Reviewed by Andrew Wallace

If you've read CR's recent article you'll know their story so far. After a hugely successful mainstream release on Virgin Records in 2001 with their debut album 'Don't You Fake It' and a not so well-received follow-up, Jacksonville, Florida purveyors of post-hardcore and pop-punk The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus went independent for this, their third album. Produced by John Feldmann who also co-wrote all the songs with lead Ronnie Winter, this release saw the band making use of their newfound freedom as many of the cuts make references to their Christian faith. Opener "Reap" with its biting guitar and ferocious drums is the heaviest number here; the hard-hitting message of not trading our soul for the world's demands drawn directly from Mark 8. Otherwise a range of styles from rock anthem to pop ballad; from post-hardcore to pop-punk; are covered with ease; Ronnie Winter's passionate vocals matching these twists and turns effortlessly. "Don't Lose Hope" with its squealing guitars and distortion is an encouraging anthem; "Dive Too Deep" a heartfelt, tender love song. "Am I The Enemy?" brings back the rock side ; its heavy growling intro; staccato, machine-gun drums warning of the danger of misplaced trust in politicians. Overall the message is a positive, uplifting one; the intensity and urgency of the musical backdrop underpinning this effectively. A fine album from a band deserving of more recognition.

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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