Reviewed by Brendan O'Regan

There's a lot to like and admire on this album from the Basingstoke-based singer/songwriter but there are also a few elements that can be improved on future releases. There are a generous 14 self-written songs here and most are based on specific Scripture verses as outlined in the comprehensive sleevenotes that also have Clay's personal thoughts about the songs. I particularly loved the musical arrangements (by Clay and producer Andy Green) and instrumentation - mostly piano, acoustic and electric guitars, percussion and occasional sax. It all comes together very well, with the intros to each song drawing the listener in. Clay's own vocals are fine, but at times I found it hard to make out all the lyrics. She gives the impression of being more of a classically trained singer in a MOR/pop setting. There are a few standout songs - "In His Time" is particularly strong while her version of Ecclesiastes 1-4 - ".a time to weep, a time to mourn", is a nice change from Pete Seeger's over-recorded "Turn, Turn, Turn". Also, Andi's reworking of Psalm 23, "Quiet Waters", is genuinely calming and "Agnus Dei", sung acapella, is a surprising final track which helps raise 'Highest Call' a notch.

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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