Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

A compilation of up and coming American artists that are managed by Greg Carnes and admirably showcased here. First impression is that this is an impressive roster! Mitch McVicker worked closely with the late Rich Millins and was in the car crash which took Rich's life. Consequently the Mullinsesque 'Here & Now' is totally acceptable ad the rootsy 'Lemonade Song' and the lovely 'Only Love Will' highlight songwriting that makes me want to find out more! The next couple of artists don't do much for me. The acoustic folksiness of mIsty Jones is accomplished but unremarkable - there seems to be loads of female singers doing this sort of stuff. Jackson Swing are also in the rootsy mandolin toting mould on 'Too Much' before breaking out with electric guitars on the jaunty 'Winner'. They sound capable but not earth shattering. Things hot up with the two songs from Chris Taylor from his brilliant 'Down Goes The Day' album (one of my fave albums from the last year and still available from Spirit Music). Taylor's Jeff Buckley styled vocal and atmospheric backing are a winner every time! Paul Soupiset's 'Salt' and 'Nicholas' feature the unmistakable guitar playing of Sixpence's Matt Slocum which adds a bit of musical muscle to Paul's songs but even so, this sounds a little too ordinary. The enigmatically named duo Lady Jane Gray bring the album to a close with three songs. 'Innocence' is a gentle and acoustic with extremely understated drums whilst 'Fire' begins with a haunting chello which unfolds into a beautiful yearning cry for God's love. Sarah Hoover's distinctive vocals and the duo's strong songs give this band the edge and although the album contains nothing that is horrible, it all is still a little patchy. But as an introduction to fresh mainly acoustic music, it's worth tracking down.

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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