Reviewed by Paul Gallagher

'Terra Nova' begins with the sound of a phone ringing, and for the next 10 songs we get to eavesdrop on Richard Higginson's soul-searching conversation with himself and the world. "Puppet" states the singer's intent: "I want to breathe again/And find where my heart got lost along the way." Recorded just after he finished university, this album documents a young man at a turning point, questioning his faith, his parents, apparent hypocrisy in the world and the Church. All the big issues are here, played out in songs with bold titles like "Pharisee", "Wonder" and "Change". Alongside this is also hope and worship. "Love's Ancient Dream" speaks of "painting the world in your grace", and "Tarry" simply states a desire to wait on God. But despite the genuine effort and honesty that was put into its production, 'Terra Nova' never amounts to more than pleasant listening. Higginson has a great voice - and some nice tunes - but his lyrics require more powerful music to drive their message home. As it is the songs drift by unremarkably, and some of them go on for way too long. The album's title suggests it is a "new land", but while this CD may represent a brave new journey for its author there's clearly some way to go to make a milestone recording.

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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