Reviewed by Tony Cummings

There's a bit on "Busy Life" (track two here) where a jazz groove propelled by Matt Wanstall's Oscar Peterson-ish piano and David Woodman's Wes Montgomery-ish guitar playing over which diva Elaine Hanley joins in to briefly duet with Nick 'Breakspear' Jones and the thing soars to Heaven. There are many more magical moments crammed into this set from Manchester's visionary prophet/performance artist as he creates his own idiosyncratic collage of rock, pop, jazz, reggae and Messianic music over which his raspingly unmusical voice growls lyrics of wit, challenge, poignancy and power. My pre-production copy didn't have lyrics and this is one album where you'll want to pour over every line as Nick explores how we can find the key to unlocking the enigma of life's meaning. While I go in search of those lyrics I'll continue to listen and think. One standout offers biblical scholar Dr Howard Morgan exploring the inner chasms of Amen while throughout Nick's head-dizzying observations on the "daddy of all roller coaster rides" - the Christian life - are never less than thought provoking. One of Christendom's most talented figures delivers another unique music statement.

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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