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Rev21, consisting of Rick and Tim Hammond, have their first CD out and it is rockin' religious. Biblical references for each song are listed in the program notes, but the lyrics are contemporary in flavor. Both men do vocals and acoustic and electric guitars.

"Holding Out For Better Days," (referring to Revelations 21) tells us that friends come together in the worst of times, but "…when times are good you don't know your real friends.." "I Want To Be With You" is the plight of the sinner as he approaches the Lord, "…Will you take me back after what I've done?" "My Cup Overflows With Your love" says, "…I cry out with all my heart, you steady my feet according to your word." "Confession" is about coming clean so the weight can be lifted, while "A Soft Answer" is an apology for being wrong. Now the singer is saying, "…I want to wait and hear you out. Your every thought is of value…" Something international governments could pay attention to.

However, the CD could have used some attention to detail. The first song, "Make It Right" has such a long drum part; I wanted to call someone to, indeed, make it right. The lyrics of planting the seeds of love were lost here. "Hope," the fifth track sounded like "The Anvil Chorus." The message was lost on me. I'm not sure if Rick and Tim want me to have hope or not have hope. It was lost amid the clangs of percussion.

The majority of Rev21's Hope has good songs and arrangements, especially "Holding Out For Better Days" and "I Want To Be With You," but not all is perfect here. The group shows good potential, just watch the percussion area.

Copyright 2002 Marie Asner
Submitted 11/10/02