Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

Over the years, Middlesex-based band leader Scott Willcox has ploughed a fairly solitary furrow in the field of Christian-tinged big band music and this, his fourth album, sees the man continue to push musical boundaries even in his 80th year with the helpful of a fabulous 10-piece band. Proceedings kick off in technically impressive fashion with the complex 5/4 exposition "Bouncing Back" before all involved get the opportunity to show off their ability to improvise around one chord on the title track. To add some variety, Willcox has employed the services of respected jazz singer Georgia Mancio on a handful of tunes including a fairly straightforward reading of the old folk standard "The Water Is Wide" whilst her vocals help give a fresh spin on the familiar 1 Corinthians 13 "love is patient" scripture on "Listen Up!" Willcox and his band are at their best when pushing the experimental boat out and the likes of the driving "Can't Complain" - featuring an impressive recording debut from Gabriel Garrick on trombone - and the fascinatingly abstract "Mixed Feelings" are arguably this release's highlights on account of band's sheer talent and willingness to take a chance musically. Only a slightly banal version of the old hymn "Be Thou My Vision" (renamed "Slane" here) doesn't quite hit the mark on this otherwise enthralling and captivating offering from Mr Willcox and his talented associates.

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.

This track data is supplied by the Cross Rhythms CD/DVD review library. Please note that CD tracks may vary according to release region or product version.