Reviewed by Rob Broom

I last encountered this ex-Whitecross man's technical finger work and electric rocking guitar chords on his 1994 album project 'King James'. The Rex Carrol Sessions', however, are very different and certainly not what I was expecting. After the initial shock (and once I gave myself the chance to relax and listen to what he was doing) I began to 'enjoy' what I heard. Rex has obviously really relished the freedom given to him on this album, being able to indulge and explore a little more than usual. There are some great harmonizing between the vocalists. The guitar playing is up to his usual high standard, and the lyrics centre very strongly on God. Although a little too structured and eclectic for true blues purists, there's much to intrigue here. We can catch a glimpse of some of the musical styles he has enjoyed and grown up with over the years. Everything from Detroit R&B, Chicago blues, swing and shuffle from Texas and Cajun rhythm from New Orleans. These have so clearly stamped their influence on this album to create something definitely of himself, and definitely something to enjoy.

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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