Reviewed by Alex Figgis

In the wake of 'modern' trends in music, it becomes increasingly difficult to define any one particular musical genre.  Within the hard music sphere, for example, there does seem to be a handful of bands bent upon - for want of a better word - maintaining a classic 'metal' feel to their music.  Normandy is one such band, featuring husband and wife team Norman and Amanda (Mandy) Stevens (no guesses as to how they derived the band's name!).  'Denied' is to my knowledge their debut album, adequately demonstrating both Norman and Mandy to be eloquent musicians.  Though the mix is a little uneven in places, on the whole 'Denied' is both well arranged and produced.  One slight niggle is the lack of drums.  Apart from the haunting title cut, Normandy employ a drum machine.and it shows.  On the whole, the album exudes some good tones underpinning intelligently written songs addressing various issues, from inner struggle ("Denied") and wrestling with hypocrisy ("Superficial Spiritual"), to straightforward witness ("Heaven Calling").  All in all, a good debut from a promising band.  Watch this space.

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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