Reviewed by Liz Liew

Eden Burning's first single release features two new songs and two live tracks (recorded at a London club). In an attempt to "try to make the move to mainstream" the disc has been made available at high street record stores but has to be ordered first. So far the single is said to have reached number 104 in the pop charts. Personally, I find it difficult to commend. The overall mix lacks clarity and depth resulting in a flat, woolly sound. The instrumentalists seem too texturally dominant to the extent that the vocals are often completely lost (for example, half way through "Matty Groves"). Also the energetic vitality which the Eden's are renowned to create at their gigs is not fully captured in the live tracks. Feeble claps towards the end of each song is about the extent of the audience response. The title track is, according to a band member, a "picture of the sky and the meadow meeting on the horizon and falling in love". Despite the promising opening the coarse vocals detract from the effective portrayal of the romantic imagery in the lyrics. "Forgive-Me-Not" is better recorded on the 'Mirth And Matter' album. This version seems dull in comparison to the vivacious exuberance of the original. The animated rendition of their popular "Matty Groves" is, for me, the best track, with some nice mandolin work. Disappointing, given their huge following.

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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