STYLE: Rock RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 7762-7522 LABEL: Alliance 1902852 FORMAT: CD Album RELEASE DATE: 2003-05-09 RRP: £9.98
Reviewed by Mike Rimmer
Following the success of the Truth Tour at the end of 2002, the band went into the studio to record a proper follow up to the excellent 'Heavenbound'. Keeping the theme of communicating truth, this album turns out to be extraordinary for two reasons. Firstly, the creative way in which Phatfish have continued to hone their pop rock style is impressive. The album is striking for its sense of melody and Lou's voice soaring above it all. The production sounds are great and Alan Rose's guitar is particularly striking. Secondly, the way in which they have managed to fill these songs with so much Biblical truth makes listening to the album an experience akin to having your soul scrubbed! "For Me" is a reminder that God cares for us and the epic "Stepping Out" which closes the album reminds us to take faith risks. There can't be many albums with songs about how hard it is to get on with other believers but "Annoy" is one of them! I actually wish that there were more Christian bands doing this kind of thing: using their music to disciple and teach their listeners with lyrics that are steeped in Biblical truth without resorting to cliches. With the news that Alan Rose is departing the band, it is likely that 'Nothing But The Truth' will be their swansong although I'd love to put together a suitable farewell compilation in tribute to their journey from their funky purple days to the present. In the meantime, this is a brilliant album.
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