Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

In the '80s, a very healthy alternative Christian rock scene developed on the West Coast of America so that bands like The 77s, The Altar Boys and Undercover began to make an impact using a sound that was influenced by the mainstream punk and new wave scene. Among the second generation of those bands was 4-4-1 whose bass-propelled synth-driven new wave caught the attention of the local scene and then by the time this second album was released, saw them getting wider national coverage Stateside. Produced by John and Dino Elefante, 1985's 'Mourning Into Dancing' featured stronger songwriting and better production. 4-4-1 are at their best when they are creating driving new wave rock like on the title track, "New Land" and "Take Their Toll". The closing "Say It Right" in many ways points forward to the more introspective third album 'Sacrifice' which was to follow in 1987.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.