUBLIN GOSPEL CHOIR
Moving On RMG Chart ***

Moving On raises interesting questions about the value of cultural cross-fertilisation. The Dublin Gospel Choir's 10th anniversary celebration is a quirky snapshot of a choir whose collective heart lurks somewhere between the Mississippi Delta and the Liffey Valley. Amid a dilute repertoire that squanders its identity before it ever establishes it (lurching from Stevie Wonder's As to Labi Siffre's Something Inside So Strong, the latter an unashamedly middle of the road ballad far removed from gospel), the Dublin Gospel Choir tackles the real spirituals with greater success. Their arrangements of Riverside and Anthem of Praise manage to both reflect their American roots and allow them to air their own distinctive voice. But there's a lack of fervour and momentum, and a distinctly monochrome quality to the vocals that ultimately disappoints. www.dublingospelchoir.com Siobhán Long