Reviewed by Paul Niemiec

"A non-boy band! Made up of boys (well young men actually!)." Something of a compliment from teenagers listening to this excellent album. It's young, fresh and very well put together. "Captivating lyrics," said my 15 year old daughter Rebecca, and she's right. Almost every track is strongly Gospel based, words always accompanied by excellent instrumentals and production. There is just one song which opens with some pretty cheesy lyrics - but given the overall quality it is easy to forgive. How many of us are both "ready for monday" and ready to thank our school for all they have done for us? These guys are even featuring the school badge on the inner (sounds sad? It's not - the school can undoubtedly be proud of them.) Mixed backgrounds bring mixed influences, mostly rock, also very good use of atmospheres on various tracks. Being ancient I could here echoes of Bowie in some of the vocals, my daughter heard words "speaking of the true reality of young people's lives today." Not a bad combination in a first album. Doubtless there will be more to come from this excellent new group; if they continue to stay this close to God in their offerings we feel sure that he will bless them greatly. Manchester (UK), Canada, USA and Bolivia come together to sing of the Lord (not many albums you can say that about!).

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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