Reviewed by Tom Whitman

This collection of acoustic recordings from Gotee brings together previously unreleased songs and well known tracks from established artists such as Jennifer Knapp and Jeff Deyo. Powerpop band Relient K offer a welcome surprise in the stripped down song "Who I Am Hates Who I've Been", gentle and simple tinkling piano under guitars and honest self-assessment from Matthew Thiessen. All the songs exemplify polished acoustics, yet the advantages of certain inclusions are questionable. The Jennifer Knapp demo of "Into You" feels hollow, both in production and delivery. And though Sonicflood's "I Want To Know You" is a personal highlight for many fans, the poppy version here doesn't sit alongside the bigger sounding passionate live version. "Everything And More" by StorySide:B is the undoubted highlight of the collection, a lush guitar solo at the finale with guitar sounds coupled wonderfully throughout. The impassioned melody soars as the booming deep bass and cracking percussion sit tightly underneath. If only to hear this song, 'Gotee Acoustic' may just be worth buying. At times Sarah Kelly's raw bluesy voice on "Take Me Away" reminds me of KT Tunstall, though it hints at a rougher cigarette blues tradition. Paul Wright's live version of "Sky Falling Down" features towards the climax of the CD, with a laid-back Jack Johnson storytelling vibe. It's predictable but also soulful and drawing. Like many compilations, this is a hit or miss effort.

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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