Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

Having now morphed into a four piece band, this accomplished 2011 debut was released when Rivers & Robots was still a solo act and the nom de plume for Salford-based singer/songwriter and producer Jonathan Ogden. Proceedings kick off with the electronica-tinged song of worship "Forever Faithful" which not only offers up an alternative to today's standard modern worship sound but also sets the scene for an album that is inventive, occasionally experimental and very much God-focussed. Whilst the Killers-like title track sees Ogden in more conventional mainstream mode, minimalist numbers such as "You See The Son" and the experimental electronica of "Washes" - a stirring song of God's redemptive power - showcase Ogden's skills as a writer, performer and producer and make for an album that surprises at every turn. Elsewhere, Ogden offers up an inventive retelling of the "birds of the air" Bible passage in "A Song For The Birds" whilst more cryptic pieces such as "Paper Walls" keep matters intriguing. The anthemic song of praise "A Summer Hymn" and the atmospheric ambience of "All Glory" round off an impressive starting point for Ogden and his Rivers & Robots project.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.