Reviewed by Stephen Luff

Adrian Snell has produced over 17 solo albums throughout his musical career which has spanned four decades. He also was broadcast on Radio One with his concept album 'The Passion' in 1980 over Easter that year. After taking semi retirement in the late '90s and becoming a Music Therapist based in Bath, he returns with this new 12 track album, a recording based on his experiences in his current role working with children and young people ages four to 19. All the hallmarks of an Adrian Snell album are here, large landscapes of musical sounds, with deep thoughtful lyrics, based around a concept or theme. The opener "Hold You There Forever" sets the musical scene with its complex (slightly Celtic) rhythms. My favourite ("The Firefly And The Dazzling Moon") is even more musically detailed and the lyrics deeply intriguing! On this track, as on several others, the sublime vocals of Carla Jae add a special touch to Adrian's voice which has not diminished over the years. There is also a beautiful instrumental, "Surrender", reminding me of his piano album 'Solo' released in 1994, and an "almost instrumental" using a speech made by Colonel Bob Stewart in the House Of Commons in 2012. The closing track "Grateful" was sung to his mother by Adrian hours before she died. A truly touching song, from an outstanding artist. This album will grow on you and affect you deeply as you play it.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.