Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Sounding at times a little like late '80s Steven Curtis Chapman, some of these songs ("Music Mountain", "Parents") zip along with fresh poppy exuberance and good feelings. At other times there are some moody things going on. "Another Sunset" is a good example with a reggae lilt and a lyric tackling risk taking. The title tune came after Gary worked with Chinese students and they gave him this name! Another song, the bright poppy "Tears In Your Eyes", was also born out of his experiences as a short term missionary in China. The recent James Cameron film gives "Titanic" a fresh relevance as the song reflects on the sinking ship as a metaphor for human pride that denies God. Swirling synths introduce the haunting "Two Shall Be One" which has an optimistic Gary living day by day patiently waiting for his wedding day to arrive. Some lovely sax embellishes the album's closing cut "Little Bit Of Soul In There" over a strong keyboard riff and it's clear that Mr Houston is a songwriter of the old school. If you enjoy '70s singer/songwriters who take their craft seriously, this will appeal.

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.