Reviewed by Mark Sherwood

Xploya apparently is an adaptation of the Greek word "anointed". Xploya have been together around two years and this is their first album. It has been produced by Nashville producer Trey Grey who apparently has been drumming with luminaries such as Faith Hill and others. It has to be said that they have a classic rock sound and are not afraid to experiment mixing light and heavier sounds throughout the album. However the Christian rock market is a busy place these days and you have to step up a level to really get noticed and I'm not sure that they will be. That's not to say the album isn't good because it is. One thing which I will say is that they have not gone for obscure "cool" lyrics that some Christian rock acts seem to be messing about with these days. Xploya's lyrics are sensitive but at the same time there is no confusion about who you are talking about here. "Let your Spirit fall on me/Let your Spirit flow in me/Let it pour out on my feet/Let me praise your perfect name." Yes I can just imagine bouncing to this in a concert! However this trend with the band can mean they occasionally stray into cliche territory, eg, "You took all my guilt and shame...because on the cross you took all my blame." If you like emotional classic rock then maybe you need to check out Xploya's website.

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.