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Wales Road - Candleshine
(Spun Records)

"This is the newest offering from local Christian band Wales Road. Tom and the guys have opted for a more rock-oriented sound this time around, and it works great! The disc contains 14 tracks in all, one of those being a 'bonus' live cut recorded at Lifefest '98. There are many great tunes present, many of which bring musical comparisons to such great 80's Christian bands as the 77's and the Altar Boys. The latter mentioned being one of the first Christian bands I'd ever listened to (a long, long time ago). Tom wrote all of the disc's lyrics, except for the track 'The Preacher's Face' (author unknown), and the messages are strong throughout each song.

The disc starts off with the rockin' title cut and then moves into one of my favorites 'Lifejacket'.Tom and the guys then continue on with such tunes as the catchy 'Hopeless,Helpless' (complete with cool guitar solo) and 'Pretty Blue Colour'. Midway through the disc, it's time for a breather. Slowing down a bit, it's now time for some of the disc's most notable tracks.

The track 'An Oil Painting' starts off this lighter portion, and is one of the disc's true highlights. With it's very emotional lyrical content, this song is not to be overlooked. Next up are the acoustic-based 'To Follow' and 'Purple Heart, Silver Cross', the latter of which is another of my favorites. Finishing out the disc are the songs 'Somebody Loves U', 'Bread of Tears', 'In A Blink' and the bonus cut 'Help Me Jesus'.

Overall, I really enjoyed this disc and give it my highest rating! I am absolutely sure you will love it too, so I strongly urge you to go pick it up. Not only are you getting a great disc, but your also helping support a local artist with a true heart for the LORD! Enjoy!"


-Rick Campbell, musicEditor
New Voice Magazine
Nov/Dec 2000