Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

It would be easy to put the quality of Greenock-based singer/songwriter Robert Pickett's debut album down to the Foundry Music Lab's in demand production team of Wet Wet Wet guitarist Graeme Duffin and Sandy Jones not to mention backing vocal and instrumental contributions respectively from Scottish music's golden couple Yvonne and David Lyon. Whilst such illustrious company would enhance any release, it is Pickett's deft songwriting skills and accomplished performance that are behind this hugely enjoyable collection of original songs. Kicking off in folky fashion with the wistful "Carry Me Over", Pickett betrays a keen ear for a great melody in the joyous "Where Hearts Belong" which also showcases a warm and captivating vocal style that draws the listener in. Pickett's reliance on God is referenced in the likes of the title track and "Roots" and he expertly paraphrases Bible passages in "Peter's Song" and "Jonah". Not afraid to tackle thorny topics, "Buchanan Street" - a song that places the plight of the broken and needy against a backdrop of worshippers singing praises to God whilst seemingly having no concern for the shattered world outside their church walls - presses home the point that Pickett can offer up more than a pretty song when needed. The wonderful "Sometimes" - Buddy Holly-style in its brilliant simplicity - and the worshipful "Stay" finish off a well-rounded debut from yet another artist rising up through the burgeoning Scottish Christian music scene.

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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