Reviewed by John Cheek

Resisting the temptation to wax lyrical about Hewitt being an elder of the Christian music scene, realising some 40 albums and so on, just to say that this is one of the most refreshing things I've heard in ages; a tonic for the soul. Reminiscent of early-Larry Norman and Bob Dylan in the ascendancy, this is quality roots music with intelligent, gospel-focused sentiment all spiced with honesty, humour and dare I say it, soul. Sonically, it breaks little new ground, but you get the feeling that all those involved with the recording had such a blast, there in the studios in Bury St Edmonds. Hewitt is now a seasoned guitarist and singer-songwriter and is accompanied by an impressive selection of Christian musicians, including Beth Rowley, Pete Banks (of After The Fire) and Paul McDowell, accordionist of The Famous Potatoes and sometimes 'Prof' - when performing alongside poet Paul Cookson. The musicianship is equalled by the quality of the songs, a rich variety of spirituals, protest-songs and anthems. It is difficult to choose a standout, as "No Injustice Will Last Forever", "Wide Open Arms" and the title-track all jockey, but if I had to pick one, my recommendation is, "Tell 'em About The Dream Martin", a reflection on Luther King's famous speech and how the key section of it may never have been uttered, had the gospel singer Mahalia Jackson not shouted to him from nearby.

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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