Reviewed by Rob Birtley

As many Cross Rhythms readers will now know, Kings Kaleidoscope is an alternative worship band based in Seattle. This 10 members strong collective builds its sound around drums, bass, keys and guitars then adds a vast array of orchestral elements including strings, woodwinds, brass and mallet percussion. Strongly hip-hop influenced with an energy that bows toward the Texas rock band The Mars Volta, 'Live In Focus' consists of six live performances of songs originally heard on Kings Kaleidoscope's debut 'Becoming Who We Are'. The album begins with "Dreams" with an opening which is almost techno with a subtle bass playing counterpoint behind the expressive voice of Chad Gardner. "Ache" is the simplest of songs but one which ably describes that sense of loss and separation from the Saviour we can experience in dark moments. "All Creatures" is a version of the hymn "All Creatures Of Our God And King" and begins with striking string plucking and subtle xylophone while "Zion" is a song written for Chad Gardner's son who passed away at the age of 21 months.

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