AMG Review of Ultimate Collection

Jared Johnson
All Music Guide

Ultimate in every conceivable meaning of the word, this double-disc collection is generous in length and prolific in its impact. Though not the first career retrospective for St. James (a "best of" appeared in 2003), this collection culls a healthy portion of her hits from 2005 and later. These include "Lion," written for the soundtrack of The Chronicles of Narnia; "America," the theme for the 2005 National Day of Prayer, and a holiday arrangement from the WOW 2006 Christmas compilation. The evidence for St. James' influence on the CCM scene for such an extended time is in abundance. The singer's brilliant voice and passionate delivery never reach a low moment. Early hits like "God," "Mirror" and "Abba Father" are mixed with rigorous rock anthems like "God Help Me." Nine of St. James' previous albums are represented in the collection's 25 tracks, making this the best introduction for new listeners or an undeniable representation for fans who have missed an album or two along the way.