Reviewed by Steven Bridge

Morse is dead, but long live Oxfordshire's As If... as they minister in music to the Thames Valley and beyond. 10 years after recording their first classic album 'Forget Me Not' the group release an unplugged recording of their finest from their three album projects to date. From that unforgettable debut through 'Strange Blue Thing' to 'In Full Bloom' come many of the songs, here given inventive, Celtic-tinged acoustic treatment. Proceeding out of a request to do a maiden acoustic set in Maidenhead during 2004 before an enthusiastic audience with ages ranging between 18-70, similar performances have leant themselves to greater intimacy and provided fresh inspiration for the band. Removed from their rockier environs, for this reviewer, the band have hit a gold stream from the throne of the eternal King. Beautifully crafting their words to excellent arrangements often featuring the dazzling violin work of "guest" Tony Collins, this grafting team deserve a wider audience. This reviewer was moved to tears listening to the first six tracks "Love Is", "Please", "Be Thou Now", "Winter", "Wait And Wonder" and "I Still Believe", as the lilting melodies with edifying lyrics soothed the soul. Winter will never be the same again once you have heard this resonating, relevant song. "Winter has its way of clouding the vision...welcome to the winter of my discontent...my God come in!" Awesome! An album that offers an hour plugged out from the hustle and bustle of life to refresh the heart. Splendid!

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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