Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Producer Alan Shacklock pressed a copy of this album into my hand when we met in America earlier in the year with an enthusiastic endorsement. But then he would, wouldn't he? He produced the album! Rev21 are the musical endeavours of brothers Rick and Tim Hammond and with Shacklock's help they have crafted a very modern sounding pop rock album which sees their strong songwriting and performances given an expansive treatment. Musically, there's a bit of '80s rock coming through and in places this is verging on prog rock territory whilst simultaneously managing to sound modern with enough modern alternative touches to challenge the listener. Lyrically, the songs have a basis in Scripture without resorting to cliché and standouts include the huge sound of the title song, the unusual groove of "Holding Out For Better Days" and the vulnerable beauty of the gentle "A Soft Answer". Rev21 have created an album with some interesting moments whilst Shacklock has allowed their songs to breathe. Good stuff.

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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