Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Frontman Chad Van Meter has created an art-rock band that isn't afraid to push back the frontiers musically but is also interested in creating less than obvious songs that explore spirituality in a thoughtful fashion. The results are a powerful debut album that is already causing people to sit up and take notice. The band were courted by MCA for a while but, as is the way with these things, didn't get signed after label personnel reshuffles. What they deliver is a debut packed with anthemic, soul affirming rock'n'roll that is a million miles away from the formulaic rubbish that counts for the criminal banal output of a lot of bands on the scene. But what you don't get is a set of nice songs so you'll have to work a while to get the most of this album which is definitely a grower. Being a radio presenter I was immediately seduced by the simplicity of "Man On The Radio" but digging deeper, I like the driving sound of "Slip" and the intrigue of "If I Could Raise Myself From The Dead". This is powerful rock that invites you to respond emotionally but also encourages you to engage your brain. It's spirituality liberated from neat packaging that in its rawness invites believer and unbeliever to engage. Can't admit that I understand it all yet but the album has grabbed me strongly enough that repeated listening is making this grow day by day. If you're looking for powerful rock with enough depth to keep you interested past the fifth listen, Homeless J are worth checking out in the same way that you'd enjoy Switchfoot or Mae.

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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