Charlie Groves - Searchlight

Published Tuesday 6th March 2007
Charlie Groves - Searchlight
Charlie Groves - Searchlight

STYLE: Roots/Acoustic
RATING 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 21872-3441
LABEL: Independent
FORMAT: CD Album
ITEMS: 1

Reviewed by Rob Andrews

Now back in the UK and living in Bristol after a five year spell in Cape Town, South Africa, Charlie is, of course, best known as a long-time worship leader with Holy Trinity Brompton. But in the main these aren't congregational worship songs. Rather, this home-produced collection is a reflection of where, in spiritual terms, Charlie has been recently, and where he finds himself now. This begins with the catchy "I Believe", while the quirky "Neil And Ryan" is a nod towards Charlie's US music heroes Neil Young and Ryan Adams, I was surprised at how these gentle, but often deep, acoustic guitar-based tunes overlaid with Charlie's mellow voice grew on me. It demands little of the listener, which is why perhaps it is so attractive in its simplicity. Towards the end of this 10-track offering, "Never Been This Way" stands out for me as a real change in style - very much like the indie-pop of the early '90s band the Beloved. Definitely one for a Sunday afternoon when contemplating life and the gritty reality of the world we live in.

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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Reader Comments

Posted by Adam Wedd in Tolworth init @ 18:23 on Jan 14 2008

This truly is an awesome album! One to put on when you get in from a busy time out and about. Let it minister to you, challenge you and comfort you!!

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