Reviewed by Catherine McHugh

Global Mode is an enthusiastic, all-girl, in-yer-face American trio with some considerable talent between them. Some of that talent is non-singing, however, the group being as much a dance group as a vocal one. The vocalist has a good and powerful voice. The tempo varies from track to track, with some saxophone appearing here and there. The album has a theatrical feel to it - I think some of the material would be particularly appropriate for musicals or dramas (which is already happening judging by the inlay card). However, this album does leave much to be desired. The general message of the music is an exhortation to preach the Gospel, but one can feel rather Bible-bashed on reaching the final track while the attempt to reflect different world music styles from track to track is too ambitious considering the music is largely synth base and on the China track, disturbingly discordant. There is a lack of sensitivity and depth in places, with the singing being slightly coarse and the music slightly synthetic.

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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