Reviewed by Matt Crossman

Almost four years have passed since The Choir's last release, 'Flap Your Wings', so fans of one of CCM's most influential yet low profile rockers will no doubt be eager with anticipation to see what the boys have been up to. The truth is that this collection is a continuation of the style that won them so many fans, with little new to report, save reforming the original line up. The opening movements had me excited, sensing a Christian Doves on my hands, but while the dreamy soundscapes flowed with delicate intricacy, the album rarely accelerated out of second gear. Several tunes could easily have featured at any time in the band's career, and overall feel achingly familiar, being a little over reliant on the 4/4 low fi chugging chord progression formula. This is not to say that the heart and skill of The Choir have diminished, but is more a testament to the bands which moved into the void they left in their absence making the genre their own. The Choir seem a little outdated in comparison to, say, Sigur Ros or Grandaddy. The Choir seem content within their ethereal pop rock confines. Existing fans will not be disappointed though in truth things have moved on and rock fans seeking lyrical challenge and intensity matched with exciting and bristling delivery would be best served elsewhere.

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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