Joanna - Looking Into Light (Celtic Hymns) (1999)

Joanne is, of course, none other than Joanne Hogg of Iona and this is a splendid offering, doing more than justice to what is essentially a collection of hymns. Joanne has added fresh melodies to some classic hymns and together with others which she sings intact, brings a vibrant, Celtic flavour to timeless words. The album kicks off with a haunting treatment of "I Heard The Voice", possibly the finest hymn by Horatius Bonar. Other tracks that stand out are "My Song Is Love Unknown", "How Sweet The Name" (a John Newton classic), "Oh The Deep, Deep Love", "Rock Of Ages" and "When I Survey". However, for me the highlight of the whole album is "Be Thou My Vision", surely a prayer for today if ever there was one! The musicianship is at all times excellent and a look at the credits soon tells you why! lona members past and present are here in abundance, plus some nice strings for good measure. Dave Bainbridge has his fingerprints all over the place, playing, producing and arranging. Troy Donockley plays the Uilleann pipes at their haunting best. Can't move for bass players - Phil Barker, Nick Beggs and Tim Harries all make an appearance while Terl Bryant on drums and Dave Fitzgerald, for me the main man on flute and tin whistle, also weigh in with exemplary contributions. Give your ears and soul a treat - buy it!