Reviewed by Pippa Rimmer

A big hit at various Christian fests, River are surely destined for a CD soon. In the meantime, this four-song EP is well worth searching out. If you like anthemic rock music, punching the air in a meaningful fashion to the bouncy bits and spiky blonde haircuts then you're probably an old Alarm fan and judging from the sound of this, so are River. Can't vouch for their haircuts but they do a pretty good line in punchy rock songs, breathy vocals and insistent guitars. But there are some '90s indie rock sounds mixed into River's intense, turbulent sound. "Send In The Clones" (great title) expresses the individual's right to be who he or she wants to be and not conforming to other people's ideas of who they should be. Power to the people! Somewhere in there is a rebellious spirit cutting loose. They also bear more than a passing resemblance to U2 on "Inside Out" - plenty of familiar sharp guitar work, strained-but-passionate Bono-esque vocals and a big Wembley feel. Serious air guitar potential in front of the mirror!

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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