Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Stephen has been doing sterling work around Scotland's schools and churches for ages now and this album brings a whole new dimension to his work, tackling as it does the problem of bullying and the need for children to develop self esteem. This he does in a set of songs which mix up the musical influences - Scottish reels, disco funk, blues, Latin, you name it. Sometimes the freewheeling eclecticism stumbles, Stephen clearly demonstrates on "Creativity" that he's no rapper while the kids singing on "Family Blues" with a trad jazz band doesn't quite work. But throughout Stephen's lyrics bristle with compassion and insight. ("Help me remember/ I'm the only I, You're the only you/We're the only we in history.") Within the context of schools ministry these songs will work just fine. Laconic, witty and relevant to many kids in today's culture, this is an album you'll want to buy for any kid you know struggling with bullying or poor self esteem.

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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