I Surrender All: 30 Classic Hymns (CD - 1997)

Personnel includes: Carman (vocals); Mark Casstevens (acoustic guitar); John Willis, Gary Burnette, Chet Atkins (electric gutiar); Sonny Garish (steel guitar); Terry Mcmillan (harmonica, percussion);David Huntsinger (piano); Ralph Lofton (Hammond B-3 organ); Pat Coil (keyboards); Gary Prim (synthesizer); Jackie Street, Duncan Mullin (bass); Steve Brewster, Scott Meeder, John Hammond (drums); Eric Darken (percussion); Lisa Cochran, Tim Davis, Ellen Dockery, Mike Eldred, Rod Fletcher, Stephanie Hall, Bonnie Keen, Michael English; Christ Church Choir.

Carmen is one of the most popular acts in contemporary Christian music, however, his appeal is a mystery. He is a passable vocalist, but a better singer could probably be found in any church choir. On this recording, he performs classic hymns, most in medley form. Some performances are hoaky, some are good -- especially the tracks with Christ Church Choir. Michael English and the late Chet Atkins also make appearances on this release. Carmen is okay at best, but he doesn't really surrender all when it comes to his performances on this album. God only knows why Carmen is so popular. ~ Tim Griggs minimize