Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

South African rock band The Benjamin Gate burst onto the international scene last year with their debut Forefront album and now they return with another set of dynamic energetic songs. Cross Rhythms listeners will already be more than familiar with hit songs from their first album and won't be disappointed by 'Contact', once more teaming up with producer Quinlan, the unique driving sound propelled along by their fluid rhythm section combined with the incredible guitar combo of Marc Pautz and Chris Poisat. Loaded to the hilt with vibe the band's sound is once more topped off by the distinctive vocals of Adrienne Liesching. In a world of CCM where so many bands copy the latest fads and fashions, The Benjamin Gate deliver a sound which is distinctive and 'Contact' is set to prove that their debut was no fluke. From the atmospheric edge of "The Way You Are", "Lift Me Up" and "This Is Not" to the moody "Your Kisses Blind Me", 'Contact' is superb all the way. Preferring to rock rather than take the tempo down too far this is a sonic rollercoaster ride with the intensity levels permanently peaking. And that is probably its only weakness! Every song seems to relentlessly drive along and a little respite would added a few different hues to the band's pallet.

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