Reviewed by Paul Kerslake

Justin has been making music for over 12 years, and this latest album is his 10th release. Justin said of the release "We really wanted to limit the instrumentation to what was essential; let the songs breathe on their own. The record's feel supports its theme in limiting or even tearing down what is superfluous in order to more intimately engage in what is real." This is a raw, organic album, focused around Justin's acoustic guitar and voice with some great musicians supporting where intended. I'm reminded of Ryan Adams when listening to this. The opening track, "Done Living", is a cheerful acoustic lead song with great lyrics, Driving by the accident has some great "Strawberry Fields" inspired keyboard licks and the title track is an intimate, acoustic number that is so sympathetically recorded, if you close your eyes, you'd be sure Justin was in the same room. Lyrically Justin is asking many of the questions that we have of our faith, but he puts them in such a poetic and artistic way. This is a superb album; Justin's many years of recording and touring, coupled with his clear natural talent for songwriting creating a consistent, inspiring and emotional album of songs that I could listen to on repeat. Thoroughly recommended.

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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