Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

PFR, having completed their journey from fluffy popsters to modern rock contenders, have called it a day and leave us with their best yet. PFR's lyrics may wax poetic but explore a range of themes and truths that are provocative - dying to self, blame culture, God's unending love for us, the influence of the media, etc, etc. Wearing their influences on their (album) sleeves, it's still possible to trace the ghosts of other bands also resting in peace - The Beatles, Crowded House, Badfinger, etc, but this time they have married some solid rocky moments with enough interesting frills to bury critics who accuse them of being mere copyists. 'Them' opens with a barrage of incisive rockers "Pour Me Out", "Daddy Never Cried" and the mellower "Anything" before the tender and beautiful "Fight" takes centre stage. This poetic ballad paints a picture of hurt and encourages us to support the crushed and point them towards the Son of Man. The title song is a sad song attacking the cynical media whose irresponsibility damages both the subject as well as those who watch and read what is produced. The melodic rocker "Line Of Love" contains a wonderful quirky piano solo which stopped me in my tracks but nothing prepared me for "Face To Face". This atmospheric song addresses the undeserved grace we receive from God and it also contains the most sublime violin solo which adds emotional intensity. There's an entertainment adage which suggests that you should always leave your audience wanting more. PFR's excellent swan-song leaves me sad knowing there is no more. Ho hum, I'll miss them!

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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