Reviewed by Brendan O'Regan

John Gowans and John Larsson were, for UK Salvationists at least, the Tim Hughes and Matt Redman (or maybe that should be Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber) of their time (the '60s and '70s). The string of successful Christian musicals they penned were hugely popular within the movement. Now this album presents modern arrangements by Kevin Larsson, son of John, and fine production work by the young Larsson, Adam Goldsmith and Trevor Caffull. The Army figures in a few songs - eg, on "When The Army Comes To Town" - "You'll find the drunks will give up drinking/And of course we'll give up swearing straight away". And "Army Cup Of Tea" sounds like something out of My Fair Lady - "All them 'ymns and prayers 'ave no effect on me/But when it comes to char that's a different tale by far". It's not all playfulness though and there are some touching and serious songs, including "I'll Make My Promises" with virtuoso vocals by Stephanie Lamplough. All human life is here - suffering, sin, repentance, enthusiasm and also hope and most of it is in the optimistic "I Dream Of A Day" - "I dream of a day, not far, far away/When . the love of God shall be seen." If there's any fault it's not being able to hear the lyrics clearly enough on some of the group singing, but there's a comprehensive lyric booklet. This is a spiritual album with a difference and will repay repeated listening.

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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