Reviewed by Jonathan Sinclair

The Stranger Edward Allen Jones initially started as a solo project by Nicholas Presley, who had moved to Neath, Wales in an attempt to aid his recovery from a drug addiction. Within a year of starting, the project grew and by mid 2009 included band members Martin Jones and Mike Edwards. As well as playing psychedelic rock in The Stranger Edward Allen Jones they also play together in their church's worship band. This self-titled mini-album includes seven tracks with more highs than lows. The first standout "Spaceman" starts with a strong instrumental intro leading into the vocals. Another aspect of the set is they way it breaks up the rock style with the good acoustic "Dharma Bum" and also the interlude "The Bull Roars", an instrumental piece that helps keep the album fresh and not repetitive. Another standout is "Get Out", a beautifully crafted piece that is a cry for redemption, written by Nicholas on his return to following Jesus to express what he was thinking and going through. It comes across like a modern day Psalm with the narrator calling for help with lyrics such as "I'm trying to get out" and "Take my hand Lord lift me out" to a response from God in "He will not deny you". The passion and honesty that is found in this project help create something that is not only instrumentally solid but lyrically strong. The only slight criticism is that despite being vocally capable Nicholas sounds rather nervous. Still, not a bad start.

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