Reviewed by George Luke

Though they've been a bit quiet in recent years, the Jordan Family (10 members at last count) have always been one of British gospel's favourite acts. Clinton is the eldest son in the family, and a product of the much-trumpeted BRIT performing arts school. His solo debut is definitely one for anyone who likes soul music that's intense and unpredictable. At times it sounds like the aural equivalent of a Jackson Pollock painting; a big audio canvas onto which he's just thrown as many different sounds as he can lay hands on. This works to particularly good effect on the song "Monsters" where the cacophony of sound really conveys the feeling of fear a little child would have about monsters under the bed. Somewhere in the middle of this mess there are actually a few stories being told, such as the parable of the foolish virgins ("Arrivals"). Even the skits and short interludes have some degree of intrigue to them. "Cell Phone", for example, gets across the sense of urgency of someone desperate for you to hear what they have to say. Then in total contrast you get "Open My Eyes", just Clinton and a guitar, proving that he can give you just a tune (rather than throw loads of sounds at you) and still grab your attention with it. 'Arrivals & Departures' is a good album, but how it will be received by the Christian public is debatable. The line between genius and insanity can be hard to discern sometimes, and I'm just not sure as to whether the rather conservative gospel audience is ready for mad genius of this stature. Just ask Tonex.

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.