Reviewed by Chris Webb

"Here I am again with a word from my maker," a quote from the track "Beauty Left The Room", sums up the new album. Having followed Charlie Peacock since his days with Vector I was highly expectant of this project. 'No Man's Land' sees a welcome return to making his own music. The album does not have the musical variety of 'Love Life', the spiritual lyrical drive of "Kingdom Come' or the autobiographical slant of 'The Secret Of Time' but has sufficient variety and content to ensure it will never become a forgotten album in the Charlie Peacock catalogue. Musically varying tempos feature strong Americana influences, with violins and steel guitars evident on many songs sitting alongside rockier tracks, with even a tango thrown in. The lyrics have both the Bible and life as their influence. The subjects range widely from managing your tongue in "Death Trap", doubt and the need for prayer in "Only You Can", what is faith in "Kite In A tree", ageing, true love and depression also featuring. A humorous touch in "Let The Dog Back In" when two singers ask if the dog will be distressed if the couple stop arguing, so it's probably better to leave the dog tied up in the yard! No idea what "Ghost Of The Kitty Cat' is about but it's a song that will cheer you up as you sing along. I now know what America smells like - "burnt toast and repetition." Listen to "Beauty Left The Room" to find out more. Charlie gives a lyrical nod towards "Twenty Four Hours From Tulsa" in "Thinking Till The Crack Of Dawn" and Kate Bush's "Hounds Of Love" also gets a name check. Excellent musicianship is shown throughout though that is only to be expected from one of the industry's great producers while Charlie's ability to write melodies which get right into your head. As an artist Charlie has been away too long. Hopefully we won't have to wait 13 more years for the next outing.

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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