from: CrossRhythms, online, 2006
author: Peter Dilley (UK)
website: http://www.crossrhythms.co.uk

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After recent detours into worship-focused projects, the Newsboys' 14th album seems much more akin to the band's artfully catchy pop rock material. As a prime example, the opener "Wherever We Go" has more than a few echoes of "Real Good Thing", which was the curtain raiser on 'Going Public' (1994), and one of Peter Furler's earliest songwriting collaborations with Steve Taylor. The pair continue to pen strong material, most notably here the clarion call "The Mission", the awestruck "In Wonder" and "Secret Kingdom" - its whistling and guitar parts clearly referencing "Breakfast" (1996). But that's not the only writing partnership of note. Paul Colman is credited as a co-writer on three tracks - "Something Beautiful" has that classic Newsboys groove; reassurance rises over vulnerability on "Gonna Be Alright"; and with the combined songwriting talents of Peter Furler, vocalist Phil Joel, Paul Colman and Steve Taylor, "Your Love Is Better Than Life" mixes a "Cool For Cats"-like vocal narrative with a driving chorus hook. There are also some intriguing world music tinges on a few tracks. 18 years is a long time on the road, but the Newsboys definitely haven't yet "Lost The Plot"!

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

--Peter Dilley ««