Reviewed by Chris Tozer

If you enjoyed the recent albums from Bruce Cockburn and Randy Stonehill then put this one on your Christmas list. On 'Chase The Buffalo', Pierce's third offering, the singer/songwriter is supported by a superb studio band that includes Jim Keltner and Booker T Jones. The record is dedicated to Mark Heard and kicks off with a rousing version of his "Not Over Coffee". All the remaining songs were written by Pettis and1 reflect real life concerns including Aids, absent friends and America's past. "Trying To Stand In A Fallen World" encourages us to stay true to our beliefs and "I Will Be Here" reminds us that God will never turn his back on us. Despite the issues dealt with in these songs, the album is truly joyful. Like any good poet Pettis has the knack of reminding us of our own hopes and fears when he shares his own. Hear him now, before Greenbelt discovers him next year.

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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