Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Following the huge success of Jars Of Clay, it isn't surprising that America's CCM scene has spawned a selection of bands in a similar musical vein. Jackson Finch are two good looking dudes to whom your mum would love to serve tea! Musically, this is rootsy, acoustic, bluesy, country, rocky stuff with smatterings of organ, cute acoustic guitars (including a brief cameo from Phil Keaggy) and some sublime violin. Despite the many musical elements, producer Mark Chesshir has managed to construct an uncluttered sound for the album. Breathy vocals and harmonies vie with strong rhythms which are less urban than the JOC sound. All of the above combine to make this a special album with songs that connect. Personal favourites in the Rimmer household include the ballad "This Love" where the violin weaves a mesmeric pattern around the main action. "Diamonds In The Road" has that violin again but this time it's almost hoe down in style counterpoising the rhythmic groove of the track! (Pretentious, moi?) Lyrics are jam packed with poetic imagery and it's even more impressive when you consider that the boys have chosen to eschew the writing talents of the Nashville tune machine in favour of their own efforts. Strong stuff!

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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