Reviewed by Chris Tozer

Despite the multitudinous proliferation of Larry Norman albums since the lowering of his public profile after his heyday in the 1970s, there are, to my knowledge, comparatively few recordings from those glory years. So, to complement the Chapel Lane live album that introduced us to 'Put Your Life In Jesus' Nail Scarred Hands' comes this very welcome release of in-concert material recorded by a Dutch radio station in 1977. With an even mix of solo performances and songs where Larry is supported by his good friends in Britain's Alwyn Wall Band, this is a superb collection that showcases the godfather of Christian rock music at his very best. Old favourites include "I Wish We'd All Been Ready", "The Rock That Doesn't Roll", "Shot Down", "Readers' Digest", "The Outlaw", "U.F.O." and "Why Should The Devil Have All The Good Music". As these groundbreaking songs were recorded not long after the original studio versions, as 'live' tracks they show Larry in excellent form. Equally good are the lesser-known songs such as "Deep Blue" and "It's Only Love That Counts". But for me the standout tracks are "I Hope I See You In Heaven" and the gloriously name-dropping "Song For A Small Circle Of Friends". Not only does Larry sing well and the band rock to a man, but his crazy, and yet perceptive, introductions show him on top form. Those who weren't around at the time need to remember that before Larry Christian music was totally devoid of rock, awfully earnest and awfully performed. Without him CCM and this website would never have seen the light of day. Buy this CD to find out what all the fuss was about.

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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