Reviewed by Peter Bate

Having built a strong reputation for their accomplished evangelistic worship, Brown Bear Music sends out all the right signals with this three-track EP. Self-financed (through supporters buying "bear bonds" to pay for 2,000 copies) with press blurb that talks the talk: "We have to blur the unnecessary edges between what's seen as sacred and secular", ultimately the Deptford boys fail to meet their own high standards. As a church worship resource, the punchy pop rock tunes here could prove valuable. However, as a single to stir up mainstream radio interest (the stated purpose of 'Never Known') the showcase title track lacks originality and freshness, its catchy hooks marred by average production, predictable lyrics and run-of-the-mill musicianship. As Delirious? discovered, play list chiefs demand a higher standard, or a more novel approach, from overtly Christian rock bands. The CD is partially redeemed by the clever, rootsy percussion of "Homecoming (Part 1)" and meaty riffs of "Everything". A brilliant CD-ROM section, featuring a Fact or Fiction game on the group, also earns a few more brownie points. Let's hope the forthcoming full-length album does the guys more justice.

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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