Reviewed by Martin Emerson

The continuing saga of 'Crimson And Blue'. After releasing 'Crimson And Blue' last year Keaggy released the 'Revelator' EP, remixes from 'Crimson And Blue'. Now, a year later, we have 'Blue', an alternative version of the 'Crimson And Blue' album. This will no doubt have dedicated Keaggy fans leaping with joy and others asking, "When will it end?" This limited edition album claims three of the 11 tracks are new but in truth there are only two new songs as they seem to be counting "The Further Adventures Of..." which was released on the 'Revelator' EP. "Don't Pass Me By", "All There Is To Know", "Shouts Of Joy" and the cover of the Van Morrison song "When Will I Ever Learn To Live In God?" are the same versions as on 'Crimson And Blue'. The two tracks are "Baby Blue", and "All Our Wishes". The remaining three songs are all previously unreleased, alternative versions of tracks from 'Crimson And Blue'. The album opens with an excellent version of "Doin' Nothin'" which has some great solos, "All Our Wishes" is a very intimate song which touches on the personal grief that Phil and his wife Bernadette have been through, with backing vocals provided by Bernadette and daughters Alicia and Olivia. The album is up to Keaggy's usual high standard, but unless you are a serious fan stick to 'Crimson And Blue' with 13 tracks.

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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