Reviewed by Phil Thomson

Someone is playing an acoustic guitar in the next room - it might be 12 string, might be a try out before going into the studio. The lyrics barely rise above loss and cross. Yet, one way or another, we are drawn into a very personal declaration of intent. This album is home grown, and will be heard at all costs, one suspects. After that, it is hard to establish if this CD is about ministry or about music, about evangelism or art. Certainly, it isn't entertainment, it doesn't take us anywhere spiritually and the "it'll do" mindset leaves me wondering just exactly where it fits in. You cannot fault the desire, but, honestly, it isn't comfortable listening. Every song sounds like the first take for a demo, the guide track upon which to build, the idea which will spawn the setting. I blame easy access to the software. In the old days, there was a certain mystery to laying down a track. You had to seek out the wisdom of those who knew better. Nowaydays, it can be death by a thousand cuts - and this is only seven. Adrian Cherrill wants to get something across, and there is no doubt about what is on his heart; but this isn't the way to do it. He sings hesitantly and with no interpretation, no depth or sensitivity, he plays guitar but not very well, and he's penned a few well-meaning songs over the years which he now feels it is time we heard. There is some promising writing buried in the welter of mediocrity, in particular, "My God (So Faithful And True)" and he gives a nod in the direction of Chris Martin - but must we listen to it in this form?

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.