Evangelicals Now
<< August 2001 >>

Heavenbound

Beating Time
HEAVENBOUND
By Phatfish
Website: www.phatfish.net

Phatfish are one of Britain's most significant Christian bands. As well as two previous critically-acclaimed albums, Phatfish have toured extensively in the UK and America.

Formed in 1994, Phatfish started out with strong acid-jazz / funk tendencies but with each album these influences have become less and less predominant. Phatfish have adapted to changing musical taste and Heavenbound is a more of a straightforward rock album. Although the band has lost something of their musical distinctiveness, Phatfish's trademark complex rhythms, courtesy of brothers Nathan and Luke Fellingham, are still very much present. Lots of jangly guitars and Louise Fellingham's distinctive vocals make for a tight, but pleasantly 'raw' sound.

This is one of the few albums I have heard recently that I could confidently say are filled with scripture. Heavenbound is therefore quite theological (I found my listening session turned into a Bible study once or twice!) but to their credit, Phatfish always apply the theology to real life. Several songs feature clear gospel messages and a couple of others could easily be used as songs in church.

The title track though, Heavenbound, is full of passion and excitement as the band reveal their perspective and motivation:

'I'm a stranger here / I don't fit in, I'm out of place / I'm a citizen of Heaven and it's obvious to see that I belong with you / I don't want to settle or get too acquainted with this life / Got to keep looking up, coz He's coming soon and then I will be Heavenbound.'

Much secular rock music today is highly introspective and depressing. In contrast this album is highly positive without brushing over the very real issues of pain and suffering. Instead of dwelling on the problems, Phatfish encourage the listener to know God's forgiveness in Jesus and to look to the eternal: (With more than a nod to 2 Corinthians 4!)

'So lift your eyes to the things as yet unseen / Though trouble's hard / It's only momentary and it's achieving our future glory'.

Phatfish provide a highly credible alternative to secular female-fronted bands like Garbage and Catatonia. Play it loud and check out the website for MP3s and tour details!

Jon Mason