Reviewed by Andrew Coe

The latest from a California-based band led by Ian and Johnna Utile. All of the band's music is free to download on their website along with chord charts for their songs. The emphasis of 'Beautiful Slave' is to try and stop human trafficking and slavery, but through donations rather than album sales. The album itself opens with the title track which has a very strong alternative/nu-metal feel to it. The drum loops and heavy guitar riffs coupled with Johnna's ethereal vocals give the song a feel similar to rock band Evanescence. However, after this, the album seems to take a U-turn, and almost completely changes musical style. Apart from "Harmony" and "Dance With You" the remainder of the tracks are much quieter, often piano led, acoustic in their style. There is even an orchestral presence on "I Run To You", which one would not have foreseen from listening to the opening track. The album is broken up with two gospel messages about Jesus and who the Bible says he is, entitled "The Truth" and "The Life".

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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