Reviewed by Rose Edwards

The Northern Ireland-based melodic rock band here manage to convey their passion with their snappy alternative rock. Frontman Scott McNamara's strong vocals occasionally overshadow the guitars and drums but usually it all comes together for the anthemic choruses. Although the lyrics sometimes resort to a few Christian clichés the band redeem themselves with punchy rock swagger which on their best cuts resembles the sound of mainstream big hitters the Goo Goo Dolls. "My God" has a strong message of faith and there are a couple of surprising moments of true beauty on this seven-song project, like the track "Mockingbird" with its melodic piano over which Scott and Jaye McNamara sing the tender lyrics ("Sweetly I sleep/Still the Mockingbird/Teases and taunts upon your every word/As the stars collide only the redeemed survive"). Overall, 'Salvation Sings' is a strong debut that bodes well for the future.

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.