I’ve been waiting to write this review for months. And not long ago it seemed we’d heard the last of Phatfish.
But they’re back, and this can only be a good thing. So, if you’ve not heard them before, now’s your chance! This bunch is my benchmark for contemporary Christian bands. Not only are they jolly good musicians, but theirs really is music with a message. And their message is solidly biblical.
Phatfish have been around for just over a decade. They are based at the Church of Christ the King in Brighton — the home of other talented Christian musicians such as Stuart Townend, Kate Simmonds, Matt Redman and Dave Fellingham. The band consists of Lou, Nathan and Luke Fellingham (the first two being married, the latter two being Dave Fellingham’s sons), plus Mike Sandeman (who must surely qualify as an honorary Phellingham by now).
Often described as a ‘worship’ band, Phatfish’s service extends beyond the vertical to include a healthy dose of horizontal admonition and edification. In addition to Faithful, I would highly recommend Nothing But The Truth — which is worth the money for ‘Annoy’ alone, but which also contains gems like ...
This is what my God is like: He’s brighter than the brightest sun,
Fiercer than a raging sea, stronger than a mighty army.
This is what my God is like: gentler than a mother’s kiss,
Kinder than a doting dad, wiser than the wisest sage.
But back to Faithful! The album is mostly a ‘best of’ collection. However, the arrangements are all new and fresh. Lead singer Lou has a super voice — it’s just a shame the producer nearly lost her a few times in the mix. The style isn’t quite as edgy or ‘in your face’ as Nothing But The Truth, but that’s not a bad thing if it means more people will listen to the words.
Loaded with theology
It’s difficult to single out individual songs for comment. ‘The Cross’ has to be one of the best songs Phatfish have ever written — it’s loaded with theology and praise. However, ‘There Is A Day’ remains my number one ...
There is a day that all creation’s waiting for
A day of freedom and liberation for the earth
And on that day the Lord will come to meet His bride
And when we see Him in an instant we’ll be changed.
So lift your eyes to the things as yet unseen
That will remain for all eternity
Though trouble’s hard it’s only momentary
And it’s achieving our future Glory.
In two words: Oh yes!
PGDH
