Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

In the '70s Stonehill had recorded three classic Jesus music albums under the direction of his friend Larry Norman. By the early '80s that friendship had soured and Stonehill had signed to the Myrrh record label and begun recording a sweep of albums that would mark the '80s with artistic peaks and troughs. Prior to this 'Between The Glory And The Flame' had been a disappointing start but 'Equator' really saw Stonehill kick into life. Working with Daniel Amos frontman Terry Taylor, they let their imaginations run wild creating an unforgettable album released in 1983 and packed with some classy songs. "Light Of The World" sounds like a simple inspirational song designed for radio stations to play and then the fun begins. There are three comic songs where you laugh but Stonehill is hitting home his unease at some of our social foibles. "Big Ideas In A Shrinking World" contrasts the world's wisdom with God's. "American Fast Food" attacks the unhealthy eating habits of his countryman and contains the greatest belch in the history of Christian music. The third comic song is "Cosmetic Fixation" which attacks Hollywood's obsession with the outward appearance. The cod calypso "Shut De Doh" (which, somewhat ironically, has turned out to be Stoneville's most popular song ever - with dozens of covers) was apparently written on a caffeine fuelled trans-Atlantic plane flight. Elsewhere "Even The Best Of Friends" is an open letter to his former best friend Larry Norman and "Turning Thirty" marks that landmark in his life. Both are good examples of Stonehill's skill writing ballads. "China" is a dramatic plea for that vast country and "Hide Them In Your Love" is a typical '80s Stonehill rocker. Ultimately the combination of Randy's skilful songwriting and Taylor's imaginative production make this one of the top Christian albums of the '80s.

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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