Reviewed by Stephen Luff

Coventry-based singer/songwriter Rob states in the accompanying book to this album, "Our challenge is to discover the honesty and depth that is demonstrated in the Psalms." Here he addresses this is in an insightful way in both the paring of eight songs and the accompanying book. In the latter he describes a dark time in his life where elements of his faith seemed to die and instead he had some of his most honest, questioning and straight conversations with God. The album combines skilfully honest lyrics with outstanding musicianship. "Where Were The Angels" was commissioned by Christopher Cocksworth, the Bishop of Coventry, as a lament to knife crime - it is an incredibly powerful electric guitar-driven blues song of desperation that does not weaken on repeated plays. Throughout, Rob's voice, with elements of Springsteen passion, delivers the emotion required while his guitar screams lament on tracks like "Arise My Soul" (Psalm 42) and praise "All In The Temple". The book also provides thought provoking comments from not only Rob but numerous people from different walks of life, alongside the lyrics of all but the two bonus tracks on the collection. This is an engaging listen on all fronts and a challenge to us all.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.