Reviewed by Ian Hayter

This is the third album by singer/songwriter Rayson. Having spent some time in pastoral work in his native Australia, he and his wife and three children moved to Tennessee in 2005 to concentrate on his music ministry. Two years later, his son Sam, aged 11, died in a tragic accident. This album is born out of that experience. The 13 songs (and a final reprise of the moving "You Carry Us") are almost psalmic in their emotional mixture of questioning, lamenting and deep, deep trust in God. At times Rayson's style and voice sound like Barry Manilow, with powerful vocals and lush piano-led arrangements; at other times they're more subdued. The music is memorable and the lyrics are full of passion, with a sense of both grief and wonder that most listeners will be able to identify with. "You Carry Us" is a particularly strong expression of faith in God in the face of violence, tragedy and terrorism, and there are songs which seem to be Mike's own way of coming to terms with his son's death - "Making Memories", "Blessed (Sam's Song)" and "There's Hope". If you really listen to the lyrics, this is not any easy album, and it can, at times, seem a bit like being a fly on the wall at a therapy session. But there's no doubting the passion behind the songs, nor is there any doubt that God is the rock in whom the singer finds his security.

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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