Reviewed by James Lewis

I find it quite ironic that in recent interviews the band have dismissed their debut as merely a demo that accidentally got released and went big. The only complaint I had about the whole album was that in places it sounded too clean. I'm pleased to say the sound here is, if anything, slightly grubbier, and all the better for it. This record is a slightly more cohesive effort than the first although it still requires a fairly eclectic taste ranging from acoustic to post-grunge (the new buzz phrase!) to King's X-style bass driven semi-metal. There are some absolute gems on offer here, such as the melancholy ballad "World I Know" with its lyrics grappling with the beauty and horror of a fallen world. The lyrics as a whole are as spiritual but probably slightly less obvious in their Christian content. It's still there, though, as contained in the gospel-tinged hope of the album closer, "Reunion". Other songs are more negative, and I doubt you'd want to meet Ed Roland's acquaintances judging by the lyrics. "Smashing Young Man", "Untitled" and "December" are all rants against unspecified people denouncing legalism and hypocrisy, although hope is offered as well as anger. Mr Roland's vocals are a joy to listen to, as ever, ranging from a gruff post-grunge growl to emotive vocals with a warmth reminiscent of fellow Georgian, Michael Stipe, and sometimes switching mid-song from one to the other. If Tony gave their last one 10 out of 10 surely this record cannot be worth any less.

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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