Reviewed by Paddy Hudspith

This collection of self-penned and home-produced tracks follows a first volume, 2004's 'Journey To The Son', and sadly suffers from many of the same shortcomings. Rick states in the sleevenotes that "music was created by the Lord for his Word, and his Word fits perfectly into it." Even though I'm happy to hear Scripture sung and read on any occasion (as Roman does constantly on this collection), I'm not sure I can agree with Rick's sentiment when under-developed song ideas and earnest but unattractive production values are the hallmark of both Synthetic Music Machine projects that have appeared thus far. I don't doubt Rick's sincerity and effort but, as when the self-confessed "guitarist from the sixties" tries to go techno and experimental on "Face The Light", it's a case of reach far exceeding grasp. "Hope In The Lord" steals the hypnotic drum track straight from Bruce Springsteen's "Streets Of Philadelphia" but does nothing worthwhile with it. "Going Forward" has an interesting idea for a hook, but this gets abandoned after the opening moments. My favourite track is "Be Still," an instrumental piece of gentle synth washes which escapes relatively unscathed despite a few unnecessary production flourishes. I would advise Rick to work alongside a co-producer who can help to hone his song ideas and focus his musical abilities more clearly. 'Plateaus Of Praise' is available free to download.

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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