Reviewed by Peter Bate

Thank God for the '90s. Gone are the days of candyfloss perms, spandex trousers, one-note bass-lines, widdly guitar solos and vocal theatrics - until now that is. This 14-track compilation is a far from subtle reminder of the big players in the Christian rock field a decade ago. Of the metal-by-numbers tracks, Petra's "This Means War", with John Schlitt's terrifying vocals, and the bluesy Rez effort "Love Comes Down" are the most enduring. Meanwhile, avant-garde attempts by Charlie Peacock, the 77s and the consistently excellent Da nod towards the more oblique (and some would say more creative) CCM output of currently doing the rounds. Wedged between the hard rock and the experimental space are offerings from White Heart, Stryper, Degarmo & Key and Mylon And Broken Heart. Cringe-inducing lyrics and arrangements aside, this clean-cut collection certainly clears your head. Just don't let anyone catch you with that air guitar!

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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