Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Recorded live, this is good old fashioned rootsy rock'n'roll occasionally reminiscent of "70s Neil Young! Steve is even developing a bit of a Neil whine in places! Perhaps it's no surprise then that he gives away his own roots by playing tribute to Young in his faithful cover of "Heart Of Gold". Curiously for a live album, apart from applauding politely at the start and finish of songs, there isn't much of a sense of atmosphere here. The Overlanders backing band make a selection of supporting moves to underpin and strengthen Steve's voice and guitar without ever really drawing attention to themselves. Mixing some big anthemic songs like the title tune, "Live Not Die" and "Living For The Lord" with tenderer moments like "Port Augusta" and "Faith Hope And Love' works effectively. The latter is a little like "The Great Southland" part two with an inspirational kick to stir passion in Australian hearts. On the up stuff he occasionally strays into Bryan Adams territory but then there's nothing wrong with that, especially if you fancy playing some sad air guitar! The painful covering of Johnny Nash's "I Can See Clearly" can be forgiven. Possibly. The rest of this is pretty good and any man who closes his set with such a beautiful rendition of the worship song "Lover Of My Soul" is alright by me.

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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