Reviewed by Pippa Rimmer

This impressive debut from Clive Meredith had me listening from the start, mainly because I was slightly curious about his recording of the album, which was done on his computer and not in a studio! Expecting over-synthesised schlock I was mightily surprised by the maturity and listenability of Mr M's work. He has a sweet, penetrating voice which sits well on his own musical arrangements. What impressed me even more is that this album was born in response to the difficult situation Clive has found himself in over the past year, so he has written a collection of songs which will speak into any devastating circumstance. A man after my own heart, he too believes that healing comes as we express ourselves in worship to God. This is evident from the touching "Teach Me To Trust", which expresses that although God's ways are nothing like ours, he's still deeply involved with us and we can still learn to trust him in adversity. "Righteousness, Holiness" seeks to establish God in his rightful place in our lives - the keyboard and guitar interaction are beautiful and the voice of Debbie Rawlings lifts it up a level. Clive rocks out a bit on "Ancient Of Days" (nothing to do with Big Ron Kenoly), accompanied by a twangy, pulsing bass to take it up a gear or two. All in all, this is a very worthy surprise album full of sincere honesty.

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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