Reviewed by Phil Thomson

What a relief. It seems such a long time since anyone had the courage to be truly creative with a 'Christian' album. No exhausting power ballads here, no obligatory proselytising or strident glory trails. The entreaty is far more subtle, far more considered. With their leaning towards an English country folk tradition, The Harbour Lights debut on a high, fronted by the quite magical (can I say that?) voice of Bethan Court. For those concerned by the preoccupation with the sacred/secular divide, take heart; 'Leaving Safe Anchorage' is an exemplar of how to break down those artificial barriers - surely worthy of the way in which Jesus handled truth and uncertainty: he entertained, challenged and offered us the way through parable, through metaphor. This is intelligent work. In their songs, the writers, Phil Baggaley and Ian Blythe, wrap us up in intimate meadows and throw us around on rolling seas, opening up forgotten paths and far horizons along the way - yet always taking us somewhere. There is hope for the journey in every unravelling tale - only, that we have to think for ourselves. The music comes beautifully together in the hands of guitarists Steve Canner and Rob Bullock with Mr Baggaley. Chris Pearson is on drums and percussion, and on keyboards, Ian Blythe (assisted here by Mark Edwards). There's a restlessness running though this album which is good for us. If they are 'live' in your area, you would do well to travel with them. Second best would be to wear out the CD.

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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