Reviewed by Tom Lennie

Regie Hamm is a name you may not recognise though there's a good chance you've heard several songs he's written. He has penned more than 20 top hit Stateside tunes, many of them for Christian singers, and he's also produced numerous successful albums and movie soundtracks. Then, in 2008, after a series of personal crises, all recorded in his biography published at the same time as this album's release, Regie found a stronger, more resilient faith in Christ. 'Set It On Fire' is Regie's third solo release, and ably reveals his own vocal talents, as well as his smart songwriting skills. These tunes come in the format of radio-friendly pop songs, catchy numbers that will surely appeal to fans of eg, Steve Curtis Chapman and Clay Crosse (indeed Hamm has written a number of songs for Crosse, including "I Surrender All"; as well as songs for Bob Carlisle, Points Of Grace, Mark Shultz and Rebecca St James). A good number of these numbers are piano-based tunes, with a pleasant, pop-soul feel. Lyrics are clever and cliche-free, covering a range of themes, such as romantic love and the urgency of reaching out to the world's needy (in "Orphan's Lullaby"); though the opening title-cut is the only track that explicitly deals with faith in God. A most enjoyable listen.

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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