Reviewed by Simon Redfern

As well as his missionary work in countries such as Pakistan and Peru, Fr Karm Debattista has a wide-ranging ministry back in his native Malta including music, radio DJ as well as TV programmes. On the musical side, 'Issa Li Sibek' is his eighth release in over 12 years of recording professionally and in common with all but one it is sung in his native Maltese tongue. His songs are all home-grown produce, largely acoustic guitar led with the only other real flavouring being the rhythmical influences from his missionary trips to South America on "Ismek Qaddis". The remaining content is pleasant and inoffensive and Fr Debattista' is certainly a competent singer, but some of the mixing was a little unbalanced. I cannot comment on the lyrical content but none of what I heard is likely to whip up a musical revolution. However in the home market or indeed with Maltese ex-pats it may well connect.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.