Reviewed by Tim Holden

Wisconsin-based husband and wife duo Matt and Bethany Gainsford, performing under the name ALPS, have been producing music together for over six years, culminating in this, their debut release. Combining Bethany's folk roots with Matt's English indie rock sensibilities the music underlines the passion and feelings provoked by the lyrics of these very well written and produced songs using keyboard and guitar lines that combine seamlessly throughout. The songs are born from the struggles of life - the Gainsfords have not had an easy journey by anyone's standards - but always lead to the hope that comes from Christ. Bethany's voice can move from breathy fragility to full on rock with total ease as shown in the very personal "Bones", one of the standout tracks on the album. Matt does not get left behind vocally, particularly on the wonderful "Affection". While the songs are quite personal they are written in such a way that the listener quickly feels that they own them and despite the uptemo nature of the music the album is very relaxing and uplifting to listen to. This is one of those albums that sounds good on first listen but just keeps on growing on every subsequent play and will still have something to give in many years' time.

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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