Reviewed by Pippa Rimmer

Christendom's most intelligent and intuitive bands, America's Vigilantes Of Love were recently featured in our alt country piece but on this set they let go of the Americana influences for a sound which happilly explores their British pop influences. On 'Summershine' Bill Malonee's distinctive, crisp voice sings out over the raw, passionate melodies that have become VOL's trademark. Widely respected in the mainstream, VOL are a band with a difference. Refusing to be pigeon-holed by the CCM mafia, they defy convention by writing songs that other bands haven't even conceived yet. The opening track, "You Know That," sets the scene with a jaunty, jangly opening. Standouts include the quirky "I Could Be Wrong (But I Don't Think I Am)" and the punchy "Stand Beside Me (You've Got To)". If you're looking for obvious spiritual content, you'd be hard pressed to find it here. But that is no criticism. VOL are a band who are happy to write songs without constantly striving to preach in every line without actually compromising who they are as Christians. The wonderfully titled "Happy Being Lonely, Lonely Being Happy" starts with a soft acoustic guitar sound, then adds a layer of drums, all topped off with Malonee's unmistakable vocals. Intelligent, poetic and often esoteric, VOL have produced another gem.

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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