In their latest project, Faith: A Hymns Collection, they use those amazing voices to recreate and interpret the classic hymns that three of the four of them grew up with. Reaching beyond their traditional pop style, this CD features many musical sounds and genres; including blues, gospel, and even some perfectly placed pop/rock.

The CD opens with "On Christ the Solid Rock," a strong beginning with beautiful harmonies that leave no doubt that Avalon’s signature vocals are alive and well.

A delightful pop version of "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee" starts with a solo voice, then builds to an exuberant and spirited celebration worthy of a great Christmas Eve service.

"Great is Thy Faithfulness," the third track, is a duet with Melissa Greene and Janna Long. While the girls’ voices are as beautiful and true as always, I was disappointed with this rendition. I have always loved the power of this song, and this soft, gentle interpretation does not seem to do it justice. Make no mistake; it is beautiful and heartfelt. It just lacked the strength I have come to love from this hymn.

However, that needed strength can be found in the next track, "In Christ Alone," Avalon’s radio release from this CD. In this song, the music is accentuated with exciting and creative percussion that almost has an African feel to it. As it progresses, the music builds, the harmonies enrich, and the voices soar with the power that comes from calling Christ our Savior. This hymn is a complex and exciting musical delight.

Similarly, "It is Well with My Soul" is both intense and dramatic. It begins with a single voice and distant, ethereal, almost heavenly-sounding accompaniment. It seems to move between a soft pop and a powerful gospel sound. This is a fabulous interpretation of a beautiful hymn favorite. Deep percussion and unique orchestration combine with rich vocals to create a magnificent song.

"I’ll Fly Away" is a full-fledged, jazz-piano driven, gospel spiritual that will have you tapping your toes and singing "Hallelujah!" This one should get ‘em dancing in the isles! Although I know Avalon consists of just four vocalists, they somehow sound like an entire church choir in this spiritual hymn.

"Holy, Holy, Holy" could take your breath away with its powerful voices and rich, perfectly blended harmonies. Although this song is used merely as a lead-in to "Blessed Assurance," it sounded so good, I was disappointed it was so short. However, since "Blessed Assurance" is such an energetic hymn full of delightful, dancing harmonies, I soon forgot what I might have been missing.

"The Jesus Medley," which contains both "Tis So Sweet" and "Jesus Loves Me," is a soft, gently swinging song with beautiful acoustic guitar accompaniment.

My favorite song on Faith is "How Great Thou Art." It starts simply with Greg Long’s smooth voice. The sound grows as it adds layers of instruments and each of the other voices. This is a fabulous interpretation and exactly what a hymn remake should be, powerful and glorious! This is truly Avalon at its best.

Proving they can handle a wide variety of genres and still sound marvelous, "Amazing Grace" is a jazzed-up, totally fun blues version of this classic hymn.

"Total Praise" is a song Avalon has been singing live at their concerts. According to Janna Long, "It’s sort of like the new ‘Doxology.’" This is the song they often use to close their shows. "Total Praise" lifts up the Lord and is a beautiful summary of all that has come before. Their chorus of ascending Amen’s at the end sent chills down my spine and brought tears to my eyes – fabulous!

Faith closes with a beautiful song, "For Freedom." This is an emotional and patriotic tribute to our soldiers. Greg Long says, "It’s a thank you to men and women in the military who risk everything for freedom. Not only does it pay tribute to them, but it also gives thanks to their families, parents, husbands, wives, and children." The tears that welled up in my eyes during "Total Praise" rolled down my cheeks during this touching song. It is a beautiful ending to a very special CD.

Avalon fans will find plenty to love in this CD, as will anyone who finds special comfort and meaning in our traditional Christian hymns. For those who find the old hymns boring and outdated, Faith: A Hymns Collection may just change your mind. Avalon successfully brings new life and excitement to these hymns with passionate interpretations and their ever true, powerful voices. This CD is destined to become a favorite.