Reviewed by Les M Wilkes

In this album Petra display a versatility which will raise a few eyebrows. Just as Carman fans will be shocked by Petra's anvil heavy riff when they guested on 'Addicted To Jesus', so Petrafied enthusiasts will be stunned by "Hand On My Heart" here. For here's a track a ringer for a Smokey Robinson-style Motown oldie and seemingly light years from the power chords and smoke machines of past Petra triumphs. But lovers of the most successful AOR band in Christendom should fear not. In the main here they still lay down thunderous drums and axe sounds like on the urgent opener "Destiny" and the raunchy blues-rocker "Ready, Willing And Able". John Schlitt has never sounded in better voice, the hooks are as unassuredly catchy as ever, and the John and Dino Elefante's production is greatly assisted by a high-octane mix from Niel Kernon. Petra arent just any old rock band. These guys bring together a bouquet of their best music, seasoned with a pinch of the unusual (check out the album's atmospheric introduction and conclusion), a work which has individuality and class stamped right through it. My own favourite track on the album is "I Need To Hear From You", a real cry from the heart to our Glorious Saviour. This is rock at its most refined, all in all a priceless piece of purest Petra that no rock collection will be complete without.

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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