Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

The Chosen are a trio of two musicians and a singer led by Michael Spelzini whose earlier solo recording is reviewed elsewhere in this issue. Six songs and 45 minutes worth of material recorded at ICC Studios which never quite cuts it. There is a fundamental problem with making records that are at the poppy end of the spectrum and that is avoiding the gaping holes that can appear in pro­duction when not enough polish is applied. Pop records should be shiny; this one suffers from some dull vocal performances (perhaps Michael should let Katie-Mae do all the singing?) particularly on the title track and the closing "Love" which has some yowch moments as Michael doesn't make the notes. There is no doubting the instrumental skills employed here but the overall effect when digitally burnt onto the laser sharpness of CD only highlights the old fashioned synth sounds and unconvincing drum patterns. This is shown up even further on "Hallelujah" which attempts to be more upbeat but sadly doesn't make it. Overall, this needs more work to pull the musical offerings out of the mire of mediocrity.

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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