Reviewed by Gareth Duffield

In this uplifting third Essential project from the Nashville-based songsmith he draws on the experience of producers Charlie Peacock, Mark A Miller, Jason Ingram and Rusty Varenkamp who've worked with the likes of Switchfoot, Casting Crowns and Bebo Norman. These influences definitely show and bring depth to the production though as any radio person will tell you it's the quality of the songwriting which determines the success or otherwise of pop rock albums. As it turns out, 'Worth Fighting For' is already receiving plenty of Christian radio airplay in the US and Barfield's first single "Love Is Not A Fight" is being used as the soundtrack for the soon-to-be-released film Fireproof. That country-tinged song is definitely the highlight of the album and comes with an added acoustic version. It will be an inspiration to anyone going through difficult times and particularly for those striving to hold their marriages together. If it gets the exposure "Love Is Not A Fight" could even end up being a mainstream hit like MercyMe's "I Can Only Imagine" - it's that strong. This is a very cleverly crafted album, a love song to a partner but at the same time putting God at the centre. Other tracks worth noting are the anthemic "As It Is In Heaven" which is written out of Barfield's frustration at the state of our world today. A fine 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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