Reviewed by David Cranson

This is basically a praise and worship album in a kind of post-punk, edgy style. It's been likened to U2, although I can't hear it myself. For me, the first thing that sprang to mind was Gethsemane Rose and possibly The Rembrandts (but not quite as polished). By turns edgy, then boring. Exciting then repetitive. By that I mean that the style is basically guitar-driven, but the lyrics . . . well, actually they've all been done before. I've had a look at the website and there are reviews on there that are heaping praise on this CD. Yet I feel that it could've been so much more, if they'd paid more attention to the words. As an example I give you this, from "King Of Kings" - "You are a wonderful Saviour/You are a beautiful friend/You reign in majestic splendour/You are the king of all kings." Nothing at all wrong with that - in fact I agree wholeheartedly with the sentiments. It's just that I've heard it all before. Actually, one of the things that eventually got to me is the almost tedious way they repeatedly tell God who he is. They need more spontaneity. They also need more backing vocals. I'm all for sparse and basic production, it helps wash away the taste of too much sickly sugar on some of the blander American offerings. But the lack of BVs and the lack of Pro Tool production make it decidedly dull in places. I'd like to get as excited as those fans recorded on the band's website, but this CD falls a bit short of what it might have been - not quite exciting enough to be Gethsemane Rose at their rocking best, not quite adventurous enough to be the next U2. Yet the band's heart for ministry shines through. Despite some reservations I'd say give 'Lost Person's Area' a go and see what you think.

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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