Gareth Davies-Jones - Faith Folk & Fair Trade

Reviewed by Andrew Reeve-Smith

Fair Trade Media, Gareth's record label, are aiming to fight for justice and fair trade in the music business, "by giving musicians a better deal and supporting poverty alleviation programmes around the world." They also work closely with Traidcraft. This EP has four outstanding tracks on it. They are well written by Gareth and his voice and guitar playing are excellent. The first track, "Stand In" was my favourite and refers to Jesus' crucifixion: "The further I go, the more I'm convinced/Someone stood in for me, gave everything." The EP constantly points to a selfless and not selfish attitude. "These Days" is about the excesses of greed and exhorts us to obey Jesus' commands about loving our neighbour and not to take from them. It is apparent that there is more to this CD than just music. The underlying principle that supports Gareth's work is highlighted throughout in wanting to address making poverty history, but doing so through being immersed in Jesus' great love.