Reviewed by Tim Holden

'If You're Gonna Fall In Love' is the first full length album for Backroom Stereo and very much follows in the footsteps of the previous EPs being up tempo acoustic guitar tracks with programmed drums and synth accompaniment - the only exception is "Near Misses & Lost Summer Kisses" which leaves the guitar for a piano-led melody. The vocals are generally bland with very little variation in delivery which when married with the one dimensional musical arrangements make for a collection of songs that end up feeling insipid. The lyrics are not much better as they are very single track minded - the sole subject is boy meets girl - they are quite juvenile and unlike earlier outings there is little if any sexual morality and absolutely no mention of anything like religion or God. Given that this is a purely mainstream project it is swimming in a very big pond. Unfortunately it really does not make the grade compared to what else is out there.

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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