from: CrossRhythms, Issue 75
         [July/August 2003], Page 45
author: Tim Holden (UK)
website: http://www.crossrhythms.co.uk/magazine/

»» PHIL JOEL

Bring It On

Inpop POD1260 Album Book (EMI Christian Music Group)

This is New Zealander Phil Joel's second solo outing from the Newsboys and a depature in style from them and his previous album 'Watching Over You'. The Songwriting is as melodic as the Newsboys but has a real hard rock edge. Phil's voice would not be out of place in a '70s glam rock band and there are shades of T-Rex here along with some great Delirious?-like guitar sounds. Not all the album is driving rock though. "Passing Angel" is a beautifully minimal song about coping with death with a wonderful arrangement consisting of an upright piano and violin. As you would expect from a member of the Newsboys, the production is excellent with some interesting effects, not least the use of Phil's daughter Phynley on "All So Good". While the music is always strong, the lyrical content does not always keep up with it and can be a little simplistic at times. Well worth getting hold of, and not just if you are a Newsboys fan.

reviewer's rating: 8/10 ["very good indeed"]

--Tim Holden ««