Reviewed by Jon Wilson

Here is something to smile about at last! Original and eclectic, this album is extremely heavy in some places, yet in others delicate, not to mention the parts where it sounds a bit strange. This is art rock based around some good songs, not just endless pointless renditions of odd chords and random vocals. In fact, the vocalist has a strong, emotive voice, which goes from almost a whisper to a gut-wrenching scream. High points on this album are "A Boy And His Kite" (a song about sadness that people often don't have much faith) and "Butter Never Bleeds". The songs that contain an element of strangeness are still captivating and listenable. "The Right Of Peter Pan" for example, has a chorus that could be by a hardcore band if it wasn't for the quirky singing underneath and the total lack of distortion on the guitars. If you like Roadside Monument or early Pearl Jam or any modern rock that is written intelligently then you will enjoy Dear Ephesus. There are even two bonus tracks! But come on; this bonus track thing is getting a bit out of hand. Well, at least they're both good so I won't complain but you could've at least given them titles, lads!

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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