Reviewed by Rachel Eadon

Many Cross Rhythms readers will have already read the recent article about this veteran rocker. Tennessee singer/songwriter Rick is best known for being a member of '70s rock band The Outlaws, but that's not all he's been up to in his 25 years in CCM. 'Won't Fade Away' is his 12th solo album and it's nothing short of brilliant. The title track is a cracking introduction - it's big and it's loud, and the rest of the album continues in the same declarative tone. The album is heaving with upbeat, uplifting tracks like "I Love My Life" as well as slightly mellower, more worshipful songs like "Mercy Seat", a beautiful duet with Carrie Elder. Musically, it's deftly played with meaty guitar riffs, delightful string parts and even a mandolin, although some tracks are lyrically a little stylised. Having said that, 'Won't Fade Away' has a maturity which justifies its bold spiritual statements and plainly shows that despite this being Cua's first release for 10 years, the bass-playing maestro can still hold his own.

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