Reviewed by Jon Wilson

Those who took the time and effort to absorb Focused's first album will already appreciate what a powerful sound and message that this US team have. This album is definitely a good step forward as the band seem to have developed their originality further. The riffs are interesting and captivating throughout, the songs are usually of a strong, slow tempo, but some of the tracks such as "No One" and "Hurts To Ask" have moments of sheer thrash and frustration therapy. What is so cool about Focused are the times when the intense noise relents leaving just the bass, minimal drums and feedback underneath the vocals. Tim Mann's voice goes from rough to smooth and have a very hypnotic effect on the listener. The songs really allow you to focus on the lyrics, which thankfully are provided on the album sleeve. They talk mostly about struggle against emotions, materialism and lies that cover truth and the search for God's own mind and heart within. Sermon stuff! This is a band I listen to when I want to restore my focus on God and trials ahead. Appropriate band name. If you like intense and aggressive hardcore, you will like Focused.

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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