Reviewed by David Faulkner

Well, this is curious. ZOEgirl have been releasing CDs since circa 2000. They were first compiled in 2005 ('With All My Heart: The Greatest Hits'); 'The Early Years' was released in 2006; this release under review came out in 2008 and on 7th April 2009 their 'Ultimate Collection' will be released. 'With All My Heart' had 15 tracks, 'Early Years' had 10 and this has just 12. The words 'milk', 'cash' and 'cow' are not far from my typing fingers. As for the music, it's ZOEgirl's usual reliable energetic Xenomania-style girl pop, slightly Americanised for their primary market. In that respect, it stands guilty of the standard charge against CCM of copying the world rather than leading in artistic innovation. The difference from standard pop fare is, of course, in the wholesome lyrical content, which reflects the conservative church background but is strong on bolstering the fragile self-image held by some teenage girls. For that, they are to be highly commended. Should you buy it? If you like Girls Aloud, Sugababes and their ilk, this is a sanctified version though surely by now you will have these tracks on the other compilations.

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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