Reviewed by Brian McGowan

A three-track maxi single, clearly designed to show the CCM scene there's a talented new band from Glasgow. Given the CD cover tells us there are two vocalists, one male, one female, plus two guitarists, keyboards, bass and drums, the up tempo opener should sound full and inviting. Unfortunately, the band's attempt to uplift and inspire is rendered null and void by the church hall ambience and acoustics. Consequently the first track 'Messiah' sounds positively anaemic. It's only when McIntyre's lightweight voice is rescued by Linda Green's angelic vocal and Graham Ross's fine lead guitar work that the track eventually gains weight and impact. But arguably it's too little too late. In contrast, McIntyre sounds like he's just drifted in off a New Orleans' street on second track 'That Fine Day', delivering a knowing vocal, as smokey and soulful as a Decatur bar at midnight. Lyrically, so far, the band sound pretty confident on which side of the gates they'll end up come Judgement Day- no fences straddled, or bets hedged here - but radiating charm rather than arrogance, possessing a moral certitude belonging only to the very young and very old. Third, final and title track 'Only In The Son' has a poppy, folky vibe, with hints of Deacon Blue in the McIntyre/Green vocal interplay. The unimaginative arrangement is again rescued by Ross's carefully measured spurts of electric guitar, and Graeme Adam's pounding, resounding piano addsa welcome width and depth. A bit of a mixed bag then, 'Only In The Son' (the song) shows promise, but 'That Fine Day' is where Restless should be heading. 

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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