Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Newcastle-based performing arts team Dependance have been making an impact for a few years now using dance, drama and music. Culturally aware, most of the music is dance-based but that doesn't mean you leave your brain at the door. The high energy "Spirit" gets things off to a groovy start with Stephen Riley's fast paced vocal delivery propelled along by a furious funky groove and the message of freedom that comes from knowing Christ. "More" continues the dance feel but this time the emptiness of the lyrics are designed to provoke the heart to question. The pace slows for a moment with the hip hop cut "Lady In The Mask". Which is better, the coolness of a surface image or the lasting strength of character? The title cut "139" is an incredible vibey version of the famous psalm that reminds the listener of the intimacy and knowledge of God. It's an atmospheric track mixing a trancy groove with Asian style vocal treatments and Laura Coulson's passionate reading of the psalm in a cool Geordie accent! "Your Love" sees the band returning to floor-filling dance pop. The final cut is an acoustic-driven piece of perfect pop. "Amazed" sounds like a worship song but don't be fooled. The Bible teaches us that God rejoices over us with singing. "Amazed" is the sort of song he sings over you. Highly skilled, creative and with a heart to communicate to high school kids, they've honed their art in the heat of the classroom under the beady eyes of the savvy teenagers they're trying to reach. If it ain't cool, if it ain't high energy, if it ain't genuine, this eight piece team would never get out of the classroom with their lives.

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