Reviewed by Peter Bate

The problem with most record label compilations is that you have to keep reaching for the CD player skip button to gloss over poor/obscure Tiller tracks. So I was pleasantly surprised when I found my fingers not hovering over the controls until over half way through this well thought out, generous collection. 'Mindy's Revenge" (named after a giant cat prowling the cover) is basically a showcase for the latest in post-Nirvana US rock from some of Word's newest catches. An overall lo-fi fee! Prevents any one artist hogging the limelight with the emphasis firmly on the quality of music - a refreshing change from the sometimes over hyped world of CCM. Although many tracks demand to be heard again, the second, third and fourth shade the others. Porcelain, who employ a playful Susan Vega style, catch the ear with "Pick Up Sticks" followed by the Room Full Of Walters with "Home" which smacks slightly of US namesakes Fountains Of Wayne. Then comes "Soap" by rock hop duo Vine - a catchy nugget mixing laid back beats with punchy vocals. Although the standard dips towards the end. 'Mindy's Revenge' is a gem of an album which highlights the positive, earthy direction of much US CCM.

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.