Reviewed by James Lewis

Brian Healey (aka Dead Artist Syndrome) records albums of his own compositions using top line Christian rock bands as accompanists (he's done one with Guardian). This time he uses the pre-Tom Tom Blues' Seventy Sevens as featured backing band. What more could anyone ask for? Well, unfortunately it appears the budget ran out before Mr Healy could hire Aaron Smith for the rhythm section and the album relies on drum programming instead. And some very unimaginative programming at that. A pale imitation of the living counterpart, it seems to sap the energy from the whole set, leaving a monotonous set of songs with some quite interesting lyrics. In the sleeve notes Brian declares his intent to explicitly express his faith without sloganeering and I think for the most part he's managed it. But I don't think the material is the weak link - a real drummer could have invested the whole project with some life and more variety of pace. As it turns out, though, this is one happy hour where the drinks are watered down.

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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