Reviewed by Paul Keeble

ROCK!
White Chocolote



This album is linked to a ministry to people with life-controlling problems called House of Disciples (HOD) Life Recovery Center which, from a look at their website (www.houseofdisciples.com) seems to be doing a valuable work. It doesn't say anywhere but if some of the songwriters on this album are writing from an experience of recovery, then it gives an added dimension to the thanksgiving, praise and personal testimony that is the theme of the songs. Opener "You Are So Good To Me" weighs in with a meaty 70s rock sound reminiscent of Liberation Suite. Brass section, Hammond organ, harmonica, excellent lead guitar break, lively production, topped off with lead singer Darrin Morris's great rock voice. This is followed by "In All" which is also full of energy, but let down by somewhat hackneyed lyrics. Track 3, "Worthy" takes the tempo down and features two different vocalists, more tasty guitar... and if anything even more clichéd lyrics. Every song is personal worship; nothing wrong with the sentiments or sincerity, it is just that I'd like to see a bit more God-given creativity going into finding new ways of expressing them. A highlight is "Purpose In The Pain", an acoustic song with a sensitive arrangement and a lovely tune nicely sung by Jennifer Beddingfield. Overall, I enjoyed what is a well-played, classy, old-fashioned rock album. Not exactly cutting-edge (whatever that is), but who cares about that beyond the Cool Police? Good music is always good music.