Reviewed by Ian Webber

After achieving some success on US radio with tracks from their first full length major release, these American pop rockers return with an "unplugged" follow up. Included in this collection is a mixture of reworked and brand new material. Opening with the soulful "Broken Man," we are immediately treated to a new track that with its bluesy swagger will please any fan of Eric Clapton. Whilst a soulful feel is maintained throughout the project, the four lads quickly return to more familiar ground with a radio-friendly pop sound on the remaining cuts. 'Unplugged' may, however, mislead as the material included is far from all acoustic. There is a stripped back feel and the reworked offerings are sufficiently different from their originals to warrant the tag. What does come across is a rich warmth and depth of tone with the new settings. "Start A Fire" could feature the likes of Bruno Mars or Jason Mraz and not feel out of place. I can also imagine many radio listeners joining in with the chorus of "Who You Are" as it rolls along. Not only is the music catchy, the lyrics add an extra dimension, "Solid Rock" being a particular favourite with its vulnerable and honest exploration of brokenness.

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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