Reviewed by Steve Best

This is good - very good. If you listen to Cross Rhythms radio you'll know their dance mix version of 2000 while their storming sets at this year's Cross Rhythms festival brought them many new fans. But if you re still to be introduced to this South African four-piece including brothers Brad and Darren Peens, they make jangly, ethereal yet anthemic pop, with more than a nod in the direction of the d:boys, yet at the same time more fragile and brooding. It s hard to pin down, but refreshingly different. At times the listener is reminded of early Police, early Split Level, and even Crowded House. But don t be mislead into thinking that they aren't original. Check out the melodic power pop of "Way Of Love", the quirky "Meaningless" and the broody, building "Mercy Flow". Opener "Miracle" is crisp yet majestic guitar pop with a big sound as well as some Eastern elements, which will sound good on radio. Ironically, one of the album's best moments is the hidden track "2000", full of gutsy drive and with a memorable hook but even more ironically, it's not the dance mix heard on Cross Rhythms. But let s not quibble. Every track is a strong one, indicative of the very high standard of music currently emanating from South Africa's clearly flourishing Christian music scene.

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