Love Is The Answer: 24 Songs of Faith, Hope and Love (Universal South, 2004)

The good news is that Glen Campbell sounds great. His crystal clear tenor is instantly recognizable, and it shines throughout this two-disc collection of gospel standards and contemporary songs of inspiration.

Unfortunately, Campbell is backed by what often sounds like a 1980's karaoke soundtrack. The uninspired support undermines what should have been an interesting, soulful effort. It is perhaps telling that Campbell laid down the vocal tracks in Arizona, while the studio pickers stayed in Nashville.

Among the standards, the western swing-styled "Where Could I Go But To The Lord" stands out, and the arrangement on "Love Lifted Me" recalls his classic "Gentle On My Mind." On the more contemporary material, "People Get Ready" and "Lean On Me" are strong songs that rise above the mundane production.

Campbell is a major league performer who is due for yet another comeback. This new release, however, is clearly targeted to his Branson audience and unlikely to gain Campbell the respect, or new audience, he deserves.