Reviewed by Phil Thomson

Anarchic dissonance seeps out of every groove of these seven long songs; in other words, gospel with attitude, delivered so quirkily you just have to stick with it to find out where it's going to take you next. The arrangements are paired down to a dangerous minimum, the production has an almost amateurish innocence and the total effect of the package is absolutely electric. This Rev from Michigan City mesmerises with every breath; such an amazing voice, such sensitivity to her material - and no wonder when we discover her track record as a 12 year old performer, teenage missionary and pastor (ordained at 15) - one who just has to make her presence felt wherever she goes. You see, when a key band member fell ill, Tina Redden went into the studio anyway and played everything (14 different instruments), hardly breaking stride. She wrote the songs, so she knows her stuff. The result is such a wonderful take on how to communicate on a highly individual basis, and it works a treat. The effect is reminiscent of 1930's old time gospel without the crackle and hiss. Tina L Redden (the 'L' stands for Laverne - so you know where she's coming from) has to be the finest gospel vocalist in many a long year. Am I sounding positive enough? One final comment: the last track '"The Day Christ Died", is probably the very best Christian soul track you will ever hear, and I really mean that. For collector, for connoisseur, for goodness sake, search this out.

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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