Reviewed by Andy Shaw

Husband and wife duo Terry & Diane McCabe have been involved in the music scene for many years, initially in various band settings before deciding to go down the acoustic duo route in 2002. They have worked tirelessly since then, performing around 100 shows a year playing a mix of covers through the decades and their own originals in various settings from coffeehouses and taverns to festivals and clubs. Having set up their own label when first starting out as a duo, they signed to Iowa-based independent label Raven Faith Records for the release of this album. Their sound is a mix of blues, folk, country and rock with a real Americana feel to it. Terry and Diane share the lead vocal duties with the other providing harmonies and, unsurprisingly given their any years of singing together, their voices blend really well. Terry starts off strong belting out the bluesy rock of opener "Not Religious" and this style seems to suite his voice well with "Snow Mountain" providing another upbeat slice of country blues. Whilst the electric guitar is prominent in the full band sound of these tracks, much of the album is more relaxed with acoustic guitar leading the way. Diane has a gentle voice that works well with the reflective Isaiah 61 inspired "Year Of The Lord's Favor", with cello coming in to add depth to the picked acoustic guitar. The lyrics carry a clear message of hope in the midst of struggles. "Seeking Shelter" talks of struggling to understand why and trying to cope when times are hard, "I'm seeking shelter from the storm," whilst "Little Angel" frames it with the good that can come, "All your trials only come to make you strong."

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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