Reviewed by Nigel Harris

The band describes this, their second album, as "somewhere between Jimmy Eats World and Snow Patrol". There's certainly a strong contemporary alt-pop-rock feel that fans of such bands will be very comfortable with. The anthemic opening "I Believe" shows what these guys are capable of, but just in case you think they're getting too intense "Shoe Song" is a complete laugh ("I just broke up with you - boo hoo, I just want back my shoe," etc!). The title track hints both lyrically and musically at the band's West Coast roots and more than once there's a Beach Boys flavour in their signature three-part harmonies. While Parker Theory is essentially a trio - Jesse Pruett, vocals and guitar, Jeff Forrest, keys, organ and vocals and Jon Upson, bass - they have brought in a highly competent group of supporting musicians to make this album. Songwriter Pruett said he hoped people find "strength, healing, vision for life and happiness" in listening to the album. While the band openly express their Christian faith this is a very accessible, contemporary album of the highest quality that you can easily share with non-Christian friends. The fact that it was nominated for Best Alternative Album in this autumn's San Diego Music Awards makes us hope they'll break through into the US mainstream marketplace. They deserve to.

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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