Reviewed by Graeme Crawford

Five years after their 10 square rated debut, Nashville-based rockers Circleslide make their return with another 10 square rated album. The best sound description I can muster is U2 playing songs in the style of Third Day, but this fails to do justice to the excellent writing on show. Clever arrangements, excellent musicianship and clear production combine with one of the most soulful, impassioned voices you will hear in rock music to create an album of astonishing beauty and depth. Very much Christ centred, life affirming and uplifting, it is also very human and realistic in its outlook. Is it worthy of a full marks review? Well, it could be argued that it is over-produced and too polished, but the raw, rough edges of Gabe Martinez's voice remain and what band doesn't strive for studio perfection nowadays. Others may argue that it is too middle-of-the road to be a proper rock album, and it is a bit more restrained than some of their contemporaries, but when the songs are this powerful and memorable, there is no need to add more "rockiness" just for the sake of it. Tracks like "The Litany", "Eye Of The Hurricane" and "The Turning" drive along with strength and fervour, while "Open Door" and "Immortal" provide introspection and thoughtfulness. An almost flawless album with potential mass market appeal.

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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Circleslide was originally birthed out of YWAM where Gabe Martinez and his wife Debbie served as missionaries.

Gabe began singing with an acoustic guitar and soon discovered the connection his music had with people.

The solo act quickly grew into a full touring band opening for bigger artists including Casting Crowns, MercyMe, TobyMac, Jaci Velasquez and Salvador.

Circleside’s unique blend of pop, rock and blues along with heavy touring for the last eight years have earned them the reputation of being one of the best live bands of Christian music.