Reviewed by Tony Cummings

I haven't checked with the entire Cross Rhythms team but I'm pretty sure if I asked them who were their favourite mainstream band currently (or occasionally) gigging around Britain, alongside the omni-present U2, Flight Brigade would be given the nod. Their 'Our Friends Our Enemies' has produced three Cross Rhythms radio hits and their intriguing mix of rock solid riffs and delicate harmonies is truly spectacular. This EP was released for 2017's Christmas but somehow we missed it. But despite a title that suggests one of those Yuletide cash-ins much utilised by our American cousins, this is in fact an arresting release where the girls in the group offer other-worldly vocals to "O Come Emmanuel", "In The Bleak Midwinter" and "I Wonder As I Wander" and get them sounding fresh rather than hackneyed. There's no lead singer Ollie Baines to be heard, save for a little bit of harmony. And no electric guitar anywhere in the ambient soundscape. But there is a huge amount of creativity. One to ask for for a 2018 Christmas present.

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