Reviewed by Dave Harris

Compilation albums - a wonderful way to experience bands you've never heard, or simply a record company casing in? After listening to this release I'm still not sure. That isn't in doubt is that this album gives you 69 minutes of polished music, split into 18 songs that encourage, challenge and exhort the listener. At first play the musical style falls clearly in the alternative rock field, with such impressive tracks as Pete Stewart's 'Don't Underestimate,' Bleach's 'Waving Goodbye' and the more fragile, but edgy 'Give Myself Away' by Rebecca St James. But then there comes the curious inclusion of Rave's drum 'n' bass 'Say The Word,' and the street sounds of Antonious' 'Oh Yeah.' This confusion is most clearly illustrated by Out Of Eden/The Katinas soulful remake of 'By My Side' from the show Godspell. It's a brilliant track but you wonder what it's doing on a CD which purports to be an alternative rock compilation. Yes, this album is enjoyable. Yes, it makes you want to go out and but more of the featured artists. But on it's own it doesn't hold together.

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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