Reviewed by Trevor Raggatt

It's difficult to overstate how influential Malcolm Wild and Alwyn Wall were on the development of the UK's Christian rock scene. Long before 'CCM' had been invented as a concept there were Jesus People like Malcolm and Alwyn visiting church halls and coffee bars singing songs about Jesus. Their influence can be heard clearly in those who followed, whether Phil and John, Paul Field or Martyn Joseph. 'Live' documents their concert performance in a warts and all style highlighting their down-to-earth approach - including a moment on "I Feel Fine" where they lose it and are forced to start over. From the opening chords of "Say It Like It Is" the musical style is pegged in early '70s folk-rock; the simple acoustic guitar and autoharp plus harmony vocals bringing to mind Crosby, Stills And Nash. As was the way with many in-concert albums of the period 'Live' preserves the between song banter and testimony, further showing the duo's straightforward approach to faith and music. A strength of the songs is that they are never trite or preachy but rather just simple, profound musings on the preciousness of living a life with Jesus as your best friend. 'Live' sounds crystal clear digitally re-mastered on CD and represents both a welcome reminder of how good they were and an accomplished musical set which will stir the heart.

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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