Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Back in 2001 Mike Rimmer called London's Owen Deacon "something of a musical genius" and really this intriguingly eclectic songsmith is truly that. Seemingly comfortable with R&B, reggae and jazz stylings, his music is a heady cocktail of grooves and influences while always he relentlessly pursues an uncompromising gospel message which, as it explains in the extensive sleevenotes, is "a plea for us all to crossover in the biblical sense of the word from darkness into light." One cut that stood out was "Every Step Of The Way" where over a funky programmed accompaniment Owen rasps and whoops a flamboyantly soulful vocal. On other cuts he's joined by Caroline Lea and Dave Barker on vocals while throughout the listener's attention is held despite these tracks being recorded over a pretty lengthy period of time. If your appetite was whetted by Owen's 'My God, Mon Ami' this diverse 16-song collection will confirm Owen as one of Britain's most original gospel talents.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.