Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Australia has always boxed above its weight when producing artists with the talent and accessibility to leave a mark on the international music scene and in my view if Redruth from Sydney were to get signed they could join the CCM big hitters. But let's face it, not every act is prepared to relocate to Nashville. Redruth's 2009 album 'Hold Fast' had the Cross Rhythms reviewer enthusing how the band had "mastered the art of atmospheric rock." And indeed they have, though the relative lack of grungy guitars here would make some rock followers suggest 'Origins' is more of a pop set. The focal points of the band are the songs, keening voice and billowing synth pads of Stephen Hefferman. His lyrics could hardly be more spiritually overt, and often read like they were plucked directly from a devotional so often don't rhyme or scan particularly well. But such is the strength of melody that the opener "Who We Are" ("What a privilege we have been given/A gift called righteousness/No longer are we separated/From our God") or "The Kingdom" ("Everything that we could need for life we'll find in it/The first step is to know our rights and privileges") glide satisfyingly by aided by clever use of synths and staccato backing vocals. Particular standouts are the contemplation of Genesis 1 on the title track and "One Thing", addressing the age old riddle of suffering. An album that will reward all those who search it out.

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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