Reviewed by Brendan O'Regan

Denes is a Jesus Music veteran (he once was part of the band Shiloh) who in recent years has released a swathe of his own self produced acoustically-based albums. "Like a passionate poet with something to say" - so sings McIntosh on one of the tracks, and it makes for an apt description of 'Acoustic Disposition'. The songs, all penned by the Georgetown, California-based musician, are reflective, with varying moods well handled, suitably accompanied by subtle but effective roots instrumentation, especially guitar, piano and percussion - most of it provided by McIntosh himself. Most tracks are not specifically religious, but the catchiest song, "The Garden", with its insistent chorus ("Gotta get back, gotta get back .") seems to express our desire to get back to a Garden of Eden state, while "Your Healing Grace", a good song in itself, breaks into a striking version of "The Lord's Prayer" halfway through the song - definitely the standout track for me. All human life is here as well, including a touch of sensuality, with songs of loss ("Before Her Time"), love ("The Little Things") and compassion for the vulnerable ("Give 'Em A Drum"). The only track that I didn't find appealing was "Leave My Toes Alone", but then humour is a very subjective thing. On first hearing I didn't like McIntosh's almost hoarse-sounding voice, but it grew on me with repeated playing. All in all, an impressive set from a highly gifted songsmith.

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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