Reviewed by Chris Tozer

Phil Keaggy is an amazing guitarist. After three decades in harness, he still retains the ability to play incredible music in almost every conceivable style, from classical to heavy metal. Until now, I have never come across anyone capable of emulating the maestro. But, having heard this album, I am prepared to stick my neck out and suggest that Chris Pusey could well be the man to take on the mantle. ‘Back To Jerusalem’ is full of awesome solos of the weightier variety. These alone would guarantee him session work for life. But Pusey is also brilliant on the Spanish guitar and he produces some moments of pure bliss. Unfortunately, his songwriting is currently no match for his musicianship. Ponderous melodies, and lyrics stuffed with hackneyed phrases, do not make great songs. But as debut albums are rarely graced with classic tracks, I am confident that time spent in developing more original lyrics will eventually provide him with better material for his next release. Even Keaggy, with the longest CCM discography on record, has never been rated as a great songwriter. I am certain that we have not heard the last from Chris Pusey.

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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