Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Four years on from his Larry Norman produced debut album and following the collapse of Norman's Solid Rock label, singer/pianist Tom bunkered down with members of Daniel Amos and assorted muso friends to record his second album. This time out, there's the sheen of a slick West Coast production all over this and the album which sounded progressive in that era of Christian music, sounds decidedly poppy today. Standouts include the catchy pop and sophisticated upbeat groove of "Shine Your Light" and the gospel harmonies of "Strong Love" which represent the commercial high points of the album. I always liked the simple devotional ballad "This Quiet Place" and the cinematic feel of "Passing In The Light" with its drifting soundtrack and well chosen imagery. On the lighter side, there's the fun song "The Serious Occupation Of Fish" which, when I interviewed Tom shortly before his death, he seemed a little embarrassed about 30 years later. However, it is an early example of Terry Taylor's production skills in bringing out the humorous side of artists he worked with. Meanwhile, the real edge of this album is saved to the last two cuts. There's the uncompromising rocker "Power Play" which takes on the important subject of the abuse of Christians through some misguided churches use of heavy shepherding and the closing title cut which examines the true nature of radical faith.

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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