Reviewed by Graeme Crawford

As the title suggests, this EP is a compilation from the sessions for the Pennsylvania-based rockers' 'Messengers' album. It is very much a mixed affair, with three separate elements. The first two tracks are ones that didn't make the album, although "Mosely" was included on the vinyl version of 'Messengers' as a bonus track. Three short instrumental tracks follow, including the previously released "Carol Of The Bells". The final two tracks are demo versions of tracks from 'Messengers'. The album is well packaged, with hand written notes from the band about each track giving the meaning, inspiration or reasons why it was cut. The demo tracks are not very dissimilar to the final album versions and the instrumentals are interesting but lack the ability to hold your attention. Serious fans of the band will find this worthwhile for the first two tracks, "Mosely" and the excellent "Chasing The Dragon", but the more casual listener will find the lack of serious new material off-putting.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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