Reviewed by Steve Stockman

The Dime Store Prophets are from San Francisco which is just far enough south of Seattle to allow the sun to lighten up that looming gloomy grunge sound. This rocks a kicks the proverbial in the most accessible way. The huge voice of Justin Stevens. the Del Amitri territory of the groove and the arty lyrics give a nod towards our own Halcyon Days without either ever having heard of the other. When you release great debuts, like "Love Against The Grain" was. then comparisons are inevitable. This one is more immediate and the songs don't linger. Shorter and punchier but no less in quality. The other major plus of this band is the variety. Each song sits out with it's own personality. Highlights have to be "All About You" with its list of sometimes (told you about the Halcyon Days like), "Sometime I am who I am/Sometimes I am who I want to be", leads us into a song about a willing spirit but that weak, weak Mesh. "Yeah, Sure, Okay Monet" builds image on image and speaks of "the burden to create, colours wash, inspiration lost. yeah, sure, okay Monet" but inspiration is not lacking here as they lead us into the mystery of faith, "I am in love with the mystery." Art 'n' roll.

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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