Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

With a stripped down, atmospheric, rootsy sound, Jeff Larson's haunting voice floats enigmatically from the speakers on this superb album. Aimed at the mainstream, Larson's poetic lyrics are left open to plenty of interpretation in a manner reminiscent of Bruce Cockburn. If you think there is too much superficial sloganeering in CCM, this will definitely appeal to you. Favourites for me include "Wake The Phoenix" which explores the messy aftermath of a relationship breakdown, the lovely "Coffee At Midnight" which is just Larson, a guitar and a harmonica. Simply beautiful. "Arizona Mile" is the most energetic here and "Blur The Line" is an atmospheric challenge to the emptiness of unthinking doubt. The album closes with '"Where Asian Prevails", which features some stunning work form a string quartet adding haunting touches to more of Larsen's poetic songwriting. If you're into lain Archer or Bruce Cockburn. this will be well worth checking out as a simply beautiful album.

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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