Reviewed by Stephen Luff

If you've been reading the Cross Rhythms article then you'll know that The 4th Movement was born from the Detroit punk band with the listener-friendly name, Death. Following a release from that incarnation, their name change brought a new location (New England) and a self-titled release which this time presented a strong evangelical Christian lyrical message. It was revolutionary stuff, way too Christian to be accepted by the mainstream rock crowd of New England, and way too rock to find any credence with US churchgoers. The opener "Revelations Eve" demonstrates the outstanding vocals here alongside a driving electric guitar and drum backing. Not all the tracks fit neatly into punk rock, however. "The Christ You" has almost a Sweet Comfort Band feel to it, while the gentle "Life Without End" starts with a flute! The collection, however, does show its age (nearly 40 years) both in style and production, but what it might lack in presentation (and budget), it delivers in insight of an interesting time in both mainstream rock and CCM history. Original copies of the independent vinyl release now sell for an arm and a leg, so Drag City are to be congratulated for re-issuing this intriguing collector's item in CD, vinyl (and even cassette!) release.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.