Reviewed by Steve Cox

A second, much-needed hearing dispelled initial fears of Becker blandness and revealed, instead, a study of honest introspection and vulnerability. This dynamic dame of CCM spills her heart, unleashing breathy cries of frustration, failure and forgiveness in a collection of contemplative Beckeresque musical gems. Truth be told, I was disappointed after the first play but, soon, each track penetrated spirit and soul like a warm fireside glow on a cold winter's night. It's always been difficult to categorise the distinctive Becker voice for radio play lists but, like some top-selling mainstream artists, quality will always straddle artificial divides, so expect to hear several tracks on both UCB Europe and UCB Cross Rhythms. My favourites include the beautiful "Clay And Water" which contains the album title, "Deliver Me" and "Cave It In" to mention just three. Produced by Todd T, Monroe Jones and Robbie Nevil under the expert gaze of Executive Producer, Lynn Nichols, musically this album will not break any stylistic moulds but offers the perfect contemporary context for Becker's powerfully tumbling tones. An album that grows with every play, so hang in there and hear the heart of one of the world's top CCM artists.

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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