Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

The latest release from Californian blues outfit Machaira sees the band in fine form as they mix downright musical brilliance with straight-talking evangelistic lyrics, resulting in an album that points to Christ as the way, the truth and the life as well as being an incredibly satisfying slice of blues. Definitely in the more upmarket Robert Cray region of the blues genre, Machaira simply ooze class as they lament about a sinful world in the likes of "Fallen Down World" and "The Forgotten" which not only showcase the depth, sincerity and warmth of Jon Brown's vocals but also the solid backing of Dennis Hulbert and Ed Butrick on bass and drums respectively. With a plethora of guest artists to pad their sound out (including the late Doobie Brothers drummer Michael Hossack on percussion), the upbeat "Healing For The Pain" benefits from a stunning sax solo from renowned session man Marc Russo whilst a Dirty Dozen-like brass section make all the difference to the likes of the worshipful "I Lift My Eyes To Heaven" and the punchy "Tricky Situation". With songs such as "Where Would I Be Without My Saviour" and "Mercy Is The Cry Of My Heart" pointing the listener firmly in the direction of Jesus, this is a simply exemplary release from a band that refuse to water down the Gospel message nor turn out anything that is less than musically captivating.

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