Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Back in the '70s, Alwyn Wall made a name for himself as part of the duo Malcolm & Alwyn playing around the coffee bars of Britain. Moving on in the late '70s he teamed up with ace guitarist Norman Barratt to form the Alwyn Wall Band and they even became popular on the west coast of America through tours there. Wall eventually became a Calvary Chapel pastor and has occasionally recorded albums over the years. This set was recorded live at Calvary Chapel in Costa Mesa and stylistically follows the pattern laid down by the original band lineup on their debut 'The Prize' in 1977. It's well written and performed Christian pop rock with a message and occasional elements of worship. So it has a '70s feel but is no worse for that. The current lineup includes Alwyn's son Jan on guitar and vocals and the whole band are tight. Alwyn Wall was always a great songwriter so this is very solid but it's the guitar flourishes of Barratt that really makes this very special. Highlights? Plenty but I really liked the cover of the Waterboys' song "Everlasting Arms" and the gently melodic "Jesus Said". I also like it when the band let their hair down on a couple of upbeat numbers like "There's A Reason" and "Think For Yourself" which has a '60s groove to it.

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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