Reviewed by Jamie Hailstone

The tag "AOR" can be a blessing for some artists, but a curse for others. For every record buyer who loves the likes of Tom Petty, the Eagles or John Cougar Mellencamp, there is another out there who hates them with a passion that cannot be undimmed. The good news is that if you are one of the millions of people who buy CDs by people like Tom Petty or Don Henley, you will find plenty to enjoy in this release by Texan Ed Morales. But if your blood runs cold when you hear the opening chords of "Hotel California", you should probably give 'Apples & Thorns' a miss. The songs on the second album by the songsmith sparkle with conviction and spiritual integrity. Tracks like "One Love", "960 C" and "Name" should do well on Christian radio stations which specialise in adult-orientated contemporary music. The strings on "The Well Watered Garden" are particularly effective and there is a strong Biblical emphasis. The recordings could have benefited from a Hammond organ and some more vocal harmonies, but otherwise it is a pretty solid release.

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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