Reviewed by Tony Cummings

If you know your British Christian music you'll know that Paul Field is one of the major figures in the history of the evangelistic counter-culture. He once fronted the mixed trio Nutshell who pioneered the UK scene of the '70s and went on to write songs for everyone from Cliff Richard to Rebecca St James. But now in the autumn of his years the Christian music veteran has relocated to Devon but rather than rest on his laurels has recorded and produced what could finally be his finest album ever. The piece de resistance is the magnificent song "The Anniversary", a song that would resonate deeply with everyone blessed enough to have had a long and rich marriage, while "The Politics Of Kindness" shows Field has lost none of his lyrical eloquence ("The politics of kindness, the diplomacy of love/The art of forgiveness is powerful enough/To shape a new tomorrow beyond the lies and greed/The politics of kindness we need"). Throughout, the mood Paul creates is reflective, sometimes sad, sometimes joyful, while his playing on acoustic and electric guitars, dobro, piano and keys is perfectly suited to his thought-provoking songs, which range from the painful restrictions of lockdown ("How Long"), faith that troubled times will end ("Just Around The Bend"), a song to a faithful wife ("Gorgeous Girl") and "The House Of God" that poignantly depicts a legalistic church ("If this is what you call the house of God maybe I've come to the wrong place/I didn't come expecting judgment here, I came looking for grace/I didn't come for a performance or for sanctimonious songs/I just thought I'd find acceptance here, well maybe I was wrong"). Paul Field has spent a lifetime crafting music which can inspire and challenge and bring matters of life, love and faith into fresh focus. This wonderful album shows he has lost none of his skill.

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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