Reviewed by Brendan O'Regan

This is certainly a hard album to classify. It weaves through many different genres and has a rough charm that is quite appealing. Initially I thought 'First Fruits'' variety of styles - from Celtic and blues to pop and rock - was somewhat jarring. But it grew on me. The diversity may be unusual but the constants are the good songwriting and fine instrumental playing, whether on acoustic or electric instruments. Mullally, from Kent, wrote most of the lyrics except the rocking "Lord's Prayer" and "The Lord's My Shepherd", set to a traditional Celtic melody familiar from the folk evergreen "She Moves Through The Fair". The actual singing is executed by a few different singers - most notably arranger and producer Jonathan Newman who offers a particularly strong and bluesy rendition of "Tear It Down" ("Hey I'm sick of Satan with his evil schemes. We're gonna tear his kingdom down"). Jude Grahame and Clare Jones also contribute effectively, providing attractive lead and harmony vocals, and among the best tracks is the reflective "Song For The Broken Hearted" ("Did you map your life when you were young?/Have the things you planned yet been done?"). A lyric sheet is included, though the back of the CD sleeve is rather densely printed with credits and Scripture references. All in all this is an interesting album that repays repeat listening.

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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