Reviewed by Tom Lennie

Now this is a difficult one to categorise, for CR doesn't include a "Big Band" genre (can't think why!). It takes a bit of guts for a young Christian (Denver Bierman) to gather together a hot team of musos in attempt to recreate for the modern age the big band sound of the '30s and '40s - and all with an overt gospel message. There are three trumpet players, three saxophone players, two trombone players, a rhythm section as well as Denver's fine lead vocals and a full choir on selected tracks. The sound is novel, flamboyant, rousing and ever so compelling. For the musicianship is truly outstanding (hear the sequence of rhythm guitar, sax, drum-roll and trumpet/trombone breaks on track one for just one sample of the instrumental talent). The songs are varied and include a couple of gentler ballad types, such as the serious "Saved And Free" and the title track declaration, "Stand", complete with a full orchestra intro. I also like the Latino-styled "All To You" and their take on "Solid Rock", the only non-original track on the album. An exceptional sound from a combo who's goal has never been to make it big, but to be "good to go wherever the road leads".

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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