Back when the century was just getting started, my wife was a pretty big Downhere fan. On albums like So Much For Substitutes the group sounded anthemic and edgy, and if not entirely original they still had a good knack for songwriting.

It’s been years since I paid them much attention however, so I was both excited and curious when On The Altar Of Love found its way onto my desk. That excitement didn’t last long. Of course, partly this is because my tastes have changed in the last ten years. But at the same time Downhere seem to have completely smoothed out their sound.

What I found on this record was typical, bland CCM. It’s all sappy pianos, awkwardly preachy lyrics and, of course, U2-style delayed guitars. Thankfully, vocals are still a strength for this band. Jason Germain’s voice reminds me a lot of Kevin Max. It’s unique and interesting to listen to. So is the title track, which employs a folk-country style to great effect. If only Downhere would take that kind of risk more regularly.

Two stars out of five