Reviewed by Paul Keeble

This is a nicely put together album of songs from a Florida-based singer/songwriter with a contemporary sound (compare the woh-oh-ohs of "Chains Break" or "I Wouldn't Trade" with Embrace's recent single "Follow You Home"). Tracks vary between up-tempo, such as openers "All The Brighter" and "Chains Break" and later "I Wouldn't Trade", slower, more reflective ("Christ In Me", "How You Love Me") and mid-paced ("Down To Love", "Gravity", "My Only Answer"). Several of the tracks have an anthemic feel, particularly closer "Rock Of Endless Ages". My probable favourite however is the hymn-like "Jesus Is All I Need" with a great opening line - "When I fall, I fall on mercy" - and a piano and strings arrangement. A well-placed island of reflection contrasting with the songs before and after. Production is tidy and the playing and arrangements are tight and economical with Austin's excellent voice showcased by some effective backing vocal arrangements. My main criticism is of the lyrics all being expressions of personal devotion, invariably of the positive and uplifting kind, though with some nice lines such as in "Gravity": "Like gravity/You're pulling me/Into you/Into you". Yes, I know such sentiments are valid and important, but in isolation from the wider context of a suffering world and the times things do not work out and the questions and doubts raised - all present in the Psalms - it is a bit one-dimensional.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.