Reviewed by Nigel Harris

The Newsboys' industry shows no sign of slowing down with greatest hits, re-mixes, live albums and now a couple of double albums clogging the CD racks. This latest set features two of their top albums in one package, and for the price of a single album. The combination of producer Steve Taylor and vocalist Peter Furler's witty lyrics with the band's signature driving pop rock earned 'Thrive' a full 10 square review back in 2002 and it sounds every bit as good today. "Live In Stereo", "Giving It Over" and "It Is You" stand out in particular, but overall it's an album that hangs together and delivers from start to finish. 'Remixed' is exactly what it says on the can - 12 remixed Newsboys classics - including "It Is You", an absolutely cracking remix by UK DJ Andy Hunter - plus "Mega Mix", an eight-minute mix of their greatest hits previously released on the album 'Shine: The Hits'. The reworking of "Fad Of The Land" is curious, an unexpected return of Steve Taylor the performer. The track was remixed by Dave Perkins, former guitarist of Chagall Guevara (Steve Taylor's old band) with additional guitars, keyboards and drums, and brings Taylor's original backing vocals to the foreground. 'Remixed' may not appeal to Newsboys die-hards who may be frustrated that their favourite tracks have been defaced, but for newcomers and casual listeners this double set makes a well-balanced package. And the price is right too.

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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