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Brisbane-based acoustic folk-rock band 6 Across gave a concert at St. Luke's Lutheran Church, Crows Nest, as guests of our monthly Bread 'n' Jam Session during the chilly evening of Saturday, May 14, 2005. Four of the band's five members were with us for the evening--vocalist Renata Rankin, acoustic guitarist Geoff Rankin, cellist Weide Curnow [get the pronunciation of her name right Frank!], and bass guitarist Daniel Saunders. They ministered to us, performing their own unique style of music which they describe as "holy, original acoustic folk-rock."

They performed a nine-song set beginning with a new song called "Soldier," which reminded us that as God's children through Christ, we are soldiers of a different kind--soldiers for love. They continued with "The Only Way Is Home" and "Waiting For The Lord" (a song based on Psalm 130 from acoustic guitarist/singer-songwriter Geoff Rankin's solo CD The Sacred Hill). "The Farmyard Animals" involved three volunteers from the audience (Ironbark students). "Pieces That Didn't Fit" came next--one of my all-time favorite 6 Across songs (radio needs to pick up on this song!). It's a composition about discovering that meaning and purpose in life is found only in Jesus. It was followed by "Just Keep Walking"--an excellent song written by drummer/songwriter Anthony Edwards about temptation and how to deal with it when it comes across one's path. "Roll On Like A River" was another song that involved the audience in actions during the song's chorus. What can I say about "Wind Blows In The Windows"? A stunningly beautiful song. The band closed with "I'm Not Flying Away"--a song that reflects the thoughts of David in Psalm 55 when he was being pursued by an extremely jealous King Saul.

All this made for an inspiring and entertaining evening. This band is open about its faith and knows how to have fun at the same time. Renata has very distinctive, beautiful and clear vocals which are undergirded by Geoff's fine acoustic guitar work. The addition of Daniel's bass guitar and Weide's cello provides a depth to the band's music that is very moving.

I eagerly await the release of the 6 Across debut CD Touching the Sky, (Some of the band's songs are currently available as downloadable mp3s from the band's website.) Check out this band when you get the chance.

Frank Rasenberger   June 15, 2005