STYLE: Pop RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 175419-28336 LABEL: Independent FORMAT: CD Album
Reviewed by Lins Honeyman
Chattanooga-based husband and wife team Matthew Macauley and Micah Joy's first full album sees the UK/US pair build on the success of their well-received 2015 'Strong And Able' EP by offering up a collection of contemplative worship tunes that don't force their presence but instead soak into the soul. Beginning with nothing much more than a piano and violin for accompaniment, "I Can Hear You Call You My Name" sets the scene for an album where Micah and Matt whisper their devotion to God - either by alternating lead vocal duties or coming together in sweet harmony - as if not to disturb the neighbours whilst recording. Instrumentally, there is a fluid and occasionally ambient feel to proceedings with gentle performances building up an unobtrusive backdrop that provides enough ebb and flow to keep things interesting - a technique that works particularly well in spacious numbers like the "Mercy Comes" and "Stormy Soul". Occasionally, the likes of "Home In Your Love" and the hymn-like "O The Cross" raise the decibels a notch to provide some stirring moments but this remains a beautifully quiet if unassuming set that will soothe and salve.
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.
Interested in reviewing music? Find out
more here.