Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

We have to admit that here at Cross Rhythms we have always been fans of Michael Anderson's expressive voice and strong songwriting. From his A&M material to the pair of CCM albums released in the '90s, there's no doubting the talent of the man. As a songwriter he's had huge hits in the mainstream with country star recording "Maybe It Was Memphis" and John Fogerty covering "No Love In You". Both of these songs are presented here along with a pile of Anderson originals. Recording at the intersection of rock, country and blues, it's always been Anderson's plaintive wail that emotes the his well penned lyrics. This is closer in style to his A&M material and I have no idea what the spiritual state of the man currently is but he's served a fine collection of songs that tell of love, loss and the struggles of a man. Overall this is a collection of songs that would sound fine in a packed, sweaty, smoky bar and for all I know that could be where Anderson is playing these days. Apart from the hits, there's plenty to enjoy from the blues of "Temptation (In A Little Black Dress)" and "Drive Daddy Drive" to the Americana of "Raymond Chandler Said" and the pure blues boogie of the dodgily titled "Cockrocket" (it's a car I think!) Anyway, after all these years, it is just good to have some new music from the man!

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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