Reviewed by Paul Woodward

In today’s Christian music there is a noticeable void where hard rock is concerned. Many groups which are labelled “rock” or “metal” by the Christian media are in fact closer to light indie. Even hard rock giants P.O.D,’s latest offering is an altogether gentler affair. With this in mind Figure Four, who come from Canada’s alternative hardcore scene, should be viewed as a welcome addition to Christian music. Put simply, they ROCK! Their sound is similar to how Slip Knot or Marilyn Manson might sound were they to come to the Lord. It is, however, highly specialist, the deafening roar of “Suffering The Loss” is not likely to be accessible to the masses. However, the album will come as a thrill for fans of heavy music. An album as loud and aggressive as this one will undoubtedly raise some predictable criticism, such as “the words can’t be heard” or ‘it is going too far towards the secular.” In answer to this, the lyrics are printed in the inlay cover and are suitably thought provoking, if a little angst ridden. It should be remembered that not every Christian music fan desires happy clappy songs, in particular the cynical teenagers among us. Figure Four can draw young believers, who would otherwise be drawn to the darker side of secular heavy metal; they are also great if you just want a good head bang.

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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