Reviewed by Si Bibby

Believe it or not, this is Rez's eleventh album (excluding 'Best Of's) and not one of the members has had a face lift yet! Over the years, Rez have had their fair share of musical ups and downs - from the intense emotion of 'Awaiting Your Reply' to the somewhat confused 'Hostage' and to the much more recent 'Innocent Blood' displaying some of that ol' passion; Rez have paid their dues. 'Civil Rites' has retained Rez's hard edge both musically and lyrically (need we concern ourselves as to the quality of Rez's lyrical abilities?), but after so many albums you sort of know what to expect: 'Innocent Blood Part 11'. Now that's not a bad thing, but being a devoted fan makes me biased. This release is worth buying if only to get another taste of Glenn Kaiser's gravelly, blues-soaked vocals used so well on "Paupers Grave", "Footprints" and "In My Room" (I love ballads). What can I say; if you're into some groovy bluesy music from the stomach, Rez are masters. I only wish they could re-create the feel of 'Afrikaans' on "Rainbows End". Spine chilling!

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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