Reviewed by Dancin' Dave Derbyshire

Critical Mass are a South African band with a wide range of instruments including violin, harmonica and guitars that blend well in this high quality recording. It's multi-media too, so stick the CD into your computer for more details. The album kicks off with some creative sounds introducing "Monkey Tales", a biting satire on the theory of evolution. The sound is reminiscent of 70's rock but with a contemporary feel. Soft rock ballads give way to some lyrics spit out over guitar riff. But it's not just that these guys are having fun, as their lyrical content does have a strong Christian message. And it's not a simplistic message of "giving your life to Christ". These guys are adamant that their gospel message should not be watered down. There is only the occasional lapse in archaic jargon like "your Spirit quickens me" in their poetic yet down to earth songwriting. What comes over is that it's no use sitting in church and faithfully praying your tithe as God calls us to preach the gospel, cleanse the leper, drive out demons and raise the dead. And they are not afraid to tackle subjects like poverty, drugs and dyslexia. No wonder that Critical Mass received a prophecy through Tom Brock in 1998 that, "it's going to be the heart that will pierce the darkness". This is a strong debut 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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