Reviewed by Mark Sherwood

Showbread are an unusual band; they defy expectations and push the creative envelope, but continue to divide fans. They came up with a unique form of distribution - they asked their fans to raise the money to record their sixth album 'Who Can Know It' album which they did emphatically (ie in half the time of their target date) and then distributed the album online for free. A considerable risk for some fans as Showbread are notorious for moving the musical goal posts. Lyrically, as challenging as ever Josh Dies continues to be obtuse and blunt all on one album. Sometimes you don't know where he is coming from as on the bizarrely titled "I Never Liked Anyone And I'm Afraid Of People" or on "Hydra" (a suggestion of Peter maybe denying Jesus?) and then the more straightforward "Myth Of A Christian Nation" or "You're Like A Taxi" which compares our outer bodies as vessels where our inner sprit will go on to be with God. Musically, this is more restrained than previous outings and Josh Dies' vocals may not also be to everyone's taste but then most fans will be used to that. This album is thinking man's music and will no doubt please existing fans and frustrate some, but one thing is consistent, and that is - with this band expect the unexpected. Showbread will be true to themselves and not follow what everyone expects.

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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