Reviewed by Stephen Luff

If you are as old as I am, you may recall The Sweet Comfort Band fronted by Brian Duncan in the '70s, bringing their unique mix of west coast sound with some funky jazz licks. Now imagine this classic combination 30 years later. . . Welcome to Big Street! 'The Tree Of Life' is the band's second album following 'Acoustic Kinder Garden', and continues the formula that gained them attention with the first album (including some from the BBC). The album opens with "Let Love Rule" with rich harmonies, uncluttered tight sound and wonderful sax. A combination that immediately puts you at ease, this continues throughout the CD. Lyrically, "Invisible Protection" is instantly memorable; "Father's Son" is brim full of encouragement and "Anyway" is honest worship. The ultimate chill album then, until you reach song 11 when we turn. . . disco! The "Mercy Remix" may be designed for airplay but is out of sync with the rest of the album. But this is still a great album that jazz funk-rock pop devotees must search out.

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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