Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Sometimes words get in the way with music. I know that Cross Rhythms is primarily committed to 'the song' complete with lyrics which express something (however well or badly) of the Christian life. But there are times when our spirits long for music without the distractions and specifics of lyricists, music that takes us upwards and outwards, maybe even music that takes us to distant galaxies and visions and dreams. Composer Michael Neil says in his Christian Testi­mony " most of us who possess a sensitive spirit to the mysterious movement of life will agree that music plays not just a part but a whole in the meaning of life. Why even the planets omit a musical tone. There is music in the universe! How can men claim sole rights to the invention of music?" Synthesizer programmer Michael Neil doesn't credit his own human inventiveness, nor some false New Age god, as his inspirer, but since his conversion acknowledges God as found through faith in Jesus Christ as his music's inspiration. There are four pieces on this album, each vast vistas of shimmering sound. The title track inspired by Reve­lation 8, "Spirit Of Singing Waters" (John 4:14); "John 3:8" and "In The Darkest Hours" (Genesis 3). No doubt there will be those narrow brothers and sisters in the Church who, latching on to the standard accusa­tions of 'guilt by association' will say this music is 'New Age' and of the Enemy. But, others will find in 'Good­bye To The Greenlands' rich, sound explorations which will enrich you in ways that tapes of trivial Christian muzak cannot hope to

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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