Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

It's been seven years since Cross Rhythms Villas were sent a Tommy Hicks album to review so this new release is very welcome. "Come To Bring A Message" sets out the group's stall pretty well with a nice groove and an old fashioned rawness. The two false endings and clavinet driven funk also give it a nice edge. Tommy Hicks is a good old fashioned gospel shouter and the group simply deliver a stripped down funky sound that if you enjoy the Blind Boys Of Alabama or classic Mighty Clouds Of Joy, this will definitely appeal to you. Of course this has the fraction of the budget but with strong songs and great performances, it really ministers. The testifying "I'll Fly Away" is great and songs like "I Won't Forget" and "Glory Land" are definite examples of how much soul music owes to gospel. I love "God Got His Eyes On you" which features some great vocal work. Basically if you're after soulful, good, strong, old fashioned gospel, then you'll love the vibe of this.

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.