Reviewed by Tony Cummings

I first spoke to Pete Emms, the bass player, producer and songwriter of this impressive project when it was little more than a twinkle in Pete's eye. Now this hugely impressive set shows that there is still plenty of guts and passion to be grabbed from the heavy metal template. Although parts of 'Intelligent Design' are distinctly old school, Mr Emms has skilfully updated the sound for today's headbangers with liberal dashes of funk. Particularly ear catching are the torrid axe licks from one of UK Christian music's most loyal servants, Paul May, while the lyrics score some neat spiritual points particularly on "Dirty Little Secret" and "Devil To Pay". Add to the package and eye catching sleeve design from the always reliable Rodney Matthews and live performances which my spies tell me are seriously hot and you have a band with more talent half a dozen of those so predictable teenage hardcore merchants.

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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