Reviewed by Graeme Crawford

I've been a long time believer in the usefulness of sampler CDs. It is one thing to read someone's opinion about a band, but quite another to hear them for yourself. Fierce! Distribution have produced this excellent compilation to highlight their current roster, and it is well worth a listen. Whether it's to keep up with established acts such as Delirious?, Newsboys and Kevin Max, or to discover some new music, I don't believe you would be wasting your cash on this. From the solo acoustic musings of Switchfoot frontman Jon Foreman, to the pop-rock of highly rated newcomers This Beautiful Republic, via the The Elms' Rolling Stones-style rock and the funky jazz of Newworldson, this album twists and turns and provides a variety of different sounds to tempt you. Personal highlights are Verra Cruz proving that their Fierce! debut wasn't a fluke, and the new Belfast worship leaders Bluetree with the powerful worship classic "God Of This City". You probably won't enjoy every track displayed here, but it is an excellent overview of the Fierce! stable.

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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