Reviewed by Chris Berry

This is a taster to a number of albums released by bands who have not, as yet, been signed by any of the Christian majors. Unfortunately, time has now run out for Crisis, who feature here, as they have now gone their separate ways following their swansong at Crossfire. "Better Place", one of their best offerings, is here from their 'The Missing Piece' album and just why it has not been picked up even for a compilation album by one of the big three I'll never know. It's an ideal vehicle for the talented guitar-based sound and lead singer Mike Salt's gutsy vocals - with a kind of Simple Minds feel. There's "Iron Birds", a great hard rock track from Crucifer, Logical Bonds' charged up "Danger" with the ever improving (and still only tender-aged) Ruth on lead vocals, and there's a country influenced, big production style "Follow Me" from Freedom (not the Leeds Freedom incidentally - these are far more polished). It's a great ballad, and once again is worthy of a better place. Kissing Earth, from Scarborough, turn up with "Searching For Love" from their 'Forever' 4-track cassette and it's clear that they're going to be around for a while - but again, they could do with a record deal. And there's Tony Cooke with typical praise and worship influenced, 60s style "Give Him Your Tomorrow" - lovely voice. Isn't it time that some of these songwriting cliques which only foster growth of already established talent started bringing in some of the lesser known guys, Tony deserves a break. The music throughout the demo is of a 'look what you're missing' variety. Small & Hairy, God bless you, you're certainly making sure as best you can that the Christian music industry of the UK at least is aware of even greater talent which as yet remains largely untapped.

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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