Reviewed by Aaron Ferris

Richard Barnes, a Cambridge-based artist, opens up this debut release with the title track stressing "God is faithful". Certainly God has been faithful to Richard as his album notes explain. Following a clear calling from God, Richard resigned from his day job in 2001 to focus on his music ministry. The music here does not hide the fact that it is for the glorification of God, there are no half hearted messages to be found on this disc. "This is my God, I serve no other" is the cry from song two. Each track goes on to display the passionate heart of this talented instrumentalist. The intense effects throughout the album generate atmospheric periods, which build up expectations at times of a thumping hardcore chorus to follow but this never quite occurs. Richard has written, performed, recorded, produced and mastered all 10 tracks single-handedly and is releasing this album through his own label, RB7Records. 'Faithful' closes proceedings with "Time" focussing on Jesus' return. "We do not know the hour and we do not know the way" but one thing we know is that Richard has a burden to reach many with his uncompromising dance music.

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.