Reviewed by Jeremy Chalmers

This sampler not only comes with £12 of vouchers but with a lemon scratch and sniff CD and is a good showcase. Bands showing their wares are Supervision, the foursome from Liverpool who produce passionate rock music with an uplifting rough edge. Next are Titus, a band from Newcastle with origins stretching back to Hong Kong; musically this band is very energetic but are let down by Pak Chum's vocals which not only sound slightly unnatural and forced but don't compliment the sounds they are producing. Musically and lyrically however this band have a lot to offer. Quench have gone from strength to strength first appearing on the music scene in 2001. They don't feel the need to be light-footed with the lyrics and combine them with gutsy rhythms impressive harmonies. Quench emphasise the value of worship from the heart. Kato though are definitely the band that sticks out on this CD; with Keith Ayling's beautiful, soft and raw voice and honest yet inspiring lyrics this pop rock band are worth knowing. Beggars Fortune are an acoustic rock band and as they're from Nashville rather stick out alongside the Brtis. However, they're an engaging bunch with very clear lyrics and clever guitar work. This is a well rounded compilation CD definitely worth investigating.

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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