Reviewed by Tim Walker

Many moons ago I used to play in Damascus, a pretty typical 'church hall' band, ie, more enthusiasm than collective talent. Oh, and we made a tape, too; in one day with negligible budget. Why do I mention this? Because the first thing I thought of upon hearing the opening few songs on OF's album was that tape. Not that I'm accusing this band of being as bad as we were! It's just that the overall sound of the album bears some comparison. Thankfully, the biog sheet mentions that it was recorded in about 45 hours on a low budget, which largely exonerates any weaknesses in the production and its general 'one take' feel, the latter not necessarily a bad thing. Dave Pick produced the album, and indeed there's a very Eden Burning-esque sound in places, particularly with the use of mandolin and whistle - it's on these folkier tracks where OF shine, including my fave, "When She Danced". If I were producing this group, I would use rhythm mandolin more sparingly, it can get a tad monotonous. Still, at its best 'Against The Flow' is an enjoyable listen, from a band whom I think deserve more than a low budget and 45 hours.

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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