Farrell & Farrell Albums (4)
What The Critics Say
Probably Farrell & Farrell's strongest album, this one received a lot of airplay on Christian radio because of its Prince-influenced hit, "People in a Box." Appearing for the first time as a five-piece band, the group offers a groundbreaking work with synthesizers and electronics. This record has more of a feel of unity than any of their previous efforts, and certainly much more in the way of creativity. Highlights include "Heart in the Right Place," "People in a Box," and "I Belong to Him." There is nice guitar work by Mike Demus and Dana Key. A couple of unfortunately politically incorrect songs appear here. "The Sting," an otherwise catchy song, features Jayne Farrell singing about the evils of sexual temptation, blaming the woman for leading the man astray and thus fixing the blame on her. Also, "American Man" equates Americanness with Judeo-Christianity. Barring these, this is easily Farrell & Farrell's strongest effort and completely unique in its genre. ~ Mark W.B. Allender, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
This is the recording of a house divided against itself. There are some innovative musical moments that seem to counterbalance the bland, factory-produced CCM moments. "Hosanna Gloria," "He Will Always Make a Way," and "He Reigns" border on gospel new wave, with lots of synth work and quirky melodies. At the time this recording was released, there was virtually nothing out there like it. "Get Right or Get Left," perhaps the song that made most people buy this recording in the first place, is vaguely reminiscent of Prince. There is nice artistry on the tone poem-ish "Ransome," which is very innovative for its genre -- few artists ventured into this territory at the time. The rest of the recording is forgettable at best and artless at worst. Lyrically, there is no subtlety anywhere on the recording -- very forthright with its Christian message. "Get Right or Get Left" is full of clever wordplay that is ripe for the Christian bumper sticker market. Perhaps the CCM industry of the '80s is the real culprit here, but certainly some nice, if not dated, musical elements do shine through. ~ Mark W. B. Allender, All Music Guide
