Reviewed by Paul Keeble

This is a beautifully recorded album of well-constructed songs and imaginative and varied arrangements that include soft pop, folk, New Age and world-music influences. Think Enya with less reverb and layers (and lyrics that make sense!), but with added world-instrumentation that sits well in the arrangements. Though I personally prefer a few rough edges and a bit of spontaneity, I have to admire the precision and craftsmanship. Lots of highlights. Opener "Hear My Cry" is a rendering of Psalm 61, beautifully played and with a Duane Eddy-ish guitar riff - which works! "Beyond" starts with a lovely synth pattern that reminded me of some of Jon Anderson's work with Vangelis (backing vocals later in the song owe something to "State Of Independence"), before drums and bass join in and take it to a more upbeat feel. "Deep Calls To Deep", from Psalm 42, has a more Jewish feel, but with Indian tabla percussion. Again, it works. "Ships" is another song taken from a Psalm, this time 107. "They that go down to the sea in ships/They have seen the works of the Lord/And his wonders in the deep." "Elohim" is a beautiful song, tastefully arranged and played which could be addressed to the current refugee crisis. "Do you see the hunger burning in their eyes?/Or their fear of thunder falling from the skies?/Under toiling sun/They wander through the days/Searching for a home/Hear my cry/Hear My prayer, Elohim." 'Wonders in the Deep' is Mary-Kathryn's fifth album an like its predecessors, demonstrates that the Nashville-based lady is a crafter of thoughtful and uplifting music.

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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