Noel Donaldson

The title track of this album immediately reminded me of Steely Dan. It is a good track to start, and within seconds I knew I would like this recording. With a nice violin and catchy chorus, it glides through the song. The songs that follow have elements of country rock, including a balanced violin solo which seamlessly changes to electric guitar. There are good harmonies and clear vocals. “In the End Times” starts as a pure rock. There is some interesting violin work over the block harmonies, a good guitar solo, and non-cliché lyrics. I loved this track! Reading the press release, Casper has a great pedigree – an ordained minister, played and preached at Woodstock’s 50th-anniversary concert, and has played regularly with Tommy James and the Shondell, Caspar also finds time as a portrait artist and bestselling author. “A Night in the Holy Land” took me by surprise, as it’s an instrumental. There are nearly 5 mins of great guitar solos which left me wanting more. Again, the sound of the guitar and violin really complement each other. Another great track. “Christ is Our Reward” and “Your Living Word”  are more akin to worship, which would work well within services. Overall one of the best recordings I have heard for a while. It is nice to listen to new music that is more than just a worship album. I like listening to bands where guitar/violin solo is just as important as the lyrics. The music, then, makes you hear and take in those words – which in this case are full of biblical truths. Highly Recommended. 9/10. 

Noel Donaldson