Reviewed by Tim Holden

American rockers The Violet Burning are, as every self respecting Christian rock buff should know, one of the pionees of spiritual alternative rock though in their 15 years they have never been exactly prolific in their output. Michael Pritzl, the driving force of the band, has written all the songs and plays the vast majority of the instruments on their latest outing. However, it is his voice that is noticed first. Defying comparison - the nearest would be Neil Tennant of the Pet Shop Boys if he sang rock - Michael goes for the gentlest of whispers to the loudest scream without effort and brings life and passion to all the tracks. Don't look here for simple heart on your sleeve God lyrics. Instead find excellent rock with God in its soul. For those that are already familiar with their previous releases, you won't be disappointed by their return to a more cutting rock sound over those pervasive synths. A definite must have album.

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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